CN110621611A - Fluid dispensing meter authorization - Google Patents

Abstract

A fluid management system includes an authentication device and a fluid dispensing meter, and the fluid dispensing meter includes a processor and a memory. The authentication device is configured to provide user identification data to the processor. The processor is configured to invoke an approved user identification from the memory, to compare the approved user identification with the user identification data received from the discriminator, and to control a trigger control mechanism between the activated state and the deactivated state based on the comparison of the user identification data and the approved user identification.

Description

Fluid dispensing meter authorization

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No.62/570,141 entitled "DISPENSING METER authorsion" filed on 10.10.2017 of Benjamin j.paar, Bradley g.kahler, Chad g.igo, and Glenn e.highland, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to fluid dispensing. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to fluid dispensing meters.

Background

Fluid management has become increasingly important to control the cost of fluid operating expenses. For example, many vehicle fleet managers and auto dealerships have installed fluid management systems to efficiently dispense fluids, such as engine oil or transmission fluid. Such fluid management systems typically include a fluid tank and a pump located remotely from the dispensing point. The fluid management system may include wireless transmission and reception of meter and tank level information to simplify tracking of fluid distribution throughout the facility.

Fluid dispensing meters, also known as metered valves or metering valves, may have different trigger designs. For example, the fluid dispensing meter may have a manual trigger or a preset fluid dispensing meter having a manual trigger but with the additional functionality of automatically stopping fluid dispensing when a preset fluid dispensing volume has been reached. The fluid dispensing meter may have the additional ability to prevent fluid dispensing until the meter has received a dispense authorization via an RF signal that activates the trigger mechanism. The fluid dispensing meter may include a trigger actuated solenoid that controls activation of the trigger mechanism.

The fluid dispensing meter may require a user to enter a PIN code to authorize activation of the trigger mechanism by the solenoid. Current fluid management systems require a user to enter a PIN code on a meter interface to activate the meter and perform fluid dispensing. Similarly, the user is required to enter a work order number or scroll through a work order list on the meter interface screen to select a work order associated with the assignment. Both entering a PIN to activate the trigger mechanism and associating the work order with the dispensing event are cumbersome and time consuming.

Disclosure of Invention

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a fluid dispensing meter includes a trigger control mechanism, a data receiver, and a control board. The trigger control mechanism is mounted in the body of the fluid dispensing meter and is controllable between an activated state in which the fluid dispensing meter can dispense fluid and a deactivated state in which the fluid dispensing meter is prevented from dispensing fluid. The data receiver is mounted on the fluid dispensing meter and is configured to receive data from an external data source. The control board includes a processor and a memory encoded with instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: invoking an approved user identification from the memory, comparing the approved user identification with user identification data received from an external data source, and controlling the trigger control mechanism between the activated state and the deactivated state based on the comparison of the user identification data with the approved user identification.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a fluid management system includes an external data source configured to generate a user identification signal including user identification data and a fluid dispensing meter. The fluid dispensing meter includes a trigger control mechanism, a data receiver, and a control panel. The trigger control mechanism is mounted in the body of the fluid dispensing meter and is controllable between an activated state in which the fluid dispensing meter can dispense fluid and a deactivated state in which the fluid dispensing meter is prevented from dispensing fluid. The data receiver is mounted on the fluid dispensing meter and is configured to receive data from the external data source. The control board includes a processor and a memory encoded with instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to recall an approved user identification from the memory, compare the approved user identification with user identification data received from an external data source, and control the trigger control mechanism between the activated state and the deactivated state based on the comparison of the user identification data with the approved user identification.

According to yet another aspect of the disclosure, a method of authorizing fluid dispensing includes: receiving, at a processor of a fluid dispensing meter, user identification data configured to identify a user; retrieving a list of authorized users from a memory of the fluid dispensing meter and comparing, with the aid of the processor, the user identification data to the list of authorized users; determining, with the aid of the processor, an authorization status of the user based on the comparison of the user identification data to the list of authorized users; and a trigger control mechanism to control the fluid dispensing meter between an activated state and a deactivated state based on the authorization status of the user with the aid of the processor.

Drawings

Fig. 1A is a schematic block diagram of a fluid management system.

FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of a fluid dispensing meter.

Fig. 1C is an enlarged view of detail Z in fig. 1B.

Fig. 2A is a schematic block diagram of a fluid management system.

Fig. 2B is a perspective view of a fluid dispensing meter.

Fig. 2C is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a dispensing meter.

Fig. 3 is a schematic block diagram of a fluid management system.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating a method of dispensing a fluid.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a method of dispensing a fluid.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method of dispensing a fluid.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1A is a schematic block diagram of a fluid management system 10. Fig. 1B is a cross-sectional view of fluid dispensing meter 12. FIG. 1C is an enlarged view of detail C in FIG. 1B. Fig. 1A to 1C will be discussed together. The fluid management system 10 includes a fluid dispensing meter 12, a system controller 14, and a discriminator 16. The fluid dispensing meter 12 includes a control panel 18, an antenna 20, a sensor 22, a trigger control mechanism 24, a user interface 26, a meter body 28, a bezel housing 30, a trigger 32, a valve 34, and a meter 36. The control board 18 includes a memory 38 and a processor 40. The trigger control mechanism 24 includes a solenoid 42 and a trip lever (trip rod) 44. The user interface 26 includes a display screen 46 and a user input 48. The meter body 28 includes a handle 50, a fluid inlet 52, a metering chamber 54, a valve inlet port 56, a valve cavity 58, a valve outlet port 60, and a fluid outlet 62.

