WO2019239181A1 - Wireless communication system for fuel control and supply at a service station - Google Patents

Wireless communication system for fuel control and supply at a service station Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019239181A1
WO2019239181A1 PCT/IB2018/054271 IB2018054271W WO2019239181A1 WO 2019239181 A1 WO2019239181 A1 WO 2019239181A1 IB 2018054271 W IB2018054271 W IB 2018054271W WO 2019239181 A1 WO2019239181 A1 WO 2019239181A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
communication
communication system
fuel
wireless
station
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PCT/IB2018/054271
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Spanish (es)
French (fr)
Inventor
Carlos Alberto ZAMBRANO SMITH
Carlos Yuri BENAVIDEZ ROJAS
Luis Ignacio ANGARITA MORRÓN
Jhon Francisco PULIDO COLÓN
Original Assignee
Organización Terpel S.A.
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Application filed by Organización Terpel S.A. filed Critical Organización Terpel S.A.
Priority to PCT/IB2018/054271 priority Critical patent/WO2019239181A1/en
Publication of WO2019239181A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019239181A1/en

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Classifications

    • 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
    • G07F7/02—Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by keys or other credit registering devices

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a wireless communication system for carrying out the control and supply of fuel in a service station, which is characterized in that it is based on a totally wireless communication, which is carried out by means of networks WiFi, which allows a connection between a main control center located in the office of the service station, and each of the islands that have the respective suppliers for the supply of fuel, either liquid or gas.
  • the system of the invention has the advantage that it does not require complicated civil works, since all the wiring that the service stations currently have is not necessary, reducing the high costs of operating said stations, while ensures a fast, reliable and adequate connection between the pumps and the control center.
  • the present invention allows to improve the control of the service stations by not requiring computer centers or machine rooms, as they exist in the current service stations, since only one server or single control post is required with which each of the pumps is communicated directly through an antenna located in said control center, by means of a wireless device located in each dispenser, which also allows modifying or using any type of fuel pump simply by connecting it to said wireless device for control.
  • this wiring must be carried out in a very specific way, since the information that is transmitted and received to and from the control center is information considered as critical and of high value for the service station, since This depends on the proper functioning of all islands and that the fuel supply is fast, efficient and the likelihood of theft of fuel by employees or by external personnel can be reduced to the greatest extent possible. Therefore, this wiring has very high costs and requires special ducts that take it from each of the islands to the main control center. In this way, a brief explanation of the wiring systems commonly existing in a service station will be made below, where at the beginning it is based on current loops, where the current loops are the physical layer devices used for the communication of Fuel pumps with the system. Initially, the 20 mA loop is used as an alternative to the RS-232C interface, where its main advantage lies in its insensitivity to interference, so that large distances can be covered. TTY is also used when there are large sources of electromagnetic field near transmission lines.
  • each terminal has two loops: one for transmission and one for reception and has defined characteristics such as: the type of transmission is by current, allowing only the connection of a transmitter and a receiver; allows connection lines of up to 100 m with transmission speeds of 19200 bps; and the communication mode used is duplex.
  • the assortment communication to server is carried out in a wired way, using an interface that converts from current loop to RS232, making it necessary to install a computer wiring through RS232 communication port to the current loop interface already turn a wiring from the interface to the dispenser.
  • the invention described herein has the disadvantage that the communication modules that connect to a central control center are they are based on the use of RF type communication, where said protocol is not completely secure and can be vulnerable, while being widely used by devices that can lead to interference or other inconveniences that affect the proper functioning of the service station.
  • the loT service authenticates the car device and in response transmits an authorized use signal from the fuel pump or charging station to the concentrator.
  • the loT hub establishes communication by cellular radio signal (4G, WiMAX, LTE), or 5G services and alternatively or additionally, a WiFi radio signal can be included to establish communication through a WiFi access point (AP) or a router (Router) which couples the loT hub to the internet or other devices.
  • cellular radio signal (4G, WiMAX, LTE)
  • a WiFi radio signal can be included to establish communication through a WiFi access point (AP) or a router (Router) which couples the loT hub to the internet or other devices.
  • US 95584866 refers to a method and system for authenticating and processing a transaction request using a vehicle-based wireless system
  • a vehicle can include a wireless tag or transponder, and a Wireless system in a service station or fuel station can detect the presence of said tag in a predefined general wireless service area.
  • the wireless system can transmit vehicle information based on the detection of said tag or the vehicle itself.
  • a user can enter an authenticator into a specific fuel dispenser within the general wireless service area.
  • a processor can then associate a request for authorization to refuel with the specific fuel dispenser.
  • a transaction authorization can be transmitted to the specific fuel dispenser where the authenticator was presented, which can be used to enable the specific fuel dispenser for use.
  • the invention described in the foregoing presents a fuel dispenser focused on avoiding cleaning and maintenance, and although the use of a wireless module is mentioned, it is focused only for the transmission of alarm messages, and presents the disadvantage that corresponds to an unsuitable communication protocol, such as RF or similar, as indicated above, which does not allow have a fully wireless service station or with better performance and reduced service times.
  • document WO 0103983 disclosing a method and a system for controlling the delivery or assortment of fuel is found in the state of the art so that the fuel is only delivered to authorized receptacles, such as the fuel tank of authorized vehicles, wherein the system includes an RF module mounted on the fuel dispensing hose to read the data stored on an RF tag mounted adjacent to the authorized receptacle inlet.
  • the RF module only reads the tag data when an antenna is within a predetermined distance of an RF tag. The distance is such that the fuel dispensing hose must be within or very close to the fuel receiving point of the receptacle.
  • the RF module stores the data derived from the label or no data, wherein said stored data is transmitted to a dispenser controller that controls the dispenser that supplies the fuel to the fuel dispensing hose.
  • RF Radio Frequency
  • this document presents the disadvantage as mentioned above with other priorities, which is related to the use of RF (Radio Frequency) communication systems or protocols, which present a series of inconveniences related to interference and non-communication security. , which can lead to considerable problems in the operation of the service station.
  • the communication of this document is not completely wireless, but also has a wired component that increases installation costs, as mentioned in this document.
  • a current loop with direct WiFi connectivity was designed and implemented, which has the ability to be configured wirelessly to through a web interface from a mobile device or pe, where this system also allows its online re-configuration, making multiparameterization possible for different types of suppliers, which supplements the previously mentioned need, also makes it possible for the implementation of the new operating architecture of the digital EDS is possible, reducing maintenance and installation costs, while allowing, through a management system, to monitor the operating status of said devices and thereby reduce the level normalization times of service provision in case of an incident.
  • Figure 1 corresponds to a block diagram of a communication system in a service station as found in the state of the art, that is, as they are today without the improvements provided by the present invention.
  • Figure 2 corresponds to a general diagram of a service station for fuel supply that includes the communication system of the present invention, wherein solid lines indicate wired connection while dotted lines indicate wireless connection between the elements.
  • Figure 3 corresponds to a detailed illustration of the wireless communication device and its connection with the suppliers of an island in a service station.
  • Figure 4 corresponds to a detailed illustration of the chip reader module and its components.
  • Ethernet TCP / IP protocol
  • serial with different physical link layers eg current loop
  • the Ethernet equipment To optimize implementation resources and response times in transactions to and from the terminal equipment, it was necessary to migrate the Ethernet equipment to WiFi.
  • the terminal devices In the model proposed for the Digital Service Station of the present invention it was selected as the wireless technology of Wifi connectivity in infrastructure mode. In this mode, the terminal devices connect to the network through Access Points (AP).
  • AP Access Points
  • Serial connectivity equipment such as suppliers, uses interface devices that adapt the existing physical layer to an Ethernet TCP / IP interface and through additional equipment is performed on an Ethernet bridge to Wifi, and it is finally the ethernet interface that connect the device to the network infrastructure, as defined below.
