DE102005002245A1 - Fuel filling method for vehicle, involves testing whether gasoline nozzle exhibits spatially secure positioning in vehicle tank to be filled, and verifying whether outlet pipe of gasoline nozzle is introduced into tank nozzle - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves testing whether a gasoline nozzle has a spatially secure positioning in a vehicle tank to be filled. Verification is made to find whether an outlet pipe of the nozzle is introduced into a tank nozzle, and whether the tank nozzle and the pipe exhibit a gas-tight connection, using a proximity sensor system. Vehicle information is transferred from a proximity transmitter to a proximity sensor (7). An independent claim is also included for a device for filling a vehicle with fuel, comprising a testing device.

Description

The The invention relates to a method for refueling a vehicle Fuel and a device for refueling a vehicle with Fuel, with a tank gun to feed the fuel into one Vehicle tank.

Out For safety and business reasons, petrol stations are forever larger units become, with the gas station density was thinned out. Furthermore have to Gas stations meet high environmental standards, for example, that one Safety against leaking fuel during refueling, in particular in the form of a liquid-tight Lane or a drip pan is given. From the mentioned establish The acquisition and operating costs of a gas station are relative high, in particular, there is a significant difference between the Literature prices for quantities for filling a fuel tank at a gas station and wholesale prices for fuel, like Gasoline, diesel, biodiesel or gas or the like.

Out these reasons had middle and larger consumers so far their own tank devices with an above-ground or Underground storage tank and one or more dispensers. This allowed the middle or large consumer a filling of stationary Tanks at cheap fuel Shopping prices while its vehicles fueled directly at its own tank facility were. For safety and environmental reasons, medium and large consumers will To lead an in-house tank facility more and more difficult. Tries, smaller gas stations - in particular with above-ground tanks for the release of diesel to the end user - to establish, were just because of the high security requirements and the associated investment and Operating costs so far not crowned with success. There will be safety devices against the leakage of fuel during refueling, especially in shape a liquid-tight Roadway or a drip pan required. These and other security requirements pay for themselves the medium and large consumers in question not or only in particularly favorable cases so that they often shut down their own tank facility and Fuel to significantly higher Must relate to costs.

Here uses the invention and sets itself the task of a method and to provide a device for fueling in the context of a "small gas station", the while avoiding the disadvantages mentioned at a high safety standard allow a cheap fuel supply.

According to the invention said object solved by a method of the type mentioned, which characterized in that it is checked whether a fuel nozzle such a spatial has secure assignment to a vehicle tank to be filled, that ensures safe fueling and only then is a release of the fuel flow. Farther sees the invention to the solution the above object, a generic device for refueling which is characterized by a test device for testing a secure spatial Assignment of the fuel nozzle to a vehicle tank to be filled, that a safe filling guaranteed is and to release the fuel flow in this case.

By the solution according to the invention is achieved that possible no environmentally hazardous substances get into the environment, in particular no environmentally hazardous liquid exit. In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention can be provided that tested whether the outlet pipe of a fuel nozzle into the filler neck of a Vehicle tanks introduced is or is that being checked whether the filler neck of the vehicle tank and the outlet pipe of a Fuel nozzle have a gas-tight connection.

If also other embodiments for monitoring the assignment of fuel nozzle and vehicle tank are possible, it is in a preferred embodiment the invention provides that the checking takes place by means of a proximity sensor system, that of the proximity sensor transmit vehicle information to the proximity sensor becomes. In terms of device sees accordingly a preferred Embodiment of the invention, that the test system is a proximity sensor system with an encoder attached to the vehicle and attached to the fuel nozzle Sensor includes, as a proximity sensor and sensor are formed, which uniquely identifies the vehicle; so that can clearly stored in the computer vehicle-specific data become. This includes in particular the volume of the empty vehicle tank.

It is reliably ensured that fuel only escapes from the fuel nozzle when the fuel nozzle or its outlet pipe has the prescribed assignment to the vehicle tank or to the filler neck of the same. The proximity sensor system is designed in such a manner that the proximity contact releasing the tank flow is only present at a distance of a few centimeters, possibly up to only one centimeter, and thereafter the proximity contact is interrupted, whereby a shutdown of the fuel flow is unconditionally effected. This will ensure that from the fuel pump The leaking fuel only enters the tank of the vehicle. If a refueling person accidentally, intentionally or unintentionally or due to a peculiarity moves the fuel nozzle out of the filler neck, so immediately the sensor contact and thus the fuel flow is interrupted. The same applies if a driver continues his vehicle without authorization during the refueling process. This ensures that fuel only escapes from the fuel nozzle when it can safely enter the tank of a vehicle. This ensures that there is no leakage of fuel outside the tank of a vehicle and pollution of the environment.