The fluid management system 10 is a system for dispensing fluids and tracking the dispensing of fluids. For example, the fluid management system 10 may be implemented in an automobile shop to track the distribution of oil, coolant, and other automotive fluids. Fluid dispensing meter 12 is configured to dispense and meter fluid at various locations within fluid management system 10. The fluid management software is implemented on the system controller 14, and the system controller 14 is configured to generate work orders, track and record discrete fluid dispensing events, and implement system-wide fluid tracking. It should be understood that system controller 14 may be any suitable processor-based device for generating work orders and managing fluid data within a fluid management system. For example, system controller 14 may be a PC or a mobile device, such as a smart phone, a personal data assistant, a handheld bill payment machine, and/or a mobile point of sale system.

Bezel housing 30 is mounted to meter body 28 and is configured to enclose various electronics of fluid dispensing meter 12. The control board 18 is disposed in the bezel housing 30 and is in communication with the antenna 20, the user interface 26, the sensor 22, and the trigger control mechanism 24. The control board 18 is mounted in the bezel housing 30 below the antenna 20. The antenna 20 is mounted in the bezel housing 30 between the control panel 18 and the display screen 46, and the antenna 20 is in communication with the processor 40. Although the antenna 20 is described as being disposed within the bezel housing 30, it should be understood that the antenna 20 may be mounted at any desired location where the antenna 20 is capable of communicating with the discriminator 16 and the processor 40. For example, the antenna 20 may extend through the handle 50 or protrude from the bezel housing 30. The antenna 20 may also be referred to as a data receiver.

The memory 38 and processor 40 are mounted on the control board 18. While the memory 38 and the processor 40 are shown on a common control board 18, it should be understood that the memory 38 and the processor 40 may be mounted on separate circuit boards and electrically connected, for example, by wiring. The memory 38 stores software that, when executed by the processor 40, authorizes fluid dispensing, tracks and records the volume of each fluid dispensed, and communicates fluid dispensing information to and from the user. The user interface 26 is disposed on and in the bezel housing 30 and is configured to receive input from a user and provide output to the user.

In one example, processor 40 is configured to implement functionality and/or process instructions. For example, the processor 40 is capable of processing instructions stored in the memory 38. Examples of processor 40 may include any one or more of a microprocessor, controller, Digital Signal Processor (DSP), Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or other equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuitry.

In some examples, memory 38 may be configured to store information during operation. In some examples, memory 38 is described as a computer-readable storage medium. In some examples, the computer-readable storage medium may include a non-transitory medium. The term "non-transitory" may indicate that the storage medium is not embedded in a carrier wave or propagated signal. In some examples, memory 38 is a temporary memory, meaning that the primary purpose of memory 38 is not long-term storage. In some examples, memory 38 is described as a volatile memory, meaning that memory 38 does not maintain stored content when power to fluid dispensing meter 12 is turned off. In some examples, memory 38 also includes one or more computer-readable storage media. Memory 38 may be configured to store larger amounts of information than volatile memory. The memory 38 may further be configured for long-term storage of information. In some examples, memory 38 includes non-volatile storage elements.

Handle 50 is configured to be grasped by a single hand of a user so that the user can manipulate fluid dispensing meter 12 and dispense fluid at a desired location with one hand. The fluid inlet 52 extends into the handle 50 and is configured to receive a supply hose extending from a fluid reservoir. A metering chamber 54 is disposed in the meter body 28, and a meter 36 is disposed in the metering chamber 54. In some examples, meter 36 may be a positive displacement meter configured to produce a volumetric measurement of fluid flowing through fluid dispensing meter 12. The sensor 22 interfaces with the meter 36 and is configured to generate a volumetric flow count based on the volumetric measurement generated by the meter 36. A valve inlet port 56 extends between the metering chamber 54 and a valve chamber 58. Valve 34 is disposed in valve chamber 58 and is configured to control the flow of fluid through fluid dispensing meter 12. A valve outlet port 60 extends downstream from the valve chamber 58. The fluid outlet 62 is configured to receive fluid flow from the valve outlet port 60 and extend out of the meter body 28.

A trigger 32 extends from the gauge body 28 and interfaces with a valve 34. The trigger control mechanism 24 is mounted on the meter body 28 and is configured to control the trigger 32 between an activated state in which the trigger 32 can displace the valve 34 between the closed position and the open position, and a deactivated state in which the trigger 32 is prevented from displacing the valve 34 between the closed position and the open position. The solenoid 42 is mounted on the meter body 28 and extends into the bezel housing 30. A trip lever 44 extends from the solenoid 42 and is connected to the trigger 32. When the trigger control mechanism 24 is activated, the solenoid 42 locks the trip lever 44 in place. With the trip lever 44 locked in place, the trigger 32 pivots on the trip lever 44 so that the trigger 32 can transition the valve 34 to the open position. When the trigger control mechanism 24 is deactivated, the solenoid 42 unlocks the trip lever 44 such that the trip lever 44 is able to slide within the gauge body 28. When the trip lever 44 is unlocked, the trigger 32 cannot pivot on the trip lever 44 but rather on the valve 34, thereby pulling the trip lever 44 inward within the meter body 28. In this way, the trigger 32 is prevented from shifting the valve 34 to the open position in the event that the trigger control mechanism 24 is deactivated. The trigger control mechanism 24 operates substantially similar to the trigger release mechanism disclosed in U.S. patent No. 8,215,522 to Graco Minnesota, Inc, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Identifier 16, which may also be referred to as an external data source, passively provides fluid dispensing meter 12 with dispensing identification data, such as user identification data identifying a particular user and/or group of users. The assignment identification data may include, among other data, a user identification associated with the user and a work order. The user identification data is provided to the fluid dispensing meter 12 via the communication link between the discriminator 16 and the antenna 20. In this manner, the discriminator 16 authorizes dispensing and may place fluid restrictions on the dispensing without requiring direct communication between the system controller 14 and the fluid dispensing meter 12. In some examples, discriminator 16 is a near field communication ("NFC") device configured to provide the user identification data to fluid dispensing meter 12. Examples of the authenticator 16 may include an NFC-configured wrist band, an NFC-configured ring, an NFC-configured access card, or any other suitable NFC-configured device. In the case where the discriminator 16 is an NFC-enabled device, an NFC chip may be embedded on the control board 18. While the discriminator 16 is described as communicating with the fluid dispensing meter 12 using NFC, it should be understood that the discriminator 16 may additionally or alternatively communicate with the fluid dispensing meter 12 using any desired communication standard. For example, the discriminator 16 may utilize bluetooth SIG (e.g., bluetooth 5, bluetooth low energy protocol stack, bluetooth ultra low energy, etc.), Wibree, BlueZ, Affix, ISO 13157, IEEE 802/Wi Fi, ISO/IEC 15693, ISO/IEC 14443, ISM band, WLAN, active RFID (e.g., active reader active tag), passive RFID (e.g., active reader passive tag), NFCIP-1, ISO/IEC 18092, among other options.

