Wireless Fluid Dispense Controller Without PC Dependency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid management systems rely on PC-based software, which can be affected by operating system issues, firewall updates, and user errors, leading to disruptions in fluid dispensing and tracking.
Innovation Solution
A fluid management controller with a processor, wireless transceiver, and computer-readable memory that enables independent control and data collection from fluid management components, bypassing the need for a dedicated PC application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PC-based software is used to control fluid management systems, then fluid dispensing and tracking can be performed, but the system becomes vulnerable to operating system issues, firewall updates, and user errors that disrupt operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the fluid management control functionality from the PC-based software environment and implements it as a standalone controller device. This separates the critical fluid management operations from the vulnerable PC operating system, firewall configurations, and user error-prone software environment, thereby improving reliability while reducing dependency on complex external systems
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed to autonomously perform fluid management tasks including tracking dispensed amounts, monitoring tank levels, and controlling pump operations without requiring continuous PC software intervention. This self-service capability reduces reliance on external PC systems and minimizes disruptions from operating system updates or user errors
2Adaptability or versatility
If a standalone fluid management controller is implemented, then independence from PC-based systems is achieved, but wireless communication capabilities are required adding device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The controller integrates multiple functions including wireless communication, data processing, pump control, and tank level monitoring into a single device. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate PC-based software and hardware components, achieving system independence while managing complexity through functional integration
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid management controller includes a processor, a wireless interface, and a memory. The wireless interface is configured to communicate between the processor and one or more fluid management components. The processor is configured to authorize control of the one or more fluid management components over the wireless interface. The memory is encoded with instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to provide dispense authorizations to the one or more fluid management components and record fluid dispense information from the one or more fluid management components in the memory.