EP2521104B1 - Method for controlling a modular system for distributing gas cylinders comprising at least one display unit with a plurality of cylinder racks and a terminal for controlling each display unit, connected by a radio link - Google Patents

Method for controlling a modular system for distributing gas cylinders comprising at least one display unit with a plurality of cylinder racks and a terminal for controlling each display unit, connected by a radio link Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2521104B1
EP2521104B1 EP12166768.7A EP12166768A EP2521104B1 EP 2521104 B1 EP2521104 B1 EP 2521104B1 EP 12166768 A EP12166768 A EP 12166768A EP 2521104 B1 EP2521104 B1 EP 2521104B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
display unit
control terminal
display
terminal
gas cylinders
Prior art date
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Application number
EP12166768.7A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2521104A1 (en
Inventor
Yanis Siamer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Antargaz Distribution de Gaz SA
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Antargaz Distribution de Gaz SA
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Publication of EP2521104A1 publication Critical patent/EP2521104A1/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F7/00—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus
    • G07F7/06—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, i.e. reverse vending systems in which a user is rewarded for returning a container that serves as a token of value, e.g. bottles
    • G07F7/0609—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, i.e. reverse vending systems in which a user is rewarded for returning a container that serves as a token of value, e.g. bottles by fluid containers, e.g. bottles, cups, gas containers
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
    • G07F17/10—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for means for safe-keeping of property, left temporarily, e.g. by fastening the property
    • G07F17/12—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for means for safe-keeping of property, left temporarily, e.g. by fastening the property comprising lockable containers, e.g. for accepting clothes to be cleaned
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F9/00—Details other than those peculiar to special kinds or types of apparatus
    • G07F9/002—Vending machines being part of a centrally controlled network of vending machines
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F9/00—Details other than those peculiar to special kinds or types of apparatus
    • G07F9/02—Devices for alarm or indication, e.g. when empty; Advertising arrangements in coin-freed apparatus
    • G07F9/026—Devices for alarm or indication, e.g. when empty; Advertising arrangements in coin-freed apparatus for alarm, monitoring and auditing in vending machines or means for indication, e.g. when empty

