WO2012103498A2

WO2012103498A2 - Self-sustained fueling station

Info

Publication number: WO2012103498A2
Application number: PCT/US2012/023000
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael CARRUTH; Eric DICKSON
Original assignee: Fillner Construction, Inc.
Priority date: 2011-01-28
Filing date: 2012-01-27
Publication date: 2012-08-02
Also published as: WO2012103498A3

Abstract

An unmanned, self-sustained fuel dispensing station and system that provides for the retail or commercial sale of fuels in geographically remote locations. The station can be independent of public power and communication utilities and can operate by remote control without an on-site attendant. The preferred system has a central command center with a control computer in communication with a station control computer located at one or more satellite stations through a communications link. The station control computer can be controlled remotely by the command center. The station control computer programming has control over the activities of the station through an electrical generation subsystem with a solar array, battery bank, battery charger and standby generator; a retail transaction subsystem; a fuel dispensing subsystem; a security subsystem with video cameras; a communications link and a status sensor subsystem.

Description

SELF-SUSTAINED FUELING STATION

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application serial number 61/437,348 filed on January 28, 201 1 , incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not Applicable

INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL

SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC

[0003] Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] 1 . Field of the Invention

[0005] The present invention pertains generally to liquid fuel dispensing

systems, and more particularly to an apparatus and system for a self- sustained modular vehicle fueling station and system that is independent of the electrical power grid and wired communications systems and that is suitable for placement in remote locations.

[0006] 2. Description of Related Art

[0007] Efficient personal and commercial vehicle transportation is dependent on the convenient availability of liquid fuel near motorways for retail purchase.

Typical retail vehicle fuel filling stations have one or more islands with metered dispensers that have nozzles matched to an opening in the fuel tank of the vehicle for receiving gasoline, diesel or alternative fuels such as ethanol or biodiesel. The purchaser of the fuel pays an attendant with currency or with a credit card or debit card and the gasoline pumps are set by the attendant to deliver the volume of fuel purchased by the purchaser. An attendant normally monitors the full service and self-service pumps and controls the delivery of fuel from each of the pumps.

[0008] Other systems have dispenser mounted credit or debit card transaction devices that authorize a credit transaction. These self-service fuel dispensers allow a credit or debit transaction with a purchaser and the pumping of fuel to a cost limit. The purchaser can fill the tank of the typical vehicle to the top without guessing the actual cost of the transaction or purchasing more fuel than can be placed in the tank of the vehicle and creating the need for a refund.

[0009] Fuel is normally stored in bulk storage containers or tanks that may be located below the ground or above ground level. Fuels of different grades or types are usually transported from a fuel wholesale facility to retail filling stations or truck terminals and placed in the bulk storage tanks. The wholesale fuel facility may store large volumes of fuel from a fuel refinery for distribution. Fuel from the refinery may be transported by rail car, fuel barge or ship, pipeline or other similar delivery method.

[0010] However, fuel dispensing stations are not often present in remote

locations because of the need for permanent connections to an electrical utility, telephone or wireless communications systems or Internet accessibility as well as a need for the presence of an on-site attendant. The initial construction of a filling station in a remote area may require not only the construction of the station but also the construction of supporting buildings for an attendant with the placement of new water and sewer systems as well as running new power lines and telephone lines over long distances.

[0011] In addition to the initial costs of construction, the sales volume of a filling station in a remote location is often less than similar filling stations located in urban areas due to a lesser traffic flow. The construction costs and the operational costs make the establishment of filling stations in remote areas impractical and not economically feasible.

[0012] Accordingly, there is a need for a self-contained modular retail filling station apparatus and system for remote locations that does not require an attendant or connections to electric utilities or wired communication systems and can operate independently 24 hours a day and seven days a week. The present invention satisfies these needs as well as others and is generally an improvement over the art.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] By way of example and not of limitation, the apparatus of the present invention generally comprises an independent fueling system that is designed to operate off-grid (without connection to electrical utilities) in remote locations. It is designed to be an un-attended retail vehicle fueling system that uses card readers to authorize the dispensing of fuel into vehicles. It can be set up for credit card, debit card, and proprietary private card systems. The preferred major components include one or more underground fuel tanks, fuel piping, a concrete drive slab, a covered canopy, fuel dispensers, LED lighting, electrical controls, battery backup system, generator system, and photovoltaic panels (PV). It can operate in a stand-alone mode without any connection to an electric utility system, or it can be grid connected where available. The primary energy source is preferably a renewable energy source such as windmills, steam, or PV panels or fuel cells etc. or any combination of renewable sources. Any excess energy from the primary source is used to charge a battery bank. The secondary source is the generator, and/or grid supplied electricity if it is readily available.

