FR2813072A1 - Petrol station safety cut off mobile radio transmission detection system having active mobile telephone detector and controller responding signals present/cutting off petrol distribution - Google Patents

Abstract

The mobile radio transmission detection system (10) has a detector (14) detecting wireless transmissions in a defined petrol station zone. A controller (16) responds to transmissions being present cutting the petrol distribution mechanism.

Description

<Desc / Clms Page number 1>
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a system and method for monitoring radio frequency transmissions in a refueling service station.

More particularly, the invention relates to a system intended to detect wireless communications between a wireless device and a mobile operator, and to automatically control the fuel dispenser in response to this detection, for example by cutting and / or deactivating the 'equipment.

 Description of the technology concerned The advent of wireless technology has enabled cell phone customers to benefit from almost continuous access to telecommunications resources and other users, regardless of location. Unlike the public switched telephone network (PSTN) which requires the customer to access by fixed communications equipment (i.e. by fixed handsets), wireless service providers have developed zones of national coverage with practically no connections, which allow a mobile phone user to establish communications at virtually any location. This flexibility provides cell phone users the opportunity to use their time more efficiently since various tasks can be performed on the phone while users are traveling or performing other tasks that do not require their full attention. For example, cell phone users can make calls during refueling stops.

However, the development of cellular communications has also been the subject of increasing efforts to examine the potential impact of radiofrequency signal transmissions on commercial electronic equipment interactive with the user. One area of inquiry relates to the extent to which ambient electromagnetic interference (EMI) of the type generated by wireless devices, can cut or otherwise interfere with the proper operating conditions of electronic components. In a commercial environment, for example, cellular transmissions from a mobile operator or a customer's cell phone can spread to the areas of a refueling service station.

<Desc / Clms Page number 2>

 The wireless signals subjected to detection by the radiofrequency detection apparatus, can correspond for example to outgoing radiofrequency signals which are transmitted by a wireless device. These outgoing radio frequency signals may originate from or be received from the cellular telephone of a customer refueling, or a neighboring user located within or beyond the boundaries of the refueling station. Radio frequency transmissions can also originate from a location either inside or beyond the defined operating area.

The detected wireless signals can also correspond to incoming radio frequency signals, which are transmitted by a mobile operator and intended to be received by the customer's cell phone. These base station transmissions may represent attempts by a third party to send a call to the client, or a response from the base station to a request from the client to establish a wireless communications link.

As it is used here, an operating zone concerns a predetermined spatial domain which represents a limit zone of use for determining the presence of wireless transmissions. The general aim of the operating area is to define an area, at the location of the fueling service station, in which one wishes to maintain an airspace essentially without transmissions. For example, such an area should include fuel-related equipment including, but not limited to, the fuel pump, the vapor recovery system, the fuel storage tanks, the fuel lines and the apparatus fuel supply (for example the dispensing hose and the dispensing gun device). On the side of the vehicle, the operating zone should preferably include the vehicle's filling tank. It is also advisable to adapt the operating zone so as to protect certain electrical circuits of the EMI, such as for example the control circuit of the distributor.

It should be clear that any shape or configuration of the operating area as shown or described here is given for illustrative purposes only and should not be taken as limiting the present invention, as it It is possible to develop various other types and shapes of operating zones. The

<Desc / Clms Page number 3>

 The shape and extent of the area concerned are preferably developed and defined differently in relation to the location of the fueling equipment.

As used herein, the term "incoming transmissions" and equivalents thereof, relates to signals propagating or attempting to propagate in the environment of the service station and, more specifically, in the defined operating area. The transmissions on arrival may for example preferably comprise signals generated by a mobile operator or other signals of the same kind originating independently of the service station, which are intended to be received by the cellular telephone of a customer. In addition, incoming transmissions may include radio frequency signals generated by another wireless device such as another user's cell phone.

As used herein, the term "outgoing transmissions" and equivalents thereof, relates to signals generated or otherwise sourced within the environment of the service station. Outbound transmissions may for example preferably include signals generated by a customer or by a vehicle wireless device, which are intended to be received by a mobile operator or other suitable correspondent. In addition, outbound transmissions may include radio frequency signals generated by any other wireless device located at the fueling station. Outbound transmissions can come from a location either inside or beyond the defined operating area.

As used herein, a mobile operator is any system, process, process or device capable of rendering or otherwise providing services, functionality or wireless communications capabilities. A mobile operator can be understood in various ways as relating to or representing a base station, cellular equipment, cellular terminal, cellular service equipment, or any other wireless communications device of the same nature. As will be conventionally understood, a mobile operator can include features such as fixed transceiver terminals, antennas, and wireless devices.

As used here, a shutdown action relates to a process, functionality or other activity of the same nature making a process or a machine inoperative or in any other way

<Desc / Clms Page number 4>

 unable to enter a normal operating mode. In an illustrative form, a cut-off can be understood as placing or containing a machine in an offline operating mode in which resumption of normal operation is not possible without resumption of service acting in the opposite direction. For example, when applied to the present invention, the fuel dispenser can be turned off in response to the detection of radio frequency transmissions, by the triggering of a programmable online power cutoff switch. The fuel dispenser should be triggered to operate again, by resetting the interrupt switch following confirmation that radio frequency transmissions no longer exist in the operating area.