In Further preferred embodiment of the invention, an identification system for the Vehicle be provided. This includes an identification transmitter on the vehicle having an identification data of the vehicle Chip contains and an identification sensor that can read this data. The system can basically as RFiD system trained and the dealer at a suitable location on the vehicle and the Sensor at a suitable location on the tank device, as arranged on the pump be. In extremely preferred However, embodiment of the invention is provided that of the proximity sensor transmit vehicle information to the proximity sensor becomes.

Of the Encoder accordingly includes in preferred Design a memory, such as an electric storage with a vehicle identifying information and identification, causing the holder of the vehicle to refuel the vehicle authorized and other data, in particular the contents of the empty vehicle tank, can be assigned and identified. The refueling process is not anonymous, but can be clearly assigned. Gasoline robbery is thus excluded, but at least much more difficult, too without any monitoring and operators.

The Saving the identification in the encoder can be done by a transponder take place, by the preferably arranged on the fuel nozzle sensor device is addressed and activated and due to such activation the identification is transmitted to the sensor.

Of the Proximity sensor, which is at the same time a donor of identification is preferred permanently connected to the vehicle and preferably in the area arranged the refueling. The people refueling the vehicle can be obliged, preferred by the operator of the gas station or its authorized representative not to change the attachment of the encoder on the vehicle and before refueling. A further configuration option is that the proximity sensor / encoder only with destruction, especially under destruction the data contained in the memory is solvable.

One Vehicle can not be fueled at all, a fuel flow release does not occur when fueling a vehicle is attempted which is not provided with a coded encoder or in which a code readable from a donor not in a database of the the device for refueling operating operator is stored.

To the Safe refueling is monitored the sufficient safe assignment between encoder and sensor the fuel nozzle permanently or cyclically with a high clock rate and thus at short intervals. Will the contact over a certain predetermined time, which may be in the range of seconds, interrupted, so there is a cancellation of the refueling process. The demolition time can be chosen in such a way that this is less than the time for the quick withdrawal of the tank trunk a tank gun from a tank neck of a vehicle until the refueling boom so far out of the filler neck is that the fuel no longer flows into the filler neck.

In preferred embodiment At the terminal, before the start of refueling, the operator will start the refueling process desired filling quantity ask and then with the contents of the empty vehicle tank, the maximum possible filling quantity is viewed compared. The release of a lock the Fuel nozzle takes place only if the desired filling quantity is smaller than the content of the empty vehicle tank. After inserting the fuel nozzle into the tank neck of the vehicle is carried out with the transmitted vehicle identification a second check of the operator's input. By the said measures according to the invention a high level of refueling safety is achieved.

In addition to the invention and above described security concept, the invention further security elements contain, in particular to ensure a safety redundancy.

So the invention provides in a preferred embodiment that monitors an emergency stop being, being an emergency stop switch at a gas pump, one of these associated electronics unit and / or on the fuel nozzle can be self-contained.

In a further preferred embodiment, a monitoring by means of a dead man's circuit is provided, which is to ensure that the refueling is on the one hand on the spot and on the other hand Process monitored. Specifically, this can be realized in different ways. The realization can be given by the fact that a refueling and thus conveying the amount of fuel through a feed pump only takes place as long as an operating lever is actuated on the fuel nozzle, so that an operating lever is not locked. It is thus avoided that refueling takes place without the fuel nozzle being held by one person and the actuating lever always being actuated. Alternatively it can be provided separate from the operating lever deadman circuit. The alarm is triggered when this deadman unit has not been operated within a predetermined period of time. This dead man's unit can be attached to the fuel nozzle or run in a separate device.

A Another preferred embodiment of the invention provides that the feed from a gas pump leak-monitored to the fuel nozzle is also an immediate interruption in a leak the refueling he follows by the delivery pump off and preferably further shut-off valves are closed, preferably by electronic or electromagnetic devices in open position be held and close automatically in case of failure of the auxiliary power.

In Another preferred embodiment is provided that each funded Amount of fuel compared to a refueled vehicle Tank volume and / or a predetermined or desired amount of tank monitored and upon reaching the volume of the tank or the desired Tank quantity is also triggered a termination of the refueling process.