[0014] The preferred modular system has a central control center with a

central control computer that is connected to one or more station control subsystem computers in remote satellite stations through a communications link. The station control computer has programming that controls a number of station subsystems. One embodiment has an electricity generation subsystem with a solar array, a battery bank, a battery charger and a standby generator; a retail transaction subsystem with a card reader, key pad, video camera (optional), microphone (optional), speaker (optional) and display; a fuel dispensing subsystem with at least one bulk fuel storage tank and at least one fuel dispenser with a tank mounted submersible pump, pump controller, hose and nozzle connected to the fuel storage tank; a security subsystem that may include digital cameras, remote monitoring sensors that can detect the proper operation of the fuel dispenser or card reader; and a status sensor subsystem with bulk fuel level sensors, electricity production sensors, electricity

monitoring of the photovoltaic system and can be automatically monitored by the central control center computer through the communications link.

[0015] The heart of the system is a unique control system that allows the

various sources of power to switch over automatically without human intervention. This allows the system to be operated as an un-attended retail or commercial fuel delivery system. The control system allows the facility to monitor various sources of electricity, and switch between sources based on a specific logic programming provided by the station control computer. The basic logic is to run all of the systems off the PV generation system when it is producing enough power to run everything. The PV system is connected to a battery backup system which supplements or fully supplies power when the PV system is not producing enough electricity to run the entire system. Once the battery backup system supply drops below a pre-determined minimum capacity (for example 50% of the battery charge), the control system switches to one of the other available sources of electricity such as the generator or the electric grid if it is available. The secondary source of electricity then supplies the system and charges the bank of batteries. Once the batteries are back to 100% charge, the secondary source of electricity is shut off. The system then continues to operate on battery only until the primary electricity source (PV system) can again supply adequate electricity, or the batteries again discharge to the re-charge point. This cycle repeats as often as necessary so the system is available 100% of the time, 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and 365 days per year.

[0016] The primary power source that is preferred is a set of photovoltaic

panels mounted onto the canopy structure. These panels can provide adequate power to operate the full facility during day light hours when the sun is shining, and charge the batteries for night time operation. The components are sized such that the backup generator system or grid supplied power would not be used during consecutive sunny days. The secondary energy sources would only become necessary when there are consecutive days without sunshine or in an emergency where there is a large demand or a system malfunction.

[0017] In one embodiment, the remote filling station is wirelessly connected to a central control center that can receive information from the station including live video feeds from security cameras, sensor data from bulk storage tanks, energy usage and production and transaction information etc. Operators at the central control center can act as remote attendants with the capability of remotely turning off lights, advertising signs, pumps and activating security measures. The central control could also communicate with purchasers with audio or audio video communicators located at the pump, in one embodiment.

[0018] In another embodiment, several remote stations are connected to a central control center via direct wireless communications; Internet based communications or wired communications where available.

[0019] Another embodiment of the system uses the newest forms of energy efficient components available currently on the market. These include LED lighting which reduces lighting power consumption by up to 80% over traditional types of exterior lighting (metal halide, low pressure sodium, etc.) with average life expectancies of up to 300,000 hours before lamp

replacement. This represents a lifetime of approximately 68 years if the lights operate 12 hours per day on average.

[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, an independent, self- sustained fuel dispensing station and system are provided that can be installed in remote locations where there is no access to electrical power from a public utility or access to wired telephone or Internet services.

[0021] It is another aspect and advantage of the present invention to provide a fueling station that does not require the presence of an on-site attendant and that can be operated by remote control in one configuration.

[0022] According to another aspect of the invention, a modular fueling station and system are provided that has security measures to protect the station components from extreme weather and vandalism.

[0023] According to a further aspect of the invention, a remote filling station is provided that has a system of wireless communications between the station and credit and debit service providers as well as with a central control center to receive sensor information and status information from a station control computer and video and audio from security cameras.

[0024] It is still another aspect of the present invention to provide a remote filling station that is energy self-sufficient with a combination of a renewable energy source such as solar panels and an auxiliary generator and battery storage.