As used here, deactivation relates to a process, functionality or other activity of a similar nature used to cut off the continuous operation of a process or a machine and, more specifically, of fuel dispensing equipment, to make it so inactive. As applied to the present invention, the fuel distributor can for example be cut off in response to the detection of radio frequency transmissions, by passing the control input of the fuel pump, to an OFF status signal. , thereby preventing further operation of the fuel pump and terminating the fuel delivery operation.

The invention, in one form thereof, relates to a system for use with a refueling service station, comprising a fuel dispensing device. The system comprises, in combination, a detector for detecting wireless transmissions possibly present inside at least one defined zone at the location of the fueling service station, and a controller for cutting off the dispensing device. fuel in response to the presence of wireless transmissions detected by the detector.

The area in question preferably includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device.

Wireless transmissions detected by the detector include, but are not limited to, signals from a wireless device inside or outside the operating area, and / or signals from of a mobile operator outside the operating area.

<Desc / Clms Page number 5>

 The system further includes an indicator for providing an indication of the detection of wireless transmissions by the detector, and / or an indication of the shutdown of the fuel dispensing device by the controller.

The indicator preferably generates a message offering to terminate wireless transmissions from a customer's cell phone.

 The invention, in another form thereof, relates to a system for use with a refueling service station comprising a fuel dispensing device. A first means determines whether wireless transmissions are present within at least one defined area at the location of the fueling station. Second means cuts the fuel dispensing device in response to a determination, made by the first means, of the presence of wireless transmissions.

The system further includes an input device that allows a customer to provide input information, and third means for triggering the fuel dispensing device following a shutdown thereof by the second means . This triggering process occurs only in response to an indication provided by the customer, through the input device, of a failure of a wireless device previously in use. Triggering preferably occurs only in additional response to a determination made by the first means, of the complete absence of wireless transmissions within the operating area.

The invention, in another form thereof, relates to a system comprising, in combination, a detector for detecting wireless transmissions possibly present in at least one defined zone at the location of a fueling station, and a controller for shutting off the fuel dispensing device in response to the presence of wireless transmissions detected by the detector.

The operating area preferably includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device.

Wireless transmissions detected by the detector include, but are not limited to, signals from a wireless device inside or outside the operating area, and / or signals from of a mobile operator outside the operating area.

<Desc / Clms Page number 6>

 The system further includes an indicator for providing an indication of the detection of wireless transmissions by the detector, and / or the deactivation of the fuel dispensing device by the controller. The indicator preferably generates a message offering to terminate wireless transmissions from a customer's cell phone.

The invention, in yet another form, relates to a system comprising, in combination, a first means for determining whether wireless transmissions are present in at least one defined area at the location of the refueling station, and second means for deactivating the fuel dispensing device in response to a determination, by the first means, of the presence of wireless transmissions. The operating zone preferably includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device.

The system further includes an input device that allows a customer to provide input information, and third means for activating the fuel dispensing device following its shutdown by the second means. This activation process occurs only in response to an indication, provided by the customer through the input device, of a deactivation of a wireless device previously in use. Activation preferably occurs only in additional response to a determination, made by the first means, of the complete absence of wireless transmissions within the operating area.

The invention, in another form thereof, relates to a system comprising, in combination, a first means for determining whether wireless transmissions are present within at least one defined area at the location of the fueling station, and second means for switching off and / or deactivating the fuel dispensing device in response to a determination, made by the first means, of the presence of wireless transmissions.

The operating zone preferably includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device.

The system further comprises an indicator intended to provide an indication of the appearance of at least one of a determination, by the first means, of the presence of wireless transmissions, and of the deactivation and / or deactivation of the device. fuel distributor by the second means.

<Desc / Clms Page number 7>

 The indicator preferably generates a message proposing to terminate wireless transmissions originating from a customer's cellular telephone.

The system further includes a detector for determining an operating state of the fuel dispensing device, and for providing a state indicator representative thereof.

Consequently, the second means is used to cut the fuel dispensing device when the status indicator provided by the detector represents an inactive operating condition, and to deactivate the fuel dispensing device when the status indicator represents a condition active operation.

The invention, in another form thereof, relates to a system comprising, in combination, a detection means for detecting the presence of wireless transmissions within at least one defined area at the location of the invention. a fueling station, and a control means intended to cut off the fuel dispensing device if it is inactive, and to deactivate the fuel dispensing device if it is active.

The control means provides this functionality in response to the detection of wireless transmissions by the detection means. The operating zone preferably includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device.

The invention, in yet another form thereof, relates to a system for use with a fueling station comprising a fuel dispensing device. A detector detects the presence of wireless transmissions within at least one defined area at the location of the fueling station. Indicating means provides a state indicator representative of the operating state of the fuel dispensing device. Means are also provided for switching off the fuel dispensing device when the status indicator indicates an inactive operating condition, and for deactivating the fuel dispensing device when the status indicator indicates an active operating condition.