Definitions

  • the invention also relates to such a gas cylinder distribution system.
  • the device for distributing gas cylinders comprises bottle storage displays with individual lockers each equipped with a door and means for locking this door, and an automaton for controlling means for controlling the locking / unlocking of the doors.
  • the storage displays include a frame received in a chassis fixed to the ground, and the chassis is also connected to the machine by permanent wiring. A fixed connector integral with the chassis ensures connection with the displays which are removable.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to facilitate the addition of a display in the distribution system or the removal of a display from said system, and more generally the management of the stock of gas cylinders.
  • the invention also relates to a gas cylinder distribution system comprising at least one display comprising a plurality of gas bottle racks, and a control terminal for the or each display, the control terminal comprising a processing unit equipped with means for controlling the opening of a locker, and a memory comprising a file for managing the stock of gas bottles, the terminal control and the or each respective display being remote and connected by a data link, characterized in that it further comprises means for automatically detecting the addition of a display in the distribution system comprising the emission of '' an identification signal by the display added to the control terminal or the withdrawal of a display from the system comprising the determination of the absence of the identification signal from said display for a period of time greater than a predetermined duration means for determining the number of compartments of said display unit added or removed, the means for determining being connected to the detection means, and means for updating the management file, the updating means being connected to the determination means, and in that it comprises data exchange means via the data link between the control terminal and the display, the data exchange means comprising means for transmitting
  • a system 10 for distributing gas bottles comprises two displays 12 each comprising a plurality of gas bottle racks 14, and a terminal 16 for controlling the displays, the pilot terminal 16 being connected to each display 12 via a data link 18.
  • the distribution system 10 includes a remote server 20 for managing the stock of gas cylinders, connected to the control terminal 16 via a communication network 22.
  • the distribution system 10 comprises a plurality of control terminals 16 connected to the remote server 20, each control terminal 16 being connected to one or more display stands 12.
  • the displays 12 and the control terminal 16 are, for example, disposed on the road at a location near a petrol distribution station.
  • Each display unit 12 comprises a processing unit 24 and a radio transmitter-receiver 26, the data link 18 between the control terminal and each display unit being, for example, a radio link, in the absence of a wired data link between the control terminal and the respective display, as shown in the figure 2 .
  • Each display 12 comprises autonomous means for supplying electrical energy comprising a rechargeable electric battery 28 and means 30 for recharging the battery.
  • the processing unit 24 is connected to the recharging means 30 to control them, and to the rechargeable battery 28 so as to be electrically supplied by the latter.
  • the display supply means include a solar panel 32, visible on the figure 1 , arranged on top of the display and electrically connected to the recharging means 30.
  • Each display 12 comprises a protective box 34 in which are arranged the processing unit, the transceiver, the rechargeable battery and the means for recharging the battery.
  • Each display 12 also includes a radio antenna 36.
  • each display 12 does not have any wire connection with an external device, each display 12 being autonomous in energy by its rechargeable battery 28, and communicating with the control terminal 16 via its radio transmitter and receiver 26 via the connection radio 18.
  • Each display 12 includes means, not shown, for detecting the presence of a gas cylinder in these respective compartments 14.
  • each display 12 includes 24 bottle racks 14.
  • Each locker 14 has an open position in which the gas bottle is accessible, and a closed position in which the gas bottle is retained in the locker.
  • Each locker 14 is, for example, equipped with a door 38 and means, not shown, for locking the door, such as an electric strike known per se.
  • Each bottle rack 14 is adapted by its dimensions to receive any type of gas bottle regardless of the volume thereof, the type of a gas bottle being for example defined by its shape, its volume and its color. .
  • Each locker 14 comprises, for example, a sensor, not shown, for detecting the presence of a gas bottle, such as a sensor for the color of the bottle.
  • Each locker 14 comprises, for example, a sensor, not shown, for detecting the opening of said locker.
  • the control terminal 16 is suitable for controlling the opening of a locker 14, and comprises a screen 40, means 42 for entering characters and means 44 for accepting means of payment, such as a currency selector and / or a payment card reader.
  • the control terminal 16 comprises, as shown in the figure 2 , means 46 for displaying data on the screen, a processing unit 48, a first radio transceiver 50 for establishing the radio links 18 with the displays, and a second radio transceiver 52 for the link with the remote server 20.
  • the control terminal 16 comprises autonomous means for supplying electrical energy comprising a rechargeable electric battery 54 and means 56 for recharging the battery.
  • the supply means comprise a solar panel 58, visible on the figure 1 , arranged on top of the control terminal and electrically connected to the recharging means 56.
  • control terminal 16 is connected to an electrical supply network, the supply means then comprising a voltage transformer.
  • the control terminal 16 comprises means 59 for printing a paper ticket, the information printed on said ticket via the printing means 59 coming from the processing unit 48.
  • the control terminal 16 comprises a first radio antenna 60 for the data links 18 with the displays and a second radio antenna 62 for the connection with the remote server via the communication network 22.
  • control terminal 16 does not have any wired connection with an external device, the control terminal 16 being self-sufficient in energy by its rechargeable battery 54 and communicating with the displays 12 or with the remote network 20 via radio links by the through its radio transceivers 50, 52.
  • the data link 18 between the control terminal and each of the displays is, for example, a radio link, also called a wireless link.
  • the radio link 18 is, for example, compliant with the IEEE 802.11 standard, and is also called Wi-Fi link.
  • the radio link 18 complies with the ZigBee communication protocol based on the IEEE-802.15.4 standard.
  • the remote server 20 comprises a processing unit 64 and a radio transceiver 66 suitable for communicating with the second transceiver 52 of the control terminal via the communication network 22, as shown in the figure 2 .
  • the communication network 22 is, for example, a mobile telephone network.
  • the mobile telephone network 22 is, for example, a GPRS network (from the English General Packet Radio Service), or a UMTS network (from the English Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), or even a CDMA network (from the English Code Division Multiple Access).
  • the processing unit 24 of each display unit is able to process a request sent by the control terminal 16, and to send a response to the control terminal, for example in the case of a request for the opening of '' a respective locker for the delivery of a full bottle or the return of an empty bottle.
  • the processing unit 24 comprises, for example, a data processor 68 associated with a memory 70.
  • the memory 70 is capable of storing software 72 for processing a request sent by the control terminal, software 74 for transmission of a response to the request intended for the control terminal, and software 76 for transmission of an identification signal intended for the control terminal.
  • the software for transmitting a response 74 is in particular suitable for sending the information received from the sensors for detecting the opening of a locker and / or the means for detecting the presence of a gas cylinder, to and from request from the control terminal 16.
  • the software for transmitting an identification signal 76 is capable of signaling to the control terminal 16 the presence of the corresponding added display when it is placed near the terminal, at a distance less than that of the range of the data link 18 when the data link 18 is a radio link.
  • the identification signal comprises, for example, an identification number of the corresponding display.
  • the means for processing a request 72, the means for transmitting a response 74 and the means for transmitting an identification signal 76 are produced in the form of programmable logic components, or else in the form dedicated integrated circuits.
  • the transceiver 26 of each display conforms to the communication standard of the radio link 18, and is for example conforms to the IEEE 802.11 standard, the transceiver 26 also being called Wi-Fi transceiver. Alternatively, the transceiver 26 conforms to the ZigBee communication protocol based on the IEEE-802.15.4 standard.
  • the range of the transceiver 26 is, for example, greater than or equal to 50 meters.
  • the processing unit 48 of the control terminal comprises, for example, a data processor 80 associated with a memory 82.
  • the memory 82 is capable of storing a file 84 for managing the stock of gas cylinders, as well as a software 86 for controlling the opening of a respective locker for the delivery of a full bottle or the return of an empty bottle.
  • the memory 82 is capable of storing software 88 for detecting the addition of a display unit to the distribution system or the removal of a display unit from said system, the detection software 88 being able to recognize an identification signal transmitted by an added display stand, and extracting from said signal the identification number of the display stand added for its identification, as well as determining that a display stand has been removed in particular in the absence of the identification signal from said display stand during a period of time greater than a predetermined duration.
  • the memory 82 is able to store software 90 for sending a request to a display 12 and software 92 for processing the response to said request, the software for sending a request 90 and processing of answer 92 being in particular suitable for obtaining information from the display unit relating to the status of the locker, namely open or closed locker, bottle present or absent.
  • the software for sending a request 90 and for processing the response 92 are capable of obtaining information from the display unit relating to the number of racks in the display rack and / or the gas cylinders present in each of the racks 14.
  • the memory 82 is able to store software 94 for determining the number of compartments of the display rack added or removed, the determination software 94 being connected to the detection software 88 and to the software 96 for updating the management file 84.
  • the software 94 is suitable for sending a request to the remote server 20 in order to obtain information relating to the display stand added or removed, and for analyzing the response received from the remote server 20 for each display stand 12, also called cartography of the display stand.
  • the cartography of the display contains in particular the number of compartments 14 of the display.
  • the mapping includes, for each rack 14 of the display, the type of each bottle stored or to be stored during a next reassortment.
  • the memory 82 is also able to store software 98 for sending the management file 84 to the remote server 20, and software 100 for triggering an alarm with the remote server when the number of gas cylinders supported by the control terminal crosses a predetermined threshold.
  • the predetermined threshold is, for example, a function of the type of gas cylinder.
  • the means for controlling the opening of a rack 86, the means for detecting the addition or removal of a display unit 88, the means for sending a request 90, the processing means for 'A response 92, the means for determining the number of lockers 94 and the means for updating the management file 96 are produced in the form of programmable logic components, or even in the form of dedicated integrated circuits.
  • the means for transmitting the management file 98 and the means for triggering an alarm 100 are produced in the form of programmable logic components, or even in the form of dedicated integrated circuits.
  • the first transceiver 50 of the control terminal conforms to the communication standard of the radio link 18, and is for example conforms to the IEEE 802.11 standard, the first transceiver 50 also being called Wi-Fi transceiver Alternatively, the first transceiver 50 conforms to the ZigBee communication protocol based on the IEEE-802.15.4 standard.
  • the range of the first transceiver 50 is, for example, greater than or equal to 50 meters.
  • the processing unit 64 of the remote server comprises, for example, a data processor 102 and a memory 104 capable of storing a centralized database 106 and software 108 for analyzing the database.
  • the inventory management file 84 includes, on the one hand, the total number of gas cylinders supported by the terminal, as well as the number of gas cylinders for each type of gas cylinder, and, on the other hand, the information relating to each display 12 controlled by the terminal including in particular the presence or not of a bottle in each rack 14 of the display, as well as the type of bottle present in each locker.
  • the centralized database 106 is suitable for storing the information contained in each management file 84 received by the server 20 from the control terminal 16.
  • the centralized database 106 contains, for example, sales history and details of each of the transactions made with each terminal 16 of the distribution system, as well as the state of the stock of gas cylinders managed by each terminal 16.
  • the database 106 contains, for example, the date, the type of gas cylinder and the type of transaction, namely purchase of a bottle without return of an empty returnable bottle or purchase of a bottle with return of an empty returnable bottle.
  • the centralized database 106 is also suitable for storing the desired cartography for each display 12 of the system, the cartography of each display being validated by a logistician as a function of the results delivered by the analysis software of the base 108.
  • the analysis software of the base 108 is suitable for continuously analyzing the evolution of the stock of gas cylinders managed for each terminal 16, and for the entire distribution system, in order to trigger the addition if necessary. or the withdrawal of a display stand, or even the reassortment in bottle (s) of one or more display stands 12.
  • the analysis software of the base 108 is also intended to help the logistician to determine the cartography for each display stand 12 of the system.
  • the analysis of the evolution of the stock is, for example, carried out in real time.
  • a display 12 is added to the distribution system, or else removed from the system, by an operator.
  • the operator has the display 12 on site, for example near a petrol station, or removes it from the site, using a truck and means loading / unloading of the display not shown.
  • the addition or removal of the display rack is, for example, triggered by the remote server 20 following the analysis of the evolution of the stock of gas bottles delivered by the analysis software 108. In addition, this triggering is carried out after confirmation from the logistician.
  • the operator After adding or removing the display 12, the operator enters a code on the control terminal 16 using the input means 42 during step 210, in order to identify himself with the control terminal .
  • step 220 When the operator has identified himself, the addition or removal of the display unit 12 is automatically detected during step 220.
  • Automatic detection of the addition of the display rack comprises the transmission of an identification signal by the added display rack 12 to the control terminal 16 using the software for transmission of the identification signal 76.
  • the automatic detection of the withdrawal of the display rack comprises the determination, using the detection means 88, of the absence of the identification signal of said display rack for a period of time greater than a predetermined duration.
  • control terminal 16 automatically modifies its man-machine interface in order to display the exact number of display units, taking into account the display unit which has just been added or removed.
  • step 225 the control terminal 16 tests whether the addition or removal of a display has been effectively detected during step 220. If the display has been detected, the control terminal 16 goes to the next step 230. Otherwise, that is to say in the event of a possible fault resulting in an absence of detection, the control terminal 16 goes directly to step 240.
  • the control terminal determines during step 230 the number of compartments of the display rack added or removed using its determination software 94. To do this, the control terminal 16 sends, for example, a request to the remote server 20 in order to obtain the number of lockers and the respective mapping of each display rack managed by the terminal 16 taking into account the display rack added or removed.
  • the updating of the management file 84 during step 240 then comprises the recording, in the management file 84, of the number (s) of lockers and of the map (s) received from the remote server 20, in place of the numbers of traps and previous maps.
  • the control terminal 16 then prints, during step 260 and using its printing means 59, a ticket intended for the operator with all of the information relating to the desired map including the display unit added .
  • the control terminal 16 controls during step 270 the opening of the racks 14 corresponding to the gas bottles to be inserted into the display, or to be removed from the display, by the operator.
  • the operator then arranges or removes the different gas cylinders according to the map indicated on the ticket printed by the control terminal.
  • the control terminal 16 After filling of the added display rack, and the closing of all the respective lockers by the operator, the information of this closing being sent to the control terminal 16 by the transmission means 74 of said display rack, the control terminal 16 goes into the waiting phase for a transaction from a user.
  • control terminal 16 In case of withdrawal of the display, no bottle loading is necessary, and the control terminal 16 then goes directly to the waiting phase for a transaction from a user.
  • the control terminal 16 When a user wishes to return an empty bottle and / or buy a full bottle, the control terminal 16 creates the corresponding transaction, namely purchase of a bottle with return of a return empty bottle or purchase of a bottle without return of an empty returnable bottle. After receiving payment from the user, the control terminal 16 commands the corresponding display 12 to open the respective locker 14 using the opening control software 86. After opening the corresponding locker 14, the user places its empty bottle in the rack indicated by the control terminal or else withdraws a full bottle from said rack (step 280).
  • step 300 the control terminal 16 updates the management file 84 according to the previous transaction.
  • the terminal 16 then transmits, to the remote server 20 and using the transmission software 98, the updated management file 84 containing the information relating to the transactions carried out and the evolution of the stock of bottles. This transmission is, for example, carried out periodically, in order to reduce the electrical consumption of the control terminal 16.
  • the control terminal 16 tests whether the time elapsed since the last transmission of the management file 84 to the remote server 20 has reached a predetermined value of the period between two transmissions of the management file 84. If the predetermined value has been reached, then the management file 84 is issued. Otherwise, while waiting for the predetermined value to be reached, the control terminal 16 is again in the waiting phase for a transaction from a user, and able to create a new transaction, then to command the opening of the corresponding locker. 14.
  • the management file 84 is sent by the terminal 16 to the server 20 after each transaction, and no test of the time elapsed since the last transmission of the management file 84 is carried out.
  • control terminal 16 when the number of gas cylinders supported by the control terminal 16 crosses a predetermined threshold, the control terminal 16 triggers an alarm with the remote server 20 using the alarm trigger software 100.
  • a reassortment is triggered during step 310, for example after analysis by the analysis software 108 of a change in the stock of bottles requiring reassortment. This occurs, for example, when the demand for gas cylinders has been greater for one type of gas cylinder rather than for another type of cylinder.
  • the reassortment is, for example, triggered by the remote server 20 following the analysis of the evolution of the stock of gas bottles delivered by the analysis software 108. In addition, this triggering is carried out after confirmation from the logistician.
  • the reassortment is triggered when an alarm has been caused.
  • the operator For the reassortment of the display unit (s) 12 with one or more corresponding gas bottles, the operator begins by entering his code on the control terminal 16 using the input means 42, in order to identify himself with the terminal steering. The control terminal 16 then sends a request to the remote server 20 in order to obtain the respective mapping of each display stand managed by the terminal 16. The control terminal 16 then prints, using its printing means 59 , a ticket intended for the operator with all the information relating to the desired cartography of each display, and in particular the racks where a bottle is to be inserted or removed. The control terminal 16 finally controls the opening of the racks 14 which are the subject of the reassortment, that is to say racks where the operator must insert or remove a corresponding gas bottle. The operator then places the different gas bottles in the respective lockers according to the restocking indicated on the ticket printed by the control terminal 16.
  • the addition or removal of a display unit is automatically detected by the system, and the functional taking into account of the display unit added or removed is also automatic, so that the distribution system according to the invention facilitates the addition or removing a display.
  • the data links 18 between the control terminal 16 and each of the displays 12 are radio links
  • the addition or removal of a display is even simpler, since it suffices to place the new display 12 near the control terminal 16, without having previously buried wired data links in the ground and provided a corresponding connection in order to connect each of these new displays with wire connections.
  • the use of wireless data links between the control terminal and each of the displays furthermore leaves all freedom of placement of the displays from the moment when these remain in an area corresponding to the range of the radio transceivers 26, 50 of the displays and of the control terminal.
  • the stock reassortment step makes it possible to readjust stocks on demand, that is to say to adapt the number and type of bottles to the commercial environment of the system.
  • the piloting method according to the invention also allows greater operating flexibility, since the operator reassort each display unit according to the mapping sent by the remote server, and this mapping according to the results delivered by the analysis software of the base 108 and choices of the logistician is likely to evolve during a tour of the operator on different sites.
  • the reassortment carried out by the operator is likely to differ from a reassortment which, in the absence of transmission of the map to the terminal by the remote server, would have been decided at the start of the tour.
  • a distribution system facilitates the addition of a display in the distribution system or the removal of a display from said system, and allows better management of the stock of gas bottles.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Accounting & Taxation (AREA)
  • Coin-Freed Apparatuses For Hiring Articles (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne un procédé de pilotage d'un système de distribution de bouteilles de gaz comprenant :

  • au moins un présentoir comportant une pluralité de casiers à bouteille de gaz,
  • une borne de pilotage du ou de chaque présentoir propre à commander l'ouverture d'un casier, la borne comprenant une unité de traitement et une mémoire comportant un fichier de gestion du stock de bouteilles de gaz, la borne de pilotage et le ou chaque présentoir respectif étant distants et reliés par une liaison de données, ladite unité de traitement étant apte à commander l'ouverture d'un casier pour la délivrance d'une bouteille pleine ou le retour d'une bouteille vide.
The present invention relates to a method for controlling a gas cylinder distribution system comprising:
  • at least one display comprising a plurality of gas bottle racks,
  • a control terminal for the or each display suitable for controlling the opening of a locker, the terminal comprising a processing unit and a memory comprising a file for managing the stock of gas cylinders, the control terminal and the or each respective display being remote and connected by a data link, said processing unit being capable of controlling the opening of a rack for the delivery of a full bottle or the return of an empty bottle.

