阅读说明：本技术 流体分配计量表和系统 (Fluid dispensing meter and system ) 是由 袁浩良 M·A·M·伦登 于 2020-08-18 设计创作，主要内容包括：本披露涉及用于远程计量所分配的流体和/或控制流体分配的流体分配计量设备、系统以及可选的控制器。有利地,该计量设备包括处理器,该处理器具有多个输入,这些输入用于经由可重新配置连接电路从连接到该处理器的传感器接收测量数据,其中,根据附接到该处理器的传感器的参数修改这些可重新配置连接电路中的至少一些电路以及该处理器的操作。还提供了一种存储器,该存储器用于存储来自该处理器的数据以及该设备的传感器的配置信息。进一步地,提供了一种通信模块,该通信模块连接到该处理器用于与远程服务器无线通信。(The present disclosure relates to fluid dispensing metering devices, systems, and optionally controllers for remotely metering and/or controlling the dispensing of a fluid. Advantageously, the metrology apparatus comprises a processor having a plurality of inputs for receiving measurement data from sensors connected to the processor via reconfigurable connection circuits, wherein at least some of the reconfigurable connection circuits and the operation of the processor are modified in accordance with parameters of sensors attached to the processor. A memory is also provided for storing data from the processor and configuration information for sensors of the device. Further, a communication module is provided that is coupled to the processor for wireless communication with a remote server.)

1. A metering apparatus for monitoring a plurality of sensors of a fluid dispensing system, wherein the metering apparatus comprises:

a processor having a plurality of inputs for receiving measurement data from sensors connected to the processor via a reconfigurable connection circuit; wherein operation of at least some of the reconfigurable connection circuits and the processor is modified in accordance with parameters of respective sensors connected to the processor;

a memory for storing data from the processor and configuration information for at least one connected sensor; and

a communication module connected to the processor for wireless communication with a remote server.

2. The metering apparatus of claim 1 wherein each reconfigurable connecting circuit comprises at least three open branches, wherein each branch is defined by a pair of receiving members for receiving a releasable electrical component inserted therein.

3. The metrology device of claim 1, wherein each reconfigurable connection circuit comprises:

at least a first branch electrically connected to a power source;

At least a second branch electrically connected to the sensor terminals and the processor; and

at least a third branch electrically connected to electrical ground,

wherein the branches are open circuits and the reconfigurable connection circuit is modified by closing at least one of the branches with an electronic component.

4. A metering apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein said branch of said reconfigurable connecting circuit is defined by a pair of receiving members for receiving a releasable electrical component inserted therein.

5. The metrology device of claim 1, wherein the sensor is selected from the group consisting of an analog sensor, a binary sensor, a digital sensor, and a pulse sensor.

6. The metering device of claim 1 wherein the sensor comprises an analog NTC temperature sensor and the reconfigurable connection circuit comprises a resistor having a resistance selected to be the same as the resistance of the NTC temperature sensor at a predetermined temperature.

7. The metering apparatus of claim 6, wherein the configuration information of the NTC temperature sensor comprises an equation for calculating a measured temperature T:

Wherein B and r_∞Is an inherent constant of the NTC temperature sensor, R1 is the resistance of the resistor, V⁺Is the supply voltage, and V_TIs the measured voltage.

8. The metering apparatus of claim 1 wherein the sensor comprises a two-state liquid level sensor and the reconfigurable connection circuit comprises a resistor selected according to a desired response time and a total current draw.

9. The metering apparatus of claim 1 wherein the sensor comprises a pulsed flow sensor and the reconfigurable connection circuit comprises a resistor selected according to a desired response time and a total current consumption.

10. The metering device of claim 8 or 9 wherein the configuration information of the sensor comprises an indication of an activity state.

11. The metrology device of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises a digital sensor in communication with the processor via a data bus and a clock bus, wherein the data bus is connected to a first reconfigurable connection circuit and the clock bus is connected to a second reconfigurable connection circuit, wherein the first and second reconfigurable connection circuits comprise resistors having the same resistance.

12. The metering device of claim 11 wherein the processor is modified via I²A C communication bus communicates with the digital sensor.

13. The metrology device of claim 11, wherein the digital sensor is a pressure sensor.

14. The metering device of claim 1, wherein the sensor comprises a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) sensor configured to pair with the processor by sharing a common key.

15. The metering apparatus of claim 1 wherein, after modification of one or more sensors, at least some of the respective configuration information of the connected sensors in the memory is updated for operation of the modified sensors.

16. The metering device of claim 1 wherein the communication module is configured to receive control information for the processor from the remote server to alter the operation of the processor.

17. The metrology device of claim 1, wherein after receiving data from the sensor, the processor is configured to determine whether a predetermined condition is met based on the received data.

18. The metering device of claim 1, further comprising a display connected to the processor to display at least some of the data received from the sensor and/or to show a status of the fluid dispensing device after the processor makes a determination.

19. The metering device of claim 1 wherein the processor is configured to transceive data with a remote server via the communication module for further processing.

20. The metering device of claim 1, further comprising a valve operable by the processor to dispense fluid through the valve after actuation by a user.

21. The metering apparatus of claim 1 wherein the processor is configured to send a control signal to a valve to dispense fluid through the valve after receiving an operation signal from a dispense button or a command signal from the remote server.

22. The metering device of claim 1, further comprising an energy harvesting module configured to convert energy into electrical energy to charge a battery module of the metering device.

23. The metering apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sensor is configured to monitor an environmental parameter selected from the group consisting of fluid flow, fluid level, light, leakage, temperature, battery level, and total dissolved solids.

24. A system for monitoring a plurality of remotely located fluid dispensing apparatuses, the system comprising:

the plurality of uniquely identifiable metering devices of claim 1, wherein each metering device is engageable with a fluid dispensing device; and

a second processor in a server connected to a communication module in the server, the communication module in communication with each of the remotely located plurality of metering devices across a network; and the second processor is connected to a memory for storing data received from the plurality of metering devices and configuration information thereof.

25. The system of claim 24, wherein the second processor of the system is configured to transmit control information for altering the operation of the processor of any of the plurality of remotely located metering devices from the server via the communication module of the server.

26. The system of claim 24, wherein the configuration information in the memory of at least one of the remotely located dispensing devices may be updated by transmitting data to at least one of the remotely located metering devices via the communication module.

27. The system of claim 24, wherein the configuration information transmitted from the server includes operating parameters of sensors of the device, the operating parameters selected from configuration information of a plurality of sensors from a plurality of vendors.

28. The system of claim 24, wherein the second processor is configured to issue control signals to at least one of the remotely located metrology devices via the communication module.

29. The system of claim 24, wherein the corresponding metering device sends a message associated with the corresponding identification to the server when the measured data satisfies a predetermined condition.