[0025] Further aspects of the invention will be brought out in the following

portions of the specification, wherein the detailed description is for the purpose of fully disclosing preferred embodiments of the invention without placing limitations thereon.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The invention will be more fully understood by reference to the following drawings which are for illustrative purposes only:

[0027] FIG. 1 is a side plan view of a two pump fueling station embodiment of the invention with below ground fuel storage tanks for three grades of fuel.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a front view of the two pump fueling station embodiment

shown in FIG. 1 according to the invention.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a schematic flow chart of an electrical production and control system according to one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] By way of example and not of limitation, the apparatus and system of the present invention generally comprises one or more independent self- contained fueling stations that can be placed in remote locations without an on-site attendant or connections with wired telephone or electrical utility power sources. The station control components are preferably in communication with a central control center through a wireless link that permits remote monitoring and control of the station and station sensors and monitors from the central control center. This allows the station to be available for retail fueling services all day and every day of the year and to be continuously monitored.

[0031] Turning now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, one embodiment of the invention 10 with two pumps is schematically shown. The station shown is configured with a below ground bulk fuel tank 12 divided into three sections to hold three different grades of gasoline, or alternative fuels, or diesel fuel. In another embodiment, multiple tanks or multiple tanks with fewer compartments may be used for fuel storage.

[0032] The tank 12 has filling portals 14, 16, and 18 placed through concrete pad 20 corresponding to the different grades or types of fuels to be stored in tank 12. Fuel is transported to the station location by tanker truck and deposited through the filling portals to the appropriate compartment of tank 12.

[0033] The compartments of bulk tank 12 preferably have fuel level sensors that continually monitor the level of the fuel in the tank. These monitoring sensors will also verify the amount of fuel delivered to the station by the fuel delivery truck and deposited in the tank as well as the remaining fuel available for purchase. Other fuel sensors continuously monitor secondary spaces around the bulk storage tanks, inside sumps, and the secondary space of double wall piping to detect any breaches of the primary containment. Fuel deliveries to the station can be planned so that deliveries take place when the tank 12 compartments are nearly empty. The station 10 can normally run without human intervention from several weeks to several months depending on fuel sales and the size and number of storage tanks.

[0034] Although a single subterranean bulk storage tank 12 is shown, it will be understood that several storage tanks can be used. In addition, above ground storage tanks can also be used to store one or more types of fuels for retail distribution. The compartments of bulk storage tank 12 are connected to one or more dispensers. [0035] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the first dispenser 22 and the second dispenser 24 are connected with a conventional fuel piping and pumping system to the compartments of the bulk fuel tank 12. There are several different types and variations of commercial fuel dispensers that are currently available in the art. The typical generic fuel dispenser has a motor controller which controls a remote submersible motor located in the bulk storage tank that actuates a pump. The pump drives fuel through a meter and through valves to the fuel nozzle that has been placed in the fuel receptacle of the vehicle by the purchaser. A register displays the amount of fuel that passes through the meter. Generic gasoline pumps that are used at service stations have evolved into elaborate point-of-sale (POS) devices that have sophisticated control electronics and user interfaces with large displays and touch-pads or screens. These dispensers include various methods to facilitate payment, such as credit or debit card readers and cash processors, to expedite the fueling transactions.

[0036] Dispenser 22 and dispenser 24 are preferably structures with

enclosures 26, 28 that are made of steel and securely mounted to the pad 20. In one embodiment, the enclosures 26, 28 are designed to allow a purchaser with physical disabilities access to the dispenser interface from a seated position.

[0037] Dispenser 22 and dispenser 24 preferably have a purchase interface 30, 32 that has a display, keypad, fuel type or grade selection buttons and a bank card or gasoline credit card receptacle and reader for carrying out credit card or debit card transactions. The dispensers 22, 24 preferably use a Point- of-sale (POS) interface system to authorize the transaction, account for the transaction and control the flow of fuel. The dispenser 22, 24 is also connected to an emergency shut off switch as suggested by National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) or other applicable codes to stop the flow of fuel in an emergency. In another embodiment, the dispensers 22, 24 have a microphone and speaker to allow communications between the purchaser and a remote attendant. Another embodiment includes a digital camera oriented in such a way at or near the dispenser 22, 24 to allow an attendant at a remote location to see and communicate with the purchaser at the fuel dispenser.