 The invention, in yet another form thereof, relates to a system comprising, in combination, a first means for providing radio frequency monitoring of at least one defined area at the location of a fueling station , and to provide

<Desc / Clms Page number 8>

 a surveillance signal indicating the presence of radiofrequency transmissions within the at least single zone considered; and second means for switching off and / or deactivating the fuel dispensing device in response to the monitoring signal.

The invention, in yet another form thereof, relates to a system for use with a fueling station comprising a fuel dispensing device. Detection means detects the presence of wireless transmissions within at least one defined area at the location of the fueling station. Indicating means provides an indication of the occurrence of detection of wireless transmissions by the detecting means.

The system further includes a controller for switching off and / or deactivating the fuel dispensing device in response to the detection of wireless transmissions by the detection means.

 The indicating means, in one form thereof, also provides an indication of the occurrence of a cut and / or deactivation of the fuel dispensing device by the controller. The indicating means also generates a message implementing the deactivation of a wireless device and / or the interruption of the operation of the fuel dispensing device.

The invention, in yet another form thereof, relates to a system comprising, in combination, a detector for detecting the presence of wireless transmissions within at least one defined area at the location of the fueling station, and an annunciator device arranged to announce the occurrence of detection of wireless transmissions by the detector.

 The invention, in yet another form thereof, relates to a method of controlling a fuel dispensing device. The method implements the definition of an area encompassing at least part of the fuel dispensing device, the determination of the presence or absence of wireless transmissions within the defined area, and the cutting and / or deactivation of the fuel dispensing device in response to a determination of the presence of wireless transmissions within the defined area.

In a preferred embodiment, shutdown occurs when the fuel dispensing device is in an inactive operating condition, while deactivation occurs.

<Desc / Clms Page number 9>

 duit when the fuel dispensing device is in an active operating condition.

Following the deactivation of the fuel dispensing device, the method further provides for the reactivation of the fuel dispensing device in the case only of a determination of the complete absence of wireless transmissions within the defined zone.

The invention, in yet another form thereof, relates to a method for use with a fuel dispensing device. The method implements the definition of an area encompassing at least part of the fuel dispensing device, the determination of the presence or absence of wireless transmissions within the defined area, and the provision of an indication of the presence of wireless transmissions within the defined area, in response to a determination thereof.

An advantage of the present invention is that the fuel dispenser can be automatically shut off and / or deactivated in response to the detection of radio frequency transmissions within the defined operating area, thereby avoiding or minimizing all kinds of effects. any resulting from the interaction of the fuel dispenser components with cellular transmissions.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the radiofrequency monitoring system immediately alerts the client to the detection of radiofrequency transmissions, by allowing this client to quickly follow a series of appropriate actions, for example terminating the wireless communication in which he is personally committed, to trigger an end for cellular transmissions currently provided by a neighboring user, and / or to manually end or interrupt the refueling operation (for example by hanging the dispensing gun on its support hook).

Yet another advantage of the invention is that the monitoring and control system described here promotes the creation of an operating area encompassing the fuel dispenser, which is essentially freed from radio frequency transmissions during refueling.

 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention will be described below in more detail with the aid of embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings in which

<Desc / Clms Page number 10>

 - Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating a monitoring and control system for use in a fueling service station, according to an embodiment of the present invention; - Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating a monitoring and messaging system for use in a refueling service station, according to another embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the way of integrating the systems of FIGS. 1 and 2 in a site of refueling service station; and FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating the detail of the operating sequence of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3.

Corresponding reference characters denote the corresponding parts in all the different views. The example described here only illustrates a preferred embodiment of the invention and should not be considered as limiting in any way the scope of the invention.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Referring now to the drawings and more particularly to FIG. 1, this represents a block diagram illustrating a monitoring and control system 10 intended to be used for carrying out radio frequency detection activities relating to a predetermined operating area including a refueling site, as well as for controlling the fuel dispensing device 12 in response to the detection of radio frequency transmissions, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In particular, the fuel distributor is automatically deactivated when radio frequency transmissions are detected during a refueling operation (that is to say when the distributor is in an active operating state). In a preferred embodiment, the fuel distributor is automatically shut off when radio frequency transmissions are detected, and this fuel distributor is not engaged in a refueling operation (i.e. it is in an inactive operating state).

The fuel distributor 12 illustrated here conventionally comprises a power supply 24 intended to supply the input power to the control electronics 28 of the distributor. The

<Desc / Clms Page number 11>

 Power signals are coupled to the control electronics 28 by a programmable interrupt switch 26 normally "ON" of conventional construction. The interrupt switch 26 comprises an input control line 30 making it possible to selectively move the switch between an open position and a closed position, in response to the appropriate control signal, to thus present respectively an open circuit and a closed circuit, between the power supply 24 and the control electronics 28.