L'invention concerne également un tel système de distribution de bouteilles de gaz.The invention also relates to such a gas cylinder distribution system.

On connaît du document FR 2 717 598 A3 un procédé et un dispositif de distribution automatique et autonome de bouteilles de gaz. Le dispositif de distribution de bouteilles de gaz comprend des présentoirs de stockage des bouteilles avec des casiers individuels équipés chacun d'une porte et de moyens de verrouillage de cette porte, et un automate de commande de moyens de pilotage du verrouillage/déverrouillage des portes. Les présentoirs de stockage comprennent un bâti reçu dans un châssis fixé au sol, et le châssis est par ailleurs relié à l'automate par un câblage permanent. Un connecteur fixe et solidaire du châssis assure la connexion avec les présentoirs qui sont amovibles.We know the document FR 2 717 598 A3 a method and a device for automatic and autonomous distribution of gas cylinders. The device for distributing gas cylinders comprises bottle storage displays with individual lockers each equipped with a door and means for locking this door, and an automaton for controlling means for controlling the locking / unlocking of the doors. The storage displays include a frame received in a chassis fixed to the ground, and the chassis is also connected to the machine by permanent wiring. A fixed connector integral with the chassis ensures connection with the displays which are removable.

Toutefois, le remplacement d'un présentoir par un autre présentoir est relativement complexe puisqu'il entraîne une initialisation manuelle de l'automate, et nécessite une reconfiguration du dispositif de distribution de bouteilles de gaz.However, the replacement of a display by another display is relatively complex since it involves manual initialization of the machine, and requires a reconfiguration of the device for distributing gas cylinders.

On connaît en outre du document US 2008/0188980 A1 un système de distribution de bouteilles de gaz comprenant une pluralité de présentoirs de stockage de bouteilles, chacun de ces présentoirs comportant une pluralité de casiers individuels et étant équipé d'un module de contrôle apte à commander l'ouverture d'un casier. Ce système facilite l'ajout d'un présentoir dans un système de distribution de bouteilles de gaz grâce à l'utilisation de moyens de câblage et d'un mécanisme de connexion bidirectionnel approprié pour échanger des signaux d'état de commande. Toutefois, cette fois encore, la substitution d'un présentoir par un autre présentoir est relativement complexe puisqu'elle entraîne une connexion manuelle et une reconfiguration du système de distribution de bouteilles de gaz et ajoute un certain nombre d'opérations à l'opérateur en charge de l'ajout d'un présentoir.We also know from the document US 2008/0188980 A1 a gas cylinder distribution system comprising a plurality of bottle storage displays, each of these displays comprising a plurality of individual lockers and being equipped with a control module capable of controlling the opening of a locker. This system facilitates the addition of a display in a gas cylinder distribution system through the use of wiring means and a bidirectional connection mechanism suitable for exchanging control status signals. However, this time again, the substitution of a display by another display is relatively complex since it involves manual connection and a reconfiguration of the gas cylinder distribution system and adds a certain number of operations to the operator in charge of adding a display.

En effet, pour la gestion de systèmes modulaires de distribution de bouteilles de gaz, l'exploitant de tels systèmes est confronté à la difficulté de gérer au quotidien et sans intervention humaine, des stocks bouteilles sur des points de vente très évolutifs, pouvant rapidement devenir obsolètes. Du fait du caractère saisonnier des ventes de bouteilles de gaz, de l'environnement ponctuel d'un lieu de stockage, les stocks sont soit trop grands, notamment dans le cas de types de bouteilles devenant obsolètes, soit trop petits notamment dans le cas d'une rupture de la disponibilité de bouteilles de façon imprévisible et non anticipée.Indeed, for the management of modular gas cylinder distribution systems, the operator of such systems is confronted with the difficulty of managing daily, without human intervention, cylinder stocks at very scalable points of sale, which can quickly become obsolete. Due to the seasonal nature of the sales of gas cylinders, the punctual environment of a storage place, stocks are either too large, especially in the case of types of bottles becoming obsolete, or too small in particular in the case of '' a break in the availability of bottles in an unpredictable and unexpected manner.

Le but de l'invention est donc de faciliter l'ajout d'un présentoir dans le système de distribution ou le retrait d'un présentoir dudit système, et plus généralement la gestion du stock de bouteilles de gaz.The object of the invention is therefore to facilitate the addition of a display in the distribution system or the removal of a display from said system, and more generally the management of the stock of gas cylinders.

A cet effet, l'invention a pour objet un procédé de pilotage du type précité, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend les étapes suivantes :

  • la détection automatique de l'ajout d'un présentoir dans le système de distribution comportant l'émission d'un signal d'identification par le présentoir ajouté à destination de la borne de pilotage ou du retrait d'un présentoir dudit système comportant la détermination de l'absence du signal d'identification dudit présentoir pendant une période de temps supérieure à une durée prédéterminée,
  • la détermination du nombre de casiers du présentoir ajouté ou retiré après l'étape de détection, et
  • la mise à jour du fichier de gestion après l'étape de détermination,
au moins une étape parmi les étapes de détection, de détermination, et de mise à jour comprenant un échange de données par la liaison de données entre la borne de pilotage et le présentoir, l'échange de données comportant l'émission d'un signal par le présentoir et le traitement par la borne du signal émis par le présentoir,
et en ce que, la borne de pilotage et le ou chaque présentoir comportant chacun un émetteur-récepteur radioélectrique, la liaison de données pour l'échange de données est une liaison radioélectrique via lesdits émetteurs-récepteurs radioélectriques.To this end, the subject of the invention is a piloting method of the aforementioned type, characterized in that it comprises the following steps:
  • automatic detection of the addition of a display unit in the distribution system comprising the emission of an identification signal by the display unit added to the control terminal or the removal of a display unit from said system comprising the determination the absence of the identification signal from said display unit for a period of time greater than a predetermined duration,
  • determining the number of lockers in the display rack added or removed after the detection step, and
  • updating the management file after the determination step,
at least one step from the detection, determination, and updating steps comprising an exchange of data by the data link between the control terminal and the display unit, the exchange of data comprising the emission of a signal by the display and the processing by the terminal of the signal emitted by the display,
and in that, the control terminal and the or each display unit each comprising a radio transceiver, the data link for data exchange is a radio link via said radio transceivers.

Suivant d'autres modes de réalisation, le procédé de pilotage comprend une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes, prise(s) isolément ou suivant toutes les combinaisons techniquement possibles :

  • l'étape de détection comporte l'échange de données par la liaison de données entre la borne de pilotage et le présentoir afin de détecter l'ajout ou le retrait du présentoir,
  • l'étape de détection comporte l'émission d'un signal d'identification à destination de la borne de pilotage par le présentoir ajouté, le signal d'identification contenant un numéro d'identification du présentoir ajouté,
  • le procédé comprend en outre l'analyse de l'évolution du stock de bouteilles de gaz géré par la ou chaque borne de pilotage, afin de déclencher un réassortiment en bouteille(s) de gaz d'un ou plusieurs présentoirs et/ou l'ajout ou le retrait d'un présentoir,
  • le système de distribution de bouteilles comprend en outre un serveur distant de gestion du stock de bouteilles de gaz, la borne étant reliée au serveur distant par l'intermédiaire d'un réseau de communication, et le procédé comprend en outre la transmission de données entre le serveur distant et la borne de pilotage pour la mise à jour du fichier de gestion du stock de bouteilles de gaz ; et
  • le système comprend en outre un serveur distant de gestion du stock de bouteilles de gaz, la borne de pilotage étant reliée au serveur distant par l'intermédiaire d'un réseau de communication, et le procédé comprend en outre le déclenchement par le serveur distant d'un réassortiment en bouteilles et/ou de l'ajout ou du retrait d'un présentoir en fonction de l'évolution du stock de bouteilles de gaz.
According to other embodiments, the control method comprises one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation or in any technically possible combination:
  • the detection step includes the exchange of data by the data link between the control terminal and the display in order to detect the addition or removal of the display,
  • the detection step comprises the transmission of an identification signal to the control terminal by the added display unit, the identification signal containing an identification number of the added display unit,
  • the method further comprises analyzing the evolution of the stock of gas cylinders managed by the or each control terminal, in order to trigger a reassortment in gas bottle (s) of one or more displays and / or the adding or removing a display,
  • the bottle distribution system further comprises a remote server for managing the stock of gas cylinders, the terminal being connected to the remote server via a communication network, and the method further comprises the transmission of data between the remote server and the control terminal for updating the file for managing the stock of gas cylinders; and
  • the system further comprises a remote server for managing the stock of gas cylinders, the control terminal being connected to the remote server via a communication network, and the method further comprises triggering by the remote server of '' a reassortment in bottles and / or the addition or removal of a display depending on the evolution of the stock of gas bottles.