During operation, a work order associated with the discrete fluid dispensing event is entered at the system controller 14. The work order contains relevant dispense information such as the type of fluid to be dispensed, the volume of fluid to be dispensed, the customer associated with the work order, the desired dispense location and/or the identification of the user authorized to make the dispense, among other desired information. In some examples, the work order includes a list of authorized users who are authorized to complete the dispensing event identified by the work order. The work order may be provided to the fluid dispensing meter 12 via a communication link between the system controller 14 and the fluid dispensing meter 12. The work order information may be stored in the memory 38.

The user (e.g., an automotive technician) proceeds with the fluid dispensing meter 12 by means of the discriminator 16, the discriminator 16 including the dispense identification data. When a user holds fluid dispensing meter 12, discriminator 16 provides user identification data to processor 40 via the communication link between discriminator 16 and antenna 20. In some examples, the discriminator 16 is required to be within a short distance of the antenna 20, for example about 2.54cm to 5.08cm (about 1.00 inch to 2.00 inches), to transmit the user identification data. The processor 40 recalls the work order information from the memory 38 and compares the work order information to the user identification data to determine whether the dispense event is authorized and whether the user is authorized to complete the dispense event. For example, memory 38 may contain a list of authorized users that processor 40 compares to user identification data. The list of authorized users may include all users authorized to make the assignment, or may include a particular user associated with a particular work order. In examples where the assignment identification data includes work order identification data, the processor 40 also receives the work order identification data from the evaluator 16. The processor 40 may then automatically associate the user with the work order.

In some examples, multiple work orders are associated with one user. The processor 40 recalls the work order data from the memory 38 and may display a list of work orders to the user via the user interface 26. In the example where the work order data includes a list of authorized users, the list displayed to the user contains only those work orders for which the user is authorized to complete the assignment. The user may then select a work order associated with the current dispense event via the user interface 26.

If the processor 40 determines that the dispensing event is authorized based on the comparison, the processor 40 enables the fluid dispensing meter 12 to proceed with the dispensing event. The processor 40 activates the trigger control mechanism 24, such as by activating the power source of the solenoid 42 to thereby energize the solenoid 42. With the trigger control mechanism 24 activated, the trigger 32 can transition the valve 34 to the open position. The user can then dispense fluid using the fluid dispensing meter 12. If processor 40 determines, based on the comparison, that the dispensing event is not authorized, such as any user on the list of authorized users where the user identification data does not match, trigger control mechanism 24 remains deactivated such that the user cannot dispense fluid with the aid of fluid dispensing meter 12. The fluid dispensing meter 12 may transmit information regarding the dispensing event to the system controller 14 for work order management and system-wide fluid tracking.

The fluid management system 10 provides significant advantages. The discriminator 16 uniquely identifies the user and the processor 40 is configured to authorize fluid dispensing only when the discriminator 16 is within range of the antenna 20 and when the processor 40 determines that the user identification data matches a list of authorized users. In this manner, the processor 40 and the discriminator 16 prevent unauthorized fluid dispensing because the fluid dispensing meter 12 remains deactivated until the processor 40 activates the trigger control mechanism 24. Unlocking the fluid dispensing meter 12 by means of the discriminator 16 also eliminates the need for the user to remember and enter a PIN code to unlock the fluid dispensing meter 12. Rather, the user may simply pick up the fluid dispensing meter 12 and the processor 40 unlocks the fluid dispensing meter 12 based on the proximity of the discriminator 16.

Fig. 2A is a schematic block diagram of a fluid management system 10'. Fig. 2B is an isometric view of fluid dispensing meter 12 with an enlarged view of integrated optical scanner 68 and scanner opening 70. Fig. 2C is a cross-sectional view of a portion of fluid dispensing meter 12. Fig. 2A to 2C will be discussed together. The fluid management system 10' includes a fluid dispensing meter 12, a system controller 14, a visual pattern 64, and an external optical scanner 66. The fluid dispensing meter 12 includes a control board 18, an antenna 20, a sensor 22, a trigger control mechanism 24, a user interface 26, a meter body 28, a bezel housing 30, a trigger 32, a valve 34, a meter 36, and an integrated optical scanner 68. The control board 18 includes a memory 38 and a processor 40. The solenoid 42 of the trigger control mechanism 24 is shown. The user interface 26 includes a display screen 46 and a user input 48. The handle 50, fluid inlet 52, metering chamber 54, valve inlet port 56, valve cavity 58, and fluid outlet 62 of the meter body 28 are shown. Bezel housing 30 includes a scanner opening 70.

Fluid dispensing meter 12 is configured to meter and dispense fluid at various locations within fluid management system 10'. The fluid management software is implemented on the system controller 14, and the system controller 14 is configured to generate work orders, track and record discrete fluid dispensing events, and implement system-wide fluid tracking. It should be understood that system controller 14 may be any suitable processor-based device for generating work orders and managing fluid data within a fluid management system. For example, system controller 14 may be a PC or a mobile device, such as a smart phone, a personal data assistant, a handheld bill payment machine, and/or a point of sale system movement.