  • the present invention defines a wireless communication system for control and supply of fuel in a service station (EDS), wherein said system comprises the following components or parts:
  • a central control station (1) corresponding to a main server, preferably connected to the internet to allow remote monitoring of the operation of the entire service station, where said central control station (1) can be any computing device that has the appropriate programs to manage the service station according to the requirements;
  • a main communication antenna (2) located in the same place of the central control station (1) and connected to it, in order to allow the communication of said control station (1) with the other elements of the system and which are part of the service station, wherein said communication antenna (2) corresponds to an Access Point (Access Point as is commonly known in the technical field) that brings together the connection between the elements and creates a wireless network of WiFi type;
  • Access Point Access Point as is commonly known in the technical field
  • each communication device (3) corresponds to a current loop that is located one for each island (4), and therefore, the number of communication devices (3) It depends directly on the number of islands (4) that the service station has, where each communication device (3) communicates directly with the central control station (1) by means of the antenna (2) through of the WiFi connection created by said antenna (2); • A local island control station (5), which corresponds to an interface that allows the operator to perform a plurality of functions and control the operation of the jets (6) found in each of the islands (4) with which the service station has, where said local control station (5) is connected directly to each of the pumps (6) for authorization of the fuel supply, and where this local control station (5) is communicates with the wireless communication device (3) on the respective island (4); and
  • a chip reading module (7) which corresponds to a wireless device that connects directly to the network through the antenna
  • module Reading (7) sends the information to the control center (1) and receives the instruction whether to allow the fuel supply or not.
  • the wireless communication device (3) developed has the function of making the connection between the control system (1) of the service station (central control station) and the fuel dispensers (6), of wirelessly via the wifi interface to power loop included therein, where this device (3) can be connected with a maximum of four suppliers, although said number is not limited in this disclosure, but depends directly on the requirements and the brand of supplier to be used, where preferably the connection between said communication device (3) and each of the suppliers is via Ethernet, thus establishing communication between them, through a protocol that establishes each family of suppliers (6), in order to manage sales and events that occur in the operation of the fuel pumps (6).
  • the chip reader module (7) allows the maintenance and exchange costs of the readers to be reduced, which had deterioration due to daily manipulation, since it makes it possible to make an adequate reading in the vehicles that have the identification chip located, far or in a poorly accessible area of the fuel supply point, which caused early deterioration and massive of these cables by stretching to which they are subjected daily at the stations.
  • the chip reader module (7) of the system of the present invention since it has a double reader (71) where the first reader (71) is located directly on the body or housing the module (7), while the second reader (71) has at its end an expandable cable (72) that allows it to be stretched if it requires chip reading in vehicles with very difficult access, but where the cable is adhered only to the module (7) which is portable, and not to the supplier or to the local control station.
  • the portable device has a selector (73), where the dispatcher selects the face to be read, because the portable reader has only one port for reading of the chips and sales are given on both sides of the suppliers (6), for this reason the portable wifi reader (7) has to tell the system which face of the supplier (6) the reading is being made, then it place the reader (71) on the vehicle chip and with only one contact it performs the reading with all its quality validations and sends the information wirelessly through the Wi-Fi network of the station to the central station (1), to authorize the sale.
  • this device (7) mitigates the problem that is currently present in service stations and gives way to a new generation of portable readers.
  • the chip reader module (7) has an indicator, such as a light-emitting diode (LED), which shows the status of the connection to the system, a selector (73) to indicate that to which face of the supplier belongs the reading, an audible indicator (not shown) that emits a sound when a chip reading is made, a reading port and an auxiliary port to connect a reader cable (72) in case it cannot be accessed where the chip is Located in the vehicle easily.
  • the module or reading device (7) has a battery for power supply, which provides a range of operation from 4 to 6 hours, after this time it must be put to charge, and a port for charging (74 ) by means of which the internal battery of the module or device (7) is charged.
  • the 1-Wire® protocol is a serial communications protocol based on a bus, a master and several slaves of a single data line on which they feed, which needs a common ground reference to all devices.
  • 1-Wire® technology is a 1-wire master that initiates and controls communication with one or more 1-wire slave devices on the 1-wire bus, where each 1-wire slave device has a 64-bit identifier (identification number) unique, unalterable, factory programmed, which serves as a device address on the 1-wire bus.
  • the 8-bit family code a subset of the 64-bit ID, identifies the device type and functionality Normally, 1-wire slave devices operate in the voltage range of 2.8V (min) to 5.25V (max.), where most 1-Wire® devices do not have a plug for the power supply, but instead take their power from the 1 - Wire® bus (parasitic supply).
  • the chip reading module (7) can have a graphical interface, preferably a touch screen, which allows the selection of the dispenser face (6) by means of a touch of said interface, while in this way the mechanical elements and buttons available to the device are reduced, and so the operator can also check the chip data read in each of the vehicles in the same module (7).
  • the module (7) can have a wireless charging element of the battery, wherein said element replaces the charging port (74) to allow the device to be wirelessly charged, such as the technology of several currently existing mobile devices.
  • the wireless communication between the devices that are part of the system of the present invention is carried out by means of WiFi connection, wherein said connection handles frequencies of 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, preferably the connection is in the band of 5GHz, which has more stability and allows a more secure connection between multiple elements.
  • an “island” corresponds to each space where vehicles for fuel supply are located, where an “island” may comprise one or more fuel dispensers, either liquid or gas, and the number of suppliers depends on the brand of the same and if they present supplier on each side.
  • an island comprises two or more suppliers, and preferably or generally, an island comprises four suppliers, although said number of fuel delivery devices is not limited in any way.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a wireless communication system for fuel control and supply at a service station. This system is based on fully wireless communication, via Wi-Fi networks that connect a main control centre located in the office of the service station with each of the islands and their respective pumps for supplying fuel, whether liquid or gas. The invention improves the control of service stations, since it only requires one server or a single control station, with which each pump communicates directly by means of an antenna located in said control centre via a wireless device located in each pump, which also makes it possible to modify or use any type of fuel pump simply by connecting it to said wireless control device.

Description

SISTEMA INALAMBRICO DE COMUNICACIÓN PARA CONTROL Y WIRELESS COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR CONTROL AND
SUMINISTRO DE COMBUSTIBLE EN UNA ESTACION DE SERVICIO FUEL SUPPLY IN A SERVICE STATION
CAMPO TÉCNICO TECHNICAL FIELD
La presente invención se relaciona con un sistema de comunicación inalámbrico para llevar a cabo el control y suministro de combustible en una estación de servicio, el cual se caracteriza porque se basa en una comunicación totalmente inalámbrica, la cual se lleva a cabo por medio de redes WiFi, las cuales permiten realizar una conexión entre un centro de control principal ubicado en la oficina de la estación de servicio, y cada una de las islas que cuentan los respectivos surtidores para el suministro de combustible, bien sea líquido o en gas. El sistema de la invención presenta la ventaja que no requiere de obras civiles complicadas, ya que todo el cableado con el que actualmente cuentan las estaciones de servicio no se hace necesario, reduciendo los altos costos de poner en funcionamiento dichas estaciones, al tiempo que se asegura una conexión rápida, confiable y adecuada entre los surtidores y el centro de control. Del mismo modo, la presente invención permite mejorar el control de las estaciones del servicio al no requerir de centros de computación o cuartos de máquinas, como existen en las estaciones de servicio actuales, ya que únicamente se requiere de un servidor o puesto único de control con el que se comunica directamente cada uno de los surtidores a través de una antena ubicada en dicho centro de control, por medio de un dispositivo inalámbrico ubicado en cada surtidor, lo que además permite modificar o utilizar cualquier tipo de surtidor de combustible simplemente al conectarlo a dicho dispositivo inalámbrico para control. The present invention relates to a wireless communication system for carrying out the control and supply of fuel in a service station, which is characterized in that it is based on a totally wireless communication, which is carried out by means of networks WiFi, which allows a connection between a main control center located in the office of the service station, and each of the islands that have the respective suppliers for the supply of fuel, either liquid or gas. The system of the invention has the advantage that it does not require complicated civil works, since all the wiring that the service stations currently have is not necessary, reducing the high costs of operating said stations, while ensures a fast, reliable and adequate connection between the pumps and the control center. In the same way, the present invention allows to improve the control of the service stations by not requiring computer centers or machine rooms, as they exist in the current service stations, since only one server or single control post is required with which each of the pumps is communicated directly through an antenna located in said control center, by means of a wireless device located in each dispenser, which also allows modifying or using any type of fuel pump simply by connecting it to said wireless device for control.