30. A method of monitoring a plurality of remotely located fluid dispensing apparatuses through the system of claim 24, the method comprising:

collecting, by a second processor in the server, measured data from each metering device via a network from a sensor associated with a corresponding identification of the metering device; and

issuing, by a second processor in the server, a command signal to at least one of the metrology devices via the network based on the measured data.

31. The method of claim 30, further comprising:

transmitting, by a second processor in the server, control information for changing operation of any of the metering devices via the network.

32. The method of claim 30, further comprising:

updating, by a second processor in the server, configuration information of at least one of the metering devices via the network.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein the configuration information comprises operating parameters of sensors of the device, the operating parameters selected from configuration information of a plurality of sensors from a plurality of vendors.

34. The method of claim 30, further comprising:

sending, by the second processor, a control signal to at least one of the metrology devices via the network when it is determined by analyzing the measured data that a predetermined condition is satisfied.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to fluid dispensing metering devices, systems, and optionally controllers for remotely metering and/or controlling the dispensing of a fluid.

Background

Tens of thousands of tons of plastic bottle waste are disposed of in landfills by residents of most major cities around the world each year. To reduce disposable plastic bottles, some environmentally conscious organizations are providing fluid (including water) filling stations in public places such as libraries, museums, parks, beaches, etc., and encouraging the public to carry their own bottles.

With the increased awareness of the environmental impact of consumable packaging, there is a global need for a solution to dispense small amounts of fluid on demand in a manner that minimizes the environmental footprint. This is particularly true for individual dispensers positioned to dispense water to consumers at various locations where no or the quality of ordinary tap water is available is problematic. Commercially, such stand-alone water dispensers can be provided by multiple suppliers using a variety of different physical arrangements, including having heating and cooling features and a variety of different operating parameters. At the same time, consumers are increasingly aware of the level of hygiene/maintenance of individual water dispensers, especially those that may have additional functions such as filtration or heating and cooling.

Unfortunately, monitoring and maintenance of such fluid dispensers distributed over a large area requires personnel to physically visit the site to verify operating conditions and replace consumables such as filters according to a schedule. Such manual inspection is inefficient and does not guarantee the quality of the supplied fluid, potentially leading to poor hygiene and potential health problems for the user.

A flow meter may be used to monitor the fluid flow in the dispenser. However, conventional flow meters (such as those used for reverse osmosis filters or public water distribution) are typically configured to monitor relatively large flow rates, for example, a few liters per second rather than 250 ml. Dedicated systems for monitoring smaller flows typically have limited customizability and do not provide sufficient information for fully monitoring the dispenser status. Additionally, the specifications of such small, dedicated systems often change frequently because components may be updated or no longer available.

Accordingly, there is a need to provide a fluid dispensing metering device, system and optional controller that can address or ameliorate at least some of the above problems, or at least provide the public with an alternative option for remotely metering dispensed fluid and/or controlling the dispensing of fluid.

Disclosure of Invention

The features and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the principles disclosed herein. The features and advantages of the disclosure may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a metering device for monitoring a plurality of sensors of a fluid dispensing system is provided. The metrology device includes a processor having a plurality of inputs for receiving measurement data from sensors connected to the processor via reconfigurable connection circuitry; wherein at least some of the reconfigurable connection circuits and operation of the processor are modified in accordance with parameters of respective sensors connected to the processor. The metering apparatus further comprises: a memory for storing data from the processor and configuration information for at least one connected sensor; and a communication module connected to the processor for wireless communication with a remote server.

Each reconfigurable connecting circuit may comprise at least three open branches, wherein each branch is defined by a pair of receiving members for receiving a releasable electrical component inserted therein.

Advantageously, each reconfigurable connection circuit may comprise: at least a first branch electrically connected to a power source; at least a second branch electrically connected to the sensor terminal and the processor; and at least a third branch electrically connected to electrical ground, wherein the branches are open circuits and the reconfigurable connecting circuit is modified by closing at least one of the branches with an electronic component.

The branches of the reconfigurable connecting circuit may be defined by a pair of receiving members for receiving a releasable electrical component inserted therein.

The sensors may be selected from the group consisting of analog sensors, binary sensors, digital sensors, and pulse sensors.

The sensors may comprise an analog NTC temperature sensor and the reconfigurable connection circuit comprises a resistor in the branch between the power supply and the processor input, the resistance value of the resistor being selected to be the same as the resistance of the NTC temperature sensor at a predetermined temperature.

The configuration information of the NTC temperature sensor may include an equation for calculating the measured temperature T:

wherein B and r_∞Is an inherent constant of the NTC temperature sensor, R₁Is the resistance of a resistor, V⁺Is the supply voltage, and V_TIs the measured voltage.

The sensors may include a two-state liquid level sensor and the reconfigurable connection circuit includes a resistor in the branch between the power supply and the processor input selected according to a desired response time and total current consumption.

The configuration information of the binary level sensor and the pulsed flow sensor may include an indication of an activity state.

The sensors may include pulsed flow sensors and the reconfigurable connection circuit includes a resistor selected according to a desired response time and total current consumption in a branch between a power supply and the processor input and an optional capacitor selected according to the specifications of the sensor manufacturer in a branch between electrical ground and the processor input.

The sensors may include a digital sensor in communication with the processor via a data bus and a clock bus, wherein the data bus is connected to a first reconfigurable connection circuit and the clock bus is connected to a second reconfigurable connection circuit, wherein the two reconfigurable connection circuits include resistors having the same resistance in a branch between a power supply and the processor input. The processor may be modified to pass through I²A C communication bus communicates with the digital sensor.

The digital sensor may be a pressure sensor.

The sensors may also include a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) sensor configured to pair with the processor by sharing a common key.

After modification of one or more sensors, at least some of the corresponding configuration information of the connected sensors in the memory is updated for operation of the modified sensors.

After receiving data from the sensors, the processor may be configured to determine whether a predetermined condition is satisfied based on the received data.

Optionally, the communication module may be configured to receive control information for the processor from the remote server to alter the operation of the processor.

Preferably, the metering device may further comprise a display connected to the processor to display at least some of the data received from the sensors and/or to show the status of the fluid dispensing device after the processor makes a determination.

The processor is configured to transceive data with a remote server via the communication module for further processing.

The metering device may further comprise a valve operable by the processor to dispense fluid through the valve after actuation by a user.

The processor may be configured to send a control signal to the valve for dispensing fluid through the valve after receiving an operation signal from a dispense button or a command signal from the remote server.

The metering device may further include an energy harvesting module configured to convert ambient energy into electrical energy to continuously charge a battery module of the metering device.

The sensors may be configured to monitor environmental parameters selected from the group consisting of fluid flow, liquid level, light, leakage, temperature, battery charge, and total dissolved solids.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a system for monitoring a plurality of remotely located fluid dispensing apparatuses is provided. The system includes a plurality of uniquely identifiable metering devices, wherein each metering device is engageable with at least one fluid dispensing device. The system further includes a second processor in the server, wherein the second processor is connected to a communication module in the server, the communication module communicating across a network with each of the remotely located plurality of metering devices; and the second processor is connected to a memory for storing data received from the plurality of metering devices and configuration information thereof.