Around an overflow To avoid a tank safely sees another preferred embodiment the invention that the level tank through a level limit sensor the fuel nozzle or more precisely their outlet tube permanently monitored and when the level limit sensor responds also the refueling process is ended.

at Termination of the refueling process can, in particular in response to the Level threshold sensor, a time-out for the vehicle done, since the tank is then sufficiently filled. Refueling is not possible in the foreseeable future. By This measure can overfill through repeated pressing the operating lever reliably prevented become. A refueling of the vehicle will only after expiration a predetermined or calculated in a suitable form time allowed. The calculation can for example be made such that, on the basis of the vehicle-specific consumption, a high speed and the uninterrupted use of the vehicle determines the time will, until half of the maximum tank contents was consumed.

In Another preferred embodiment may at the end of the refueling process initiated a settlement process and, where appropriate, a receipt for the driver be printed out.

apart from the safe monitoring of the Tanking itself, as described above, can also Safety measures be provided with regard to the initiation of the refueling process.

So is provided in a preferred embodiment that a driver who would like to initiate a refueling process, first to identify at a terminal. This can be done in such a way that the driver over a keyboard enters a code into a card reader with a a chip or magnetic memory card, similar to a credit card, introduces, or triggers a biometric identification process in which For example, an electronic unit of the device according to the invention a fingerprint sensor on which the driver has a fingertip imprints, whereby a biometric identification of a driver takes place. In the case in which a driver is assigned to several vehicles, can over an input-output unit with a display and an input device in the form an alphanumeric or even numeric keyboard in a dialogue a query regarding the concrete to be considered Vehicle is done by the driver of several on a display one of them.

in the The driver may then optionally provide an existing one Balance as well as a liter price of any selected fuel and he to enter the desired amount of tank or of an amount of money, for be refueled to be asked.

Subsequently, in a preferred embodiment, a comparison of the resulting tank costs with the balance and if the balance is exceeded, the driver is prompted to re-enter. Furthermore, it can be provided in a preferred embodiment that a comparison of the desired amount of tank with the tank volume of the tank of the selected vehicle. Even if this is exceeded, the driver is prompted to re-enter the desired amount of tank. If the desired amount of tank is close to the contents of the empty tank, for example at 90% of the maximum possible filling contents, then In addition, a safety prompt is made to ask the driver whether the tank of his vehicle can actually hold the desired amount of tank. This query is another security prompt to prevent overfilling as much as possible.

thereupon In a preferred embodiment, the desired amount of tank in a memory the electronic unit deposited.

In Preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention is an electronic, electropneumatic or electromechanically lockable bracket provided for a fuel nozzle. These can after proper identification and Specifying a tank amount to be released by the driver, so that then only the fuel nozzle removed from its holder and can be brought to the tank of the vehicle. Only when due of sufficient introduction the outlet pipe of the fuel nozzle in the Fahrzeu tank a safe Connection for the flow of the fuel is made, the pump is from the Electronic unit released. Only then can by pressing the actuating lever the pump started and / or a fuel flow brought about and so the refueling process can be started.

Further can Position markers or a position sensor be provided with the position of the vehicle within a narrow tank area It is determined by a relatively short tank hose, such as with a length from 1 m to 1.50 m is given. Due to the short hose is the Area in which refueling can take place limited. hereby can also be the size of a no longer necessary by the invention, but possibly present Drip tray to be limited to this narrow refueling area. This allows the price for such a tub can be at least reduced, as such at least no longer below an entire floor area of a (large) gas station must be provided, or even completely eliminated.

Farther can increase the security of a single frame or Video camera be provided, through which an optical monitoring he follows. The supervision, if necessary the later Control and deposit of pictures of the refueling process are important Instruments to increase the sense of responsibility of the Betankers. In Another preferred embodiment, the recorded images digitized and subjected to image recognition and evaluation. The image evaluation system may be designed to be cyclic reviewed certain scenarios and the Refueling automatically stops when it is e.g. recognize that yourself the vehicle is moving or the fuel tank is moving too far from its desired position near removed the fuel nozzle.

Further Advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the claims and from the description below, in the embodiments of the invention are explained in detail with reference to the drawings. Showing:

1 a schematic overall view of a device according to the invention for refueling;

2a a first embodiment of a fuel nozzle of a device according to the invention for refueling in association with the tank inlet of a vehicle;

2 B the fuel nozzle of the 2a in inserted into the tank inlet position;

3a a further embodiment of a fuel nozzle of the device according to the invention in association with the tank inlet of a vehicle;

3b the configuration of the nozzle of the 3a in inserted into the tank inlet of a vehicle position;

4 a schematic block diagram of the device according to the invention;

5a u. b is a flowchart of the method according to the invention for refueling a vehicle with the tank device according to the invention.