The visual pattern 64 (which may also be referred to as an external data source) includes a unique identifier associated with the work order and/or the user authorized to dispense the fluid. In this way, the unique identifier provides the assignment identification data. For example, the unique identifier data may include user identification data in which the visual pattern 64 is associated with a unique user, work order identification data in which the visual pattern 64 is associated with a work order, or both in which the visual pattern 64 is associated with both a user and a work order. The visual pattern 64 may be any suitable visual pattern configured to uniquely identify the user, the work order, or both. For example, the visual pattern 64 may be a barcode or a QR code. Each authorized user of fluid management system 10' may be issued a unique visual pattern 64 and/or may generate a unique visual pattern 64 for each work order. The visual pattern 64 may be provided on printed paper and/or may be displayed on the screen of the device.

The external optical scanner 66 is configured to perform optical pattern recognition and generate a coded signal corresponding to the recognized pattern. The external optical scanner 66 may be, for example, a barcode scanner. The external optical scanner 66 is a separate component from the fluid dispensing meter 12. While the external optical scanner 66 is illustrated as being separate from the system controller 14, it should be understood that the external optical scanner 66 may be integrated into the system controller 14, for example, where the system controller 14 is a smartphone or tablet device. The external optical scanner 66 may also communicate the visual pattern 64 to the fluid dispensing meter 12 directly or by way of the system controller 14. In some examples, the external optical scanner 66 may be equipped with an NFC card emulation similar to the discriminator 16 (fig. 1A and 3).

Similar to the external optical scanner 66, the integrated optical scanner 68 is configured to perform optical pattern recognition and generate a coded signal corresponding to the recognized pattern. The integrated optical scanner 68 is integrated into the electronics of the fluid dispensing meter 12 and is in communication with the processor 40. An integrated optical scanner 68 is mounted in the bezel housing 30 and receives the visual pattern 64 through a scanner opening 70 in the bezel housing 30. Although the scanner opening 70 is illustrated on the side of the bezel housing 30, it should be understood that the scanner opening 70 and the integrated optical scanner 68 may be located at any desired location on the fluid dispensing meter 12 where the integrated optical scanner 68 maintains communication with the control board 18. For example, the scanner opening 70 may extend through a left hand side of the bezel housing 30, a right hand side of the bezel housing 30, a front of the bezel housing 30, and through a finger guard extending around the trigger 32. The user may activate the integrated optical scanner 68 via the user interface 26. The integrated optical scanner 68 may also be referred to as a data receiver.

During operation, the fluid dispensing meter 12 utilizes the unique identifier from the visual pattern 64 to authorize a fluid dispensing event. The user may scan the visual pattern 64 by means of an external optical scanner 66 or an integrated optical scanner 68 and the assignment identification data is transmitted to the processor 40. In the case where a user utilizes the external optical scanner 66, the external optical scanner 66 transmits the dispense identification data from the visual pattern 64 to the fluid dispensing meter 12 either directly via a communication link between the external optical scanner 66 and the fluid dispensing meter 12 or through the system controller 14. In the case where the user utilizes the integrated optical scanner 68, the assignment identification data is provided directly to the processor through the integrated optical scanner 68. Processor 40 recalls authorized allocation data from memory 38 and compares the authorized allocation data to allocation identification data to determine whether the allocation event is authorized. Authorized dispense data can include, among other things, a list of authorized users and a list of work orders authorized to be completed by fluid dispensing meter 12.

The processor 40 compares the assignment identifier data from the visual pattern 64 with the authorized assignment data stored in the memory 38. For example, where the visual pattern 64 identifies a user, the processor 40 compares the user identification data from the visual pattern 64 to a list of authorized users stored in the memory 38. If processor 40 determines that the dispensing event is authorized, processor 40 activates trigger control mechanism 24 so that trigger 32 can transition valve 34 to the open position and the user can dispense fluid with the aid of fluid dispensing meter 12. With the trigger control mechanism 24 activated, a user may dispense fluid using the fluid dispensing meter 12. For example, in the event that sensor 22 indicates that the actual volume of fluid dispensed has reached the authorized volume of fluid, processor 40 may end the dispensing event by deactivating trigger control mechanism 24. The fluid dispensing meter 12 may transmit information regarding the dispensing event to the system controller 14 for work order management and system-wide fluid tracking.

The fluid management system 10' provides significant advantages. The visual pattern 64 provides a unique identification for the work order and the user authorized to dispense the fluid. Processor 40 is configured to authorize fluid dispensing only if processor 40 determines that the dispensing identification data matches authorized dispensing data stored in memory 38. The integrated optical scanner 68 allows the dispense identification data contained in the visual pattern 64 to be provided directly to the fluid dispensing meter 12 at the dispense location. Providing dispense identification data from either the integrated optical scanner 68 or the external optical scanner 66 eliminates the need for the user to remember a PIN code and does not require the user to interact with the user interface 26 to unlock the fluid dispensing meter 12.

Fig. 3 is a schematic block diagram of the fluid management system 10 ". The fluid management system 10 "includes a fluid dispensing meter 12, a system controller 14, an identifier 16, a visual pattern 64, and an external optical scanner 66. The fluid dispensing meter 12 includes a control panel 18, an antenna 20, a sensor 22, a trigger control mechanism 24, a user interface 26, and an integrated optical scanner 68. The control board 18 includes a memory 38 and a processor 40.

Fluid dispensing meter 12 may be configured to authorize fluid dispensing based on two-part authentication from visual pattern 64 and authenticator 16. Both the visual pattern 64 and the discriminator 16 are external data sources. The user scans the visual pattern 64 by means of one of an external optical scanner 66 and an integrated optical scanner 68. The assignment identification data received from the visual pattern 64 is transmitted to the control panel 18 and may be stored in the memory 38 for later recall. For example, multiple work orders may be scanned and the work order identification data for each unique work order may be stored in the memory 38. Each unique work order may be associated with one or more users authorized to fulfill the work order such that only those users are authorized to fulfill the fluid distribution for those work orders. To initiate a dispense event, the user grasps the fluid dispense meter 36, thereby bringing the discriminator 16 into range of the antenna 20. In some examples, the user scans the visual pattern 64 with the integrated optical scanner 68 at the beginning of the dispense event to activate the work order identified by the work order identification data contained in the visual pattern 64.