[0038] In operation, the purchaser initiates the transaction by swiping a credit or debit card in the reader at the dispenser interface 30, 32. Once the transaction is authorized, the purchaser selects the fuel grade and removes the fuel nozzle from the nozzle holder of the fuel dispenser 22, 24 and inserts the fuel nozzle into the opening of the vehicle's fuel tank and dispenses the fuel.

[0039] The dispenser 22, 24 can be disabled with a signal from a security

system in case of dispenser damage or malfunction or with a loss of electrical power when station sensors indicate damage. Likewise, a signal from the station control system or central command system indicating that the station was closing and not offering services from the specific pump or as a station can also disable the credit and fuel dispensing functions of the dispensers 22, 24.

[0040] The fuel dispensers 22, 24 and station control center 34 are preferably covered with a canopy 36 to keep the sun or precipitation off of the fuel purchasers and the dispensers 22, 24. The canopy 36 is supported by two uprights 38, 40. The uprights are preferably made from steel mounted to reinforced concrete footings to support the canopy 36 in high winds or heavy snowfall.

[0041] The canopy 36 also has an array of solar panels 42 that can generate electricity with exposure to the sun. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the canopy 36 also has a communications link 46 with the photovoltaic system mounted to the ridge of the canopy 36. Vertical concrete filled poles 44 are also present to protect the uprights 38, 40 from accidental collisions with vehicles or trailers entering or exiting the station 10.

[0042] The station control center 34 is preferably housed in a metal kiosk 48.

The station control center 34 is a computer with programming and storage that is connected to the station sensors, security system, communications system, transaction and dispensing systems, energy production and storage system, and station status monitoring and control systems. In one embodiment, the station control center has a second redundant computer as a backup in case of failure by the primary station control computer.

[0043] The station control center 34 computer is preferably connected through the communications link 46 to a central command center at a remote location so that the sensors, cameras, security measures, power functions, the station control computer and other operations can be controlled remotely from the central command center. The central command center may exert control over the station control center 34 and station components with a supervisory human attendant or with a command computer that has programming that responds to selected conditions at the station and also monitors and records sensor and status data from the station control computer.

[0044] The preferred system has a central command center with a central control computer in communication with a station control computer at one or more satellite stations through a wireless communications link 46. The station control computer programming has control over the activities of the station through an electricity generation subsystem; a retail transaction subsystem; a fuel dispensing subsystem; a security subsystem; a communications link, and a status sensor subsystem in one embodiment. The station control computer and the various subsystems can be controlled remotely by the command center.

[0045] The station control center housing 48 may have an optional heating or cooling system 50 to control the environmental conditions of the station computer, sensors or other components with the housing to protect them from large variations in temperature. Temperature extremes may cause

malfunctions or shorten the lifespan of sensitive electronic components.

Computer malfunctions or the failure of the sensors or the station computer may result in lost retail fuel sales as well as the need for an unscheduled maintenance trip to the remote station 10.

[0046] In one embodiment, the station control computer automatically

generates reports regarding sensor data, transaction related statistics, fuel dispenser status, fuel level status, electrical system status and other desired statistics or data and sends them through the communications link 46 to the command center for evaluation. Diagnostic tests and computer programming and troubleshooting can also be performed remotely from the central command center. Transmissions of the data to the command center may be dynamic or scheduled. Evaluation of the transmitted station data may be conducted by a remote monitoring attendant or by the programming of a command center computer that can generate an alarm if conditions exceed predefined limits. For example, sensors in the sections of bulk storage tank 12 can detect the temperature, vapor pressure and fuel level and determine the volume of remaining fuel in each section of the tank 12. A shipment of fuel to the station 10 can be scheduled automatically when the fuel levels drop below a certain level. The timing of the shipment of fuel to the station may also account for historical trends in sales of fuel at that particular station over time.

[0047] The station control center 34 computer can also generate and transmit an alarm to the command center when a malfunction in the electricity production system, the fuel transaction or dispensing system, or an act of vandalism or extreme weather conditions and the like are detected. Alarms may identify circumstances that require the attention of a maintenance worker to travel to the station to replace, repair or troubleshoot a component. A remote attendant can also exert remote control over the station in response to an alarm. For example, a security alarm may prompt the remote control of security cameras 68 to be directed to a particular point or the activation and use of additional security cameras when tampering is detected.