The inventive device for refueling vehicles 1 initially has a gas pump 2 on, which is formed in its basic structure in the usual way, but with a lockable recording 2.1 for a fuel nozzle 3 is provided. Lockable means that the receptacle can be shut off and the locking of the electronically, electropneumatically or electromechanically lockable holder of the fuel nozzle is released only after fulfillment of defined conditions.

In the lower part of the petrol pump 2 is a feed pump 2.2 indicated, with which the fluid, (ie gaseous or liquid) propellant, such as gasoline, diesel fuel from a - not shown - tank in and through a to the fuel nozzle 3 leading hose 4 is encouraged. The fuel nozzle 3 is in the usual way with a handle 3.1 and an operating lever 3.2 provided for the actuation of the actual Zapfteils in her and thus to promote the fuel. Furthermore, the fuel nozzle 3 - If necessary, in addition to a known overfill - a level limit sensor 3.3 with, with the introduced fuel nozzle in a tank neck 5 it can be established that the liquid tank contents are the level limit sensor 3.3 has reached, which leads to a shutdown of the fuel supply. The level limit sensor 3.3 is by means of a data cable 3.4 over the fuel nozzle 3 and the hose 4 with the petrol pump 2 and continue with the electronics unit 6 connected. The level limit sensor 3.3 and cables 3.4 can also into the outlet pipe 3.5 the fuel nozzle 3 be integrated and are in the figures only for better illustration outside the outlet tube 3.5 shown. When the level limit sensor 3.3 provided in addition to a conventional fluid-mechanical overfill protection, so far a redundant protection is achieved. The level limit sensor 3.3 is preferably a PTC thermistor sensor, in which a heating takes place and the different heat dissipation behavior in air and liquid (fuel) is monitored. Alternatively, it is also possible to use an optical sensor operating above the different refractive index of air and fuel.

The fuel nozzle according to the invention 3 Be it designed for liquid or gaseous fuels, further has a proximity sensor 7 on, in the embodiment of the 2a and 2 B over a flexible or rigid neck 7.1 with the fuel nozzle 3 connected is. For data transmission is the sensor 7 with a data cable 7.2 connected, as well as the data cable 3.4 over the fuel nozzle 3 , the hose 4 to the pump 2 and from there to the electronics unit 6 leads. Again, this is the cable 7.2 outside the neck 7.1 shown, but can be guided for mechanical protection within the same.

The proximity sensor 7 is a donor to be refueled vehicles 8th assigned, which is designed as a programmed or programmable, preferably once programmable chip transponder. The giver 8th is mounted in the vicinity of the tank inlet in such a way that preferably it can not be detached from the vehicle without destroying the chip. The range of the sensor 7 is low. In the in 2a and 3a illustrated position of the fuel nozzle 3 in which the outlet pipe 3.5 not yet in the filler neck 5 of the vehicle is introduced, the sensor receives 7 no signal from the encoder yet 8th , Only with practically complete introduction of the Zapfrüssels 3.5 in the filler neck 5 like this in the 2 B and 3b is shown, the sensor 7 a signal from the encoder 8th receive. This may be indicated to the driver by an optical signal, such as an indication, on the sensor unit.

The giver 8th in particular as a transponder, near the tank inlet of the vehicle and the associated sensor 7 At the nozzle, initially in a simple embodiment, only be designed as a proximity test device.

As far as the giver 8th having a chip provided thereon and the sensor 7 is configured accordingly, such a sensor-sensor system can also serve as an identification device for the identification of the vehicle. The chip in the encoder 8th is programmed in such a way that a unique identification of the with the corresponding encoder 8th provided vehicle over the sensor 7 is possible. For this purpose, the electronic unit 6 the device according to the invention a computer 6.1 with a database system that stores specific information about all users and their vehicles. The monitoring of the computer 6.1 is in the emergency stop circuit 6.9 Integrated: The software is programmed to periodically generate a "life-bit" pulse on a digital output. By an appropriate circuit (eg time relay), an alarm signal is generated when these life bit pulses have remained out for longer than a preset time. This alarm signal puts the refueling system out of operation analog to the emergency stop button.