The control electronics 28 operate in a conventional manner to generate the appropriate control signals for regulating the fuel delivery activity of the fuel pump 32. The fuel carried by the fuel pump 32 is dispensed into a vehicle of a customer (not shown) by a conventional hose and gun device 34. The fuel pump 32 has an input control line 36 making it possible to selectively switch this pump 32 ON (activated) or OFF (deactivated), in response to the appropriate control signal.

Referring more particularly to FIG. 1, the monitoring and control system 10 illustrated in this figure comprises a radiofrequency detector 14, a controller 16 and a detector 18 (optional). The radiofrequency detector 14 is provided in the form of a conventional detection device capable of monitoring a defined area and of detecting wireless transmissions present within this defined area. For example, as applied to the present invention, the radio frequency detector 14 must detect any wireless transmissions present within an operating area preferably including at least part of the fuel distributor 12. The detector radio frequency 14 must generate a detection signal 20 representative of the result of the monitoring activity. More specifically, the detection signal 20 provides an indication (or other determination of the same nature) of the presence or absence of any radiofrequency signals within the defined operating zone.

The detector 18 illustrated here is provided in the form of any conventional suitable means capable of supplying or otherwise determining the operating state of a machine, namely the fuel distributor 12. The detector 18 determines for example whether the fuel distributor 12 is in an inactive operating state corresponding to an idle condition, or in a working state.

<Desc / Clms Page number 12>

 active activity corresponding to a refueling operation. The detector 18 generates a distributor operating state signal 22 representative of the operating state of the fuel distributor 12 as detected by the detector 18.

 The controller 16 illustrated here is provided in the form of any conventionally suitable control means capable of generating an appropriate set of control signals intended to be used to control the fuel dispenser 12 in response and according to the detection signal 20 and the status signal 22. For this purpose, the controller 16 is operationally associated with the radio frequency detector 14 and with the detector 18 to receive, respectively, as control inputs, the detection signal 20 and the status signal 22. As described above Above, the object of the present invention is to allow a controller 16 to selectively deactivate and / or cut a fuel dispenser 12 in response to the detection of radio frequency transmissions within the operating zone.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the monitoring and control system 10 illustrated here operates to deactivate the fuel distributor 12 when (i) radio frequency transmissions are present within the defined operating zone, and (ii) the fuel distributor 12 is currently engaged in a refueling operation, or actuated in any other way.

In particular, the controller 16 generates a deactivation signal 38 in response to the detection of wireless transmissions propagating inside the operating zone (as indicated by the detection signal 20 generated by the radio frequency detector 14), and further in response to a determination that the fuel dispenser 12 is currently configured in an active operating state (as indicated by the status signal 22 emitted by the detector 18).

As shown, the deactivation signal 38 represents an input control signal which is received by the fuel pump 32 via the control line 36. In one embodiment, the deactivation signal 38 is generated as an appropriate "STOP" status signal which has the effect of automatically preventing further operation of the fuel pump 32, thereby terminating the fuel dispensing activity of the fuel dispenser 12.

<Desc / Clms Page number 13>

 The controller 16 is preferably provided with a functionality which makes it possible to direct the resumption of the refueling activity (following a deactivation) in response to a determination carried out by the radio frequency detector 14 (via detection signal 20) that the operating zone is completely free of radio frequency transmissions. To facilitate this, the controller 16 should emit an activity signal 38 representative of an "ON" state control signal which should have the effect of starting or reactivating the fuel pump 32.

Although the deactivation of the fuel distributor 12 is described in relation to the control of the operation of the fuel pump 32, this particular embodiment is provided for the purpose of illustration only and should not be considered as limiting the present invention. . On the contrary, it should appear that the fuel distributor 12 can be deactivated in various other ways including, but not limited to, controlling the power supply 24 and the control electronics 28 of the distributor.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the monitoring and control system 10 illustrated here operates to shut off the fuel distributor 12 when (i) radio frequency transmissions are present within the defined operating zone, and (ii ) the fuel distributor (12) is not currently engaged in a refueling operation (that is to say that it is inactive or empty).

This cut-off can for example be used in conjunction with the deactivation procedure described above, or can be used when the fuel distributor 12 is in an empty state after the end of a refueling operation and before another has been started.

As shown, the controller 16 generates a cutoff signal 40 in response to the detection of wireless transmissions propagating inside the operating zone (as indicated by the detection signal 20 generated by the radio frequency detector 14), and further in response to a determination that the fuel dispenser 12 is currently configured in an inactive operating state (as indicated by the status signal 22 emitted by the detector 18). The cutoff signal 40 represents an input control signal which is received

<Desc / Clms Page number 14>

 by the interrupt switch 26 via the control line 30. In one embodiment, the cutoff signal 40 is generated as an appropriate "STOP" status signal which has the effect of configuring the switch 26 in an open state thereby disconnecting the power supply 24 from the control electronics 28 of the distributor, and effectively placing the available power source in an offline mode which thus withdraws it from use. Although typically used when the fuel dispenser 12 is inactive, the shutdown procedure can optionally be used during an active period, to complete a current refueling operation.