The second processor of the system may be configured to transmit control information for altering the operation of the processor of any of the plurality of remotely located metering devices from the server via the communication module of the server.

The configuration information in the memory of at least one of the remotely located dispensing devices may be updated by communicating data to the at least one remotely located metering device via the communication module.

The configuration information transmitted from the server may include operating parameters of sensors of the device selected from configuration information of sensors from multiple vendors.

The second processor may be configured to issue a control signal to at least one of the remotely located metrology devices via the communication module.

When the measured data satisfies a predetermined condition, the corresponding metering device may send a message associated with the corresponding identification to the server.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a method for monitoring a plurality of remotely located fluid dispensing apparatuses by the system is provided. The method comprises the following steps: collecting, by a second processor in the server, measured data from each metering device via the network from sensors associated with the corresponding identification of the metering device; and issuing, by a second processor in the server, a command signal to at least one of the metering devices via the network based on the measured data.

The method may further comprise the steps of: transmitting, by a second processor in the server, control information for changing operation of any of the metering devices via the network.

The method may further comprise the steps of: updating, by a second processor in the server, configuration information of at least one of the metering devices via the network.

The configuration information may include operating parameters of sensors of the device selected from configuration information of sensors from multiple vendors.

The method may further comprise the steps of: when it is determined by analyzing the measured data that a predetermined condition is satisfied, a control signal is sent by the second processor to at least one of the metering devices via the network.

Drawings

In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages and features of the disclosure can be obtained, a more particular description of the principles briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only exemplary embodiments of the disclosure and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the principles herein will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings.

Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be explained in further detail below by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A depicts a schematic representation of an exemplary metrology device in accordance with a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

Fig. 1B depicts a schematic representation of an exemplary metering device further configured for controlling dispensing operations in accordance with a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1C depicts an exemplary schematic architecture of a system including a plurality of remotely located metrology devices installed at a plurality of remote locations.

FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary generalized schematic representation of a reconfigurable sensor connection circuit of an exemplary metrology device.

Fig. 3A depicts an exemplary schematic representation of a sensor connection circuit configured for use with an NTC temperature sensor in an exemplary metering device.

FIG. 3B depicts a simplified schematic circuit of the sensor connection circuit depicted in FIG. 3A.

Fig. 3C depicts a further simplified schematic circuit of the sensor connection circuit depicted in fig. 3A and 3B.

FIG. 4A depicts an exemplary schematic representation of a sensor connection circuit configured for use with a two-state level sensor in an exemplary metering device.

FIG. 4B depicts a simplified schematic circuit of the sensor connection circuit of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A depicts an exemplary schematic representation of a sensor connection circuit configured for use with a pulsed liquid flow sensor in an exemplary metering device.

FIG. 5B depicts a simplified schematic circuit of the sensor connection circuit of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A depicts an exemplary schematic representation of a sensor connection circuit configured for use with a digital pressure sensor in an exemplary metering device.

FIG. 6B depicts a simplified schematic circuit of the sensor connection circuit of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7 depicts a flowchart illustrating exemplary operations of the consuming and dispensing operations of the exemplary metering device of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 8 depicts a flowchart illustrating exemplary operations of monitoring operations of the exemplary metrology device of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 9 depicts a flowchart illustrating exemplary operations of data transfer operations of the exemplary metering device of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

FIG. 10 depicts a flowchart illustrating exemplary operations of the consuming and dispensing operations of the exemplary metering device of FIG. 1B.

FIG. 11 depicts a flowchart illustrating exemplary operations of monitoring operations of the exemplary metering device of FIG. 1B.

Detailed Description

Various embodiments of the present disclosure are discussed in detail below. While specific embodiments are discussed, it should be understood that this is done for illustrative purposes only. A person skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components and configurations may be used without parting from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

The present disclosure relates to a novel monitoring system for managing remotely located water dispensers having flexibility for many and various types of fluid dispensers, facilitating ready inspection of the status of the dispensers, thereby improving maintenance cost effectiveness and enhancing user experience. Advantageously, the system may also provide enhanced data collection and analysis.

Fig. 1A depicts a fluid dispensing device 100A configured for monitoring various aspects of a dispenser via a plurality of connected sensors during a dispensing operation.

As depicted in fig. 1A, fluid dispensing device 100A includes a metering device 110 electrically connected to a plurality of sensors including a level sensor 122, a light sensor 124, a liquid leak sensor 126, a fluid flow sensor 128, a temperature sensor 125, and a total dissolved solids sensor 127. It will be understood that these sensors are exemplary, and that other sensors may also be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The metering device 110 is used to collect and process measured data from sensors electrically connected to the device. In some embodiments, such as the depicted embodiment, the fluid dispensing device 100A also includes a display 144 for displaying data or other information via the display output 140 of the metering device 110 according to instructions of the processor 112. However, it will be understood that in other types of fluid dispensing apparatus (not shown), there may be no display.

The metering device 110 includes: a processor 112 configured to receive measured data from various sensors connected to the processor; a memory 114 for storing data from the processor 112 and configuration information for sensors of the metrology device 110; and a communication module 116 coupled to the processor 112. A battery module 113 for powering the metering device 110 is also included. However, it will be appreciated that in other types of fluid dispensing devices (not shown), there will be a power module having an AC input in place of a battery module.

The communication module 116 provides for communication with a remote server, which may be wired or wireless. In this case, the depicted metering device 110 further includes an antenna 119 for the communication module 116 to wirelessly transmit and receive information. It will be understood that the wireless transmitting device may be configured to communicate over the transmission medium using any of a variety of wireless communication technologies, such as GSM, CDMA, WLL, WLAN, WiFi, WiMAX, LoRaWAN, SigFox, and more preferably via the LTE class NB1 (also known as NB-IoT).

The metering device 110 includes a plurality of inputs 115 to the processor 112. Each input may be electrically connected via a reconfigurable sensor connection circuit 118, which may be reconfigured as needed to connect with a particular sensor. The inputs 115 include analog inputs and digital inputs 115 such that both analog sensors and digital sensors (including digital sensors providing data or binary sensors) can be incorporated into the fluid dispensing device 100A. For example, the temperature sensor 125 is connected to the processor via an analog input, while the leak sensor 126 is connected to the processor via a digital input.

In the fluid dispensing apparatus 100A, the level sensor 122 is configured to measure the level of fluid in a tank 136 containing the fluid to be dispensed (typically potable water).

The light sensor 124 is configured to measure light emitted from the lamp 138, such as Ultraviolet (UV) light emitted from a disinfection lamp that is used to disinfect at least a portion of the fluid dispensing device 100A having a fluid flow therethrough (e.g., at the water tank 136 or a filter component).