In the event that a work order is activated, the processor 40 compares the user identification data received from the discriminator 16 with a list of users authorized to fulfill the work order. If the processor 40 determines that the dispensing event is authorized, the processor 40 activates the trigger control mechanism 24 so that the user can pull the trigger 32 (best seen in FIG. 1B) and transition the valve 34 (shown in FIG. 1B) to the open position. If processor 40 determines that the dispensing event is not authorized, processor 40 does not activate trigger control mechanism 24 and fluid dispensing meter 12 is not capable of dispensing fluid.

The fluid management system 10 "provides significant advantages. The discriminator 16 uniquely identifies the dispensing event and/or user, and the processor 40 is configured to authorize fluid dispensing only when the discriminator 16 is within range of the antenna 20 and when the processor 40 determines that the user identification data matches the list of authorized users stored in the memory 38. The visual pattern 64 provides unique dispense identification data to the fluid dispensing meter 12. The processor 40 may retrieve the list of work orders from the memory 38 and identify whether the user is authorized to dispense fluid based on the user identification data provided by the evaluator 16 and the list of work orders associated with the user identification data. Passively identifying the user with the aid of the authenticator 16 based on the user identification data and automatically activating the fluid dispensing meter 12 allows the user to dispense fluid more quickly and efficiently because the user is not required to remember a PIN code or actively log into the fluid dispensing meter 12.

Fig. 4, 5 and 6 are flow charts illustrating methods of dispensing a fluid. Fig. 4 to 6 differ in the level of authorization required by the user. Fig. 4 illustrates a method 100 of authorizing fluid dispensing that requires user authorization at fluid dispensing meter 12, such as by authenticator 16 (fig. 1 and 3). Fig. 5 illustrates a method 200 of authorizing fluid dispensing that entails generating a work order and user authorization at fluid dispensing meter 12. Fig. 6 illustrates a method 300 of authorizing fluid dispensing that entails generating a work order and associating a particular user with the work order. User authorization is still required at the fluid dispensing meter 12, but the user is required to be authorized to dispense fluid using the fluid dispensing meter 12 and dispense fluid for the work order.

Fig. 4 is a flow chart illustrating a method 100 of authorizing fluid dispensing. In step 102, dispense authorization data (e.g., user identification data and/or work order identification data) is received by a fluid dispensing meter, such as fluid dispensing meter 12 (fig. 1A-3). The user identification data may be passively provided to the fluid dispensing meter by an authentication device, such as the authenticator 16 (fig. 1A and 3), utilizing near field communication. For example, a user may wear a bracelet, watch, ring, belt, or other NFC-enabled authentication device, and user identification data may be transmitted by the authenticator to the processor of the fluid dispensing meter. In another example, the user identification data is encoded in a visual identifier, such as visual pattern 64 (fig. 2A-2B and 3). The user may scan the visual identifier using an optical scanner, such as an external optical scanner 66 (fig. 2 and 3) or an integrated optical scanner 68 (fig. 2A-3).

In step 104, the user identification data provided to the fluid dispensing meter in step 102 is compared to a list of authorized users stored in a memory of the fluid dispensing meter. In step 106, the processor determines whether the user is authorized based on the comparison made in step 104. If the user identification data does not match the user identification stored in the list of authorized users, the answer is no and the fluid dispensing meter will not allow the user to dispense fluid with the fluid dispensing meter. If the user identification data matches a user identification stored in a list of authorized users stored in memory, the answer is yes and the method 100 proceeds to step 108.

In step 108, the processor of the fluid dispensing meter activates a trigger control mechanism, such as trigger control mechanism 24 (best seen in FIG. 1B). For example, the processor may provide power to a solenoid, such as solenoid 42 (best seen in fig. 1B), to cause the solenoid to lock the trip lever in place within the fluid dispensing meter. The trigger of the fluid dispensing meter is capable of shifting a valve within the fluid dispensing meter into an open position upon activation of the trigger control mechanism.

In step 110, a user dispenses fluid with the aid of a fluid dispensing meter. In some examples, the preset fluid volume is associated with a user such that the processor deactivates the trigger control mechanism based on the actual fluid volume dispensed reaching the preset fluid volume. Dispensing information, such as the type of fluid dispensed, the identity of the user completing the dispensing, the time of the dispensing, the volume of fluid dispensed, and the location of the dispensing, is recorded. In one example, the assignment information is transmitted to a system controller, such as system controller 14 (fig. 1A, 2A, and 3), for fluid tracking and billing.

Fig. 5 is a flow chart illustrating a method 200 of authorizing fluid dispensing. In step 202, a work order is generated for the discrete dispensing event. The work order may include dispense information related to the dispense event, such as the type of fluid to be dispensed, the volume of fluid to be dispensed, the location of the dispense, and customer information. In step 204, dispense authorization data, e.g., user identification data and/or work order identification data, is received by a fluid dispensing meter, e.g., fluid dispensing meter 12 (fig. 1A-3). The user identification data may be passively provided to the fluid dispensing meter by an authentication device (e.g., the authenticator 16 (fig. 1A and 3)) utilizing near field communication. For example, a user may wear a bracelet, watch, ring, belt, or other NFC-enabled authentication device, and user identification data may be transmitted by the authenticator to the processor of the fluid dispensing meter. In another example, the assignment authorization data is encoded in a visual identifier, such as visual pattern 64 (fig. 2A-2B and 3). The user may scan the visual identifier using an optical scanner, such as an external optical scanner 66 (fig. 2A and 3) or an integrated optical scanner 68 (fig. 2A-3).

