Automated Mobile Fueling Dispatch System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing fueling systems for motor vehicles require vehicles to be physically transported to stationary fueling sites, which is inconvenient, exposes operators to harsh conditions, and can lead to fuel theft and environmental impact.
Innovation Solution
A system that automates fuel delivery by collecting vehicle fuel and location data, comparing it to variable geographic boundaries, and dispatching mobile fuel tanker trucks using a network-connected database, allowing for flexible pricing and eliminating the need for operator involvement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If vehicles are transported to stationary fueling sites for refueling, then fuel can be delivered to vehicles, but operator convenience deteriorates and exposure to harsh conditions increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of transporting vehicles to stationary fueling sites, the patent inverts the approach by bringing mobile fueling units to the vehicles. The system deploys automated fuel dispensing units to locations where vehicles are already present, eliminating the need for operators to travel to fueling sites and exposing them to harsh conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements automated fueling systems that can refuel vehicles without operator involvement. The automated dispensing units communicate with vehicle systems to initiate and complete the fueling process autonomously, eliminating the need for operators to manually pump fuel or interact with fueling equipment.
2Reliability
If manual refueling processes are used at stationary fueling sites, then fuel can be dispensed to vehicles, but fuel theft and fraud increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates real-time monitoring and verification systems that track fuel dispensing operations. The automated fueling units communicate with central management systems to verify vehicle identity, track fuel consumption, and prevent unauthorized refueling. This feedback mechanism eliminates manual intervention points where theft and fraud could occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual refueling operations with automated electronic systems. The automated dispensing units use electronic communication protocols to verify vehicle authentication, control fuel flow, and record transactions, eliminating the need for operators to physically handle fuel or equipment, thereby preventing theft and fraud.
3Reliability
If operators manually pump fuel from underground storage tanks, then fuel can be transferred to vehicles, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual fuel pumping operations with automated electronic fuel transfer systems. The mobile fueling units are equipped with automated dispensing mechanisms that can rapidly transfer fuel to vehicles without operator intervention, significantly reducing refueling time while maintaining transfer reliability through electronic control and monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements pre-positioning of mobile fueling units near vehicle locations before refueling is needed. The system anticipates fuel requirements and deploys fueling units to strategic locations in advance, so that when refueling is required, the process can begin immediately without waiting for vehicle arrival at stationary fueling sites.
4Reliability
If stationary fueling sites with underground tanks are used, then fuel can be stored and dispensed, but environmental impact increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the traditional centralized underground storage system into multiple smaller mobile fueling units. Each unit contains its own fuel storage capacity and dispensing equipment, eliminating the need for large underground tanks at stationary sites. This segmentation reduces environmental risk by limiting potential spill volumes and eliminating permanent infrastructure that impacts the environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional underground storage tanks and associated piping infrastructure with mobile fueling units that use above-ground, contained storage systems. The mobile units incorporate sealed fuel storage and transfer mechanisms that minimize environmental exposure and eliminate the need for extensive civil works associated with underground tank installation and maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems can automate the delivery of motor vehicle fuel while reducing the need for operator involvement and driving to a gas station. A server with access to a database and in wireless communication with computers installed in a motor vehicle can collect data from the computers including vehicle fuel level and vehicle geographic location. The data can be compared to the data to a fuel level threshold and geographic boundary. The data can be transmitted wirelessly through a wireless network to the database. A mobile fuel tanker truck can be dispatched to the vehicle's location when at least one of: fuel service is requested by a user of the vehicle or the vehicle's fuel level falls beneath the fuel level threshold. Fuel service can be requested by a user via a smartphone running an application that enables the monitoring, management, selection, and ordering of fuel service.