The liquid leak sensor 126 is configured to measure the liquid level in the tray 142 for receiving any water leaking from the fluid dispensing device 100A. For example, the tray may be disposed below the water tank 136, the pipe 132, or the dispensing point 146.

The fluid flow sensor 128, the temperature sensor 125, and the total dissolved solids sensor 127 are disposed on a conduit 132 that carries the fluid 134 consumed and dispensed at the dispense point 146.

The fluid flow sensor 128 is configured to measure the amount of fluid 134 flowing through the conduit 132; meanwhile, the temperature sensor 125 is configured to measure the temperature of the fluid in the conduit 132, particularly for a fluid dispensing apparatus 100A equipped with a heater/cooler (not shown); and when the liquid dispensing device 100A is operating as a water dispenser, a Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) sensor 127 measures a TDS level in the water to indicate water quality. The fluid dispensing device 100A may also include a battery level sensor for measuring the battery level of the battery module 113.

When the fluid dispensing device 100A is in use, each sensor is electrically connected to one sensor connection circuit 118. Because the sensor connection circuitry 118 is reconfigurable, the sensor connection circuitry can be configured to accommodate a variety of sensors (e.g., different types, different models, sensors from different suppliers, etc.), thereby providing flexibility for configuration and monitoring of the fluid dispensing device 100A. The configuration information of the sensors is recorded in the memory 114. The operation of the reconfigurable sensor connection circuitry 118 is discussed in more detail with reference to fig. 2-6.

Alternatively, the sensor may comprise many different sensor types, including analog sensors, binary sensors, digital sensors, and pulse sensors. The sensors may be active sensors or passive sensors without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

After the sensors are suitably arranged in respective locations for measuring corresponding parameters of the fluid dispensing device 100A and the configuration information is recorded in the memory, the metering device 110 may collect measured data from these sensors by the processor 112. Based on the collected data, the processor 112 monitors and determines the status of the fluid dispensing device 100A.

When a critical condition exists (e.g., the fluid level of the tank 136 is low, there is a liquid leak, or the filter needs to be replaced), the processor 112 sends a signal to the server via the communication module 116 to notify maintenance personnel. At the same time, the processor 112 may show a message or measured data on any attached display 144 to notify the user.

The processor 112 may determine that the dispensing unit is experiencing a critical condition after a predetermined condition is met. For example, the processor 112 may be configured to compare data received from the sensors to thresholds for the corresponding sensors stored in the memory 114. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that various artificial intelligence algorithms (such as predictive models using linear regression, decision trees, etc.) may be used to determine the critical state with reference to certain parameters or values of a particular sensor, which may be stored in memory.

Further, the processor 112 may also receive information, such as commands, from the server and alter its operation accordingly.

The sensors described above and shown in FIG. 1A are merely exemplary. Other types and additional sensors may be incorporated into the fluid dispensing device 100A depending on the requirements of the user or maintenance requirements.

Alternatively, the fluid dispensing device 100A may be connected directly to the mains water mains within the pipeline, without including a fluid tank.

Fig. 1B depicts a fluid dispensing device 100B that is also configured for controlling a dispensing operation.

Referring to fig. 1B, in addition to the components depicted in fig. 1A, the depicted fluid dispensing device 100B further includes a dispense button 150 operable by a user and connected to the processor 112 via a button input 156.

Further, the fluid dispensing device 100B is equipped with a valve 154 and a pump 152 operable to push and allow the passage of the fluid 134 (respectively) in the conduit 132 upon receiving a signal from the dispensing button 150. A power module 117 having an AC input is included to power the metering device 110 in place of the battery module 113.

For example, the processor 112 is configured to open the valve 154 and activate the pump 152 after receiving an operating signal indicating actuation/activation of the dispense button 150 such that fluid in the water tank 136 is dispensed through the conduit 132 to the dispense point 146. When operation of the dispense button 150 ceases, the processor 112 no longer receives the operating signal and sends a control signal via the actuator output 158 to close the valve 154 and deactivate the pump 152. This means that fluid is no longer dispensed from the fluid dispensing device 100B.

In one exemplary embodiment, for example, when testing fluid dispensing apparatus 100B after a new installation or replacement of a component, processor 112 may open valve 154 and activate pump 152 after receiving a control signal from a remote server.

Fig. 1C depicts an exemplary schematic architecture of a point-of-use fluid dispensing system 100C.

Referring to FIG. 1C, system 100C includes a server 160 connected to a plurality of metering devices 110. Server 160 is connected to and communicates with metering device 110 over a wired or wireless network 170.

As depicted, server 160 includes: a processor 162 for receiving data from and sending data to the metering device 110; a memory 164 for storing data received from the metering device 110 and instructions for data processing methods; a data processing unit 166 for executing data processing instructions in the memory; and a communication module 168 for connecting the server 160 to a network 170. The memory 164 may also store predefined data, such as via sensor configuration information entered from maintenance personnel or obtained from each metering device 110.

For example, metering device 110 may be remotely installed at a plurality of remote locations, such as different schools, universities, and various other locations throughout a city or indeed an entire country.

Each metering device 110 may be configured to monitor one or more fluid dispensing devices within a certain physical proximity, each uniquely identified. Processor 162 in server 160 receives data transmitted from each metering device 110 via network 170, wherein the data is associated with the identity of the respective fluid dispensing device, and stores the data in memory 164. The data may include measurements of the sensor for that particular fluid dispensing device. The data processing unit 166 analyzes the data in the memory and, based on the analysis, the processor 162 determines the status of the fluid dispensing device.

Depending on the status of the fluid dispensing device, processor 162 may communicate control information from server 160 via communication module 168 to alter the operation of any one or more of the plurality of remotely located metering devices 110.

For example, when the status of the fluid dispensing device 110 indicates that the hygiene condition is not appropriate, the server 160 may send a command to flush the fluid dispensing device, or turn on a UV lamp to disinfect the fluid.

Server 160 may even be configured to send a command to suspend operation of fluid dispensing device 110 when a fault is detected in the fluid dispensing device. The fault may be detected by comparing various measured parameters received from sensors of the metrology device to predetermined thresholds. The predetermined threshold may be associated with the specifications of each individual sensor, which is included in the configuration information when the sensor is incorporated into the fluid dispensing device. The method for comparing may include artificial intelligence algorithms such as predictive models using linear regression, decision trees, and the like.

The configuration information may be stored in the memory 164 of the server 160 and transmitted from the server 160 to each corresponding metering device 110 each time the sensor configuration changes. Alternatively, configuration information may be initially entered into the metering device 110 and, if the sensors are reconfigured, transmitted to the server 160 such that both the server 160 and the metering device 110 include updated configuration information.

When the server 160 receives data from all of the metering devices 110, contract maintenance personnel can remotely control and monitor all of the fluid dispensing devices distributed over a large area by accessing the server 160 without the need for time-consuming on-site manual inspections, which greatly reduces manpower and improves maintenance efficiency.