L'invention a également pour objet un système de distribution de bouteilles de gaz comprenant au moins un présentoir comportant une pluralité de casiers à bouteille de gaz, et une borne de pilotage du ou de chaque présentoir, la borne de pilotage comprenant une unité de traitement équipée de moyens de commande de l'ouverture d'un casier, et une mémoire comportant un fichier de gestion du stock de bouteilles de gaz, la borne de pilotage et le ou chaque présentoir respectif étant distants et reliés par une liaison de données, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend en outre des moyens de détection automatique de l'ajout d'un présentoir dans le système de distribution comportant l'émission d'un signal d'identification par le présentoir ajouté à destination de la borne de pilotage ou du retrait d'un présentoir du système comportant la détermination de l'absence du signal d'identification dudit présentoir pendant une période de temps supérieure à une durée prédéterminée, des moyens de détermination du nombre de casiers dudit présentoir ajouté ou retiré, les moyens de détermination étant reliés aux moyens de détection, et des moyens de mise à jour du fichier de gestion, les moyens de mise à jour étant reliés aux moyens de détermination, et en ce qu'il comprend des moyens d'échange de données via la liaison de données entre la borne de pilotage et le présentoir, les moyens d'échange de données comportant des moyens d'émission d'un signal et des moyens de traitement du signal émis, le ou chaque présentoir comportant les moyens d'émission d'un signal, et la borne de pilotage comprenant les moyens de traitement du signal émis par le présentoir, et en ce que les moyens de traitement du signal émis sont reliés à des moyens parmi les moyens de détection, les moyens de détermination et les moyens de mise à jour, et en ce que la borne de pilotage et le ou chaque présentoir comportent chacun un émetteur-récepteur radioélectrique, la liaison de données entre la borne de pilotage et le ou chaque présentoir respectif étant une liaison radioélectrique, en l'absence de liaison filaire de données entre la borne de pilotage et le présentoir respectif.The invention also relates to a gas cylinder distribution system comprising at least one display comprising a plurality of gas bottle racks, and a control terminal for the or each display, the control terminal comprising a processing unit equipped with means for controlling the opening of a locker, and a memory comprising a file for managing the stock of gas bottles, the terminal control and the or each respective display being remote and connected by a data link, characterized in that it further comprises means for automatically detecting the addition of a display in the distribution system comprising the emission of '' an identification signal by the display added to the control terminal or the withdrawal of a display from the system comprising the determination of the absence of the identification signal from said display for a period of time greater than a predetermined duration means for determining the number of compartments of said display unit added or removed, the means for determining being connected to the detection means, and means for updating the management file, the updating means being connected to the determination means, and in that it comprises data exchange means via the data link between the control terminal and the display, the data exchange means comprising means for transmitting a signal and means for processing the transmitted signal, the or each display unit comprising the means for transmitting a signal, and the control terminal comprising the means for processing the signal emitted by the display unit, and in that the means for processing the transmitted signal are connected to means among the detection means, the determination means and the updating means, and in that the control terminal and the or each display unit each comprise a transmitter radio receiver, the data link between the control terminal and the or each respective display being a radio link, in the absence of a wired data link between the control terminal and the respective display.

Suivant d'autres modes de réalisation, le système de distribution comprend une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes, prise(s) isolément ou suivant toutes les combinaisons techniquement possibles :

  • chaque présentoir comprend des moyens autonomes d'alimentation en énergie électrique, lesdits moyens d'alimentation comportant une batterie électrique rechargeable ; et
  • les moyens d'alimentation comprennent un panneau solaire agencé sur le présentoir et des moyens de rechargement de la batterie reliés électriquement au panneau solaire.
According to other embodiments, the distribution system comprises one or more of the following characteristics, taken alone or in any technically possible combination:
  • each display unit comprises autonomous means for supplying electrical energy, said supply means comprising a rechargeable electric battery; and
  • the supply means include a solar panel arranged on the display and means for recharging the battery electrically connected to the solar panel.

Ces caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lecture de la description qui va suivre, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple, et faite en référence aux dessins annexés sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une représentation schématique d'un système de distribution de bouteilles de gaz selon l'invention, comprenant deux présentoirs, une borne de pilotage des présentoirs et un serveur distant,
  • la figure 2 est une représentation schématique d'éléments des présentoirs, de la borne de pilotage et du serveur distant de la figure 1, et
  • la figure 3 est un organigramme d'un procédé de pilotage du système distribution de la figure 1.
These characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of example, and made with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 is a schematic representation of a gas cylinder distribution system according to the invention, comprising two displays, a terminal for controlling the displays and a remote server,
  • the figure 2 is a schematic representation of elements of the displays, the control terminal and the remote server of the figure 1 , and
  • the figure 3 is a flowchart of a process for controlling the distribution system of the figure 1 .

Sur la figure 1, un système 10 de distribution de bouteilles de gaz, non représentées, comprend deux présentoirs 12 comportant chacun une pluralité de casiers 14 à bouteille de gaz, et une borne 16 de pilotage des présentoirs, la borne de pilotage 16 étant reliée à chaque présentoir 12 par une liaison de données 18.On the figure 1 , a system 10 for distributing gas bottles, not shown, comprises two displays 12 each comprising a plurality of gas bottle racks 14, and a terminal 16 for controlling the displays, the pilot terminal 16 being connected to each display 12 via a data link 18.

Le système de distribution 10 comprend un serveur distant 20 de gestion du stock de bouteilles de gaz, relié à la borne de pilotage 16 par l'intermédiaire d'un réseau de communication 22.The distribution system 10 includes a remote server 20 for managing the stock of gas cylinders, connected to the control terminal 16 via a communication network 22.

En variante, le système de distribution 10 comprend une pluralité de bornes de pilotage 16 reliées au serveur distant 20, chaque borne de pilotage 16 étant reliée à un ou plusieurs présentoirs 12.As a variant, the distribution system 10 comprises a plurality of control terminals 16 connected to the remote server 20, each control terminal 16 being connected to one or more display stands 12.

Les présentoirs 12 et la borne de pilotage 16 sont, par exemple, disposés en voirie sur un emplacement à proximité d'une station-service de distribution d'essence.The displays 12 and the control terminal 16 are, for example, disposed on the road at a location near a petrol distribution station.

Chaque présentoir 12 comporte une unité de traitement 24 et un émetteur-récepteur radioélectrique 26, la liaison de données 18 entre la borne de pilotage et chaque présentoir étant, par exemple, une liaison radioélectrique, en l'absence de liaison filaire de données entre la borne de pilotage et le présentoir respectif, comme représenté sur la figure 2.Each display unit 12 comprises a processing unit 24 and a radio transmitter-receiver 26, the data link 18 between the control terminal and each display unit being, for example, a radio link, in the absence of a wired data link between the control terminal and the respective display, as shown in the figure 2 .

Chaque présentoir 12 comprend des moyens autonomes d'alimentation en énergie électrique comportant une batterie électrique rechargeable 28 et des moyens 30 de rechargement de la batterie. L'unité de traitement 24 est reliée aux moyens de rechargement 30 pour les piloter, et à la batterie rechargeable 28 afin d'être électriquement alimentée par celle-ci. Les moyens d'alimentation du présentoir comprennent un panneau solaire 32, visible sur la figure 1, agencé sur le dessus du présentoir et relié électriquement aux moyens de rechargement 30.Each display 12 comprises autonomous means for supplying electrical energy comprising a rechargeable electric battery 28 and means 30 for recharging the battery. The processing unit 24 is connected to the recharging means 30 to control them, and to the rechargeable battery 28 so as to be electrically supplied by the latter. The display supply means include a solar panel 32, visible on the figure 1 , arranged on top of the display and electrically connected to the recharging means 30.

Chaque présentoir 12 comprend un boîtier de protection 34 dans lequel sont agencés l'unité de traitement, l'émetteur-récepteur, la batterie rechargeable et les moyens de rechargement de la batterie. Chaque présentoir 12 comprend également une antenne radioélectrique 36.Each display 12 comprises a protective box 34 in which are arranged the processing unit, the transceiver, the rechargeable battery and the means for recharging the battery. Each display 12 also includes a radio antenna 36.

Dans l'exemple de réalisation de la figure 1, chaque présentoir 12 ne comporte aucune liaison filaire avec un dispositif extérieur, chaque présentoir 12 étant autonome en énergie de par sa batterie rechargeable 28, et communiquant avec la borne de pilotage 16 par l'intermédiaire de son émetteur-récepteur radioélectrique 26 via la liaison radioélectrique 18.In the example of realization of the figure 1 , each display 12 does not have any wire connection with an external device, each display 12 being autonomous in energy by its rechargeable battery 28, and communicating with the control terminal 16 via its radio transmitter and receiver 26 via the connection radio 18.

Chaque présentoir 12 comporte des moyens, non représentés, de détection de la présence d'une bouteille de gaz dans ces casiers 14 respectifs.Each display 12 includes means, not shown, for detecting the presence of a gas cylinder in these respective compartments 14.

Dans l'exemple de réalisation de la figure 1, chaque présentoir 12 comprend 24 casiers à bouteille 14.In the example of realization of the figure 1 , each display 12 includes 24 bottle racks 14.

Chaque casier 14 présente une position d'ouverture dans laquelle la bouteille de gaz est accessible, et une position de fermeture dans laquelle la bouteille de gaz est retenue dans le casier. Chaque casier 14 est, par exemple, équipé d'une porte 38 et de moyens, non représentés, de verrouillage de la porte, tels qu'une gâche électrique connue en soi.Each locker 14 has an open position in which the gas bottle is accessible, and a closed position in which the gas bottle is retained in the locker. Each locker 14 is, for example, equipped with a door 38 and means, not shown, for locking the door, such as an electric strike known per se.

Chaque casier à bouteille 14 est adapté de par ses dimensions à recevoir tout type de bouteille de gaz quel que soit le volume de celle-ci, le type d'une bouteille de gaz étant par exemple défini par sa forme, son volume et sa couleur.Each bottle rack 14 is adapted by its dimensions to receive any type of gas bottle regardless of the volume thereof, the type of a gas bottle being for example defined by its shape, its volume and its color. .

Chaque casier 14 comporte, par exemple, un capteur, non représenté, de détection de la présence d'une bouteille de gaz, tel qu'un capteur de la couleur de la bouteille.Each locker 14 comprises, for example, a sensor, not shown, for detecting the presence of a gas bottle, such as a sensor for the color of the bottle.

Chaque casier 14 comporte, par exemple, un capteur, non représenté, de détection de l'ouverture dudit casier.Each locker 14 comprises, for example, a sensor, not shown, for detecting the opening of said locker.

La borne de pilotage 16 est propre à commander l'ouverture d'un casier 14, et comporte un écran 40, des moyens 42 de saisie de caractères et des moyens 44 d'acceptation de moyens de paiement, tel qu'un sélecteur de monnaie et/ou un lecteur de cartes de paiement.The control terminal 16 is suitable for controlling the opening of a locker 14, and comprises a screen 40, means 42 for entering characters and means 44 for accepting means of payment, such as a currency selector and / or a payment card reader.

La borne de pilotage 16 comprend, comme représenté sur la figure 2, des moyens 46 d'affichage de données à l'écran, une unité de traitement 48, un premier émetteur-récepteur radioélectrique 50 pour l'établissement des liaisons radioélectriques 18 avec les présentoirs, et un deuxième émetteur-récepteur radioélectrique 52 pour la liaison avec le serveur distant 20.The control terminal 16 comprises, as shown in the figure 2 , means 46 for displaying data on the screen, a processing unit 48, a first radio transceiver 50 for establishing the radio links 18 with the displays, and a second radio transceiver 52 for the link with the remote server 20.

La borne de pilotage 16 comprend des moyens autonomes d'alimentation en énergie électrique comportant une batterie électrique rechargeable 54 et des moyens 56 de rechargement de la batterie. Les moyens d'alimentation comportent un panneau solaire 58, visible sur la figure 1, agencé sur le dessus de la borne de pilotage et relié électriquement aux moyens de rechargement 56.The control terminal 16 comprises autonomous means for supplying electrical energy comprising a rechargeable electric battery 54 and means 56 for recharging the battery. The supply means comprise a solar panel 58, visible on the figure 1 , arranged on top of the control terminal and electrically connected to the recharging means 56.