[0048] Lighting can also be controlled by the station control center 34

computer. The station 10 is preferably equipped with high efficiency lights 56 mounted to the underside of the canopy that can be controlled by the station computer. For example, the computer may turn half of the lights 56 on the canopy 36 off as well as dim pre-selected lights during times when there is little or no traffic through the station to save on energy use. The second half of the lights 56 can be activated when a card is swiped in the card reader, motion detected by a motion sensor, or some other triggering event indicating the presence of a customer.

[0049] The station 10 is preferably powered by a solar energy source 60 and a battery bank 54 that is part of an energy production and storage subsystem as illustrated schematically in FIG. 3. The preferred primary source of electrical power is a renewable energy source in the form of an array of photovoltaic cells 42 that are capable of producing approximately 4 kilowatts of power from the sun. The electrical power that is produced is used primarily to power the pumps and other station energy needs. Excess power from the solar array or other power source is used to charge the batteries of the battery bank 54. At night or during periods of high demand where power consumption exceeds production by the solar array, a generator 52 can be actuated to recharge the battery bank 54 or to provide electricity directly for station pumps and other systems. The generator 52 can be fueled by liquid fuel or gas fuel. The generator 52 may have its own fuel supply or may be connected directly to the bulk fuel tanks 12 so that the generator has access to a large fuel reserve. The generator 52 may also be fueled by propane or other flammable gas kept in storage tanks at the station.

[0050] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the supply of electricity for the station is independent of the power grid so that the station is electrically self- sustaining supported by renewable energy, battery storage and fueled auxiliary electricity generation. The renewable energy source provides power to the station and the battery storage supplements any electrical demand in excess of production.

[0051] Referring also to FIG. 3, the preferred electrical generation and control system is generally shown. The electrical demand for the fueling, station status, communication, security and control systems 58 is provided from three different prioritized sources: solar, battery and auxiliary generator. The first source of power for station demands comes from the 4 KW photovoltaic generation system 60 based on solar cells 42 placed on top of the canopy 36. The photovoltaic power controller 62 can direct all of the production from the solar cells 42 to supply the electrical demand of the fueling and station systems 58. The electrical generation of the solar cells 42 can also be directed by the photovoltaic power controller 62 to a battery charging system 64 that monitors and charges the battery bank 54 with excess power to maintain the available capacity of the battery bank 54 at desired levels.

[0052] At night and low light conditions, the electrical demand of the fueling and station systems 58 can be provided by the battery bank 54 as the source of power. The battery bank 54 supplies the necessary electrical power demanded by the fueling and station control system 58. When the overall capacity level of the battery bank 54 nears approximately 50%, the battery charging system 64 charges the battery bank 54 from supplemental sources. During low light conditions when there is little production from the photovoltaic system, for example, the standby generator 52 will be actuated to first produce electricity for the fuelling and other station systems 58 and second for the charging system 64 to recharge the battery bank 54. The standby generator 52 will preferably generate sufficient electrical energy to provide for both the fueling system and the battery charging system 64 at the same time.

[0053] Alternatively, if the charge capacity of the battery bank 54 drops below approximately 50% or some other preset limit and the solar production is low, the electricity can be provided by an electrical utility 66 where power from a utility is available. The external power from the utility 66 is used to charge the battery bank 54 and to supply the station power demand until the battery bank 54 is fully charged or the power from the solar cells 42 becomes available. For example, the public utility can re-charge the electrical storage bank until its capacity is above 75% and the user electrical demand is below the production of the solar array.

[0054] In one embodiment, the station is autonomous with no central

command system and the only communications that are sent through the communications link 46 are the credit or debit authorizations and transactions from the dispensers 22, 24. The station control center computer in this embodiment monitors and records sensor data, fuel levels and station status that can be reviewed when the station control center records during a regular maintenance visit. The electrical energy demands in this embodiment are particularly low compared to the other configurations.

[0055] Accordingly, a modular retail fuel dispensing system is provided that has one or more fueling stations that are electrically self-sufficient without an on-site attendant and therefore suitable for placing in remote locations. The modular stations can operate independently as well as by remote control from a command center through a wireless communications link. The stations can be operated independently 24 hours a day and 7 days per week without human intervention needing only weekly to monthly deliveries of different fuels to the bulk fuel tanks 12 for storage and sale.