 The controller 12 is preferably provided with a functionality enabling it to restart the fuel distributor 12 (after a cut) in response to a determination made by the radio frequency detector 14 (via the detection signal 20) of that the operating area is completely free of radio frequency transmissions. To facilitate this, the controller 16 should issue a trigger signal 40 representative of an "ON" state control signal which should have the effect of configuring the interrupt switch 26 in a closed state to thereby re-establish the connection. between the power supply 24 and the control electronics 28 of the distributor, thus allowing subsequent activation of the fuel distributor 12.

Although the shutdown of the fuel distributor 12 is described in relation to the configuration command of the interrupt switch 26, this particular embodiment is given for the purpose of illustration and should not be considered as limiting the present invention. . Rather, it should appear that the fuel dispenser 12 can be shut off in various other ways including, but not limited to, installing additional interrupt switches at various other connection points to allow the controller 16 to place selectively various individual components offline, such as for example the control electronics 28 of the distributor and the fuel pump 32.

A remarkable feature of the monitoring and control system 10 illustrated here is that the proper deactivation and / or shutdown process of the fuel distributor 12 is performed automatically in response to the detection of ra-

<Desc / Clms Page number 15>

 diofrequencies within the defined operating zone. As indicated above, these detected radio frequency transmissions can emanate from or come from various other sources including, but not limited to, the wireless device of a customer performing a refueling (placed inside or outside of the operating zone), the wireless device of a neighboring user (placed inside or outside the operating zone and possibly independently of the ownership of the service station), and a mobile operator such as 'a cellular service provider.

Referring now to FIG. 2, this represents a block diagram illustrating a monitoring and messaging system 50 intended to be used for carrying out radio frequency detection activities in relation to a predetermined operating area including a replenishment site. in fuel, as well as for generating a message intended to be received by the client to indicate the appearance of a detection of radio frequency signals, according to another embodiment of the present invention. In particular, the customer is immediately warned or informed in any other way of the presence of radio frequency transmissions within the operating area.

This warning is preferably accompanied by a recommendation on the sequence of actions to be carried out to place the refueling site in a state suitable for refueling, that is to say to ensure that the operating area is essentially free of radio frequency transmissions. For example, the system 50 may request the deactivation of a cellular telephone currently in service, until the refueling operation is completed, or may request a manual stop or a manual suspension of the refueling activity. in fuel, until cellular transmissions are completed.

Referring more particularly to FIG. 2, the monitoring and messaging system 50 illustrated in this figure comprises a radio frequency detector 14, a message generator 52 and an indicator or message notification block device 54. As described above, the radio frequency detector 14 is produced in the form of a conventional detection device capable of monitoring a defined area and of detecting wireless transmissions present within the defined area. This defined area preferably corresponds to a

<Desc / Clms Page number 16>

 operating area which preferably includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device. The radio frequency detector 14 generates a detection signal 20 representative of the result of the monitoring activity; more specifically, the detection signal 20 provides an indication (or other determination of the same nature) of the presence or absence of any radiofrequency signals within the defined operating zone.

The message generator 52 illustrated here produces a message signal 56 in response to the appearance of radio frequency transmissions present within the operating area, as indicated by the detection signal 20 generated by the radio frequency detector 14. As described in more detail below, the message signal 56 is generated in a manner and in a format appropriate to the particular type of message display devices implemented in a message notification block 54. As shown, the block 54 illustrated here includes a text messaging block 58, a video monitor 60, an alert mechanism 62, and an audio device 64, all of conventional construction.

The text messaging block 58 is preferably in the form of any suitable text display device capable of displaying text-based information content for viewing by the customer. The message can be displayed in any format such as a data stream or a fixed set of messages. The video monitor 60 is preferably provided in the form of any suitable monitor or suitable image display device capable of reproducing an input video signal for viewing by the customer. The video can be accompanied in a conventional manner by a corresponding audio power supply. The audio device 64 is preferably provided in the form of any suitable sound emission system such as a microphone device capable of delivering an audio message to the client.

The alert mechanism 62 represents any suitable device or suitable device capable of emitting a perceptible signal easily recognized or perceived by the client, and which must be understood as indicating the presence of radio frequency transmissions within the zone of operation, these transmissions being detected by the radiofrequency detector 14. Various embodiments of the alert mechanism 62 may include, but are not limited to, a panel of light-emitting diodes, flashing lamps, a

<Desc / Clms Page number 17>

 bell, siren, other light-emitting device or other sound-emitting device, and the like.

Although the notification block 54 is represented in a form comprising the illustrated components, it will be understood that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment but on the contrary encompasses any means or process making it possible to communicate a message to the client. In addition, any combination of message transmission devices can be used in the construction of the notification block 54.

Reference will now be made to the operation of the monitoring and messaging system 50 of FIG. 2. The radiofrequency detector 14 conventionally monitors and detects the presence of radiofrequency transmissions propagating within the defined operating zone. This determination of the presence of wireless transmissions is indicated by a detection signal 20 emitted by the radio frequency detector 14. On reception of a detection signal 20 indicating the detection of wireless transmissions, the message generator 52 produces a signal message 56 intended for display, announcement and / or presentation to the customer via the notification block 54.