In step 206, the dispense authorization data provided to the fluid dispensing meter in step 204 is compared to the authorized dispense data stored in the memory of the fluid dispensing meter. In step 208, the processor determines whether the user is authorized based on the comparison made in step 206. For example, the processor may compare the user identification data to a list of authorized users stored in the memory. If the user identification data does not match the user identification stored in the list of authorized users, the answer is no and the fluid dispensing meter will not allow the user to dispense fluid with the fluid dispensing meter. If the user identification data matches a user identification stored in the list of authorized users stored in memory, the answer is yes and the method 200 proceeds to step 210.

In step 210, the current allocation event is associated with the work order. In some examples, each authorized user is authorized to complete fluid distribution for multiple work orders. In one example, the current dispense event is associated with a work order by selecting the work order via a user interface of the fluid dispensing meter. A plurality of work orders associated with the user may be displayed on a display screen of the fluid dispensing meter, such as display screen 46 (best seen in fig. 1C). The user may select an appropriate work order for the current dispense event by navigating the display screen and selecting a work order via an input, such as user input 48 (best seen in fig. 1C). In another example, the user work order data is encoded in a visual identifier (e.g., visual pattern 64) and the user scans the visual identifier into the fluid dispensing meter using an optical scanner (e.g., external optical scanner 66 or integrated optical scanner 68).

In step 212, the processor of the fluid dispensing meter activates a trigger control mechanism, such as trigger control mechanism 24 (best seen in FIG. 1B). For example, the processor may provide power to a solenoid, such as solenoid 42 (best seen in fig. 1B), to cause the solenoid to lock the trip lever in place within the fluid dispensing meter. The trigger of the fluid dispensing meter is capable of shifting a valve within the fluid dispensing meter into an open position upon activation of the trigger control mechanism.

In step 214, the user dispenses the fluid by means of the fluid dispensing meter. In the event that the preset fluid volume is associated with the work order and/or the user, the processor deactivates the trigger control mechanism based on the actual fluid volume dispensed reaching the preset fluid volume. Dispensing information, such as the type of fluid dispensed, the identity of the user completing the dispensing, the time of the dispensing, the volume of fluid dispensed, and the location of the dispensing, is recorded. In one example, the assignment information is transmitted to a system controller, such as system controller 14 (fig. 1A, 2A, and 3), for fluid tracking and billing.

Fig. 6 is a flow chart illustrating a method 300 of authorizing fluid dispensing. In step 302, a work order and associated work order identification data are generated for discrete dispensing events. The work order identification data may include dispense information related to the dispense event, such as the type of fluid to be dispensed, the volume of fluid to be dispensed, the location of the dispense, and customer information. In step 304, the work order is associated with a particular authorized user such that the fluid dispensing meter will only be activated for the particular user associated with the work order. The work order identification data and associated authorized user are transmitted to one or more fluid dispensing meters, such as fluid dispensing meter 12 (fig. 1A-3). In step 306, a dispense event is initiated by loading a work order into the fluid dispense meter. For example, the work order number may be entered into the fluid dispensing meter via a user interface of the fluid dispensing meter, or the work order number may be scanned into the fluid dispensing meter by an optical scanner, such as an external optical scanner 66 (fig. 2A and 3) or an integrated optical scanner 68 (fig. 2A-3).

In step 308, user identification data is received by the fluid dispensing meter. The user identification data may be passively provided to the fluid dispensing meter by an authentication device (e.g., the authenticator 16 (fig. 1A and 3)) utilizing near field communication. For example, a user may wear a bracelet, watch, ring, belt, or other NFC-enabled authentication device, and user identification data may be transmitted by the authenticator to the processor of the fluid dispensing meter. In another example, the user identification data is encoded in a visual identifier, such as visual pattern 64 (fig. 2A-2B and 3). The user may scan the visual identifier using an optical scanner, such as an external optical scanner 66 (fig. 2A and 3) or an integrated optical scanner 68 (fig. 2A-3).

In step 310, the user identification data provided to the fluid dispensing meter is compared (step 308) to a list of authorized users stored in the memory of the fluid dispensing meter. At step 312, the processor determines whether the user is authorized based on the comparison made in step 310. If the user identification data does not match the user identification stored in the list of authorized users, the answer is no and the fluid dispensing meter will not allow the user to dispense fluid with the fluid dispensing meter. If the user identification data matches a user identification stored in the list of authorized users stored in memory, the answer is yes and the method continues to step 314.

In step 314, the processor of the fluid dispensing meter activates a trigger control mechanism, such as trigger control mechanism 24 (best seen in FIG. 1B). For example, the processor may provide power to a solenoid, such as solenoid 42 (best seen in fig. 1B), to cause the solenoid to lock the trip lever in place within the fluid dispensing meter. The trigger of the fluid dispensing meter is capable of shifting a valve within the fluid dispensing meter into an open position upon activation of the trigger control mechanism.

In step 316, the user dispenses the fluid with the aid of the fluid dispensing meter. In examples where the preset fluid volume is associated with the work order and/or the user, the processor deactivates the trigger control mechanism based on the actual fluid volume dispensed reaching the preset fluid volume. Dispensing information, such as the type of fluid dispensed, the identity of the user completing the dispensing, the time of the dispensing, the volume of fluid dispensed, and the location of the dispensing, is recorded. In one example, the assignment information is transmitted to a system controller, such as system controller 14 (fig. 1A, 2A, and 3), for fluid tracking and billing.

While the invention has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment(s), it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

The claims (modification according to treaty clause 19)

1. A fluid dispensing meter comprising:

a trigger control mechanism mounted in the body of the fluid dispensing meter, the trigger control mechanism being controllable between an activated state in which the fluid dispensing meter is capable of dispensing fluid and a deactivated state in which the fluid dispensing meter is prevented from dispensing fluid;

a data receiver mounted on the fluid dispensing meter, the data receiver configured to receive data from an external data source; and

a control panel disposed within a bezel housing, the bezel housing mounted on the fluid distribution meter, the control panel comprising:

a processor; and

a memory encoded with instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:

the approved user identification is recalled from the memory,

comparing the approved user identification with user identification data received from an external data source, and

controlling the trigger control mechanism between the activated state and the deactivated state based on a comparison of the user identification data and the approved user identification.