In the embodiment of 3a and 3b the fueling nozzle is designed substantially in the same manner as in the embodiment of 2a and 2 B , Like parts are designated by like reference numerals. Here is the sensor 7 only one at the back end 3.7 the fuel nozzle 3 attached gooseneck 7.3 carried, which in the region of the outlet pipe 3.5 protrudes and at the outlet pipe 3.5 still through a chain 7.4 is held. This allows the assignment of the sensor 7 to the giver 8th regardless of the angular position of the fuel nozzle 3 better adhered to.

Between fuel nozzle 3 and hose 4 is a breakaway coupling 9 intended. Should the vehicle move away from its tank position as long as the fuel nozzle 5 still in the tank neck 5 is introduced, could result in unacceptably high loads that damage the pump 2 and / or tearing the hose 4 being able to lead. Especially when the feed pump is running 2.2 There is a risk that large amounts of water-polluting fluids could escape. The tear-off coupling 9 serves as a predetermined breaking point and allows a secure separation of the hose 4 from the fuel nozzle 3 , wherein in the tear-off 9 hose side, a closing valve is provided, which in a tearing off of the coupling 9 closes, so no fuel from the hose 4 can escape.

Used with conventional dispensing valves on End of refueling not waited long enough, so is the fuel nozzle 3 not yet completely emptied and it may come when handling the release of drip quantities. The so-called "drip-stop" system prevents this with a magnetic closure 9b in the dispensing tube, which is opened by the fuel flow and closes the dispensing tube automatically at the end of refueling.

The pump 2 is, as already mentioned, an electronic unit 6 assigned. This does not have to have all the elements discussed below, it has in the illustrated preferred embodiment, in addition to a schematically presented computer 6.1 and optionally one of this separate, but this associated evaluation 6.2 a terminal 6.3 , The terminal 6.3 has a screen or other display 6.4 , optionally one of these associated alphanumeric keyboard 6.5 as input means, another numeric keyboard 6.6 , also as an input device, a card reader 6.7 for reading memory and / or chip cards, preferably in the format of a conventional credit card and a biometric sensor 6.8 , For example, a fingerprint sensor, depending on the security requirement on the sensor 6.8 and / or the card reader 6.7 and / or one of the keyboards 6.5 . 6.6 an identification of the user can take place.

The hose 4 is preferably made quite short, for example of the order of 1 m to 1.5 m. If, in spite of the security measures listed above, there is still a drip tray 11 or an area of liquid-tight carriageway is required, this is in the area of the fuel filler neck 5 to provide a vehicle at a position such that the hose 4 with the fuel nozzle 3 to the tank neck 5 ranges and optionally leaking liquid fuel can be collected.

to Extension of the collection volume can in a preferred embodiment automatically liquid from the tub in an additional container be pumped when in the tub exceeded a certain level becomes. When pumping out of the additional tank, the pump shutdown realized with a combination of conductive and vibration probe, so that in the first step the watery Phase can be sucked off and the oil-containing phase remains in the tank, while in the second step, all the remaining liquid can be withdrawn.

Another safety measure is the dispensing hose 4 to check for leakage and therefore perform double-walled. There is an interstitial space between the inner and outer hose. In this a plastic fabric is introduced to minimize the contact surface between the two tubes. The monitoring space is evacuated in a preferred embodiment and controlled by a pressure switch. If there is a leak on the inner or outer hose, the vacuum of the interstitial space collapses - and here the pressure monitor reports "alarm". Then the feed pump 2.2 locked and another refueling is prevented. Alternatively, a conventional single-walled dispensing hose may optionally be used if it is repeatedly tested for brittleness and other defects at short intervals.

Other components of the safety system may be one on a support arm 12 provided video camera 12.1 and / or a likewise mounted there detector 12.2 be. These tools are intended to detect the presence of a vehicle in the tank position and to issue a release for a refueling operation only when a vehicle is present and in a suitable position.

The video surveillance system makes it possible to control the refueling area both during breaks and especially during refueling. The refueling area is clearly marked as being video-monitored. Already by this measure is to be counted on a clear deterrence against vandalism and improper use. However, should such incidents or malfunction occur, the surveillance video serves as evidence. The surveillance camera is preferred as a digital network camera 12.1 Realized, the video data will be on the computer system 6.1 saved. In conjunction with the database system, each fueling process is clearly logged with start and end time, as well as the timestamps are recorded by system failures, so that the associated video protocols can be easily assigned.