En variante, la borne de pilotage 16 est reliée à un réseau électrique d'alimentation, les moyens d'alimentation comportant alors un transformateur en tension.As a variant, the control terminal 16 is connected to an electrical supply network, the supply means then comprising a voltage transformer.

La borne de pilotage 16 comprend des moyens 59 d'impression d'un ticket en papier, les informations imprimées sur ledit ticket via les moyens d'impression 59 étant issues de l'unité de traitement 48.The control terminal 16 comprises means 59 for printing a paper ticket, the information printed on said ticket via the printing means 59 coming from the processing unit 48.

La borne de pilotage 16 comprend une première antenne radioélectrique 60 pour les liaisons de données 18 avec les présentoirs et une deuxième antenne radioélectrique 62 pour la liaison avec le serveur distant via le réseau de communication 22.The control terminal 16 comprises a first radio antenna 60 for the data links 18 with the displays and a second radio antenna 62 for the connection with the remote server via the communication network 22.

Dans l'exemple de réalisation de la figure 1, la borne de pilotage 16 ne comporte aucune liaison filaire avec un dispositif extérieur, la borne de pilotage 16 étant autonome en énergie de par sa batterie rechargeable 54 et communiquant avec les présentoirs 12 ou avec le réseau distant 20 via des liaisons radioélectriques par l'intermédiaire de ses émetteurs-récepteurs radioélectriques 50, 52.In the example of realization of the figure 1 , the control terminal 16 does not have any wired connection with an external device, the control terminal 16 being self-sufficient in energy by its rechargeable battery 54 and communicating with the displays 12 or with the remote network 20 via radio links by the through its radio transceivers 50, 52.

La liaison de données 18 entre la borne de pilotage et chacun des présentoirs est, par exemple, une liaison radioélectrique, également appelée liaison sans fil. Dans l'exemple de réalisation des figures 1 et 2, la liaison radioélectrique 18 est, par exemple, conforme à la norme IEEE 802.11, et est également appelée liaison Wi-Fi. En variante, la liaison radioélectrique 18 est conforme au protocole de communication ZigBee basé sur la norme IEEE-802.15.4.The data link 18 between the control terminal and each of the displays is, for example, a radio link, also called a wireless link. In the example of realization of figures 1 and 2 , the radio link 18 is, for example, compliant with the IEEE 802.11 standard, and is also called Wi-Fi link. As a variant, the radio link 18 complies with the ZigBee communication protocol based on the IEEE-802.15.4 standard.

Le serveur distant 20 comprend une unité de traitement 64 et un émetteur-récepteur radioélectrique 66 propre à communiquer avec le deuxième émetteur-récepteur 52 de la borne de pilotage via le réseau de communication 22, comme représenté sur la figure 2.The remote server 20 comprises a processing unit 64 and a radio transceiver 66 suitable for communicating with the second transceiver 52 of the control terminal via the communication network 22, as shown in the figure 2 .

Le réseau de communication 22 est, par exemple, un réseau de téléphonie mobile. Le réseau de téléphonie mobile 22 est, par exemple, un réseau GPRS (de l'anglais General Packet Radio Service), ou un réseau UMTS (de l'anglais Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), ou encore un réseau CDMA (de l'anglais Code Division Multiple Access).The communication network 22 is, for example, a mobile telephone network. The mobile telephone network 22 is, for example, a GPRS network (from the English General Packet Radio Service), or a UMTS network (from the English Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), or even a CDMA network (from the English Code Division Multiple Access).

L'unité de traitement 24 de chaque présentoir est propre à traiter une requête émise par la borne de pilotage 16, et à émettre une réponse à destination de la borne de pilotage, par exemple dans le cas d'une requête de l'ouverture d'un casier respectif pour la délivrance d'une bouteille pleine ou le retour d'une bouteille vide.The processing unit 24 of each display unit is able to process a request sent by the control terminal 16, and to send a response to the control terminal, for example in the case of a request for the opening of '' a respective locker for the delivery of a full bottle or the return of an empty bottle.

L'unité de traitement 24 comporte, par exemple, un processeur de données 68 associé à une mémoire 70. La mémoire 70 est apte à stocker un logiciel 72 de traitement d'une requête émise par la borne de pilotage, un logiciel 74 d'émission d'une réponse à la requête à destination de la borne de pilotage, et un logiciel 76 d'émission d'un signal d'identification à destination de la borne de pilotage. Le logiciel d'émission d'une réponse 74 est notamment propre à envoyer les informations reçues des capteurs de détection de l'ouverture d'un casier et/ou des moyens de détection de présence d'une bouteille de gaz, à destination et sur requête de la borne de pilotage 16. Le logiciel d'émission d'un signal d'identification 76 est propre à signaler à la borne de pilotage 16 la présence du présentoir ajouté correspondant lorsque celui-ci est disposé à proximité de la borne, à une distance inférieure à celle de la portée de la liaison de données 18 lorsque la liaison de données 18 est une liaison radioélectrique. Le signal d'identification comporte, par exemple, un numéro d'identification du présentoir correspondant.The processing unit 24 comprises, for example, a data processor 68 associated with a memory 70. The memory 70 is capable of storing software 72 for processing a request sent by the control terminal, software 74 for transmission of a response to the request intended for the control terminal, and software 76 for transmission of an identification signal intended for the control terminal. The software for transmitting a response 74 is in particular suitable for sending the information received from the sensors for detecting the opening of a locker and / or the means for detecting the presence of a gas cylinder, to and from request from the control terminal 16. The software for transmitting an identification signal 76 is capable of signaling to the control terminal 16 the presence of the corresponding added display when it is placed near the terminal, at a distance less than that of the range of the data link 18 when the data link 18 is a radio link. The identification signal comprises, for example, an identification number of the corresponding display.

En variante, les moyens de traitement d'une requête 72, les moyens d'émission d'une réponse 74 et les moyens d'émission d'un signal d'identification 76 sont réalisés sous forme de composants logiques programmables, ou encore sous forme de circuits intégrés dédiés.As a variant, the means for processing a request 72, the means for transmitting a response 74 and the means for transmitting an identification signal 76 are produced in the form of programmable logic components, or else in the form dedicated integrated circuits.

L'émetteur-récepteur 26 de chaque présentoir est conforme à la norme de communication de la liaison radioélectrique 18, et est par exemple conforme à la norme IEEE 802.11, l'émetteur-récepteur 26 étant également appelé émetteur-récepteur Wi-Fi. En variante, l'émetteur-récepteur 26 est conforme au protocole de communication ZigBee basé sur la norme IEEE-802.15.4.The transceiver 26 of each display conforms to the communication standard of the radio link 18, and is for example conforms to the IEEE 802.11 standard, the transceiver 26 also being called Wi-Fi transceiver. Alternatively, the transceiver 26 conforms to the ZigBee communication protocol based on the IEEE-802.15.4 standard.

La portée de l'émetteur-récepteur 26 est, par exemple, supérieure ou égale à 50 mètres.The range of the transceiver 26 is, for example, greater than or equal to 50 meters.

L'unité de traitement 48 de la borne de pilotage comporte, par exemple, un processeur de données 80 associé à une mémoire 82. La mémoire 82 est apte à stocker un fichier 84 de gestion du stock de bouteilles de gaz, ainsi qu'un logiciel 86 de commande de l'ouverture d'un casier respectif pour la délivrance d'une bouteille pleine ou le retour d'une bouteille vide.The processing unit 48 of the control terminal comprises, for example, a data processor 80 associated with a memory 82. The memory 82 is capable of storing a file 84 for managing the stock of gas cylinders, as well as a software 86 for controlling the opening of a respective locker for the delivery of a full bottle or the return of an empty bottle.

La mémoire 82 est apte à stocker un logiciel 88 de détection de l'ajout d'un présentoir dans le système de distribution ou du retrait d'un présentoir dudit système, le logiciel de détection 88 étant propre à reconnaitre un signal d'identification émis par un présentoir ajouté, et à extraire dudit signal le numéro d'identification du présentoir ajouté en vue de son identification, ainsi qu'à déterminer qu'un présentoir a été retiré notamment en cas d'absence du signal d'identification dudit présentoir pendant une période de temps supérieure à une durée prédéterminée.The memory 82 is capable of storing software 88 for detecting the addition of a display unit to the distribution system or the removal of a display unit from said system, the detection software 88 being able to recognize an identification signal transmitted by an added display stand, and extracting from said signal the identification number of the display stand added for its identification, as well as determining that a display stand has been removed in particular in the absence of the identification signal from said display stand during a period of time greater than a predetermined duration.

La mémoire 82 est apte à stocker un logiciel 90 d'émission d'une requête à destination d'un présentoir 12 et un logiciel 92 de traitement de la réponse à ladite requête, les logiciels d'émission d'une requête 90 et de traitement de la réponse 92 étant notamment propres à obtenir des informations de la part du présentoir relatives au statut du casier, à savoir casier ouvert ou fermé, bouteille présente ou absente. En complément, les logiciels d'émission d'une requête 90 et de traitement de la réponse 92 sont propres à obtenir des informations de la part du présentoir relatives au nombre de casiers du présentoir et/ou aux bouteilles de gaz présentes dans chacun des casiers 14.The memory 82 is able to store software 90 for sending a request to a display 12 and software 92 for processing the response to said request, the software for sending a request 90 and processing of answer 92 being in particular suitable for obtaining information from the display unit relating to the status of the locker, namely open or closed locker, bottle present or absent. In addition, the software for sending a request 90 and for processing the response 92 are capable of obtaining information from the display unit relating to the number of racks in the display rack and / or the gas cylinders present in each of the racks 14.

La mémoire 82 est apte à stocker un logiciel 94 de détermination du nombre de casiers du présentoir ajouté ou retiré, le logiciel de détermination 94 étant relié au logiciel de détection 88 et au logiciel 96 de mise à jour du fichier de gestion 84. Le logiciel de détermination 94 est propre à envoyer une requête à destination du serveur distant 20 afin d'obtenir des informations relatives au présentoir ajouté ou retiré, et à analyser la réponse reçue du serveur distant 20 pour chaque présentoir 12, également appelée cartographie du présentoir. La cartographie du présentoir contient notamment le nombre de casiers 14 du présentoir. En complément, la cartographie comporte, pour chaque casier 14 du présentoir, le type de chaque bouteille stockée ou devant être stockée lors d'un prochain réassortiment.The memory 82 is able to store software 94 for determining the number of compartments of the display rack added or removed, the determination software 94 being connected to the detection software 88 and to the software 96 for updating the management file 84. The software 94 is suitable for sending a request to the remote server 20 in order to obtain information relating to the display stand added or removed, and for analyzing the response received from the remote server 20 for each display stand 12, also called cartography of the display stand. The cartography of the display contains in particular the number of compartments 14 of the display. In addition, the mapping includes, for each rack 14 of the display, the type of each bottle stored or to be stored during a next reassortment.

