Fuel Dispensing Interface System for Fleet Authorization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fuel dispensing systems for fleet fueling lack efficient and cost-effective connectivity and authorization mechanisms, especially in non-consumer and non-retail settings, where traditional systems are inflexible and costly due to the need for on-site communication capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A modular system integrating general-purpose computing hardware with special-purpose electronic components to control existing fuel dispensing pumps, utilizing short-range wireless communication with portable data communication devices for authorization and reporting, allowing for reduced infrastructure costs and enhanced connectivity through devices like cell phones and PDAs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fuel dispensing systems are used in fleet fueling operations, then authorization and reporting functions are provided, but infrastructure costs are high and connectivity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows fuel dispensing pumps to autonomously perform authorization and reporting functions by using their existing communication interfaces to contact remote servers, eliminating the need for separate authorization devices or on-site communication infrastructure. The pump itself serves as both the dispensing device and the communication node.
Solution Approach 2:
The fuel dispensing pump is designed to perform multiple functions: it dispenses fuel, authenticates itself to remote servers, reports dispensing data, and receives updates all through its existing communication interface. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated authorization or reporting hardware.
2Adaptability or versatility
If on-site communication capabilities are installed at fuel dispensing locations, then authorization and reporting are enabled, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication and authorization functions are extracted from the fuel dispensing pump and relocated to remote servers. The pump retains only the essential dispensing function while using its existing communication interface to interact with the remote authorization system, separating the complex communication logic from the simple dispensing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A remote server acts as an intermediary between the fuel dispensing pump and the authorization database. The pump communicates with the server using standard protocols, and the server handles authentication, authorization decisions, and data reporting, simplifying the pump's design while enabling robust authorization capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing fuel pumps are upgraded with new control systems, then connectivity is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Existing fuel pumps use their existing communication interfaces (such as modem, network card, or wireless interface) to autonomously connect to remote servers and perform authorization and reporting functions without requiring additional communication hardware or complex integration work.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into independent functional components: the fuel dispensing function remains in the pump, while authorization, authentication, and data reporting functions are handled by remote servers. This segmentation allows existing pumps to be upgraded with minimal changes while gaining enhanced connectivity capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
An interface system extends a prior-art fuel delivery pump and reservoir so that authorization to activate the fuel delivery pump can be obtained from a remote authorization service over a long-range wireless communication link such as a cellular telephone connection or a satellite connection; and delivered to the interface system over a different, short-range wireless communication link such as a Bluetooth® connection or a WiFi connection. The system is structured so that different data link devices can serve in one part of the communication chain. Other features and characteristics of the system are described and claimed.