In the 4 the essential components of the device according to the invention are shown schematically in a block diagram. These are one with the evaluation unit 6.2 linked identification system A with encoder 8th and sensor 7 at the fuel nozzle 3 , a deadman circuit B ( 4 ), with the trigger 3.2 may be connected and in the event that it is not operated regularly, the system, in particular the feed pump 2.2 , turns off.

There is provided a deadman circuit, which consists in the simplest case that the operating lever 3.2 the fuel nozzle 3 is not lockable, but must be constantly pressed to remove fuel. The dead man's circuit B can also be designed such that in order to avoid a shutdown of the fuel flow in short Time intervals an active actuation signal must be given. This operation takes place via the deadman unit 13 that either with the fuel nozzle 3 connected or in a separate device ( 1 ). The remaining time to trigger the deadman circuit B can be on the deadman unit 13 be displayed by a digital display, different colored lights or the like.

Alternatively, as in the 1 is shown, a separate Totmann unit 13 be provided, which leads to the same interruption in non-activity. If the deadman circuit B is designed in such a way that an active actuation signal must be given in short time intervals to avoid switching off the fuel flow, the remaining time until the deadman circuit B is triggered can be displayed, such as by a digital display, different colored lights or the like ,

Next is in the electronics unit 6 a position detector 12.2 for the detection of the leadership position available and can be on the electronics unit 6 an emergency stop switch 6.9 be provided, when actuated in the same way, the system immediately switched off and in particular the feed pump 2.2 is switched off. In the 4 is still the Zapfverriegelung 2.1 shown. It is further provided a driver identification, as with the card reader 6.7 , the fingerprint sensor 6.8 or another biometric sensor or by entering a code on the keyboard. Furthermore, the diagram of the 4 the level limit sensor 3.3 and a leak monitoring D for the dispensing hose 4 , All components mentioned are with the computer system 6.1 connected, the identification system via the evaluation device 6.2 , The connection of components B, 6.9 , C, 3.3 and D is unidirectional to the computer system, while the connections of the identification system A, the evaluation device 6.2 Bidirectionally communicates with the computer system and the Zapfverriegelung 2.1 unidirectional from the computer system is led to this. In addition, in particular, the emergency stop circuit 6.9 directly unidirectional with the feed pump 2.2 to turn off the same when the emergency stop and a computer control, such as a watchdog, a time relay or the like, the deadman circuit to execute appropriate monitoring and switching operations to be connected.

The 5a and 5b together show a flow chart, by means of which the inventive method for refueling a vehicle is represented by the tank device according to the invention.

First, a vehicle arrives at a gas station (step a). The driver gets out of the vehicle and identifies himself at the terminal 6.3 eg by entering his user ID and the associated password, a smart card, his fingerprint or any other biometric feature (step b). If, in this case, a mistake repeatedly arises in that the device according to the invention can not identify the driver, the refueling process is terminated (step c).

This verification of the identity and entitlement of the user (customer) is essential. On the one hand for billing the fueled amount of fuel, on the other hand, but also to ensure safety, because by the use of the tank system mandatory "log-in" ensures that only trained people operate the tank system. This is a significant difference to traditional gas stations. Simple access control can be that the user enters his personal access code (PIN code) at a terminal. This is stored in the vehicle database independently of the identification code of the transponder on the vehicle. For safety against abuse, after a specified number of failed attempts, the tank authorization for the respective vehicle can be temporarily blocked. The access control can also be secured by means of a personalized SmartCard or a credit or check card. This is particularly advantageous because the card can also be used for billing, either by a credit stored on the card is used ("cash card") or by online transmission of the transaction data to the data center of a bank (in Germany, for example the company for payment systems "debit card"). This is done by the card reader connected to the computer. Entering the PIN code number is not conclusive proof that the cardholder is carrying out the refueling himself. If it is absolutely necessary to identify the person of the operator, this can be done by biometric methods, such as fingerprint or iris scanner (biometric sensor 6.8 ).

Upon successful identification, it is checked whether the driver who has identified himself has permission to refuel more than one vehicle (step d). If this is the case, it is asked to enter the characteristics of the vehicle to be refueled (step e). Subsequently, in any case, the credit of the authorized driver and the liter price will also be shown in the display and the driver to enter the desired amount of tank or the corresponding amount of money requested. The other size is calculated and displayed (step f). If the entered or resulting tank costs are above an existing balance (step g), the driver is prompted to enter new amounts (loop back to step f).