[0056] From the discussion above it will be appreciated that the invention can be embodied in various ways, including the following:

[0057] 1 . A fueling station for the sale of fuels at a remote location,

comprising an electricity generation subsystem with a renewable electrical energy source, a battery bank, a battery charger and a standby generator; at least one bulk fuel storage tank; at least one fuel dispenser with a pump, pump controller, hose and nozzle fluidly connected to the fuel storage tank; a communications link; a card reader; and a station control computer with programming operably coupled to the communications link; the pump controller, the card reader and the electricity generation subsystem; wherein a transaction is initiated by the card reader and authorized by communications from the station control computer to a credit provider through the

communications link; and wherein the station control computer activates the pump controller upon authorization of a transaction by the credit provider to dispense a volume of fuel.

[0058] 2. The fueling station of embodiment 1 , further comprising a security system controlled by the station control computer with at least one digital camera and sensors detecting tampering with the fuel dispenser or card reader.

[0059] 3. The fueling station of embodiment 1 , wherein the bulk storage tanks further comprise fuel level sensors configured to determine the amount of fuel present in the bulk storage tank and report the level to the station control computer.

[0060] 4. The fueling station of embodiment 1 , wherein the bulk storage tanks further comprise a plurality of fuel sensors continuously monitoring secondary spaces around the bulk storage tanks, pumps, and pipes to detect leaking, said sensors coupled to the station control computer.

[0061] 5. The fueling station of embodiment 1 , wherein the renewable energy source comprises an array of solar cells.

[0062] 6. The fueling station of embodiment 5, wherein the station electrical demand is satisfied by electricity generated by the solar array first and then with the battery bank until the bank is more than 50% depleted and then with the standby generator.

[0063] 7. A modular system for selling fuels at remote locations, comprising a central control center; and at least one fuel dispensing station at a remote location from the central control center, the fuel dispensing station comprising an electricity generation subsystem with a renewable electrical energy source, a battery bank, a battery charger and a standby generator; a retail transaction subsystem with a card reader, key pad and display; a fuel dispensing subsystem with at least one bulk fuel storage tank and at least one fuel dispenser with a pump, pump controller, hose and nozzle fluidly connected to the fuel storage tank; and a station control subsystem with a station control computer with programming operably coupled to the central control center through a communications link and to the electricity generation subsystem, the retail transaction subsystem and fuel dispensing subsystem; and wherein the central control center can control the electricity generation subsystem, the retail transaction subsystem, the fuel dispensing subsystem and station control subsystem remotely.

[0064] 8. The system of embodiment 7, further comprising a security

subsystem controlled by the station control computer with a plurality of digital cameras and sensors detecting tampering with a fuel dispenser or card reader.

[0065] 9. The system of embodiment 7, wherein the fuel dispensing

subsystem further comprises: a plurality of fuel sensors continuously monitoring secondary spaces around the bulk storage tanks, pumps, and pipes to detect leaking, said sensors coupled to the station control computer.

[0066] 10. The system of embodiment 7, wherein the retail transaction

subsystem further comprises: a fuel dispenser mounted video camera, microphone, speaker and display controlled by the station control computer; wherein an attendant at the central control center can receive real time audio and video images of a purchaser at the fuel dispensing station and

communicate with the purchaser over the communications link.

[0067] 1 1 . The system of embodiment 7, wherein the bulk storage tanks

further comprise fuel level sensors configured to determine the amount of fuel present in the bulk storage tank and report the level to the station control computer.

[0068] 12. The system of embodiment 7, wherein the renewable electrical energy source comprises an array of solar cells.

[0069] 13. The system of embodiment 12, wherein the electrical generation subsystem is controlled by the station control computer to provide all electricity produced by the solar array to satisfy the station demand and any excess electricity to charge the batteries of the battery bank.

[0070] 14. The system of embodiment 7, wherein the electrical generation subsystem is controlled by the station control computer to charge the battery bank with electricity produced by the standby generator when an overall charge of the battery bank is less than 50% of capacity.

[0071] 15. The system of embodiment 7, further comprising a status sensor subsystem with bulk fuel level sensors, electricity production sensors, electricity consumption sensors, and security sensors controlled by the station control computer and automatically monitored by a central control center computer through the communications link.