En complément, la mémoire 82 est également apte à stocker un logiciel 98 d'émission du fichier de gestion 84 à destination du serveur distant 20, et un logiciel 100 de déclenchement d'une alarme auprès du serveur distant lorsque le nombre de bouteilles de gaz prises en charge par la borne de pilotage franchit un seuil prédéterminé. Le seuil prédéterminé est, par exemple, fonction du type de bouteille de gaz.In addition, the memory 82 is also able to store software 98 for sending the management file 84 to the remote server 20, and software 100 for triggering an alarm with the remote server when the number of gas cylinders supported by the control terminal crosses a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold is, for example, a function of the type of gas cylinder.

En variante, les moyens de commande de l'ouverture d'un casier 86, les moyens de détection de l'ajout ou du retrait d'un présentoir 88, les moyens d'émission d'une requête 90, les moyens de traitement d'une réponse 92, les moyens de détermination du nombre de casiers 94 et les moyens de mise à jour du fichier de gestion 96 sont réalisés sous forme de composants logiques programmables, ou encore sous forme de circuits intégrés dédiés.As a variant, the means for controlling the opening of a rack 86, the means for detecting the addition or removal of a display unit 88, the means for sending a request 90, the processing means for 'A response 92, the means for determining the number of lockers 94 and the means for updating the management file 96 are produced in the form of programmable logic components, or even in the form of dedicated integrated circuits.

En variante, les moyens d'émission du fichier de gestion 98 et les moyens de déclenchement d'une alarme 100 sont réalisés sous forme de composants logiques programmables, ou encore sous forme de circuits intégrés dédiés.As a variant, the means for transmitting the management file 98 and the means for triggering an alarm 100 are produced in the form of programmable logic components, or even in the form of dedicated integrated circuits.

Le premier émetteur-récepteur 50 de la borne de pilotage est conforme à la norme de communication de la liaison radioélectrique 18, et est par exemple conforme à la norme IEEE 802.11, le premier émetteur-récepteur 50 étant également appelé émetteur-récepteur Wi-Fi. En variante, le premier émetteur-récepteur 50 est conforme au protocole de communication ZigBee basé sur la norme IEEE-802.15.4.The first transceiver 50 of the control terminal conforms to the communication standard of the radio link 18, and is for example conforms to the IEEE 802.11 standard, the first transceiver 50 also being called Wi-Fi transceiver Alternatively, the first transceiver 50 conforms to the ZigBee communication protocol based on the IEEE-802.15.4 standard.

La portée du premier émetteur-récepteur 50 est, par exemple, supérieure ou égale à 50 mètres.The range of the first transceiver 50 is, for example, greater than or equal to 50 meters.

L'unité de traitement 64 du serveur distant comporte, par exemple, un processeur de données 102 et une mémoire 104 apte à stocker une base de données centralisée 106 et un logiciel 108 d'analyse de la base de données.The processing unit 64 of the remote server comprises, for example, a data processor 102 and a memory 104 capable of storing a centralized database 106 and software 108 for analyzing the database.

Le fichier de gestion du stock 84 comprend, d'une part, le nombre total de bouteilles de gaz prises en charge par la borne, ainsi que le nombre de bouteilles de gaz pour chaque type de bouteille de gaz, et d'autre part, les informations relatives à chaque présentoir 12 piloté par la borne comportant notamment la présence ou non d'une bouteille dans chaque casier 14 du présentoir, ainsi que le type de bouteille présente dans chaque casier.The inventory management file 84 includes, on the one hand, the total number of gas cylinders supported by the terminal, as well as the number of gas cylinders for each type of gas cylinder, and, on the other hand, the information relating to each display 12 controlled by the terminal including in particular the presence or not of a bottle in each rack 14 of the display, as well as the type of bottle present in each locker.

La base de données centralisée 106 est propre à stocker les informations contenues dans chaque fichier de gestion 84 reçu par le serveur 20 depuis la borne de pilotage 16. La base de données centralisée 106 contient, par exemple, l'historique des ventes et le détail de chacune des transactions réalisées auprès de chaque borne 16 du système de distribution, ainsi que l'état du stock de bouteilles de gaz géré par chaque borne 16. Pour chaque transaction réalisée, la base de données 106 contient, par exemple, la date, le type de bouteille de gaz et le type de transaction, à savoir achat d'une bouteille sans retour d'une bouteille vide consignée ou bien achat d'une bouteille avec retour d'une bouteille vide consignée.The centralized database 106 is suitable for storing the information contained in each management file 84 received by the server 20 from the control terminal 16. The centralized database 106 contains, for example, sales history and details of each of the transactions made with each terminal 16 of the distribution system, as well as the state of the stock of gas cylinders managed by each terminal 16. For each transaction carried out, the database 106 contains, for example, the date, the type of gas cylinder and the type of transaction, namely purchase of a bottle without return of an empty returnable bottle or purchase of a bottle with return of an empty returnable bottle.

La base de données centralisée 106 est également propre à stocker la cartographie souhaitée pour chaque présentoir 12 du système, la cartographie de chaque présentoir étant validée par un logisticien en fonction des résultats délivrés par le logiciel d'analyse de la base 108.The centralized database 106 is also suitable for storing the desired cartography for each display 12 of the system, the cartography of each display being validated by a logistician as a function of the results delivered by the analysis software of the base 108.

Le logiciel d'analyse de la base 108 est propre à analyser de manière continue l'évolution du stock de bouteilles de gaz géré pour chaque borne 16, et pour l'ensemble du système de distribution, afin de déclencher le cas échéant l'ajout ou le retrait d'un présentoir, ou encore le réassortiment en bouteille(s) d'un ou de plusieurs présentoirs 12. Le logiciel d'analyse de la base 108 est également destiné à aider le logisticien à déterminer la cartographie pour chaque présentoir 12 du système. L'analyse de l'évolution du stock est, par exemple, effectuée en temps réel.The analysis software of the base 108 is suitable for continuously analyzing the evolution of the stock of gas cylinders managed for each terminal 16, and for the entire distribution system, in order to trigger the addition if necessary. or the withdrawal of a display stand, or even the reassortment in bottle (s) of one or more display stands 12. The analysis software of the base 108 is also intended to help the logistician to determine the cartography for each display stand 12 of the system. The analysis of the evolution of the stock is, for example, carried out in real time.

Le fonctionnement du système de distribution de bouteilles de gaz va désormais être expliqué à l'aide de l'organigramme de la figure 3 illustrant le procédé de pilotage du système de distribution selon l'invention.The operation of the gas cylinder distribution system will now be explained using the flowchart of the figure 3 illustrating the process for controlling the distribution system according to the invention.

Initialement, à l'étape 200, un présentoir 12 est ajouté dans le système de distribution, ou bien retiré du système, par un opérateur. En d'autres termes, l'opérateur dispose le présentoir 12 sur site, par exemple à proximité d'une station-service de distribution d'essence, ou bien le retire du site, à l'aide d'un camion et de moyens de chargement/déchargement du présentoir non représentés.Initially, in step 200, a display 12 is added to the distribution system, or else removed from the system, by an operator. In other words, the operator has the display 12 on site, for example near a petrol station, or removes it from the site, using a truck and means loading / unloading of the display not shown.

L'ajout ou le retrait du présentoir est, par exemple, déclenché par le serveur distant 20 suite à l'analyse de l'évolution du stock de bouteilles de gaz délivrée par le logiciel d'analyse 108. En complément, ce déclenchement est effectué après une confirmation de la part du logisticien.The addition or removal of the display rack is, for example, triggered by the remote server 20 following the analysis of the evolution of the stock of gas bottles delivered by the analysis software 108. In addition, this triggering is carried out after confirmation from the logistician.

Après l'ajout ou le retrait du présentoir 12, l'opérateur saisit un code sur la borne de pilotage 16 à l'aide des moyens de saisie 42 lors de l'étape 210, afin de s'identifier auprès de la borne de pilotage.After adding or removing the display 12, the operator enters a code on the control terminal 16 using the input means 42 during step 210, in order to identify himself with the control terminal .

Lorsque l'opérateur s'est identifié, l'ajout ou le retrait du présentoir 12 est automatiquement détecté lors de l'étape 220.When the operator has identified himself, the addition or removal of the display unit 12 is automatically detected during step 220.

La détection automatique de l'ajout du présentoir comporte l'émission d'un signal d'identification par le présentoir ajouté 12 à destination de la borne de pilotage 16 à l'aide du logiciel d'émission du signal d'identification 76.Automatic detection of the addition of the display rack comprises the transmission of an identification signal by the added display rack 12 to the control terminal 16 using the software for transmission of the identification signal 76.

La détection automatique du retrait du présentoir comporte la détermination, à l'aide des moyens de détection 88, de l'absence du signal d'identification dudit présentoir pendant une période de temps supérieure à une durée prédéterminée. La détermination de l'absence de signal, associée à la vérification préalable du code de l'opérateur, permet d'éviter une fausse détection du retrait du présentoir, notamment dans le cas où le présentoir 12 serait en panne, et ne serait alors plus apte à émettre son signal d'identification.The automatic detection of the withdrawal of the display rack comprises the determination, using the detection means 88, of the absence of the identification signal of said display rack for a period of time greater than a predetermined duration. The determination of the absence of signal, associated with the prior verification of the operator code, makes it possible to avoid a false detection of the withdrawal of the display rack, in particular in the case where the display rack 12 would be broken down, and would then no longer be able to transmit its identification signal.

En complément, lorsqu'un présentoir 12 est ajouté ou retiré, la borne de pilotage 16 modifie automatiquement son interface homme-machine afin d'afficher le nombre exact de présentoirs, en tenant compte du présentoir qui vient d'être ajouté ou retiré.In addition, when a display unit 12 is added or removed, the control terminal 16 automatically modifies its man-machine interface in order to display the exact number of display units, taking into account the display unit which has just been added or removed.

Lors de l'étape 225, la borne de pilotage 16 teste si l'ajout ou le retrait d'un présentoir a été effectivement détecté lors de l'étape 220. Si le présentoir a bien été détecté, la borne de pilotage 16 passe à l'étape 230 suivante. Sinon, c'est-à-dire en cas de défaut éventuel entraînant une absence de détection, la borne de pilotage 16 passe directement à l'étape 240.During step 225, the control terminal 16 tests whether the addition or removal of a display has been effectively detected during step 220. If the display has been detected, the control terminal 16 goes to the next step 230. Otherwise, that is to say in the event of a possible fault resulting in an absence of detection, the control terminal 16 goes directly to step 240.