ANTECEDENTES DE LA INVENCION BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
En la actualidad, las estaciones de servicio juegan un papel muy importante en la vida de las personas, tanto en la parte de la vida cotidiana como en la parte comercial e industrial, toda vez que la gran mayoría de vehículos requieren de un combustible líquido o gaseoso para su funcionamiento, por lo que es necesario contar con un espacio para suministrar dicho combustible y permitir que la vida de los usuarios continúe de una forma tranquila y adecuada. At present, service stations play a very important role in people's lives, both in the part of daily life and in the commercial and industrial part, since the vast majority of vehicles require a liquid fuel or gaseous for its operation, so it is necessary to have a space to supply said fuel and allow the life of users to continue in a calm and adequate way.
Por lo tanto, cada día existen más estaciones de servicio que deben ser instaladas y adecuadas para su funcionamiento, en donde la instalación de una nueva estación requiere de unos costos e inversión inicial muy altos, toda vez que la obra civil de la misma es muy complicada y se debe tener un centro de control para el manejo y control de todos los surtidores, con el fin de evitar pérdidas considerables o robos por parte de empleados o de personas ajenas. Therefore, every day there are more service stations that must be installed and suitable for its operation, where the installation of a new station requires very high initial costs and investment, since the civil work of the same is very complicated and you should have a control center for handling and control of all suppliers, in order to avoid considerable losses or theft by employees or by third parties.
En este sentido, cuando se hace una nueva instalación se requiere el uso de una serie de cableado para llevar a cabo la conexión de cada una de las islas (que generalmente cuentan con dos o más surtidores, ubicados a cada lado de dicha isla) y un centro de control o cuarto de máquinas, esto con el fin de realizar un proceso programado mediante el cual cada surtidor solicita autorización para el suministro de combustible y el centro de control analiza la situación específica y autoriza o no dicho suministro. In this sense, when a new installation is made, the use of a series of wiring is required to carry out the connection of each of the islands (which generally have two or more suppliers, located on each side of that island) and a control center or machine room, this in order to carry out a programmed process through which each supplier requests authorization for the supply of fuel and the control center analyzes the specific situation and authorizes or not such supply.
Sin embargo, este cableado se debe realizar de una forma muy específica, ya que la información que se transmite y se recibe hacia y desde el centro de control, es información considerada como crítica y de alto valor para la estación de servicio, ya que de eso depende el adecuado funcionamiento de todas las islas y que el suministro de combustible sea rápido, eficiente y se puedan reducir en la mayor medida posible las probabilidades de hurtos del combustible por los empleados o por personal externo. Por lo tanto, este cableado tiene unos costos muy elevados y requiere de unos ductos especiales que lo llevan desde cada una de las islas hacia el centro de control principal. De este modo, a continuación se hará una breve explicación de los sistemas de cableado existentes comúnmente en una estación de servicio, donde al comienzo se basa en lazos de corriente, donde los lazos de corriente son los dispositivos de capa física utilizados para la comunicación de los surtidores de combustibles con el sistema. Inicialmente, el lazo de 20 mA es usado como alternativa a la interface RS- 232C, donde su principal ventaja radica en su insensibilidad a la interferencia, de modo que se puede cubrir grandes distancias. TTY también es utilizado cuando existen grandes fuentes de campo electromagnético cerca de las líneas de transmisión. However, this wiring must be carried out in a very specific way, since the information that is transmitted and received to and from the control center is information considered as critical and of high value for the service station, since This depends on the proper functioning of all islands and that the fuel supply is fast, efficient and the likelihood of theft of fuel by employees or by external personnel can be reduced to the greatest extent possible. Therefore, this wiring has very high costs and requires special ducts that take it from each of the islands to the main control center. In this way, a brief explanation of the wiring systems commonly existing in a service station will be made below, where at the beginning it is based on current loops, where the current loops are the physical layer devices used for the communication of Fuel pumps with the system. Initially, the 20 mA loop is used as an alternative to the RS-232C interface, where its main advantage lies in its insensitivity to interference, so that large distances can be covered. TTY is also used when there are large sources of electromagnetic field near transmission lines.
Esta interfaz tiene sus orígenes en aplicaciones de telegrafía, donde son importantes las comunicaciones a grandes distancias, al tiempo que trabaja con una corriente de 20 mA que es activada y desactivada (Ί” y“0”) en el tiempo durante la transmisión. Así, cada terminal tiene dos lazos: uno para transmisión y otro para recepción y presenta unas características definidas como: el tipo de transmisión es por corriente, permitiendo solamente la conexión de un transmisor y un receptor; permite líneas de conexión de hasta 100 m con velocidades de transmisión de 19200 bps; y el modo de comunicación utilizado es dúplex. Así, inicialmente la comunicación surtidora a servidor se lleva a cabo de manera cableada, utilizando una interfaz que convierte de lazo de corriente a RS232, haciendo necesario instalar un cableado del computador a través de puerto de comunicación RS232 a la interfaz de lazo de corriente y a su vez un cableado desde la interfaz hasta el surtidor. Sin embargo, este tipo de implementación hace complejo el diagnóstico en caso de falla comunicación y obligatorio el soporte en sitio, lo que aumenta los tiempos de operación y de mantenimiento en caso de requerirlo. Posteriormente, se migra a una interfaz Ethernet lazo de corriente, donde se emplea una conexión cableada Ethernet del servidor de la estación al Switch principal que maneja la red de la Estación de Servicio (EDS), un cable de red categoría 5E o 6 del Switch a la interfaz Ethernet de comunicación y de la salida de corriente de los equipos hay un cable UTP hasta el surtidor de combustible por donde se hace la comunicación a través de la interfaz lazo de corriente, logrando así mayor estabilidad en la comunicación y disminuyendo el tiempo de autorización de venta de los surtidores, haciendo de este modo el proceso de diagnóstico mucho más ágil y disminuyendo los casos de soporte en sitio ya que es más estable. No obstante, a pesar de las ventajas de la interfaz Ethernet, sigue existiendo la necesidad de instalar un cableado desde los surtidores hasta el cuarto de sistema. Así las cosas, en el estado del arte existe una pluralidad de divulgaciones relacionadas con estaciones de servicio para suministro de combustible y sus respectivos sistemas de comunicación, dentro de las que se encuentra el documento US 2003025600 que se relaciona con un método, un sistema y un aparato para realizar comunicación inalámbrica en un ambiente de entrega de combustible, en donde se utilizan módulos de servidor y cliente RF inalámbricos para crear una interfaz con un controlador en tienda y varios dispositivos de terceros, donde dichos módulos RF inalámbricos se usan para crear una interfaz de un Terminal de Pago Interno (IPT) con varios dispositivos periféricos, y también para la interfaz de un sistema de Punto de Venta (POS) para controlar los sistemas ubicados dentro de los dispensadores de combustible. Los módulos RF inalámbricos también son usados para realizar la comunicación dentro del dispensador, y además, el sistema de este documento incluye una capa de vínculo de protocolo para permitir el reemplazo de las conexiones alambradas convencionales con módulos inalámbricos RF sin tener que modificar los protocolos existentes. This interface has its origins in telegraphy applications, where communications over large distances are important, while working with a current of 20 mA that is activated and deactivated (Ί ”and“ 0 ”) in time during transmission. Thus, each terminal has two loops: one for transmission and one for reception and has defined characteristics such as: the type of transmission is by current, allowing only the connection of a transmitter and a receiver; allows connection lines of up to 100 m with transmission speeds of 19200 bps; and the communication mode used is duplex. Thus, initially the assortment communication to server is carried out in a wired way, using an interface that converts from current loop to RS232, making it necessary to install a computer wiring through RS232 communication port to the current loop interface already turn a wiring from the interface to the dispenser. However, this type of implementation makes the diagnosis complex in case of communication failure and mandatory on-site support, which increases operation and maintenance times if required. Subsequently, a current loop Ethernet interface is migrated, where a wired Ethernet connection is used from the station server to the main switch that manages the service station network (EDS), a category 5E or 6 network cable from the Switch to the Ethernet interface of communication and the current output of the equipment there is a UTP cable to the fuel pump where communication is made through the current loop interface, thus achieving greater communication stability and decreasing time of authorization of sale of the suppliers, thus making the diagnostic process much more agile and reducing the cases of on-site support since it is more stable. However, despite the advantages of the Ethernet interface, there is still a need to install wiring from the suppliers to the system room. Thus, in the state of the art there is a plurality of disclosures related to service stations for fuel supply and their respective communication systems, within which is the document US 2003025600 that relates to a method, a system and an apparatus for performing wireless communication in a fuel delivery environment, where wireless RF server and client modules are used to create an interface with a store controller and several third party devices, where said wireless RF modules are used to create a Interface of an Internal Payment Terminal (IPT) with several peripheral devices, and also for the interface of a Point of Sale (POS) system to control the systems located inside the fuel dispensers. Wireless RF modules are also used to communicate within the dispenser, and in addition, the system in this document includes a protocol link layer to allow the replacement of conventional wired connections with RF wireless modules without having to modify existing protocols. .