2. The fluid dispensing meter of claim 1 wherein the data receiver comprises:

an antenna configured to receive the user identification data from the external data source and to provide the user identification data to the processor.

3. The fluid dispensing meter of claim 2 wherein the antenna is configured to receive the user identification data from an authenticator via near field communication.

4. The fluid dispensing meter of claim 1 wherein the data receiver comprises:

an integrated optical scanner mounted on the fluid dispensing meter; and is

Wherein the external data source is a visual pattern and the integrated optical scanner is configured to scan the visual pattern to receive the user identification data.

5. The fluid dispensing meter of claim 4 wherein a bezel housing is mounted on the body of the fluid dispensing meter and the bezel housing includes a scanner opening extending therethrough, and wherein the integrated optical scanner is configured to receive the user identification data through the scanner opening.

6. The fluid dispensing meter of any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the trigger control mechanism comprises:

a solenoid mounted on the body; and

a trip lever extending from the solenoid to a trigger of the fluid dispensing meter;

wherein the solenoid is configured to lock the trip lever in place within the meter body with the trigger control mechanism in the activated state, and the solenoid is configured to unlock the trip lever with the trigger control mechanism in the deactivated state such that the trip lever is movable within the meter body.

7. A fluid management system, comprising:

an external data source configured to generate a user identification signal comprising user identification data;

a fluid dispensing meter comprising:

a trigger control mechanism mounted in the body of the fluid dispensing meter, the trigger control mechanism being controllable between an activated state in which the fluid dispensing meter is capable of dispensing fluid and a deactivated state in which the fluid dispensing meter is prevented from dispensing fluid;

a data receiver mounted on the fluid dispensing meter, the receiver configured to receive the user identification data from the external data source;

a control board disposed on the fluid dispensing meter, the control board comprising:

a processor; and

a memory encoded with instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: invoking an approved user identification from the memory, comparing the approved user identification with user identification data received from the external data source, and controlling the trigger control mechanism between the activated state and the deactivated state based on the comparison of the user identification data with the approved user identification.

8. The fluid management system of claim 7 wherein the processor is configured to place the trigger control mechanism in the activated state based on the user identification data matching the approved user identification.

9. The fluid management system of any of claims 7-8 wherein:

the external data source comprises a discriminator; and is

The data receiver includes an antenna configured to receive the user identification data from the discriminator and provide the user identification data to the control board.

10. The fluid management system of claim 9 wherein the discriminator comprises a Near Field Communication (NFC) device.

11. The fluid management system of claim 10 wherein said discriminator is selected from the group consisting of an NFC access card, an NFC wrist band, an NFC loop, and an NFC band.

12. The fluid management system of claim 9 wherein the antenna is disposed within a bezel housing mounted on the body of the fluid dispensing meter.

13. The fluid management system of any of claims 7-8 and wherein:

the external data source comprises a visual pattern comprising assigned identification data;

the data receiver comprises an integrated optical scanner mounted on a handheld fluid meter configured to scan the visual pattern to receive the dispense identification data and transmit the dispense identification data to the processor; and is

The memory is further encoded with instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: invoking authorized allocation data from said memory, comparing said authorized allocation data with said allocation identification data, and controlling said trigger control mechanism between said activated state and said deactivated state based on said comparison of said authorized allocation data with said allocation identification data.

14. The fluid management system of claim 13 wherein the assigned identification data is work order identification data configured to identify a work order.

15. The fluid management system of claim 13 wherein the assigned identification data is user identification data configured to identify a user.

16. The fluid management system of claim 13 wherein the fluid dispensing meter further comprises:

a scanner opening extending through a bezel housing mounted on the body of the fluid dispensing meter, wherein the integrated optical scanner is configured to scan the visual pattern through the scanner opening and receive the dispense identification data.

17. The fluid management system of claim 16 wherein the visual pattern is selected from the group consisting of a barcode and a QR code.

18. The fluid management system of any of claims 7-8, further comprising:

a peripheral device configured to receive work order identification data and to communicate the work order identification data to the processor,

wherein said processor is configured to recall authorized dispense data from said memory, compare said authorized dispense data with said work order identification data, and control said trigger control mechanism between said activated state and said deactivated state based on said comparison of said work order identification data and said authorized dispense data.

19. The fluid management system of claim 18 wherein the peripheral device is an external optical scanner configured to receive the work order identification data from a visual identifier.

20. The fluid management system of claim 18 wherein the peripheral device is a system controller.

21. A method of authorizing fluid dispensing, the method comprising:

receiving, at a processor of a fluid dispensing meter, user identification data configured to identify a user;

invoking a list of authorized users from a memory of the fluid dispensing meter and comparing, by the processor, the user identification data to the list of authorized users;

determining, by the processor, an authorization status of the user based on the comparison of the user identification data to the list of authorized users; and

controlling, by the processor, a trigger control mechanism of the fluid dispensing meter between an activated state and a deactivated state based on the authorization status of the user.

22. The method of claim 21, further comprising:

generating work order information;

associating, by the processor, the work order information with a user based on the user identification data.

23. The method of claim 21, further comprising:

generating work order information;

associating the work order information with a list of authorized users to produce a list of approved users;

transmitting the list of approved users to the fluid dispensing meter and storing the list of approved users in the memory;

wherein the list of approved users provides the list of authorized users.