Lies the amount below the balance, a check is made to whether the desired Tank volume is less than or greater than the volume of the vehicle tank (Step h). In the latter case, the driver is also to specify corrected tank data prompted. In step i, a security inquiry takes place to the driver as to whether the tank is actually the entered or summarizes resulting volumes. The driver denies this question, so he is also asked to enter corrected values. Otherwise will be the desired Tank amount stored and at the later refueling takes place at the latest when this amount of tank is reached, the pump is switched off (step k).

After performing the aforementioned steps a, b, d to i, a release of the fuel nozzle takes place 3 ; the lock 2.1 will be solved (step 1 ). The driver can then remove the nozzle from the support of the fuel pump 2 remove and the fuel nozzle 3 into the filler neck (step 1 ). When inserting the fuel nozzle 3 the driver puts the sensor in the filler neck 7 near the dealer 8th (Transponder), so that the sensor can read out the vehicle code stored in the transponder. This vehicle code is clearly stored in a database of the system data relating to the vehicle and the person authorized to refuel this vehicle with which the input input data of the driver are compared. If there is a deviation and thus an error, the refueling process is aborted. If the read-out code for the vehicle agrees with the vehicle specified by the driver and his authorizations, then the following is continuously checked whether a communication between encoder and sensor is given (step o). If this is not the case, then within a given finite time, which is relatively short and is in the range of seconds, further queries are made as to whether there is communication (step p). If there is no communication after this time has elapsed, the refueling process is terminated (step c). As long as such an interruption does not occur and there is a communication between the encoder and proximity sensor, the refueling process is continued, whereby a permanent check is also made as to whether the emergency stop was actuated, the deadman circuit was triggered, the desired amount of tank greater than that previously funded amount, the leak monitoring detects no error and finally the level limit switch does not respond (step q).

So long If none of these error messages occur, the feed pump remains released and refueling continues (step r). He follows an error message, the refueling process is terminated (step s). The driver can take the nozzle back from the filler neck and in the holder of the fuel pump hook, whereby a locking of the dispensing valve takes place (step t). in the Subsequently, a query is made as to whether the level limit sensor addressed during the refueling process and the fuel supply then was turned off. If this is not the case, then a simple Billing (step w). If this is the case, then via the Billing out a timeout of the vehicle, since this then is fully refueled and therefore a refueling in a designated period of time is locked.

at Use of the article according to the invention it is desirable that only trained persons operate the system. This ensures that that only trained or qualified operators can refuel. Of the Customers are thus restricted by the qualification criterion.

1

vehicle

2

gas pump

2.1

lockable Recording for gas pump nozzle

2.2

feed pump

3

gas pump nozzle

3.1

Handle

3.2

actuating lever

3.3

Level threshold sensor

3.4

data cable

3.5

Outlet pipe (from 3 )

3.7

rear end

4

tube

5

Tankstutzen

6

electronics unit

6.1

computer

6.2

evaluation

6.3

terminal

6.4

display

6.5

alphanumeric keyboard

6.6

numerical keyboard

6.7

card reader

6.8

biometric sensor

6.9

Emergency stop circuit

7

Proximity sensor

7.1

neck

7.2

electric wire

7.3

gooseneck

7.4

Chain

8th

giver

9

breakaway

9b

magnetic closure

11

drip tray

12

Beam

12.1

video camera

12.2

detector

13

Deadman unit

A

identification system

B

Deadman control

C

Driver identification

D

leakage control

e

PC control

Claims (40)