In an exemplary embodiment, the data processing unit 166 is included in or in communication with the processor 162.

In some embodiments, the data processing process may be performed separately in each metering device; in other exemplary embodiments, the data processing process may be performed in a server.

Referring now to FIG. 2, reconfigurable sensor connection circuit 200 includes a connector 240 for connecting to one or more sensors. In the depicted exemplary connector 240, the connector 240 includes three terminals: terminal 1(T1) is configured to connect the sensor to a power source; terminal 2(T2) is configured to be connected to the sensor output; terminal 3(T3) is configured to connect the sensor to ground.

As depicted, reconfigurable connection circuit 200 further includes three branches that are combined at a central node 255 that provides an input signal to processor 250. The first branch is electrically connected with a power supply V +; the second branch is electrically connected with sensor terminal T2 and processor 250; and the third branch is electrically connected to ground.

Each leg of the reconfigurable connecting circuit includes a "shim" that includes two spaced apart receiving members. As depicted in fig. 2, the gasket 210 includes receiving members 215a, 215 b; the spacer 220 comprises receiving members 225a, 225b and the spacer 230 comprises receiving members 235a and 235b which are (at least initially) not electrically connected, which means that the electrical circuit is open.

The electrical circuit may be closed by inserting electrical or electronic components across between receiving members in the patch.

For example, components may be connected across the receiving members 215a, 215b in the patch 210 to close the circuit between the power supply and the signal input node 255, or across the receiving members 225a, 225b in the patch 220 to close the circuit between the sensor output and the signal input node 255, or across the receiving members 235a, 235b of the patch 230 to close the circuit between the ground and the signal input node 255, as desired and depending on the particular requirements of the attached sensor. As described herein, "closing a circuit" means providing an electrical connection within the circuit.

As can be understood from fig. 2, the sensors are connected to the processor 250 via a sensor connection circuit 200. By connecting electrical components (including wires across the receiving member) in one or more of the pads 210, 220, and 230 and connecting the sensor with different terminals T1, T2, and T3, the circuit 200 can be reconfigured according to the requirements of a particular attached sensor.

In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving members 215a, 215b, 225a, 225b and 235a, 235b include gold plated component lead sockets that allow for reliable connection of the male components without the need for any electric welding or soldering.

The lead socket may further have an attachment mechanism that allows for reusability and reconfiguration while maintaining a reliable connection, such as a biasing device or the like for releasably engaging corresponding connection points/leads of an electrical component inserted therein.

Referring to fig. 3A, an exemplary schematic diagram of a sensor connection circuit configured for a Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) temperature sensor is depicted.

As known to those skilled in the art, an NTC temperature sensor is an analog sensor having a thermistor (a resistor whose resistance depends on temperature) as a key sensor component. As a first approximation, the relationship between the resistance of the thermistor and temperature is linear:

ΔR＝kΔT， (1)

Where Δ R is the resistance change, Δ T is the temperature change, and k is the first order temperature coefficient of resistance. Thermistors with negative k are referred to as Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) thermistors.

In an exemplary embodiment, the temperature sensor includes an NTC thermistor. However, Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) thermistors (having a positive k-value) operate according to the same principle.

The linear approximation model (1) is accurate only over a limited temperature range. The third order approximation of the resistance-temperature transfer function (2) (i.e., the Steinhart-Hart equation) is widely used to provide better performance characterization over a wider temperature range:

where a, b and c are the Steinhart-Hart parameters inherent to each thermistor. T is the absolute temperature, and R is the resistance of the thermistor.

NTC thermistors may also be characterized by the B (or β) parametric equation, which is essentially a ═ 1/T₀-(1/B)InR₀Steinhart-Hart equation (2) where B is 1/B and c is 0,

wherein the temperature is in degrees Kelvin and R₀Is the temperature T₀Resistance (298.15 ° K at 25 ℃). Solve for R to yield

Or, in another form

R＝r_∞e^B/T (5)

Wherein the content of the first and second substances,

the temperature can be solved according to equation (5) as:

That is, if the resistance R of the thermistor is known, the temperature T can be calculated according to equation (6). Accordingly, the connection circuit of the NTC temperature sensor needs to be appropriately configured so that an appropriate value of the resistance of the thermistor can be obtained within a desired temperature range.

As depicted in fig. 3A, the resistor 314 spans between the receiving members 215a, 215b of the patch 210, the jumper 324 spans between the receiving members 225a, 225b of the sensor patch 220, and the patch 230 remains open with no components inserted to bridge the receiving members 235a, 235 b. Lead-outs 362 and 364 of the NTC temperature sensor 360 are connected to T2 and T3 of the sensor connector 240, respectively. Since the thermistor has no polarity, the connection of the sensor leads does not require a predetermined orientation.

Schematic circuits for the connection circuit depicted in fig. 3A are shown in fig. 3B and 3C.

As can be seen with reference to these figures, a resistor R1314 is connected in series with the NTC thermistor 360 between the power supply and ground. This effectively creates a voltage divider circuit in which the connection R is₁And R_TSignal node 255 of provides the voltage divider output voltage V_T. The equation for the voltage divider is:

solving (7) for the resistance R of the thermistor _T：

R in equation (8)_TSubstituting R in equation (6), the temperature T can be read from the sensor measurements as:

i.e. by measuring the resistance of the resistor R₁And a sensor thermistor R_TVoltage V at the formed voltage divider circuit_TTo obtain the temperature.

In addition to the physical reconfiguration of the sensor connection circuitry, the operation of processor 250 needs to be modified according to the parameters of sensor 360 so that processor 250 can perform the calculation of equation (9) above. The updating of the configuration information may be done locally in the device. Alternatively, the configuration information may be first updated in the server and then the updated configuration information is remotely transmitted to the device.

In an exemplary embodiment, the temperature sensor is a B58100 type NTC thermistor manufactured by TDK group corporation. Parameters to be configured in processor 250 for this type of sensor include: type of NTC temperature sensor, intrinsic parameter B of the sensor and resistance R of the inserted resistor 314₁. In a preferred embodiment, R₁Is chosen to be the same as the resistance of the sensor at 25 deg.c.

FIG. 4A depicts an exemplary schematic representation of a sensor connection circuit configured for use with a two-state capacitive level sensor in an exemplary metering device. FIG. 4B depicts a simplified schematic circuit of the sensor connection circuit in FIG. 4A.

As described above, the metering device 110 may further comprise a level sensor for detecting the level of liquid in the tank 136, i.e. whether the liquid is above or below a reference point. In an exemplary embodiment, a point-level sensor 460 (specifically, a two-state capacitive level sensor) may be used. As is known in the art, the capacitive level sensor 460 works by: transmitting an RF signal through two terminal probes and measuring the capacitance C of the material between the probes_M. The sensor 460 is physically positioned at a location of a predetermined level to be detected, for example, a location indicative of a maximum or minimum of liquid inside the fluid tank 136.