La borne de pilotage détermine lors de l'étape 230 le nombre de casiers du présentoir ajouté ou retiré à l'aide de son logiciel de détermination 94.Pour ce faire, la borne de pilotage 16 envoie, par exemple, une requête à destination du serveur distant 20 afin d'obtenir le nombre de casiers et la cartographie respective de chaque présentoir géré par la borne 16 compte tenu du présentoir ajouté ou retiré.The control terminal determines during step 230 the number of compartments of the display rack added or removed using its determination software 94. To do this, the control terminal 16 sends, for example, a request to the remote server 20 in order to obtain the number of lockers and the respective mapping of each display rack managed by the terminal 16 taking into account the display rack added or removed.

La mise à jour du fichier de gestion 84 lors de l'étape 240 comporte alors l'enregistrement, dans le fichier de gestion 84, du ou des nombres de casiers et de la ou des cartographies reçus du serveur distant 20, à la place des nombres de casiers et des cartographies précédents.The updating of the management file 84 during step 240 then comprises the recording, in the management file 84, of the number (s) of lockers and of the map (s) received from the remote server 20, in place of the numbers of traps and previous maps.

La borne de pilotage 16 imprime alors, au cours de l'étape 260 et à l'aide de ses moyens d'impression 59, un ticket destiné à l'opérateur avec l'ensemble des informations relatives à la cartographie souhaitée incluant le présentoir ajouté. La borne de pilotage 16 commande ensuite lors de l'étape 270 l'ouverture des casiers 14 correspondants aux bouteilles de gaz à insérer dans le présentoir, ou à retirer du présentoir, par l'opérateur. L'opérateur dispose ou retire alors les différentes bouteilles de gaz suivant la cartographie indiquée sur le ticket imprimé par la borne de pilotage.The control terminal 16 then prints, during step 260 and using its printing means 59, a ticket intended for the operator with all of the information relating to the desired map including the display unit added . The control terminal 16 then controls during step 270 the opening of the racks 14 corresponding to the gas bottles to be inserted into the display, or to be removed from the display, by the operator. The operator then arranges or removes the different gas cylinders according to the map indicated on the ticket printed by the control terminal.

Après le remplissage du présentoir ajouté, et la fermeture de l'ensemble des casiers respectifs par l'opérateur, l'information de cette fermeture étant envoyée à la borne de pilotage 16 par les moyens d'émission 74 dudit présentoir, la borne de pilotage 16 passe en phase d'attente d'une transaction d'un utilisateur.After filling of the added display rack, and the closing of all the respective lockers by the operator, the information of this closing being sent to the control terminal 16 by the transmission means 74 of said display rack, the control terminal 16 goes into the waiting phase for a transaction from a user.

En cas de retrait du présentoir, aucun chargement de bouteille n'est nécessaire, et la borne de pilotage 16 passe alors directement en phase d'attente d'une transaction d'un utilisateur.In case of withdrawal of the display, no bottle loading is necessary, and the control terminal 16 then goes directly to the waiting phase for a transaction from a user.

Lorsqu'un utilisateur souhaite retourner une bouteille vide et/ou acheter une bouteille pleine, la borne de pilotage 16 crée la transaction correspondante, à savoir achat d'une bouteille avec retour d'une bouteille vide consignée ou bien achat d'une bouteille sans retour d'une bouteille vide consignée. Après réception du paiement de l'utilisateur, la borne de pilotage 16 commande au présentoir 12 correspondant d'ouvrir le casier 14 respectif à l'aide du logiciel de commande d'ouverture 86. Après ouverture du casier correspondant 14, l'utilisateur place sa bouteille vide dans le casier indiqué par la borne de pilotage ou bien retire une bouteille pleine dudit casier (étape 280).When a user wishes to return an empty bottle and / or buy a full bottle, the control terminal 16 creates the corresponding transaction, namely purchase of a bottle with return of a return empty bottle or purchase of a bottle without return of an empty returnable bottle. After receiving payment from the user, the control terminal 16 commands the corresponding display 12 to open the respective locker 14 using the opening control software 86. After opening the corresponding locker 14, the user places its empty bottle in the rack indicated by the control terminal or else withdraws a full bottle from said rack (step 280).

Lors de l'étape 300, la borne de pilotage 16 met à jour le fichier de gestion 84 en fonction de la transaction précédente. La borne 16 émet ensuite, à destination du serveur distant 20 et à l'aide du logiciel d'émission 98, le fichier de gestion 84 mis à jour et contenant les informations relatives aux transactions effectuées et à l'évolution du stock de bouteilles. Cette émission est, par exemple, effectuée de manière périodique, afin de réduire la consommation électrique de la borne de pilotage 16.During step 300, the control terminal 16 updates the management file 84 according to the previous transaction. The terminal 16 then transmits, to the remote server 20 and using the transmission software 98, the updated management file 84 containing the information relating to the transactions carried out and the evolution of the stock of bottles. This transmission is, for example, carried out periodically, in order to reduce the electrical consumption of the control terminal 16.

A cet effet, la borne de pilotage 16 teste si la durée écoulée depuis la dernière émission du fichier de gestion 84 au serveur distant 20 a atteint une valeur prédéterminée de la période entre deux émissions du fichier de gestion 84. Si la valeur prédéterminée a été atteinte, alors le fichier de gestion 84 est émis. Sinon, en attendant que la valeur prédéterminée soit atteinte, la borne de pilotage 16 est à nouveau en phase d'attente d'une transaction d'un utilisateur, et apte à créer une nouvelle transaction, puis à commander l'ouverture du casier correspondant 14.To this end, the control terminal 16 tests whether the time elapsed since the last transmission of the management file 84 to the remote server 20 has reached a predetermined value of the period between two transmissions of the management file 84. If the predetermined value has been reached, then the management file 84 is issued. Otherwise, while waiting for the predetermined value to be reached, the control terminal 16 is again in the waiting phase for a transaction from a user, and able to create a new transaction, then to command the opening of the corresponding locker. 14.

En variante, le fichier de gestion 84 est envoyé par la borne 16 au serveur 20 après chaque transaction, et aucun test de la durée écoulée depuis la dernière émission du fichier de gestion 84 n'est effectué.As a variant, the management file 84 is sent by the terminal 16 to the server 20 after each transaction, and no test of the time elapsed since the last transmission of the management file 84 is carried out.

En complément, lorsque le nombre de bouteilles de gaz prises en charge par la borne de pilotage 16 franchit un seuil prédéterminé, la borne de pilotage 16 déclenche une alarme auprès du serveur distant 20 à l'aide du logiciel de déclenchement d'alarme 100.In addition, when the number of gas cylinders supported by the control terminal 16 crosses a predetermined threshold, the control terminal 16 triggers an alarm with the remote server 20 using the alarm trigger software 100.

En cas besoin, un réassortiment est déclenché lors de l'étape 310, par exemple après analyse par le logiciel d'analyse 108 d'une évolution du stock de bouteilles nécessitant un réassortiment. Ceci se produit, par exemple, lorsque la demande de bouteilles de gaz a été plus importante pour un type de bouteille de gaz plutôt que pour un autre type de bouteille.If necessary, a reassortment is triggered during step 310, for example after analysis by the analysis software 108 of a change in the stock of bottles requiring reassortment. This occurs, for example, when the demand for gas cylinders has been greater for one type of gas cylinder rather than for another type of cylinder.

Le réassortiment est, par exemple, déclenché par le serveur distant 20 suite à l'analyse de l'évolution du stock de bouteilles de gaz délivrée par le logiciel d'analyse 108. En complément, ce déclenchement est effectué après confirmation de la part du logisticien.The reassortment is, for example, triggered by the remote server 20 following the analysis of the evolution of the stock of gas bottles delivered by the analysis software 108. In addition, this triggering is carried out after confirmation from the logistician.

En variante ou en complément, le réassortiment est déclenché lorsqu'une alarme a été provoquée.As a variant or in addition, the reassortment is triggered when an alarm has been caused.

Pour le réassortiment du ou des présentoirs 12 avec une ou plusieurs bouteilles de gaz correspondantes, l'opérateur commence par saisir son code sur la borne de pilotage 16 à l'aide des moyens de saisie 42, afin de s'identifier auprès de la borne de pilotage. La borne de pilotage 16 envoie alors une requête à destination du serveur distant 20 afin d'obtenir la cartographie respective de chaque présentoir géré par la borne 16. La borne de pilotage 16 imprime ensuite, à l'aide de ses moyens d'impression 59, un ticket destiné à l'opérateur avec l'ensemble des informations relatives à la cartographie souhaitée de chaque présentoir, et notamment les casiers où une bouteille est à insérer ou à retirer. La borne de pilotage 16 commande enfin l'ouverture des casiers 14 faisant l'objet du réassortiment, c'est-à-dire des casiers où l'opérateur doit insérer ou retirer une bouteille de gaz correspondante. L'opérateur dispose alors les différentes bouteilles de gaz dans les casiers respectifs suivant le réassort indiqué sur le ticket imprimé par la borne de pilotage 16.For the reassortment of the display unit (s) 12 with one or more corresponding gas bottles, the operator begins by entering his code on the control terminal 16 using the input means 42, in order to identify himself with the terminal steering. The control terminal 16 then sends a request to the remote server 20 in order to obtain the respective mapping of each display stand managed by the terminal 16. The control terminal 16 then prints, using its printing means 59 , a ticket intended for the operator with all the information relating to the desired cartography of each display, and in particular the racks where a bottle is to be inserted or removed. The control terminal 16 finally controls the opening of the racks 14 which are the subject of the reassortment, that is to say racks where the operator must insert or remove a corresponding gas bottle. The operator then places the different gas bottles in the respective lockers according to the restocking indicated on the ticket printed by the control terminal 16.

Ainsi, l'ajout ou le retrait d'un présentoir est détecté automatiquement par le système, et la prise en compte fonctionnelle du présentoir ajouté ou retiré est également automatique, de sorte que le système de distribution selon l'invention facilite l'ajout ou le retrait d'un présentoir.Thus, the addition or removal of a display unit is automatically detected by the system, and the functional taking into account of the display unit added or removed is also automatic, so that the distribution system according to the invention facilitates the addition or removing a display.