Sin embargo, la invención descrita en esta anterioridad presenta la desventaja que los módulos de comunicación que se conectan con un centro de control central se basan en el uso de comunicación de tipo RF, donde dicho protocolo no es totalmente seguro y puede ser vulnerable, al tiempo que es ampliamente utilizado por unos dispositivos que puede llevar a interferencias u otros inconvenientes que afectan el adecuado funcionamiento de la estación de servicio. However, the invention described herein has the disadvantage that the communication modules that connect to a central control center are they are based on the use of RF type communication, where said protocol is not completely secure and can be vulnerable, while being widely used by devices that can lead to interference or other inconveniences that affect the proper functioning of the service station.
De otra parte, se tiene el documento US 2017171 178 que menciona un sistema y un método para la implementación de una estación de bombeo de combustible o de carga con Internet de las Cosas (loT), en donde el sistema comprende un dispositivo loT de automóvil para integrarse dentro de un vehículo de un usuario; un servicio loT que comprende lógica de autenticación y gestión de dispositivo loT para autenticar la identidad del dispositivo loT automotriz dentro del vehículo; un concentrador loT para acoplarse de forma comunicativa con un surtidor de combustible o estación de carga, en donde dicho concentrador (hub) loT establece un canal de comunicación con el servicio loT, el concentrador loT además comprende una interfaz de comunicación inalámbrica para establecer un canal de comunicación inalámbrica local con el dispositivo loT del vehículo, y el dispositivo loT del vehículo establece un canal de comunicación segura con el servicio loT a través del concentrador. Así el servicio loT autentica el dispositivo del automóvil y en respuesta transmite al concentrador una señal de uso autorizado del surtidor de combustible o la estación de carga. En una modalidad, el concentrador loT establece la comunicación por señal de radio celular (4G, WiMAX, LTE), o servicios 5G y alternativa o adicionalmente, se puede incluir una señal de radio WiFi para establecer una comunicación a través de un punto de acceso (AP) WiFi o un enrutador (Router) el cual acopla el concentrador loT al internet u otros dispositivos. On the other hand, there is document US 2017171 178 that mentions a system and a method for the implementation of a fuel pumping station or loading with Internet of Things (loT), where the system comprises a car loT device to integrate into a user's vehicle; a loT service comprising authentication logic and loT device management to authenticate the identity of the automotive loT device within the vehicle; a loT concentrator for communicatively coupling with a fuel pump or charging station, wherein said loT concentrator (hub) establishes a communication channel with the loT service, the loT concentrator also comprises a wireless communication interface to establish a channel local wireless communication with the vehicle's loT device, and the vehicle's loT device establishes a secure communication channel with the loT service through the hub. Thus the loT service authenticates the car device and in response transmits an authorized use signal from the fuel pump or charging station to the concentrator. In one mode, the loT hub establishes communication by cellular radio signal (4G, WiMAX, LTE), or 5G services and alternatively or additionally, a WiFi radio signal can be included to establish communication through a WiFi access point (AP) or a router (Router) which couples the loT hub to the internet or other devices.
Así mismo, existe otro documento relacionado con este tipo de sistemas de comunicación específico para estaciones de servicio, el cual corresponde a la solicitud de patente WO 20171090708 que divulga un dispositivo, medio y disposición para el suministro o despacho de combustibles para vehículos, tal como un surtidor de combustible para uso en una estación de servicio, el cual tiene las funciones comunes de los dispensadores de combustibles de despachar control, mostrar el volumen y/o precio del combustible, etc., donde el surtidor tiene un número de ventajas sobre el estado del arte, las cuales se basan principalmente en un sistema de control de inventario, impresión de recibos, control de flora con restricciones de suministro, almacenamiento en USB, identificación electrónica del vendedor, cliente y vehículo, sistema de control mejorado y manejo de flotas con almacenamiento de identificaciones y generación de reportes precisos y actualizados para la entrega al consumidor y la respectiva recolección de combustible, comunicación inalámbrica con el centro de control para evitar la manipulación de datos que se puede presentar con el cableado físico. No obstante, este documento presenta la desventaja que no se menciona el uso de un protocolo o sistema de autenticación adecuado, con el fin de suministrar el combustible de forma controlada, sino que por el contrario se puede realizar el despacho sin necesidad de autorización, lo que llevaría a problemas relacionados con posibles hurtos por parte de personas externas o incluso de los mismos empleados de la EDS. Likewise, there is another document related to this type of communication systems specific to service stations, which corresponds to the patent application WO 20171090708 which discloses a device, means and arrangement for the supply or dispatch of fuels for vehicles, such as a fuel dispenser for use in a service station, which has the common functions of fuel dispensers to dispatch control, display the volume and / or price of fuel, etc., where the dispenser has a number of advantages over the state of the art, which are mainly based on an inventory control system, receipt printing, flora control with supply restrictions, USB storage, electronic identification of the seller, customer and vehicle, improved control system and fleet management with storage of identifications and generation of accurate and updated reports for delivery to the consumer and the respective fuel collection, wireless communication with the control center to avoid the manipulation of data that can be presented with the physical wiring. However, this document has the disadvantage that the use of an appropriate authentication protocol or system is not mentioned, in order to supply the fuel in a controlled manner, but instead the dispatch can be carried out without authorization, which would lead to problems related to possible thefts by external persons or even the employees of the EDS.
Ahora bien, se tiene también el documento US 9558486, el cual se refiere a un método y un sistema para autenticar y procesar una solicitud de transacción utilizando un sistema inalámbrico basado en vehículo, donde un vehículo puede incluir una etiqueta inalámbrica o transpondedor, y un sistema inalámbrico en una estación de servicio o estación de combustible puede detectar la presencia de dicha etiqueta en un área de servicio inalámbrica general predefinida. El sistema inalámbrico puede transmitir la información del vehículo con base en la detección de dicha etiqueta o del vehículo mismo. Luego, un usuario puede ingresar un autenticador en un dispensador de combustible específico dentro del área de servicio inalámbrico general. En respuesta a la entrada de dicho autenticador, un procesador puede entonces asociar una solicitud de autorización para surtir combustible con el dispensador de combustible específico. En respuesta a la autorización exitosa de la transacción, una autorización de transacción se puede transmitir al dispensador de combustible específico donde se presentó el autenticador, el cual se puede usar para habilitar el dispensador de combustible específico para su uso. However, there is also document US 9558486, which refers to a method and system for authenticating and processing a transaction request using a vehicle-based wireless system, where a vehicle can include a wireless tag or transponder, and a Wireless system in a service station or fuel station can detect the presence of said tag in a predefined general wireless service area. The wireless system can transmit vehicle information based on the detection of said tag or the vehicle itself. Then, a user can enter an authenticator into a specific fuel dispenser within the general wireless service area. In response to the entry of said authenticator, a processor can then associate a request for authorization to refuel with the specific fuel dispenser. In response to the Successful transaction authorization, a transaction authorization can be transmitted to the specific fuel dispenser where the authenticator was presented, which can be used to enable the specific fuel dispenser for use.
