Fuel Dispenser Authentication via RFID and Radio Transceivers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-service refuelling systems require additional user interaction for payment verification, limiting the automation of the refuelling process and not effectively utilizing detection means to ensure secure and efficient fuel dispensing.
Innovation Solution
A management system that includes RFID tags for vehicle tank identification, radio transceivers for communication between the vehicle and refuelling station, and a remote server for authorisation, allowing automatic fuel dispensing based on tank authentication and user solvency verification, eliminating the need for standard payment methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If standard payment methods (bank notes or payment cards) are used for fuel dispensing, then payment verification can be performed, but additional user interaction is required which limits automation of the refuelling process
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service refuelling by automatically verifying payment through the payment terminal and authorizing fuel dispensing without requiring manual intervention. The payment terminal automatically checks bank note authenticity or payment card coverage, and the system autonomously manages the fuel dispensing process once payment is verified, eliminating the need for additional user interaction at the refuelling location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual payment verification mechanisms with an automated electronic system. Instead of requiring physical handling of bank notes or insertion of payment cards, the system uses electronic detection means and automated payment terminal processing to verify payment and authorize fuel dispensing, thereby reducing mechanical user interaction to a minimum.
2Reliability
If detection means are used to detect tank engagement, then fraudulent fuel removal can be avoided, but the detection means are not particularly useful when combined with standard reservation systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the detection means for tank engagement with the automated payment verification system. The detection means identify the tank and authorise dispensing, while the payment terminal simultaneously verifies payment. This combination ensures both fraudulent fuel removal prevention and efficient automated refuelling process, as the system coordinates multiple verification functions to achieve both security and productivity goals.
3Productivity
If manual payment verification is performed, then payment authenticity can be confirmed, but the refuelling process becomes less efficient and automated
Solution Approach 1:
The payment verification is performed preliminarily before the fuel dispensing process begins. The payment terminal automatically verifies payment authenticity in advance, and once confirmed, the system authorizes fuel dispensing without requiring additional verification time during the actual refuelling operation. This preliminary action eliminates time loss and maximizes refuelling efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables complete automation of the refuelling process with secure authentication and efficient fuel dispensing, reducing the need for manual payment verification and enhancing the overall user experience.
Implementation Method 1
a first RFID tag (16) mounted on the dispensing organ (5), a second RFID tag (18) fixed to the sleeve (17)
Implementation Method 2
a first radio transceiver module (19), which is associated with the tank (10), and in particular can be mounted on the vehicle (9), to transmit said engagement/disengagement status and said identification data
Implementation Method 3
The fuel dispenser (2) comprises a pump (not illustrated), a dispensing organ (5) connected to the pump
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
A system for managing the dispensing of fuel from a refuelling station to a tank of a vehicle, the system (12) having: a fuel dispenser (2), comprising a dispensing organ (5) for engaging a mouth (11) of the tank (10) and an electronic head (28) suitable for signalling whether the fuel dispenser (2) is available or occupied; a detection device (13) for detecting whether the dispensing organ (5) engages or disengages the mouth (11); a memory (14) on the vehicle (9) for storing identification data of the vehicle (9); a data acquisition system (15) for acquiring the identification data when the dispensing organ (5) engages the mouth (11); a database (24) storing authorised identification data; and a control unit (25), which is configured to query the database (24) such that it receives an authorisation to dispense fuel based on the acquired identification data and for controlling the electronic head (28) so as to signal that the fuel dispenser (2) is available when the dispensing organ (5) engages the mouth (11) and the control unit (25) is awaiting authorisation.