Since the output of the level sensor 460 has very low current drive capability, the sensor requires an output stage with high current load drive capability and consisting of an internal transistor Q in an "open collector" configuration₁Provided is a method. As shown in fig. 4B, the resistor R₁414 are connected between the sensor output and a power supply V +. Accordingly, as depicted in fig. 4A, physical resistor 414 spans receiving members 215a, 215b in shim 210, jumper 424 is inserted into shim 220 across receiving members 225a and 225b, and shim 230 remains empty with no components spanning its receiving members 235a, 235 b.

The lead-out wires of the level sensor 460 are connected to the terminals T1, T2 and T3 of the sensor connector, respectively, i.e., the power lead 462 of the sensor is connected to the terminal T1; the output lead 464 of the sensor is connected to terminal T2, and the ground lead 466 of the sensor is connected to terminal T3.

When the level sensor 460 has been positioned and used and the liquid is below a predetermined level, the capacitance C_MIn effect, the capacitance of air, which is low. Sensor 460 detects a low signal and therefore outputs a zero volt voltage V₁The voltage turns off the transistor Q₁. Output voltage V_{Output of}(which is also the signal input 255 of the processor 250) is represented by V⁺It is given. Thus, V_{Output of}In a "high state". Conversely, when the liquid is above a predetermined level and therefore approaches the (excessive level) sensor probe, the sensor detects a high capacitance C_MAnd outputs a voltage equal to the supply voltage V⁺Voltage V of₁The voltage turns on the transistor Q₁. Current passes through R₁At V⁺And transistor Q₁And output voltage V flows between the collectors of_{Output of}Now in the "low state".

Resistor R₁The value of (d) is given by the following equation:

wherein the load current I_Load(s)Is selected according to a sensor data table provided by the manufacturer, taking into account the required response time and the total current consumption required by the sensor system.

In an exemplary embodiment, the liquid level sensor is an XKC-Y23 liquid level sensor manufactured by Shenzhen, Star science and Technology Ltd. Parameters to be configured in processor 250 for this two-state sensor include: the type of sensor and an indication of "active state", e.g., normal output is "high"; the inverted output is "low".

In yet further exemplary embodiments of additional sensors, FIG. 5A depicts an exemplary schematic representation of a sensor connection circuit for a pulsed liquid flow sensor. FIG. 5B depicts a simplified schematic circuit of the sensor connection circuit in FIG. 5A.

In one exemplary embodiment, the pulsed liquid flow sensor 560 in the metering device is a paddle wheel flow meter, such as an RS Pro beverage flow meter, although other types of similar flow meters may be used. As is known in the art, a paddle wheel flowmeter consists of three main components: paddle wheel sensors, plumbing fittings, and a controller. The paddle wheel sensor is disposed in the plumbing fitting in an "in-line" or plug-in manner. Paddle wheel sensors consist of freely rotating wheels and magnets embedded in the blades, perpendicular to the flow and rotatable in the flowing fluid. As the magnet rotates, the paddle wheel sensor generates a weak alternating signal whose frequency is positive to the flow rate. The flow controller receives a signal from the paddle wheel sensor, processes, cleans and converts the signal into a strong pulse signal comprising a binary pulse oscillating between a supply voltage and a ground voltage.

The flow rate Q across the pulsed liquid flow sensor 560 can be calculated as:

Q＝K·f_{pulse of light}，

Where K is the measured flow rate factor of the pulsed liquid flow sensor 560, and f_{Pulse of light}Is the frequency of the pulse signal.

The volume V of liquid flowing during time t can be calculated as:

V＝K·NOP。

where NOP is the number of pulses received by the pulsed liquid flow sensor 560 during time t.

Since the liquid flow sensor 560 measures binary pulses and each pulse includes a "high state" and a "low state," the circuit configuration is similar to the binary sensor described above. As shown in fig. 5A, a pull-up resistor 514 is spanned between receiving members in shim 210, which has a resistance calculated by equation (10), a crossover 524 is inserted in shim 220, and optionally a capacitor 534 may be used to span between receiving members in shim 230 for eliminating transient pulses, as directed by the manufacturer, otherwise shim 230 should remain empty with no components inserted. The lead-out wires of the liquid flow sensor 560 are connected to terminals T1, T2, and T3, respectively, i.e., the power lead 562 of the sensor is connected to terminal T1; the output lead 564 of the sensor is connected to terminal T2 and the ground lead 566 of the sensor is connected to terminal T3.

Parameters to be configured in processor 250 for this pulse sensor include: the type of sensor (i.e., liquid flow sensor) and the K-factor of the sensor (in milliliters per pulse).

Accordingly, the creation of the necessary circuitry with appropriate electrical components and modification of the processor settings as depicted in fig. 5A and 5B means that a variety of flow meters can be used with the metering device.

FIG. 6A depicts an exemplary schematic representation of a sensor connection circuit configured for use with a digital pressure sensor in an exemplary metering device. FIG. 6B depicts a simplified schematic circuit of the sensor connection circuit in FIG. 6A.

In an exemplary embodiment, a pressure sensor 660 is included in the metering device 110 for measuring the pressure of the gas or liquid. For example, a NXP MPL3115A2 pressure sensor (with on-chip temperature sensor and I) manufactured by NXP Semiconductors may be used²A compact piezoresistive absolute pressure sensor with a C digital interface). Pressure and temperature data from the sensor is fed into a high resolutionAn ADC to provide a fully compensated and digitized output for pressure in pascals and temperature in degrees celsius.

As depicted in fig. 6A and 6B, I²The C digital interface has two buses: a clock (SCL) line and a data (SDA) line addressed with 7 bits. Both the SCL line and the SDA line are open drain designs, thus requiring a pull-up resistor to be connected in the circuit. A logic "0" is output by pulling the line to ground, and a logic "1" is output by floating the line (outputting a high impedance) such that the pull-up resistor pulls the line high. When idle, both lines are high. To begin a transaction, SDA is pulled low and SCL remains high.

As shown in fig. 6A, two reconfigurable sensor connection circuits (a first connection circuit 610 for the SDA line and a second connection circuit 620 for the SCL line) are required to implement the connection circuit for the pressure sensor 660. Pull-up resistor R_P614 and 616 are configured to span between ones of the receiving members 215a, 215b of the patch 210 in the connection circuits 610 and 620, respectively. Pull-up resistor R_PA preferred value of (b) is 4.7k omega. However, if pull-up resistors are already configured in the bus, the pad should remain empty, without any components. The jumpers 624 and 626 are configured to span the receiving members 225a, 225b of the pads 220 in the connecting circuits 610 and 620, respectively; and no components are inserted into the pads 230 in the connection circuits 610 and 620, respectively. Lead wires of the pressure sensor 660 are connected to the terminals T1, T2, and T3 of the sensor connector of the first connection circuit 610. The voltage supply lead 662 of the sensor 660 is connected to the terminal T1, the SDA line lead 664 of the sensor 660 is connected to the terminal T2, and the ground lead 668 of the sensor 660 is connected to the terminal T3. SCL wire 666 of sensor 660 is connected to terminal T2 of the sensor connector of second connection circuit 620; in the second connection circuit, the terminals T1 and T3 remain unconnected.