Claims (23)

1. A fluid dispensing meter comprising:

a trigger control mechanism mounted in the body of the fluid dispensing meter, the trigger control mechanism being controllable between an activated state in which the fluid dispensing meter is capable of dispensing fluid and a deactivated state in which the fluid dispensing meter is prevented from dispensing fluid;

a data receiver mounted on the fluid dispensing meter, the data receiver configured to receive data from an external data source; and

a control panel, the control panel sets up in the frame casing, the control panel includes:

a processor; and

a memory encoded with instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to:

the approved user identification is recalled from the memory,

comparing the approved user identification with user identification data received from an external data source, and

controlling the trigger control mechanism between the activated state and the deactivated state based on a comparison of the user identification data and the approved user identification.

2. The fluid dispensing meter of claim 1 wherein the data receiver comprises:

an antenna configured to receive the user identification data from the external data source and to provide the user identification data to the processor.

3. The fluid dispensing meter of claim 2 wherein the antenna is configured to receive the user identification data from an authenticator via near field communication.

4. The fluid dispensing meter of claim 1 wherein the data receiver comprises:

an integrated optical scanner mounted on the fluid dispensing meter; and is

Wherein the external data source is a visual pattern and the integrated optical scanner is configured to scan the visual pattern to receive the user identification data.

5. The fluid dispensing meter of claim 4 wherein a bezel housing is mounted on the body of the fluid dispensing meter and the bezel housing includes a scanner opening extending therethrough, and wherein the integrated optical scanner is configured to receive the user identification data through the scanner opening.

6. The fluid dispensing meter of any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the trigger control mechanism comprises:

a solenoid mounted on the body; and

a trip lever extending from the solenoid to a trigger of the fluid dispensing meter;

wherein the solenoid is configured to lock the trip lever in place within the meter body with the trigger control mechanism in the activated state, and the solenoid is configured to unlock the trip lever with the trigger control mechanism in the deactivated state such that the trip lever is movable within the meter body.

7. A fluid management system, comprising:

an external data source configured to generate a user identification signal comprising user identification data;

a fluid dispensing meter comprising:

a trigger control mechanism mounted in the body of the fluid dispensing meter, the trigger control mechanism being controllable between an activated state in which the fluid dispensing meter is capable of dispensing fluid and a deactivated state in which the fluid dispensing meter is prevented from dispensing fluid;

a data receiver mounted on the fluid dispensing meter, the receiver configured to receive the user identification data from the external data source;

a control board disposed on the fluid dispensing meter, the control board comprising:

a processor; and

a memory encoded with instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: -invoking an approved user identification from the memory, -comparing the approved user identification with user identification data received from an authenticator, and-controlling the trigger control mechanism between the activated state and the deactivated state based on the comparison of the user identification data with the approved user identification.

8. The fluid management system of claim 7 wherein the processor is configured to place the trigger control mechanism in the activated state based on the user identification data matching the approved user identification.

9. The fluid management system of any of claims 7-8 wherein:

the external data source comprises a discriminator; and is

The data receiver includes an antenna configured to receive the user identification data from the discriminator and to provide the user authentication data to the control board.

10. The fluid management system of claim 9 wherein the discriminator comprises a Near Field Communication (NFC) device.

11. The fluid management system of claim 10 wherein said discriminator is selected from the group consisting of an NFC access card, an NFC wrist band, an NFC loop, and an NFC band.

12. The fluid management system of claim 9 wherein the antenna is disposed within a bezel housing mounted on the body of the fluid dispensing meter.

13. The fluid management system of any of claims 7-8 and wherein:

the external data source comprises a visual pattern comprising assigned identification data;

the data receiver comprises an integrated optical scanner mounted on a handheld fluid meter configured to scan the visual pattern to receive the dispense identification data and transmit the dispense identification data to the processor; and is

The memory is further encoded with instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: invoking authorized allocation data from said memory, comparing said authorized allocation data with said allocation identification data, and controlling said trigger control mechanism between said activated state and said deactivated state based on said comparison of said authorized allocation data with said allocation identification data.

14. The fluid management system of claim 13 wherein the assigned identification data is work order identification data configured to identify a work order.

15. The fluid management system of claim 13 wherein the assigned identification data is user identification data configured to identify a user.

16. The fluid management system of claim 13 wherein the fluid dispensing meter further comprises:

a scanner opening extending through a bezel housing mounted on the body of the fluid dispensing meter, wherein the integrated optical scanner is configured to scan the visual pattern through the scanner opening and receive the dispense identification data.

17. The fluid management system of claim 16 wherein the visual pattern is selected from the group consisting of a barcode and a QR code.

18. The fluid management system of any of claims 7-8, further comprising:

a peripheral device configured to receive work order identification data and to communicate the work order identification data to the processor,

wherein said processor is configured to recall authorized dispense data from said memory, compare said authorized dispense data with said work order identification data, and control said trigger control mechanism between said activated state and said deactivated state based on said comparison of said work order identification data and said authorized dispense data.

19. The fluid management system of claim 18 wherein the peripheral device is an external optical scanner configured to receive desired work order information from a visual identifier.

20. The fluid management system of claim 18 wherein the peripheral device is a system controller.

21. A method of authorizing fluid dispensing, the method comprising:

receiving, at a processor of a fluid dispensing meter, user identification data configured to identify a user;

invoking a list of authorized users from a memory of the fluid dispensing meter and comparing, by the processor, the user identification data to the list of authorized users;

determining, by the processor, an authorization status of the user based on the comparison of the user identification data to the list of authorized users; and

controlling, by the processor, a trigger control mechanism of the fluid dispensing meter between an activated state and a deactivated state based on the authorization status of the user.

22. The method of claim 21, further comprising:

generating work order information;

associating, by the processor, the work order information with a single user based on the user identification data.

23. The method of claim 21, further comprising:

generating work order information;

associating the work order information with a list of authorized users to produce a list of approved users;

transmitting the list of approved users to the fluid dispensing meter and storing the list of approved users in the memory;

wherein the list of approved users provides the list of authorized users.