De otra parte, se encuentra el documento CN 105804160 que enseña una estación de servicio integrada inteligente, en donde un gabinete de control se suministra internamente con un controlador y un módulo inalámbrico trasmisor de alarma, en donde el controlador se conecta con el módulo inalámbrico de alarma; una cubierta superior se dispone en la parte superior de un cuerpo de barril; una tubería de ventilación se dispone en la cubierta superior; un ventilador de salida se dispone en la tubería de ventilación; un sensor de gas se conecta con el controlador en el gabinete de control; el controlador se conecta con el ventilador de salida. Así, al adoptar la estación de servicio integrada inteligente, se previene que las bombas de agua en la estación de servicio se bloqueen de lodo y se evita la deposición de impurezas en el fondo del barril de la estación de bombeo, así como también se reducen las operaciones de limpieza y mantenimiento. On the other hand, there is document CN 105804160 that teaches an intelligent integrated service station, where a control cabinet is supplied internally with a controller and a wireless alarm transmitter module, where the controller is connected to the wireless module of alarm; an upper cover is disposed in the upper part of a barrel body; a vent pipe is arranged in the upper deck; an outlet fan is arranged in the ventilation pipe; a gas sensor is connected to the controller in the control cabinet; The controller connects to the output fan. Thus, by adopting the intelligent integrated service station, it is prevented that the water pumps in the service station are blocked from mud and the deposition of impurities at the bottom of the barrel of the pumping station is avoided, as well as they are also reduced Cleaning and maintenance operations.
Sin embargo, la invención descrita en esta anterioridad presenta un surtidor de combustible enfocado en evitar las labores de limpieza y mantenimiento, y aunque se menciona el uso de un módulo inalámbrico, este se enfoca sólo para transmisión de mensajes de alarma, y presenta la desventaja que corresponde a un protocolo de comunicación no adecuado, tal como RF o similares, tal como se indicó anteriormente, lo que no permite tener una estación de servicio totalmente inalámbrica ni con mejor desempeño y reducción de tiempos de servicio. However, the invention described in the foregoing presents a fuel dispenser focused on avoiding cleaning and maintenance, and although the use of a wireless module is mentioned, it is focused only for the transmission of alarm messages, and presents the disadvantage that corresponds to an unsuitable communication protocol, such as RF or similar, as indicated above, which does not allow have a fully wireless service station or with better performance and reduced service times.
Finalmente, se encuentra en el estado del arte el documento WO 0103983 que divulga un método y un sistema para controlar la entrega o surtido de combustible de modo que el combustible sólo es entregado en receptáculos autorizados, tal como el tanque de combustible de vehículos autorizados, en donde el sistema incluye un módulo RF montado en la manguera de dispensación de combustible para leer los datos almacenados en una etiqueta RF montada adyacente a la entrada del receptáculo autorizado. El módulo RF sólo lee los datos de la etiqueta cuando una antena se encuentra dentro de una distancia predeterminada de una etiqueta RF. La distancia es tal que la manguera surtidora de combustible debe estar dentro o muy cerca del punto de recepción de combustible del receptáculo. El módulo RF almacena los datos derivados de la etiqueta o ningún dato, en donde dichos datos almacenados son transmitidos a un controlador de surtidor que controla el surtidor que suministra el combustible a la manguera dispensadora de combustible. Sin embargo, este documento presenta la desventaja como se mencionó anteriormente con otras anterioridades, la cual se relaciona con el uso de sistemas o protocolos de comunicación RF (Radiofrecuencia), los cuales presentan una serie de inconvenientes relacionados con interferencias y no seguridad en la comunicación, lo que puede llevar a problemas considerables en el funcionamiento de la estación de servicio. Así mismo, la comunicación de este documento no es totalmente inalámbrica, sino que también cuenta con un componente cableado que aumenta los costos de instalación, tal como se ha venido mencionando en el presente documento. Finally, document WO 0103983 disclosing a method and a system for controlling the delivery or assortment of fuel is found in the state of the art so that the fuel is only delivered to authorized receptacles, such as the fuel tank of authorized vehicles, wherein the system includes an RF module mounted on the fuel dispensing hose to read the data stored on an RF tag mounted adjacent to the authorized receptacle inlet. The RF module only reads the tag data when an antenna is within a predetermined distance of an RF tag. The distance is such that the fuel dispensing hose must be within or very close to the fuel receiving point of the receptacle. The RF module stores the data derived from the label or no data, wherein said stored data is transmitted to a dispenser controller that controls the dispenser that supplies the fuel to the fuel dispensing hose. However, this document presents the disadvantage as mentioned above with other priorities, which is related to the use of RF (Radio Frequency) communication systems or protocols, which present a series of inconveniences related to interference and non-communication security. , which can lead to considerable problems in the operation of the service station. Likewise, the communication of this document is not completely wireless, but also has a wired component that increases installation costs, as mentioned in this document.
De acuerdo con lo anterior, y teniendo en cuenta los sistemas de comunicación y estaciones de servicio existentes en el estado del arte, se presenta un problema relacionado con el uso de tecnologías de comunicación que no aseguran una comunicación segura de doble vía entre una isla con surtidores de combustible y un centro de control principal, donde en todos los casos se hace necesario la realización de un proceso de obra civil que aumenta los costos de instalación y de mantenimiento de la estación de servicio, al tiempo que no permite identificar cuando se presentan problemas de comunicación, ya que estos se pueden presentar por un problema físico en el cable o incluso de programación, pero los cuales no pueden ser identificados adecuadamente sin realizar intervención física, tal como sacado de cables y demás. In accordance with the foregoing, and taking into account the communication systems and service stations existing in the state of the art, there is a problem related to the use of communication technologies that do not ensure secure two-way communication between an island with fuel pumps and a main control center, where in all cases it is necessary to carry out a civil works process that increases the installation and maintenance costs of the service station, while not identifying when they occur communication problems, since these can occur due to a physical problem in the cable or even programming, but the which cannot be properly identified without physical intervention, such as cable removal and so on.
De este modo, un experto en la materia puede ver claramente que existe una necesidad por diseñar e implementar un sistema de comunicación y control para una estación de servicio para suministro de combustible, en donde se hace necesario abordar los problemas de tiempo de montajes prolongados de estaciones, disminución de costos de implementación, mantenimientos en una estación de servicio y, además, se pueda romper el paradigma que las comunicaciones inalámbricas WiFi en estaciones de servicio no son confiables, dando paso a una nueva generación de estaciones de servicio con unas infraestructuras descentralizadas, tecnológicamente mucho más robustas y eliminando la necesidad de tener un cuarto de sistemas. Adicionalmente, se hace necesario que el sistema de comunicación y control cuente con la capacidad de detectar automáticamente la falta de disponibilidad de algún recurso que afecte la prestación de servicio, reportando la incidencia a una plataforma de gestión. In this way, a person skilled in the art can clearly see that there is a need to design and implement a communication and control system for a service station for fuel supply, where it becomes necessary to address the time problems of prolonged assembly of stations, decrease in implementation costs, maintenance in a service station and, in addition, the paradigm that wireless WiFi communications in service stations are unreliable can be broken, giving way to a new generation of service stations with decentralized infrastructure , technologically much more robust and eliminating the need to have a room of systems. Additionally, it is necessary that the communication and control system has the ability to automatically detect the lack of availability of a resource that affects the provision of service, reporting the incidence to a management platform.
Con el fin de suplir la necesidad existente en el estado del arte y para superar los problemas existentes se diseñó e implemento un lazo de corriente con conectividad WiFi directo, que cuenta con la capacidad de ser configurado inalámbricamente a través de una interfaz web desde un dispositivo móvil o pe, donde este sistema también permite su re-configuración en línea, haciendo posible la multiparametrización para diferentes tipos de surtidores, lo cual suple la necesidad previamente mencionada, además hace posible que la implementación de la nueva arquitectura de funcionamiento de las EDS digital sea posible, reduciendo costos en manteamiento e instalación, al tiempo que permite, a través de un sistema de gestión, monitorear el estado de funcionamiento de dichos dispositivos y de esa manera aminorar los tiempos de normalización del nivel de prestación del servicio en caso de una incidencia. In order to meet the need in the state of the art and to overcome existing problems, a current loop with direct WiFi connectivity was designed and implemented, which has the ability to be configured wirelessly to through a web interface from a mobile device or pe, where this system also allows its online re-configuration, making multiparameterization possible for different types of suppliers, which supplements the previously mentioned need, also makes it possible for the implementation of the new operating architecture of the digital EDS is possible, reducing maintenance and installation costs, while allowing, through a management system, to monitor the operating status of said devices and thereby reduce the level normalization times of service provision in case of an incident.