En outre, lorsque les liaisons de données 18 entre la borne de pilotage 16 et chacun des présentoirs 12 sont des liaisons radioélectriques, en l'absence de liaison filaire de données entre la borne de pilotage et chacun des présentoirs, l'ajout ou le retrait d'un présentoir est encore plus simple, puisqu'il suffit de déposer le nouveau présentoir 12 à proximité de la borne de pilotage 16, sans avoir au préalable enfoui des liaisons filaires de données dans le sol et prévu une connectique correspondante afin de connecter chacun de ces nouveaux présentoirs avec les liaisons filaires.In addition, when the data links 18 between the control terminal 16 and each of the displays 12 are radio links, in the absence of a wired data link between the control terminal and each of the displays, the addition or removal of a display is even simpler, since it suffices to place the new display 12 near the control terminal 16, without having previously buried wired data links in the ground and provided a corresponding connection in order to connect each of these new displays with wire connections.

L'utilisation de liaisons sans fil de données entre la borne de pilotage et chacun des présentoirs laisse en outre toute liberté de placement des présentoirs à partir du moment où ceux-ci restent dans une zone correspondant à la portée des émetteur-récepteurs radioélectriques 26, 50 des présentoirs et de la borne de pilotage.The use of wireless data links between the control terminal and each of the displays furthermore leaves all freedom of placement of the displays from the moment when these remain in an area corresponding to the range of the radio transceivers 26, 50 of the displays and of the control terminal.

En outre, l'étape de réassortiment du stock permet de réajuster les stocks à la demande, c'est-à-dire d'adapter le nombre et le type des bouteilles à l'environnement commercial du système.In addition, the stock reassortment step makes it possible to readjust stocks on demand, that is to say to adapt the number and type of bottles to the commercial environment of the system.

Le procédé de pilotage selon l'invention permet également une souplesse de fonctionnement plus importante, puisque l'opérateur réassortit chaque présentoir selon la cartographie envoyée par le serveur distant, et cette cartographie fonction des résultats délivrés par le logiciel d'analyse de la base 108 et des choix du logisticien est susceptible d'évoluer au cours d'une tournée de l'opérateur sur différents sites. Autrement dit, le réassortiment effectué par l'opérateur est susceptible de différer d'un réassortiment qui en l'absence d'émission de la cartographie à destination de la borne par le serveur distant aurait été décidé en début de tournée.The piloting method according to the invention also allows greater operating flexibility, since the operator reassort each display unit according to the mapping sent by the remote server, and this mapping according to the results delivered by the analysis software of the base 108 and choices of the logistician is likely to evolve during a tour of the operator on different sites. In other words, the reassortment carried out by the operator is likely to differ from a reassortment which, in the absence of transmission of the map to the terminal by the remote server, would have been decided at the start of the tour.

On conçoit ainsi que système de distribution selon l'invention facilite l'ajout d'un présentoir dans le système de distribution ou le retrait d'un présentoir dudit système, et permet une meilleure gestion du stock de bouteilles de gaz.It is thus conceivable that a distribution system according to the invention facilitates the addition of a display in the distribution system or the removal of a display from said system, and allows better management of the stock of gas bottles.

Claims (9)

  1. Method for controlling a system (10) for distributing gas cylinders comprising:
    - at least one display unit (12) comprising a plurality of gas cylinder racks (14),
    - a terminal (16) for controlling the or each display unit (12) suitable for controlling the opening of a rack, with the terminal (16) comprising a processing unit (48) and a memory (82) having a file (84) for managing the stock of gas cylinders, wherein the control terminal (16) and the or each respective display unit (12) are remote and connected by a data link (18), said processing unit (48) being able to control (280) the opening of a rack (14) for the delivery of a full cylinder or the return of an empty cylinder,
    the method being characterized in that it comprises the following steps:
    - automatically detecting (220) the adding of a display unit in the distribution system, comprising the emission of an identification signal by the added display unit destined for the control terminal, or the removing of a display unit from said system, comprising the determination of the absence of the identification signal of said display unit during a period of time greater than a predetermined duration,
    - determining (230) the number of display racks added or removed after the detection step (220), and
    - updating (240) the management file after the determination step (230), with at least one step from among the steps of detecting (220), determining (230) and updating (240) comprising an exchange of data through the data link (18) between the control terminal (16) and the display unit (12), the data exchange comprising the emission of a signal by the display unit (12) and the processing by the terminal (16) of the signal transmitted by the display unit (12),
    and in that the control terminal (16) and the or each display unit (12) each comprise a radio-electric transmitter-receiver (26, 50), the data link (18) for the data exchange being a radio-electric link via said radio-electric transceivers (26, 50).
  2. Method according to claim 1, wherein the detecting step (220) includes exchanging data through the data link (18) between the control terminal (16) and the display unit (12) in order to detect the adding or the removing of the display unit (12).
  3. Method according to claim 2, wherein the detecting step (220) comprises the transmission of an identification signal to the control terminal (16) by the added display unit (12), with the identification signal containing an identification number of the added display unit (12).
  4. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising analyzing the evolution of the stock of gas cylinders managed by the or each control terminal (16), in order to trigger a restocking of gas cylinder (s) in one or more display units (310) and/or the adding or removing of a display unit (200).
  5. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cylinders' distribution system further comprises a remote server (20) for managing the stock of gas cylinders, with the terminal (16) being connected to the remote server (20) over a communication network (22), the method further comprising the transmission of data between the remote server (20) and the control terminal (16) for updating (240) the stock management file of gas cylinders (84).
  6. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, the system further comprising a remote server (20) for managing the stock of gas cylinders, with the control terminal (16) being connected to the remote server (20) over a communication network (22), with the method further comprising the remote server (20) triggering a restocking of cylinders (310) and/or the adding or removing of a display unit (200) according to the evolution of the stock of gas cylinders.
  7. System (10) for distributing gas cylinders comprising at least one display unit (12) comprising a plurality of gas cylinder racks (14), and a terminal (16) for controlling the or each display unit (12), with the control terminal (16) comprising a processing unit (48) equipped with means (86) for controlling the opening of a rack, and a memory (82) comprising a stock management file of gas cylinders (84), the control terminal (16) and the or each respective display unit (12) being remote and connected through a data link (18), characterized in that it further comprises means (88) for automatically detecting the adding of a display unit in the distribution system comprising the emission of an identification signal by the added display unit destined for the control terminal, or the removing of a display unit from the system comprising the determination of the absence of the identification signal of said display unit during a period of time greater than a predetermined duration, means (94) for determining the number of racks of said display unit being added or removed, with the determination means (94) being connected to the detection means (88), and means (96) for updating the management file (84), with the updating means (96) being connected to the determination means (94), and in that it comprises means for exchanging data via the data link (18) between the control terminal (16) and the display unit (12), with the data exchange means comprising means (74, 76) for transmitting a signal and means (88, 92) for processing the transmitted signal, the or each display unit (12) comprising the means (74, 76) for transmitting a signal, and the control terminal comprising the means (88, 92) for processing the signal transmitted by the display unit (12), and in that the means for processing the transmitted signal (88, 92) are connected to means among the detecting means (88), the determining means (94) and the updating means (96), and in that the control terminal (16) and the or each display unit (12) each comprise a radio-electric transceiver (26, 50), with the data link (18) between the control terminal (16) and the or each respective display unit (12) being a radio-electric link, in the absence of a wired data link between the control terminal (16) and the respective display unit (12).
  8. System (10) according to claim 7, wherein each display unit (12) comprises autonomous means (28, 30, 32) for supplying electrical energy, said supply means comprising a rechargeable electric battery (28).
  9. System (10) according to claim 8, wherein the supply means comprise a solar panel (32) arranged on the display unit (12) and battery recharging means (30) electrically connected to the solar panel (32).
EP12166768.7A 2011-05-06 2012-05-04 Method for controlling a modular system for distributing gas cylinders comprising at least one display unit with a plurality of cylinder racks and a terminal for controlling each display unit, connected by a radio link Active EP2521104B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1153915A FR2974931B1 (en) 2011-05-06 2011-05-06 METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A MODULAR GAS BOTTLE DISPENSING SYSTEM COMPRISING AT LEAST ONE DISPLAY WITH A PLURALITY OF BOTTLE CONTAINERS AND A STEERING TERMINAL OF EACH DISPLAY CONNECTED BY A RADIO CONNECTION

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2521104A1 EP2521104A1 (en) 2012-11-07
EP2521104B1 true EP2521104B1 (en) 2020-07-08

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EP12166768.7A Active EP2521104B1 (en) 2011-05-06 2012-05-04 Method for controlling a modular system for distributing gas cylinders comprising at least one display unit with a plurality of cylinder racks and a terminal for controlling each display unit, connected by a radio link

Country Status (6)

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EP (1) EP2521104B1 (en)
DK (1) DK2521104T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2821016T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2974931B1 (en)
HU (1) HUE053740T2 (en)
PT (1) PT2521104T (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR3019623B1 (en) 2014-04-02 2021-01-22 Cie Des Gaz De Petrole Primagaz HANDLE FOR A MOBILE TANK, INCLUDING A COMMUNICATION DEVICE
EP3474244A1 (en) 2017-10-23 2019-04-24 Wincor Nixdorf International GmbH Compactor arrangement and method of operating the compactor arrangement
EP3474245B1 (en) 2017-10-23 2021-12-08 Wincor Nixdorf International GmbH Compactor assembly and method for operating the same
FR3106688B1 (en) * 2020-01-29 2022-03-25 Air Liquide Access control for a gas cylinder
CN113012358B (en) * 2021-02-20 2022-08-26 四川观想科技股份有限公司 Hazardous article storage, fetching and storing management integrated system

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FR2717598B3 (en) * 1994-03-17 1996-03-15 Georges Pereira Method and device for automatic and autonomous distribution of gas cylinders.
US20070170201A1 (en) * 2003-01-30 2007-07-26 Steffens Lowell G Propane tank vending machine assembly
FR2853438B1 (en) * 2003-04-01 2005-09-02 AUTOMATED DELIVERY-DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
FR2855893B1 (en) * 2003-06-04 2005-09-16 Sudco S A APPARATUS FOR MANAGING THE DISTRIBUTION OF GAS BOTTLES
EP1811473A1 (en) * 2005-12-29 2007-07-25 Solar Vending Limited Vending machine
KR20090087026A (en) * 2006-11-03 2009-08-14 김영애 A system of management, information providing and information acquisition for vending machine based upon wire and wireless communication and a method of management, information providing and information acquisition for vending machine using the system
US20080188980A1 (en) * 2007-02-07 2008-08-07 William Home Vending system for gas tank

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DK2521104T3 (en) 2020-09-28
FR2974931B1 (en) 2013-06-21
ES2821016T3 (en) 2021-04-23
PT2521104T (en) 2020-10-08
EP2521104A1 (en) 2012-11-07
FR2974931A1 (en) 2012-11-09
HUE053740T2 (en) 2021-07-28

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