Parameters to be configured in processor 250 for this type of sensor include: type of sensor (i.e., digital pressure sensor), digital bus type (i.e., I)²C) And sensor ID (i.e., the I of the sensor specified by the manufacturer)²C Equipment markAn identifier).

Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the metering device of the present disclosure, after configuring the two sensor configuration circuits by connecting appropriate electrical components as described above and modifying the particular sensor configuration in the parameters of the processor, enables use with a wide variety of digital sensors, including a variety of digital pressure-type sensors as depicted in fig. 6A and 6B.

It will be understood that each of the sensor connection circuits in fig. 3-6 may be reconfigured for various types of sensors, as outlined in these exemplary and non-limiting embodiments. It will be understood that other types of sensors, in addition to those described, may be connected to the sensor connection circuitry by appropriately reconfiguring the circuitry and modifying the configuration parameters of the processor as needed.

By way of further non-limiting example, wireless sensors may also be used in the metering device 110.

For example, a BLE-meo sensor with a bluetooth low energy wireless digital interface manufactured by Farsens may be included in the metering device 110 for measuring parameters of the surrounding environment. The BLE-Meteo sensor includes a BLE module, a tactile button, an advertising RGB LED, and six digital sensors for measuring humidity, temperature, pressure, acceleration, magnetic field, and ambient light, respectively. This button allows the BLE-Meteo sensor to be turned on, while the LED shows the system status.

BLE-meo sensors use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), a wireless technology standard for exchanging data between fixed and mobile devices over short distances and establishing Personal Area Networks (PANs), as a wireless substitute for data transmission cables, greatly reducing power consumption and cost compared to bluetooth while maintaining similar communication range.

When the BLE-Meteo sensor is on, a binding is generated between the BLE module and the processor 250 through a pairing process, wherein the processor 250 receives a request including a request for a Universally Unique Identifier (UUID) of a service provided by the sensor and an identification key of the sensor. During pairing, the processor 250 establishes a relationship with the BLE-meo sensor by creating a shared secret called a link key. When both store the same link key, the two will pair.

Accordingly, the parameters to be configured in processor 250 for the BLE-Meteo sensor include: the type of sensor (e.g., one of the sensor types described above-a specific example of which is a digital humidity sensor); wireless digital communication type (i.e., BLE); and a service UUID and a sensor identification key specified by the manufacturer.

It will be understood that the metering device 110 may operate in a variety of modes to perform various functions, and some exemplary modes are described in the following discussion.

Fig. 7 depicts a flow chart illustrating an exemplary operation of the dispensing operation of the metering device 110 of fig. 1A when the fluid dispensing device is directly operated by a user.

Referring to fig. 7, the metering device 110 is initially in a standby mode 701.

When a user begins dispensing fluid, the metering device 110 will receive an electrical signal from the fluid flow sensor 702, which prompts the device to enter a "wake up" mode 705. Optionally, after the metering device 110 wakes up (e.g., "ready"), the initial state of the fluid dispensing device may be shown on a display for reference by a user in step 704.

When fluid dispensing occurs, the metering device 110 collects measured data from the fluid flow sensor and all optionally configured sensors in the fluid dispensing device 100A (step 706). Data collection continues until no further electrical signal is emitted by the fluid flow sensor (step 707), indicating that fluid flow has now stopped.

Upon completion of data collection, metering device 110 calculates and processes the collected data (step 708) and then stores the data to memory (step 710). Optionally, in step 709, the final state of the fluid dispensing device is shown on a display for reference by a user.

If after a predetermined period of time 703 the metering device 110 does not receive an electrical signal from the fluid flow sensor, the metering device may be configured to switch back to the standby mode 701 to reduce power consumption.

The operation of the metering device 110 depicted in fig. 7 is also referred to as a metering mode, wherein the metering device 110 collects only the measurements of the fluid flow sensor in order to measure how much fluid has been dispensed and/or to calculate how much liquid remains in the tank. Further, the total fluid flow may be used to determine the life of a filter in the fluid distribution apparatus. However, in the metering mode, the metering device 110 may also collect measured data from other sensors than flow sensors, depending on the configuration.

FIG. 8 depicts a flowchart illustrating exemplary operations of the monitoring operation of the metering device 110 of FIG. 1A.

Referring to fig. 8, the metering device 110 is initially in a standby mode 801. When the metering device 110 receives a signal from a timer that sets a predetermined time period for checking the status of the metering device 110 (step 802), the metering device 110 begins collecting measured data from the sensors (step 803), and the collected data is processed (step 804). The collected and processed data is stored in memory (step 805).

Based on the processed data, the metering device 110 determines if a critical condition exists (step 806). If it is determined that a critical condition exists, metering device 110 sets the current time to the next data release time in the timer, effectively scheduling the immediate transmission and release of data (step 807). If no critical condition exists, then in (steps 808 and 809) the metering device 110 will continue to operate in a metering mode, for example, using the method described above and depicted in FIG. 7, or switch to a standby mode (steps 810 and 801).

For example, the metering device 110 may be configured to publish relevant data to a remote server to notify maintenance personnel and/or to a display of the metering device 110 for reference by a user.

In the monitoring mode, the metering device 110 collects the measured values of all the sensors provided in the primary fluid dispensing device for a predetermined period of time, so that the status of each component to which the sensor is attached can be monitored automatically at regular intervals. It will be appreciated that the timer by which the predetermined time period is set may be a timer in the processor or a separate timer electrically connected to the processor.

In an exemplary embodiment, metering device 110 publishes the data using the publishing method shown in FIG. 9 and described below (step 807).

FIG. 9 depicts a flowchart illustrating exemplary operation of the data transfer operation (i.e., publish mode) of the metering device 110 of FIG. 1A or FIG. 1B.

Referring to fig. 9, the metering device 110 is initially in a standby mode (step 901). When the metering device 110 receives a signal from a timer that sets a predetermined time period for data transmission (step 902), the metering device 110 connects to a server via a communication module (step 904). For example, the server may be a commercially open, non-proprietary cloud server, or may be a provider's own hosted server, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Metering device 110 queries the data platform for pending remote command messages (step 906). If there is a remote command message, metering device 110 collects the message and in turn executes the command (step 907). The remote command message may be a control signal that changes the operation of the metering device 110, such as flushing the fluid dispensing device, turning on/off the UV lamp, pausing the fluid dispensing device, showing certain information on a display, etc.