BREVE DESCRIPCIÓN DE LAS FIGURAS BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
La presente invención se entiende de forma más clara a partir de las siguientes figuras donde se muestran los componentes y resultados asociados al presente sistema, así como los elementos novedosos con respecto al estado del arte, en donde, las figuras no pretenden limitar el alcance de la invención, el cual está únicamente dado por las reivindicaciones adjuntas, en donde: The present invention is understood more clearly from the following figures where the components and results associated with the present system are shown, as well as the novel elements with respect to the state of the art, where the figures are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, which is only given by the appended claims, wherein:
La figura 1 corresponde a un diagrama de bloques de un sistema de comunicación en una estación de servicio como se encuentran en el estado del arte, es decir, como son en la actualidad sin las mejoras suministradas por la presente invención. La figura 2 corresponde a un diagrama general de una estación de servicio para suministro de combustible que incluye el sistema de comunicación de la presente invención, en donde las líneas sólidas indican conexión cableada mientras que las líneas punteadas indican conexión inalámbrica entre los elementos. La figura 3 corresponde a una ilustración en detalle del dispositivo de comunicación inalámbrica y su conexión con los surtidores de una isla en una estación de servicio. Figure 1 corresponds to a block diagram of a communication system in a service station as found in the state of the art, that is, as they are today without the improvements provided by the present invention. Figure 2 corresponds to a general diagram of a service station for fuel supply that includes the communication system of the present invention, wherein solid lines indicate wired connection while dotted lines indicate wireless connection between the elements. Figure 3 corresponds to a detailed illustration of the wireless communication device and its connection with the suppliers of an island in a service station.
La figura 4 corresponde a una ilustración en detalle del módulo lector de chip y sus componentes. Figure 4 corresponds to a detailed illustration of the chip reader module and its components.
DESCRIPCIÓN DETALLADA DE LA INVENCIÓN DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Los dispositivos electrónicos existentes que integran una EDS convencional tienen una conectividad cableada, tal como Ethernet (protocolo TCP/IP), serial (con diferentes capas físicas de enlace ej. Lazo de corriente), tal como se ilustra en la Figura 1 . Para optimizar los recursos de implementación y los tiempos de respuesta en las transacciones desde y hacia los equipos terminales, fue necesario migrar los equipos Ethernet a WiFi. En el modelo planteado para la Estación de Servicio digital de la presente invención se seleccionó como la tecnología inalámbrica de conectividad Wifi en modo infraestructura. En este modo, los dispositivos terminales se conectan a la red a través de Puntos de acceso (AP). Los equipos de conectividad serial, como los surtidores, utilizan dispositivos de interfaz que adaptan la capa física existente a una interfaz Ethernet TCP/IP y a través de un equipo adicional se realiza en puente Ethernet a Wifi, y es finalmente la interfaz ethernet la que se conecta al dispositivo a la infraestructura de red, tal como se definirá a continuación. Existing electronic devices that integrate a conventional EDS have a wired connectivity, such as Ethernet (TCP / IP protocol), serial (with different physical link layers eg current loop), as illustrated in the Figure 1 . To optimize implementation resources and response times in transactions to and from the terminal equipment, it was necessary to migrate the Ethernet equipment to WiFi. In the model proposed for the Digital Service Station of the present invention it was selected as the wireless technology of Wifi connectivity in infrastructure mode. In this mode, the terminal devices connect to the network through Access Points (AP). Serial connectivity equipment, such as suppliers, uses interface devices that adapt the existing physical layer to an Ethernet TCP / IP interface and through additional equipment is performed on an Ethernet bridge to Wifi, and it is finally the ethernet interface that connect the device to the network infrastructure, as defined below.
La presente invención define un sistema de comunicación inalámbrico para control y suministro de combustible en una estación de servicio (EDS), en donde dicho sistema comprende los siguientes componentes o partes: The present invention defines a wireless communication system for control and supply of fuel in a service station (EDS), wherein said system comprises the following components or parts:
• Una estación de control central (1 ) que corresponde a un servidor principal, preferiblemente conectado a internet para permitir el monitoreo remoto del funcionamiento de toda la estación de servicio, en donde dicha estación de control central (1 ) puede ser cualquier dispositivo de computación que cuente con los programas adecuados para gestionar la estación de servicio de acuerdo con los requerimientos; • A central control station (1) corresponding to a main server, preferably connected to the internet to allow remote monitoring of the operation of the entire service station, where said central control station (1) can be any computing device that has the appropriate programs to manage the service station according to the requirements;
• Una antena de comunicación (2) principal ubicada en el mismo sitio de la estación de control central (1 ) y conectada a la misma, con el fin de permitir la comunicación de dicha estación de control (1 ) con los demás elementos del sistema y que forman parte de la estación de servicio, en donde dicha antena de comunicación (2) corresponde a un Punto de Acceso (Access Point como se conoce comúnmente en el campo técnico) que reúne la conexión entre los elementos y crea una red inalámbrica de tipo WiFi;  • A main communication antenna (2) located in the same place of the central control station (1) and connected to it, in order to allow the communication of said control station (1) with the other elements of the system and which are part of the service station, wherein said communication antenna (2) corresponds to an Access Point (Access Point as is commonly known in the technical field) that brings together the connection between the elements and creates a wireless network of WiFi type;
• Uno o más dispositivos de comunicación inalámbrica (3), donde cada dispositivo de comunicación (3) corresponde a un lazo de corriente que se ubica uno por cada isla (4), y por ende, la cantidad de dispositivos de comunicación (3) depende directamente de la cantidad de islas (4) con las que cuenta la estación de servicio, en donde cada dispositivo de comunicación (3) se comunica directamente con la estación de control central (1 ) por medio de la antena (2) a través de la conexión WiFi creada por dicha antena (2); • Una estación de control local de isla (5), la cual corresponde a una interfaz que permite que el operario realice una pluralidad de funciones y controle la operación de los surtidores (6) que se encuentran en cada una de las islas (4) con las que cuenta la estación de servicio, en donde dicha estación de control local (5) se conecta directamente a cada uno de los surtidores (6) para la autorización del suministro de combustible, y donde esta estación de control local (5) se comunica con el dispositivo de comunicación inalámbrica (3) en la respectiva isla (4); y • One or more wireless communication devices (3), where each communication device (3) corresponds to a current loop that is located one for each island (4), and therefore, the number of communication devices (3) It depends directly on the number of islands (4) that the service station has, where each communication device (3) communicates directly with the central control station (1) by means of the antenna (2) through of the WiFi connection created by said antenna (2); • A local island control station (5), which corresponds to an interface that allows the operator to perform a plurality of functions and control the operation of the jets (6) found in each of the islands (4) with which the service station has, where said local control station (5) is connected directly to each of the pumps (6) for authorization of the fuel supply, and where this local control station (5) is communicates with the wireless communication device (3) on the respective island (4); and
• Un módulo de lectura de chip (7), el cual corresponde a un dispositivo inalámbrico que se conecta directamente a la red por medio de la antena • A chip reading module (7), which corresponds to a wireless device that connects directly to the network through the antenna
(2) y permite realizar la lectura de los chips con que se cuentan en algunos vehículos en el caso de suministro a flotas o cuando se va a cargar combustible gas, en donde el chip a leer se ubica en cada vehículo, donde dicho módulo de lectura (7) envía la información al centro de control (1 ) y recibe la instrucción si permitir el suministro de combustible o no. (2) and allows to read the chips that are available in some vehicles in the case of supply to fleets or when gas is going to be loaded, where the chip to be read is located in each vehicle, where said module Reading (7) sends the information to the control center (1) and receives the instruction whether to allow the fuel supply or not.