More particularly, when the client must receive a text message, the message generator 52 is suitably adapted to produce a message signal 56 in the form of a text signal 70 introduced into the text messaging block 58. Alternatively, when the client is to receive an image-based message, the message generator 52 is suitably adapted to produce a message signal 56 in the form of an image signal 72 intended to be displayed by the video monitor 60. Alternatively, when the client is to receive an alert type indicator, the message generator 52 is suitably adapted to produce a message signal 56 in the form of an alert actuation signal 74 which appropriately activates an alert mechanism 62. As a variant, when the client must receive an audible message, the message generator 52 is suitably adapted to generate an audio signal 7 6 intended to be processed and reproduced by the audio device 64.

 In various embodiments, the content of the message signal 56 can take various forms. For example, the message signal 56 may indicate to the customer that the fuel dispenser has been deactivated.

<Desc / Clms Page number 18>

 activated and / or cut due to the detected presence of wireless transmissions in the vicinity of the fueling site. For this, the monitoring and messaging system 50 of FIG. 2 can be adapted for use with the monitoring and control system 10 of FIG. 1.

Following deactivation of the fuel dispenser as described with reference to the system of Figure 1, the customer may be asked to complete the cellular transmission before the refueling operation can be resumed or restarted. Alternatively, the refueling operation may be allowed to continue despite the detection of wireless transmissions, although a message must be delivered to the customer to indicate this detection and request either a manual interruption of the activity dispensing until the cellular call is completed, that is, the immediate termination of the cellular call until the dispensing activity is completed. The customer can also be informed that cellular transmissions from a neighboring user have been detected, and that the continued operation of the fuel detector requires that the third party's cell phone be turned off.

It will be understood that the automatic deactivation and / or shutdown of the fuel distributor, carried out by the monitoring and control system 10 of the present invention (FIG. 1), should preferably be accompanied by a certain type of message coming from the system 50 of Figure 2, to report or otherwise indicate the occurrence of a detection of radio frequency transmissions, and indicate to the customer how to proceed in the best way.

For example, in the event that the fuel dispenser is shut off automatically (i.e. brought into a deactivation state), the customer must be warned to stop cellular transmissions or to ensure that neighboring cellular users similarly follow this directive. The operation of the fuel dispenser must remain suspended or shutdown pending compliance with these instructions. For this, an input means can be provided which allows the customer to indicate to the system 50 that the requisite conditions, necessary to resume the refueling, have been satisfied. The radio frequency detector 14 must obviously provide confirmation

<Desc / Clms Page number 19>

 that the operating area is essentially free of radio frequency transmissions.

Alternatively, in the event that the fuel supply is not cut off at the time of detection of radio frequency transmissions, the customer must be warned to complete the refueling or to terminate the cellular transmissions (or d '' make transmissions outside the detection range), in order to avoid electromagnetic interference effects between cellular transmissions and activated fuel distribution equipment. However, if these recommendations are not adopted within a certain response period, the system 50 can then operate to deactivate and / or properly shut off the fuel dispenser.

Referring now to Figure 3, this represents a block diagram illustrating the manner of integrating the various systems of Figures 1 and 2 in a fuel dispenser environment according to the present invention. Reference will also be made to FIG. 4 which shows a flowchart detailing an illustrative operating sequence for the system of FIG. 3.

As shown in Figure 3, a fuel dispenser site (generally illustrated at 80) includes a conventional fuel dispenser device 82 and a dispenser hose / gun device 84 to be used to deliver fuel to a vehicle 86 with which a client 88. Client 88 is shown in possession of a wireless device 90 designed, by way of illustration, to perform wireless communications with a mobile operator 92, the outgoing transmissions going from the device 90 to the mobile operator 92 being represented, by way of illustration, by radio frequency transmissions 94, while the incoming transmissions going from the mobile operator 92 to the device 90 are represented, by way of illustration, by radio frequency transmissions 96.

According to the present invention, for each fueling site 80 associated with a service station, there is preferably a dedicated device 100 comprising a radio frequency detector 102, a controller 104 and an annunciator device 106. During operation, the radio frequency detector 102 detects all wireless transmissions present within the illustrative operating zone 108, and produces a detection signal 110 indicating these

<Desc / Clms Page number 20>

 transmissions (step 200). As shown, both the outgoing radio frequency transmissions 94 generated by the cellular telephone 90, as well as the incoming radio frequency transmissions 96 generated by the mobile operator 92, propagate through the area 108 and are therefore detected by the radio frequency detector. 102. The operating area 108 preferably includes the fuel dispenser device 82, as shown.

During operation, the controller 104 emits a cut-off / deactivation command signal 112 in response to the presence of radio frequency transmissions 94 and 96 within the operating area 108 (as indicated by the detection signal 110 supplied by the radio frequency detector 102). This control signal 112 is received by the fuel dispensing device 82. The control signal 112 performs one, appropriate, of a cut-off and / or deactivation operation of the fuel dispensing device 82, on the basis of a current operating state of the refueling apparatus (step 202).

