Fuel Dispenser Display Control Without Payment Data Protocols
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dispensers for gaseous fuel, such as natural gas or hydrogen, often have complex and secure payment terminal communication interfaces, which can be cumbersome and vulnerable to security risks.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a dispenser controller that uses physically conveyed control indicia, such as electrically conductive wiring, fiber optic cabling, or pneumatic connectors, to control the display of a payment terminal without transmitting sensitive financial data or using predefined communication protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex communication protocols and security mechanisms are used for payment terminal integration, then data security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data transmission function from the communication interface, leaving only physical indicator signaling. By removing the data packet exchange and communication protocol layers, the system eliminates security vulnerabilities while maintaining essential control functionality through simplified physical indicators only.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces electronic data communication with a physical indicator system. Instead of transmitting data packets through complex communication protocols, the system uses physical indicators (such as LED states, button positions, or mechanical switches) that can be detected without requiring sophisticated communication interfaces or security mechanisms.
2Reliability
If multiple communication protocols and security mechanisms are implemented, then financial data protection is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes all data transmission capabilities from the payment terminal communication interface, extracting only the essential physical indicator signaling function. This eliminates the need for communication protocols and security mechanisms while dramatically simplifying integration and operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a simple, disposable-like communication approach where physical indicators provide all necessary information without requiring complex, expensive security infrastructure. The system uses basic physical signals that can be implemented with minimal equipment, making integration straightforward and maintenance simple.
3Adaptability or versatility
If data packets are transmitted between payment terminal and dispenser controller, then communication flexibility is improved, but security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control signaling function from data packet transmission. By removing the ability to exchange data packets while retaining physical indicator communication, the system eliminates security risks associated with data transmission while maintaining sufficient control flexibility for payment terminal operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems, apparatuses, controllers, and processes that are configured to facilitate controlling visual information provided via a display at a dispenser while a vehicle is being fueled can be adapted so no use of communication protocols is needed for control of the display. For instance, a controller can be connected with a payment terminal having a screen via multiple different physical connections (e.g. wiring for conveying electricity, optical fiber cables, etc.). One or more of these connections can be activated while others are deactivated in an accordance with a pre-defined scheme to indicate to the payment terminal which of a number of different pre-defined display graphics should be displayed during fueling. Embodiments can be adapted so no payment information or other information is shared between a payment processing device and a fuel dispensing controller and no communication protocol is needed for transport of data between such devices.