Así las cosas, el dispositivo de comunicación inalámbrica (3) desarrollado tiene como función hacer la conexión entre el sistema de control (1 ) de la estación de servicio (estación de control central) y los dispensadores o surtidores (6) de combustible, de forma inalámbrica través de la interfaz wifi a lazo de corriente incluida en el mismo, donde a este dispositivo (3) se le pueden conectar máximo cuatro surtidores, aunque dicho número no está limitado en la presente divulgación, sino que depende directamente de los requerimientos y de la marca de surtidor a utilizar, en donde preferiblemente la conexión entre dicho dispositivo de comunicación (3) y cada uno de los surtidores es por Ethernet, estableciendo así la comunicación entre ellos, por medio de un protocolo que establece cada familia de surtidores (6), para así poder administrar las ventas y sucesos que ocurran en el funcionamiento de los surtidores de combustible (6). Es importante notar que la interfaz (5) desarrollada no administra los protocolos, solo hace el enlace wifi a lazo de corriente para que puedan comunicar con el dispensador, el protocolo lo administra el sistema de la estación. Así, lo descrito anteriormente aporta una innovación sobre la forma en cómo se pueden montar estaciones de servicio (EDS), al tiempo que como ventaja adquirida este sistema requiere de una instalación mucho más rápida y, tiempos de autorización de venta del surtidor más eficientes. Thus, the wireless communication device (3) developed has the function of making the connection between the control system (1) of the service station (central control station) and the fuel dispensers (6), of wirelessly via the wifi interface to power loop included therein, where this device (3) can be connected with a maximum of four suppliers, although said number is not limited in this disclosure, but depends directly on the requirements and the brand of supplier to be used, where preferably the connection between said communication device (3) and each of the suppliers is via Ethernet, thus establishing communication between them, through a protocol that establishes each family of suppliers (6), in order to manage sales and events that occur in the operation of the fuel pumps (6). It is important to note that the interface (5) developed does not manage the protocols, it only makes the wifi link to the current loop so that they can communicate with the dispenser, the protocol is administered by the station system. Thus, what is described above provides an innovation on the way in which service stations (EDS) can be assembled, while as an advantage acquired this system requires a much faster installation and more efficient supplier sales authorization times.
De otra parte, el módulo lector de chip (7) permite disminuir los costos de manteamiento y cambio de cable lectores que presentaban deterioro por la manipulación diaria, ya que permite hacer una lectura adecuada en los vehículos que tienen ubicado el chip de identificación, lejos o en zona poco accesibles del punto de suministro de combustible, lo que provocaba el deterioro temprano y masivo de estos cables por el estiramiento al que son sometidos diariamente en las estaciones. Con el fin de resolver dicho problema, el módulo lector de chip (7) del sistema de la presente invención, ya que cuenta con un doble lector (71 ) en donde el primer lector (71 ) se encuentra ubicado directamente sobre el cuerpo o carcasa el módulo (7), mientras que el segundo lector (71 ) tiene en su extremo un cable expansible (72) que permite que el mismo sea estirado en caso de requerir lectura de chip en vehículos con muy difícil acceso, pero donde el cable está adherido únicamente al módulo (7) el cual es portable, y no al surtidor o a la estación de control local. On the other hand, the chip reader module (7) allows the maintenance and exchange costs of the readers to be reduced, which had deterioration due to daily manipulation, since it makes it possible to make an adequate reading in the vehicles that have the identification chip located, far or in a poorly accessible area of the fuel supply point, which caused early deterioration and massive of these cables by stretching to which they are subjected daily at the stations. In order to solve said problem, the chip reader module (7) of the system of the present invention, since it has a double reader (71) where the first reader (71) is located directly on the body or housing the module (7), while the second reader (71) has at its end an expandable cable (72) that allows it to be stretched if it requires chip reading in vehicles with very difficult access, but where the cable is adhered only to the module (7) which is portable, and not to the supplier or to the local control station.
Dicho proceso con el lector portable (7) se realiza de la siguiente manera: el dispositivo portable cuenta con un selector (73), donde el despachador selecciona la cara a leer, porque que el lector portable cuenta con un solo puerto para realizar las lectura de los chip y las ventas se dan en las dos cara de los surtidores (6), por este motivo el lector portable wifi (7) tiene que indicarle al sistema de qué cara del surtidor (6) se está realizando la lectura, posteriormente se coloca el lector (71 ) en el chip del vehículo y con solo un contacto este realiza la lectura con todas sus validaciones de calidad y envía de forma inalámbrica a través de la red wifi de la estación la información a la estación central (1 ), para autorizar la venta. Con este dispositivo (7) se mitiga el problema que se presenta actualmente en las estaciones de servicio y le da paso a una nueva generación de lectores portable. Said process with the portable reader (7) is carried out as follows: the portable device has a selector (73), where the dispatcher selects the face to be read, because the portable reader has only one port for reading of the chips and sales are given on both sides of the suppliers (6), for this reason the portable wifi reader (7) has to tell the system which face of the supplier (6) the reading is being made, then it place the reader (71) on the vehicle chip and with only one contact it performs the reading with all its quality validations and sends the information wirelessly through the Wi-Fi network of the station to the central station (1), to authorize the sale. With this device (7) mitigates the problem that is currently present in service stations and gives way to a new generation of portable readers.
El módulo lector de chip (7) cuenta con un indicador, tal como un diodo emisor de luz (LED), que muestra el estado de la conexión con el sistema, un selector (73) para indicar que a qué cara del surtidor pertenece la lectura, un indicador audible (no mostrado) que emite un sonido cuando se hace una lectura de chip, un puerto de lectura y un puerto auxiliar para conectar un cable lector (72) en caso que no se pueda acceder a lugar donde este el chip ubicado en el vehículo fácilmente. Además, el módulo o dispositivo de lectura (7) cuenta con una batería para suministro de energía, la cual proporciona una autonomía de funcionamiento de 4 a 6 horas, después de este tiempo hay que ponerlo a cargar, y un puerto para carga (74) por medio del cual se realiza la carga de la batería interna del módulo o dispositivo (7). The chip reader module (7) has an indicator, such as a light-emitting diode (LED), which shows the status of the connection to the system, a selector (73) to indicate that to which face of the supplier belongs the reading, an audible indicator (not shown) that emits a sound when a chip reading is made, a reading port and an auxiliary port to connect a reader cable (72) in case it cannot be accessed where the chip is Located in the vehicle easily. In addition, the module or reading device (7) has a battery for power supply, which provides a range of operation from 4 to 6 hours, after this time it must be put to charge, and a port for charging (74 ) by means of which the internal battery of the module or device (7) is charged.
Así las cosas, la lectura del chip en el vehículo por parte del módulo lector (7), se hace a través de un protocolo de comunicación llamado 1 -Wire®, que permite que se puedan leer los datos de un chip en la misma línea donde se alimenta el lector (7). El protocolo 1 -Wire® es un protocolo de comunicaciones en serie basado en un bus, un maestro y varios esclavos de una sola línea de datos en la que se alimentan, el cual necesita una referencia a tierra común a todos los dispositivos. So, reading the chip in the vehicle by the reader module (7), is done through a communication protocol called 1-Wire®, which allows you to read the data of a chip on the same line where the reader is fed (7). The 1-Wire® protocol is a serial communications protocol based on a bus, a master and several slaves of a single data line on which they feed, which needs a common ground reference to all devices.