Simultaneously, the annunciator 106 communicates a message to the client 88 to inform it of the detection of radio frequency transmissions inside the operating area 108, and preferably indicates that the refueling has been automatically terminated (step 204). This communication from the annunciator 106 may include, among other things, a request to shut down a cell phone and / or a request to clear the dispenser hose / gun device from the vehicle, and to interrupt the refueling until the transmissions cellular are complete (thereby indicating that refueling cannot be done until cellular transmissions have ceased) (step 206).

It will be understood that the process of monitoring the operating zone 108 for the wireless transmissions, of notifying the client of the detection of radio frequency transmissions, and of controlling the operation of the fuel distributor, is carried out continuously throughout the refueling interval (step 208). For example, in the case where the fuel distributor 82 is deactivated for the reasons described above, the refueling operation can be resumed under the direction of the controller 104 and on the basis of an indication provided by the radio frequency detector 102

<Desc / Clms Page number 21>

 (via the detection signal 110), that the area 108 is essentially free of radio frequency transmissions. For this purpose, the controller 104 should emit one, appropriate, of a trigger / activation command signal intended to be used by the fuel distributor 82.

<Desc / Clms Page number 22>

Claims (39)

CLAIMS) System (10) for use with a refueling service station, comprising a fuel dispensing device (12), characterized in that the system includes a detector (14) for detecting wireless transmissions possibly present inside at least one defined zone at the location of the fueling service station; and a controller (16), responsive to the presence of wireless transmissions detected by the detector (14), for shutting down the fuel dispensing device. 2) System according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least single zone above includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device (12). 3) System according to claim 1, characterized in that the wireless transmissions subject to detection by the detector (14) comprise signals from a wireless device located inside or outside of the at least unique area, and / or signals from a mobile operator outside of the at least unique area. 4) System according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises an indicator or detector (18) intended to provide an indication of the appearance of at least one of the detection of wireless transmissions by the detector ( 14), and the shutdown of the fuel distributor device (12) by the controller (16). 5) System according to claim 4, characterized in that the indicator (18) generates a message proposing to end the wireless transmissions. <Desc / Clms Page number 23>  6) System intended for use with a refueling service station, comprising a fuel dispensing device (12), characterized in that it comprises a first means for determining the presence or absence of wireless transmissions to the interior of at least one defined area at the location of the fueling station; and second means, responsive to a determination made by the first means, of the presence of wireless transmissions, for shutting down the fuel dispensing device. 7) System according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least single zone includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device (12). 8) System according to claim 6, characterized in that it further comprises an input device allowing a client to provide input information; and a third means intended to start the fuel dispensing device after the latter has been cut off by the second means, this starting occurring only in response to an indication provided by the customer by the customer. 'Intermediate input device, the cut-off of a wireless device previously in operation. 9) System according to claim 8, characterized in that the starting of the fuel dispensing device by the third means is done only in response further to a determination, carried out by the first means following the indication the interruption of the wireless device, supplied by the customer, the complete absence of wireless transmissions within the at least unique zone. <Desc / Clms Page number 24>  10) System intended to be used with a refueling service station, comprising a fuel dispensing device (82), characterized in that the system comprises a detector (102) for detecting wireless transmissions possibly present at the interior of at least one defined area at the location of the fueling station; and a controller (104), responsive to the presence of wireless transmissions, detected by the detector (102), to deactivate the fuel dispensing device (82). 11) System according to claim 10, characterized in that the at least single zone includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device (82). 12) System according to claim 10, characterized in that the wireless transmissions subject to detection by the detector (102) comprise signals from a wireless device located inside or inside. outside the at least unique area, and / or signals from a mobile operator (92) outside the at least unique area. 13) System according to claim 10, characterized in that it further comprises an indicator to provide an indication of the appearance of at least one of the detection of wireless transmissions by the detector, and of the deactivation of the device fuel dispenser by the controller. 14) System according to claim 13, characterized in that the indicator generates a message proposing to terminate the wireless transmissions. <Desc / Clms Page number 25>  15) System intended to be used with a refueling service station, comprising a fuel dispensing device, characterized in that the system comprises a first means for determining whether wireless transmissions are possibly present inside at least one zone defined at the location of the fueling station; and second means, responsive to a determination, by the first means, of the presence of wireless transmissions, to deactivate the fuel dispensing device. 16) System according to claim 15, characterized in that the at least single zone includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device. 17) System according to claim 15, characterized in that it further comprises an input device allowing a client to provide input information; and a third means for activating the fuel dispensing device following a deactivation thereof by the second means, the activation being carried out only in response to an indication, supplied by the customer through of the input device, of the shutdown of a wireless device previously in operation. 