A method for refueling a vehicle with fuel, characterized in that it is checked whether a fuel nozzle has such a spatial safe allocation to a vehicle tank to be filled, that a safe refueling is ensured and only then a release of the fuel flow takes place. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that that checked whether the outlet pipe of a fuel nozzle into the filler neck of a Vehicle tanks introduced is. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized that is being checked whether the tank neck of the vehicle tank and the outlet of a fuel nozzle have a gas-tight connection. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized that the review means a proximity sensor system he follows. Method according to claim 4, characterized in that that from the proximity provider a vehicle information is transmitted to the proximity sensor. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that each refueling permanently, in particular by cyclic query is checked to whether the safety mapping between fuel nozzle and vehicle tank continues is given and that in the absence of secure assignment a termination of the refueling process takes place. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that during the Refueling process is checked whether an emergency stop is activated was and in the case of actuation an emergency off a shutdown of the fuel flow takes place. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that during the Refueling operation a deadman circuit is checked and when not in use the deadman circuit is a termination of the refueling process. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that a leak monitoring the supply line (Hose) to the nozzle and when a leak is detected the refueling process is ended. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that is checked continuously, in particular cyclically, whether a given amount of tank through the previously funded amount of fuel is reached and upon reaching a predetermined amount of tank a Completion of the refueling process takes place. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that when responding to a level limit switch on the fuel nozzle a termination of the refueling process takes place. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that that a time-out regarding refueling of the same vehicle is switched. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that after completion of refueling a billing process performed and If necessary, a receipt is printed out and issued. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that a release of the fuel nozzle from a lock only after positive identification of a driver. Method according to claim 14, characterized in that identification by biometric data acquisition, especially a fingerprint. Method according to claims 14 and 15, characterized that the driver identification over a Identification card with stored, readable by an identification device Identification data is done. Method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized characterized in that the input of the data to be refueled Vehicle is detected. Method according to claim 17, characterized in that that for the vehicle or driver concerned has an available one Tank credit and the liter price are displayed on a display. A method according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that it is checked whether entered at a terminal tank costs or the Tank costs resulting from an entered number of liters are greater than a given tank credit and in this case, an indication is requested to reenter the terminal. Method according to one of claims 17 to 19, characterized that is being checked whether a desired Tank quantity greater than the tank volume of the selected one Vehicle is in this case via an ad to a new input via the Terminal is prompted. Method according to claim 20, characterized in that that the driver over an ad for confirmation is requested that the tank of his vehicle the desired amount of tank summarizes. Method according to one of Claims 17 to 21, characterized that a desired amount of tank is stored in a memory of a computer and the release a lock for the Fuel nozzle takes place. Device for refueling a vehicle with fuel, with a fuel nozzle ( 3 ) for supplying the fuel to a vehicle tank, characterized by a test device ( 7 . 8th ) for checking a secure spatial allocation of the fuel nozzle ( 3 ) to a vehicle tank to be filled to the effect that a safe filling is ensured and to release the fuel flow in this case. Apparatus according to claim 23, characterized in that the test device ( 7 . 8th ) is a non-contact detector device. Apparatus according to claim 24, characterized in that the detector device ( 7 . 8th ) a vehicle mounted donor ( 8th ) and a sensor attached to the fuel nozzle ( 7 ) having. Device according to claim 25, characterized in that the encoder ( 8th ) Is attached to the vehicle so that it is removable only with destruction of this. Device according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that the encoder ( 8th ) with a through the sensor ( 7 ) is read out memory in which preferably the vehicle identifying data are stored. Device according to one of claims 23 to 27, characterized in that an electronic unit ( 6 ) one or more dispensers ( 2 ) assigned. Device according to Claim 26, characterized in that the electronic unit has a computer ( 6.1 ), optionally an evaluation device ( 6.2 ), an ad ( 6.4 ), Operating devices ( 6.5 . 6.6 ), a card reader ( 6.7 ) and / or a biometric reading unit ( 6.8 ) having. Device according to claim 29, characterized in that the biometric reading unit ( 6.8 ) has a fingerprint sensor or iris scanner and / or speech recognition. Device according to one of claims 23 to 30, characterized by a tear-off coupling ( 9 ) between the fuel nozzle ( 3 ) and a hose leading to it from a dispenser ( 4 ). Device according to one of claims 23 to 31, characterized by an emergency stop device ( 6.9 ). Device according to one of claims 23 to 32, characterized by a deadman device ( 3.2 . 13 , B). Apparatus according to claim 33, characterized in that the deadman device is formed by a control lever ( 3.2 ) a fuel nozzle ( 3 ) must be pressed permanently. Apparatus according to claim 33, characterized by a dead man's circuit (B), which in particular on the feed pump ( 2.2 ) and disables them in case of alarm. Device according to one of claims 23 to 35, characterized by a lockable and releasable nozzle holder ( 2.1 ) at the pump ( 2 ). Device according to one of claims 23 to 36, characterized by a level limit sensor ( 3.3 ) at the outlet pipe of the fuel nozzle ( 3 ). Device according to one of claims 23 to 37, characterized by leakage monitoring of the fuel supply hose ( 4 ) to the fuel nozzle ( 3 ). Device according to one of claims 23 to 38, characterized by a surveillance camera ( 12.1 ). Device according to one of claims 21 to 39, characterized by a position sensor ( 12.2 ) for a vehicle.