When there are no more pending remote command message(s) from the server to execute, the metering device 110 retrieves the data previously stored in memory in the metering mode and the monitoring mode and transmits the data to the server (step 908). After the data transfer is complete, the metering device 110 disconnects from the data platform and deactivates the communication module, effectively shutting it down (step 910).

The metering device 110 sets the time for the next data publication based on the desired time period (e.g., as configured by maintenance personnel) (step 911). Metering device 110 enters a wait state, waiting for consumption or dispensing activity by the user (step 912). The metering device 110 is changed to either the metering mode 913 or the standby mode 901 depending on whether an allocation activity occurred in the predetermined interval 914.

In the publish mode, the metering device 110 communicates once with the server at predetermined intervals, where the intervals may be configured via a timer. This arrangement keeps the communication module active for only a short period of time, which reduces power consumption and therefore extends the battery life of the metering device 110.

FIG. 10 depicts a flow chart illustrating exemplary operation of the consuming and dispensing operations of the metering device 110 of FIG. 1B (i.e., the metering and control modes of the metering device 110).

Referring to fig. 10, the metering device 110 is initially in a standby mode 1001. When the user activates the dispense button to begin dispensing liquid, the metering device 110 detects the generated signal (step 1002). The metering device 110 outputs control signals to activate actuators and sensors for dispensing fluid (step 1004). For example, the actuator may include the valve 154 and pump 152 of fig. 1B; the fluid dispensing device 110 begins dispensing fluid through the valve and the pump. Optionally, metering device 110 shows a dispense start status on the display (step 1006).

After the actuators and sensors are activated, the metering device 110 begins reading measured data from the flow sensors and optionally from other sensors in the metering device 110 as desired (step 1007). The metering device 110 continues to collect data until the dispense button is no longer activated and ceases to signal, indicating that the user has completed consumption or dispensing of liquid (step 1008). The metering device 110 outputs a control signal to disable the actuators and sensors (step 1009).

Upon completion of the dispense, metering device 110 processes and stores the collected data (step 1010), and optionally shows the end of the dispense on a display (step 1011). Metering device 110 returns to an idle mode to await user activity.

FIG. 11 depicts a flowchart illustrating operation of the monitoring operation of the example metering device 110 of FIG. 1B.

The metering device 110 is initially in an idle/standby mode (step 1101). At the configured predetermined monitoring period, a timer is triggered and a signal is sent to the metering device 110 (step 1102). The metering device 110 enters a monitoring mode after receiving a signal from the timer and begins collecting data from one or more of the attached sensors (step 1103).

The metering device 110 processes the collected data (step 1104) and stores the data to memory (step 1105).

During the data processing step, the metrology device 110 analyzes the data to monitor whether defined critical conditions exist.

If a critical condition is detected (step 1106), the metering device 110 outputs a control signal to halt operation of the fluid dispensing device (step 1107). The allocation pause is optionally displayed to the users for reference by those users (step 1108). The metering device 110 sets the time of the next data publication to the instant current time (step 1109), so that the metering device 110 immediately enters the data publication mode 1110 shown in fig. 9 to notify the server.

If no critical condition is detected (step 1106), the metering device 110 returns to an idle mode waiting for user activity (step 1101).

For example, the critical conditions may utilize predefined configuration information of the sensors to indicate various fault conditions including, but not limited to, equipment leaks, failure of heaters/coolers and disinfection lights, low level of fluid in the tank, non-ideal fluid quality, filter expiration, and the like.

The design and operation of the metering device is constructed to consume very little power. Advantageously, for the metering apparatus of the present disclosure, this comprises: configuring the device to enter a power saving state when not in an active state to maximize battery life and reduce maintenance effort; selecting appropriate low power consumption components (including sensors and activation circuitry that manages the transition from inactive to active) and scheduling communications at limited predetermined times or upon certain triggering events (e.g., perhaps between once an hour to once a day).

Optionally, the metering device may further include an energy harvesting module to convert ambient energy, such as solar energy, thermal energy, wind energy, and fluid flow, into electrical energy for continuously recharging batteries powering the device, thereby providing "low maintenance" operations.

The above embodiments have been described by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined in the appended claims.

Advantageously, the fluid dispensing metering device, system, method and optional controller of the present invention enable monitoring of a variety of sensors measuring various parameters of the fluid dispenser and/or remote control of the dispensed fluid.

The arrangements of the present disclosure may operate distributors from various service providers at multiple locations using cloud-based servers or servers hosted by various service providers.

Additionally, the arrangement of the present disclosure is not limited to a particular sensor from a particular manufacturer, wherein the sensor can be interchanged, upgraded, and replaced with minimal effort.

Accordingly, the arrangement of the present disclosure is non-proprietary, adaptable, and easily adaptable to unique situations, with minimal reconfiguration required, according to the needs of the customer and the equipment.

Possible applications of the system include metering devices or controllers adapted to dispense operators to provide supplies for schools, universities, hotels, offices, shopping centers, gyms, entertainment facilities, picnic parks, nature protection areas, homes, etc. to enable monitoring of various parameters from a central location.

Further applications of metering systems also include networks of homes or hotel rooms or buildings that may not be public, where each device has its own meter and there is no integrated system for capturing parameters of multiple devices of the same type or different types.

For clarity of explanation, in some instances the present technology may be presented as including functional blocks comprising apparatus, apparatus components, steps or routines in a method implemented in software, or a combination of hardware and software.

The methods according to the examples described above may be implemented using computer-executable instructions stored on or otherwise available from computer-readable media. These instructions may include, for example, instructions and data which cause or otherwise configure a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing device to perform a certain function or group of functions. Part of the computer resources used may be accessible via a network. The computer-executable instructions may be, for example, binaries, intermediate format instructions, such as assembly language, firmware, or source code. Examples of computer readable media that may be used to store instructions, information used, and/or information created during a method according to the described examples include magnetic or optical disks, flash memory, Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices provided with non-volatile memory, networked storage devices, and so forth.

An apparatus implementing methods in accordance with these disclosures may include hardware, firmware, and/or software, and may take any of a variety of form factors. Typical examples of these form factors include laptop computers, smart phones, small form factor personal computers, personal digital assistants, and the like. The functionality described herein may also be implemented in a peripheral device or add-on card. As another example, such functionality may also be implemented on circuit boards of different chips, or may be implemented on different processes executing in a single device.

Instructions, media for communicating the instructions, computing resources for executing the instructions, and other structures for supporting the computing resources are means for providing the functionality described in the disclosures.

Although various examples and other information are used to explain aspects within the scope of the appended claims, no limitations to the claims should be implied based on the particular features or arrangements in the examples, as one of ordinary skill in the art will be able to use the examples to derive various embodiments. Further, and although certain subject matter may have been described in language specific to examples of structural features and/or methodological steps, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the described features or acts. For example, such functionality may be distributed differently or performed in components other than those identified herein. Rather, the described features and steps are disclosed as examples of component parts of systems and methods within the scope of the appended claims.