[0072] 16. A modular system for selling fuels at remote locations, comprising a central control center with a central control computer operably connected to a plurality of station control computers in remote satellite stations through a communications link; and at least one fuel dispensing station at a remote location from the central control center, the fuel dispensing station comprising an electricity generation subsystem with a solar array, a battery bank, a battery charger and a standby generator; a retail transaction subsystem with a card reader, key pad and display; a fuel dispensing subsystem with at least one bulk fuel storage tank and at least one fuel dispenser with a pump, pump controller, hose and nozzle fluidly connected to the fuel storage tank; a security subsystem with a plurality of digital cameras and sensors detecting tampering with a fuel dispenser or card reader; and a station control subsystem with a station control computer with programming operably coupled to the central control center through a communications link and to the electricity generation subsystem, the retail transaction subsystem, the security subsystem and the fuel dispensing subsystem; wherein the central control center can control the electricity generation subsystem, the retail transaction subsystem, the fuel dispensing subsystem, the security subsystem and station control subsystem remotely; wherein a transaction is initiated by the card reader and authorized by a communication from the station control computer to a credit provider and the station control computer activates the pump controller to dispense a volume of fuel upon authorization of a transaction by the credit provider.

[0073] 17. The system of embodiment 16, wherein the retail transaction

subsystem further comprises: a fuel dispenser mounted video camera, microphone, speaker and display controlled by the station control computer; wherein an attendant at the central control center can receive real time audio and video images of a purchaser at the fuel dispenser and communicate with the purchaser over the communications link.

[0074] 18. The system of embodiment 16, further comprising a status sensor subsystem with bulk fuel level sensors, electricity production sensors, electricity consumption sensors, and security sensors controlled by the station control computer and automatically monitored by the central control center computer through the communications link.

[0075] 19. The system of embodiment 16, wherein the electrical generation subsystem is controlled by the station control computer to provide all electricity produced by the solar array to satisfy the station demand and any excess electricity to charge the batteries of the battery bank; and wherein the station control computer charges the battery bank with electricity produced by engaging the standby generator when an overall charge of the battery bank is less than 50% of capacity.

[0076] 20. A method of electrical power production and management,

comprising controlling a system of a solar array, electrical storage bank, and standby generator configured to supply electricity to a user with a controller; charging the electrical storage bank with the solar array; supplying user electrical demands with the solar array; supplying user electrical demands in excess of production by the solar array with the electrical storage bank;

supplying electrical demands of a user with the standby generator when user demand exceeds the production by the solar array and the electrical storage bank capacity is below a preset limit; and re-charging said electrical storage bank with the standby generator and the solar array; wherein the electrical demands of the user are first satisfied with the solar array, the electrical storage bank and then the standby generator.

[0077] 21 . The method of embodiment 20, further comprising: re-charging the electrical storage bank with electricity from a public utility until the electrical storage bank capacity is above a preset limit while the electrical demands of a user are supplied with the standby generator.

[0078] 22. The method of embodiment 20, wherein the standby generator does not begin to re-charge the electrical storage bank until its capacity is below 50%.

[0079] 23. The method of embodiment 20, further comprising: supplying

electrical demands of a user with electricity from a public utility when user demand exceeds the production by the solar array and the electrical storage bank capacity is below a preset limit; and re-charging the electrical storage bank with electricity from a public utility until the electrical storage bank capacity is above a preset limit.

[0080] 24. The method of embodiment 23, wherein the public utility re-charges the electrical storage bank until its capacity is above 75% and the user electrical demand is below the production of the solar array.

[0081] Embodiments of the present invention may be described with reference to equations, algorithms, and/or flowchart illustrations of methods according to embodiments of the invention. These methods may be implemented using computer program instructions executable on a computer. These methods may also be implemented as computer program products either separately, or as a component of an apparatus or system. In this regard, each equation, algorithm, or block or step of a flowchart, and combinations thereof, may be implemented by various means, such as hardware, firmware, and/or software including one or more computer program instructions embodied in computer- readable program code logic. As will be appreciated, any such computer program instructions may be loaded onto a computer, including without limitation a general purpose computer or special purpose computer, or other programmable processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the computer program instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the equation(s), algorithm(s), and/or flowchart(s).