La base de dicha tecnología 1 -Wire® es un maestro de 1 hilo que inicia y controla la comunicación con uno o más dispositivos esclavos de 1 hilo en el bus de 1 hilo, donde cada dispositivo esclavo de 1 hilo tiene un identificador de 64 bits (número de identificación) único, inalterable, programado en fábrica, que sirve como dirección de dispositivo en el bus de 1 hilo. El código de familia de 8 bits, un subconjunto de la ID de 64 bits, identifica el tipo de dispositivo y la funcionalidad Normalmente, los dispositivos esclavos de 1 hilo funcionan en el rango de voltaje de 2,8V (min) a 5,25V (máx.), donde la mayoría de los dispositivos de 1 -Wire® no tienen clavija para la fuente de alimentación, sino que toman su energía del bus 1 - Wire® (suministro parasitario). En una modalidad alterna, el módulo de lectura de chip (7) puede contar con una interfaz gráfica, preferiblemente una pantalla táctil, la cual permite hacer la selección de la cara del surtidor (6) mediante un toque de dicha interfaz, al tiempo que de esta forma se reducen los elementos mecánicos y botones con que cuenta el dispositivo, y así también el operario puede revisar en el mismo módulo (7) los datos del chip leído en cada uno de los vehículos. Además, en otra modalidad alterna, el módulo (7) puede contar con un elemento de carga inalámbrica de la batería, en donde dicho elemento reemplaza el puerto de carga (74) para permitir que el dispositivo se pueda cargar inalámbricamente, tal como es la tecnología de varios dispositivos móviles existentes actualmente. The basis of such 1-Wire® technology is a 1-wire master that initiates and controls communication with one or more 1-wire slave devices on the 1-wire bus, where each 1-wire slave device has a 64-bit identifier (identification number) unique, unalterable, factory programmed, which serves as a device address on the 1-wire bus. The 8-bit family code, a subset of the 64-bit ID, identifies the device type and functionality Normally, 1-wire slave devices operate in the voltage range of 2.8V (min) to 5.25V (max.), where most 1-Wire® devices do not have a plug for the power supply, but instead take their power from the 1 - Wire® bus (parasitic supply). In an alternate mode, the chip reading module (7) can have a graphical interface, preferably a touch screen, which allows the selection of the dispenser face (6) by means of a touch of said interface, while in this way the mechanical elements and buttons available to the device are reduced, and so the operator can also check the chip data read in each of the vehicles in the same module (7). In addition, in another alternate mode, the module (7) can have a wireless charging element of the battery, wherein said element replaces the charging port (74) to allow the device to be wirelessly charged, such as the technology of several currently existing mobile devices.
En una modalidad preferida, la comunicación inalámbrica entre los dispositivos que forman parte del sistema de la presente invención se realiza por medio de conexión WiFi, en donde dicha conexión maneja frecuencias de 2.4 GHz o de 5 GHz, preferiblemente la conexión es en la banda de 5GHz, la cual tiene más estabilidad y permite una conexión más segura entre los múltiples elementos. In a preferred embodiment, the wireless communication between the devices that are part of the system of the present invention is carried out by means of WiFi connection, wherein said connection handles frequencies of 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, preferably the connection is in the band of 5GHz, which has more stability and allows a more secure connection between multiple elements.
Tal como se utiliza acá, el término“isla” corresponde a cada espacio donde se ubican los vehículos para el suministro de combustible, en donde una“isla” puede comprender uno o más surtidores de combustible, bien sea líquido o en gas, y la cantidad de surtidores depende de la marca del mismo y si éstas presentan surtidor por cada lado. En algunos casos, una isla comprende dos o más surtidores, y preferiblemente o generalmente, una isla comprende cuatro surtidores, aunque dicho número de dispositivos para suministro de combustible no se encuentra limitado en ninguna forma. As used herein, the term "island" corresponds to each space where vehicles for fuel supply are located, where an "island" may comprise one or more fuel dispensers, either liquid or gas, and the number of suppliers depends on the brand of the same and if they present supplier on each side. In some cases, an island comprises two or more suppliers, and preferably or generally, an island comprises four suppliers, although said number of fuel delivery devices is not limited in any way.

Claims

REIVINDICACIONES
1 . Un sistema de comunicación inalámbrico para suministro y control de combustible en una estación de servicio, caracterizad porque comprende: · una estación de control central (1 ) que corresponde a un servidor principal; one . A wireless communication system for fuel supply and control in a service station, characterized in that it comprises: a central control station (1) corresponding to a main server;
• una antena de comunicación (2) principal ubicada en el mismo sitio de la estación de control central (1 ) y conectada a la misma, en donde dicha antena de comunicación (2) corresponde a un Punto de Acceso de conexión WiFi;  • a main communication antenna (2) located at the same site of the central control station (1) and connected to it, where said communication antenna (2) corresponds to a WiFi Connection Access Point;
• dispositivos de comunicación inalámbrica (3), donde cada dispositivo de comunicación (3) corresponde a un lazo de corriente que se ubica uno por cada isla (4), el cual se conecta vía inalámbrica con la antena de comunicación (2) y vía cableada con cada surtidor de combustible (6); · una estación de control local de isla (5), la cual corresponde a una interfaz con el operario de control de los surtidores (6) que se encuentran en cada una de las islas (4), donde dicha estación de control local (5) se conecta con cada uno de los surtidores (6) y con el dispositivo de comunicación inalámbrica (3) en la respectiva isla (4); y • un módulo de lectura de chip (7) de vehículo, el cual corresponde a un dispositivo inalámbrico portable conectado a la red por medio de la antena (2). • wireless communication devices (3), where each communication device (3) corresponds to a current loop that is located one for each island (4), which is connected wirelessly with the communication antenna (2) and via wired with each fuel dispenser (6); · A local island control station (5), which corresponds to an interface with the control operator of the jets (6) found in each of the islands (4), where said local control station (5 ) connects to each of the suppliers (6) and to the wireless communication device (3) on the respective island (4); and • a vehicle chip reading module (7), which corresponds to a portable wireless device connected to the network by means of the antenna (2).
2. El sistema de comunicación de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1 , caracterizado porque la estación de control central (1 ) cuenta con conexión a internet. 2. The communication system according to claim 1, characterized in that the central control station (1) has an internet connection.
3. El sistema de comunicación de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1 , caracterizado porque el número de dispositivos de comunicación (3) depende de la cantidad de islas (4) de la estación de servicio. 3. The communication system according to claim 1, characterized in that the number of communication devices (3) depends on the number of islands (4) of the service station.
4. El sistema de comunicación de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1 o 3, caracterizado porque el dispositivo de comunicación (3) se conecta a máximo cuatro surtidores (6) por medio de comunicación Ethernet. 4. The communication system according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that the communication device (3) is connected to a maximum of four suppliers (6) by means of Ethernet communication.
5. El sistema de comunicación de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1 , caracterizado porque el módulo lector de chip (7) comprende doble lector (71 ) en donde el primer lector (71 ) se encuentra ubicado directamente sobre el cuerpo o carcasa del módulo (7), y el segundo lector (71 ) tiene en su extremo un cable expansible (72) adherido a dicho módulo lector (7) por medio de un puerto auxiliar. 5. The communication system according to claim 1, characterized in that the chip reader module (7) comprises double reader (71) wherein the first reader (71) is located directly on the module body or housing (7 ), and the second reader (71) has at its end an expandable cable (72) adhered to said reader module (7) by means of an auxiliary port.
6. El sistema de comunicación de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1 o 5, caracterizado porque el módulo lector de chip (7) cuenta con un selector (73) de cara del surtidor (6), un indicador de estado a conexión, un indicador audible de lectura realizada, un puerto de lectura de datos, una batería de suministro de energía, y un puerto de carga (74) de la batería. The communication system according to claim 1 or 5, characterized in that the chip reader module (7) has a selector (73) of the dispenser face (6), a status indicator on connection, an audible indicator reading performed, a data reading port, a power supply battery, and a battery charging port (74).
7. El sistema de comunicación de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1 , 5 o 6, caracterizado porque el módulo de lectura de chip (7) cuenta con una interfaz gráfica. 7. The communication system according to claim 1, 5 or 6, characterized in that the chip reading module (7) has a graphical interface.
8. El sistema de comunicación de acuerdo con la reivindicación 1 , 5 o 6, caracterizado porque el módulo de lectura de chip (7) cuenta con un elemento de carga inalámbrica de la batería. 8. The communication system according to claim 1, 5 or 6, characterized in that the chip reading module (7) has a wireless charging element of the battery.
9. El sistema de comunicación de acuerdo con cualquiera de las reivindicaciones anteriores, caracterizado porque la comunicación inalámbrica entre los dispositivos es WiFi con frecuencia de 5 GHz. 9. The communication system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wireless communication between the devices is WiFi with a frequency of 5 GHz.
PCT/IB2018/054271 2018-06-12 2018-06-12 Wireless communication system for fuel control and supply at a service station WO2019239181A1 (en)

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