18) System according to claim 17, characterized in that the activation of the fuel dispensing device by the third means only occurs in response further to a determination, made by the first means, following the indication the interruption of the wireless device supplied by the customer, the complete absence of wireless transmissions within the at least unique area. <Desc / Clms Page number 26>  19) System intended to be used with a refueling service station, comprising a fuel dispensing device, characterized in that the system comprises a first means for determining whether wireless transmissions are present inside a at least one zone defined at the location of the fueling station; and second means, responding to a determination, by the first means, of the presence of wireless transmissions, for cutting / off the fuel dispensing device. 20) System according to claim 19, characterized in that the at least single zone includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device. 21) System according to claim 19, characterized in that it further comprises an indicator to provide an indication of the appearance of at least one of a determination, by the first means, of the presence of wireless transmissions , and cutting and / or deactivation of the fuel dispensing device by the second means. 22) System according to claim 21, characterized in that the indicator generates a message proposing to terminate wireless transmissions.  23) System according to claim 19, characterized in that it further comprises a detector arranged to determine an operating state of the fuel dispensing device, and to provide a status indicator representative thereof. 24) System according to claim 23, <Desc / Clms Page number 27>  characterized in that the second means is used to cut the fuel dispensing device when the status indicator provided by the detector represents an inactive operating condition, and to deactivate the fuel dispensing device when the status indicator represents a active operating condition. 25) System intended to be used with a refueling service station, comprising a fuel dispensing device, characterized in that the system comprises detection means for detecting the presence of wireless transmissions inside at minus defined area at the location of the fueling station; and control means, responsive to detection of wireless transmissions by the detecting means, to shut off the fuel dispensing device if it is inactive, and to deactivate the fuel dispensing device if it is active. 26) System according to claim 25, characterized in that the at least single zone includes at least part of the fuel dispensing device. 27) System according to claim 25, characterized in that the wireless transmissions subject to detection by the detection means, comprise signals from a wireless device located inside or inside. outside the at least unique area, and / or signals from a mobile operator outside the at least unique area.  28) System intended for use with a fueling service station, comprising a fuel dispensing device, characterized in that this system comprises <Desc / Clms Page number 28>  a detector for detecting the presence of wireless transmissions within an at least unique area defined at the location of the refueling service station; means for providing a status indicator representative of the operating status of the fuel dispensing device; and means, operatively associated with the status indicator means, for switching off the fuel dispensing device when the status indicator indicates an inactive operating state, as well as for deactivating the fuel dispensing device when the status indicator indicates an active operating state. 29) System intended to be used with a refueling service station, comprising a fuel dispensing device, characterized in that this system comprises a first means for providing radiofrequency monitoring of at least one zone defined at l location of the fueling station, and to provide a monitoring signal indicating the presence of radio frequency transmissions within the at least unique area; and second means, operatively associated with the fuel dispensing device, for switching off and / or deactivating the fuel dispensing device in response to the monitoring signal. 30) System intended for use with a refueling service station, comprising a fuel dispensing device, characterized in that it comprises a detection means for detecting the presence of wireless transmissions inside a at least one zone defined at the location of the fueling station; and indicator means for providing an indication of the occurrence of detection of wireless transmissions by the detection means. 31) System according to claim 30, characterized in that <Desc / Clms Page number 29>  it further comprises a controller for cutting and / or deactivating the fuel dispensing device in response to the detection of wireless transmissions by the detection means. 32) System according to claim 31, characterized in that the indicator means also serves to provide an indication of the appearance of a cut and / or deactivation of the fuel dispensing device, carried out by the controller. 33) System according to claim 30, characterized in that the indicator means is also used, in response to the appearance of a detection of wireless transmissions by the detection means, to generate a message implementing the deactivation of a wireless device and / or cutting off the operation of the fuel dispensing device. 34) System according to claim 30, characterized in that the wireless transmissions subject to detection by the detection means, comprise signals from a wireless device located inside or inside. outside the at least unique area, and / or signals from a mobile operator (92) outside the at least unique area. 35) System for use with a refueling service station, comprising a fuel dispensing device, characterized in that it includes a detector (102) for detecting the presence of wireless transmissions inside at least one zone defined at the location of the fueling station; and an annunciator (106) arranged to announce the occurrence of detection of wireless transmissions by the detector (102). 36) Method for controlling a fuel dispensing device, <Desc / Clms Page number 30>  characterized in that it comprises the steps consisting in defining an area encompassing at least part of the fuel dispensing device; determine if wireless transmissions are present within the defined area; and cutting and / or deactivating the fuel dispensing device in response to a determination of the presence of wireless transmissions within the defined area. 37) Method according to claim 36, characterized in that the shutdown takes place when the fuel dispensing device is in an inactive operating state, and deactivation occurs when the fuel dispensing device is in an operating state active. 38) Method according to claim 36, characterized in that it further comprises, following a deactivation of the fuel dispensing device, the step of reactivating this fuel dispensing device in the case only of a determination the complete absence of wireless transmissions within the defined area. 39) Method for use with a fuel dispensing device, characterized in that it comprises the steps consisting in defining an area encompassing at least part of the fuel dispensing device; determine if wireless transmissions are present within the defined area; and providing an indication of the presence of wireless transmissions within the defined area, in response to a determination thereof.