[0082] Accordingly, the equations, algorithms, and /or flowcharts support

combinations of means for performing the specified functions, combinations of steps for performing the specified functions, and computer program

instructions, such as embodied in computer-readable program code logic means, for performing the specified functions. It will also be understood that each equation, algorithm, and/or block in flowchart illustrations, and

combinations thereof, may be implemented by special purpose hardware- based computer systems which perform the specified functions or steps, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer-readable program code logic means.

[0083] Furthermore, these computer program instructions, such as embodied in computer-readable program code logic, may also be stored in a computer readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable

processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means which implement the function specified in the block(s) of the flowchart(s). The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable processing apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable processing apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions specified in the equation(s), algorithm(s), and/or block(s) of the flowchart(s).

[0084] Although the description above contains many details, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently preferred embodiments of this invention. Therefore, it will be appreciated that the scope of the present invention fully encompasses other embodiments which may become obvious to those skilled in the art, and that the scope of the present invention is accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated, but rather "one or more." All structural, chemical, and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred embodiment that are known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, it is not necessary for a device or method to address each and every problem sought to be solved by the present invention, for it to be encompassed by the present claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element herein is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. 1 12, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for."

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1 . A fueling station for the sale of fuels at a remote location, comprising: an electricity generation subsystem with a renewable electrical energy source, a battery bank, a battery charger and a standby generator;

at least one bulk fuel storage tank;

at least one fuel dispenser with a pump, pump controller, hose and nozzle fluidly connected to the fuel storage tank;

a communications link;

a card reader; and

a station control computer with programming operably coupled to the communications link; the pump controller, the card reader and the electricity generation subsystem;

wherein a transaction is initiated by the card reader and authorized by communications from the station control computer to a credit provider through the communications link; and

wherein the station control computer activates the pump controller upon authorization of a transaction by the credit provider to dispense a volume of fuel.

2. A fueling station as recited in claim 1 , further comprising a security system controlled by the station control computer with at least one digital camera and sensors detecting tampering with the fuel dispenser or card reader.

3. A fueling station as recited in claim 1 , wherein said bulk storage tanks further comprise fuel level sensors configured to determine the amount of fuel present in the bulk storage tank and report the level to the station control computer.

4. A fueling station as recited in claim 1 , wherein said bulk storage tanks further comprise:

a plurality of fuel sensors continuously monitoring secondary spaces around bulk storage tanks, pumps, and pipes to detect leaking, said sensors coupled to the station control computer.

5. A fueling station as recited in claim 1 , wherein said renewable energy source comprises an array of solar cells.

6. A fueling station as recited in claim 5, wherein station electrical demand is satisfied by electricity generated by the solar array first and then with the battery bank until the bank is more than 50% depleted and then with the standby generator.

7. A modular system for selling fuels at remote locations, comprising:

a central control center; and

at least one fuel dispensing station at a remote location from the central control center, the fuel dispensing station comprising:

an electricity generation subsystem with a renewable electrical energy source, a battery bank, a battery charger and a standby generator;

a retail transaction subsystem with a card reader, key pad and display; a fuel dispensing subsystem with at least one bulk fuel storage tank and at least one fuel dispenser with a pump, pump controller, hose and nozzle fluidly connected to the fuel storage tank; and

a station control subsystem with a station control computer with programming operably coupled to the central control center through a communications link and to the electricity generation subsystem, the retail transaction subsystem and fuel dispensing subsystem;

wherein the central control center can control the electricity generation subsystem, the retail transaction subsystem, the fuel dispensing subsystem and station control subsystem remotely.

8. A system as recited in claim 7, further comprising a security subsystem controlled by the station control computer with a plurality of digital cameras and sensors detecting tampering with a fuel dispenser or card reader.

9. A system as recited in claim 7, wherein said fuel dispensing subsystem further comprises:

10. A system as recited in claim 7, wherein said retail transaction subsystem further comprises:

a fuel dispenser mounted video camera, microphone, speaker and display controlled by the station control computer;

wherein an attendant at the central control center can receive real time audio and video images of a purchaser at the fuel dispensing station and communicate with the purchaser over the communications link.

1 1 . A system as recited in claim 7, wherein said bulk storage tanks further comprise fuel level sensors configured to determine the amount of fuel present in the bulk storage tank and report the level to the station control computer.

12. A system as recited in claim 7, wherein said renewable electrical energy source comprises an array of solar cells.

13. A system as recited in claim 12, wherein said electrical generation subsystem is controlled by the station control computer to provide all electricity produced by the solar array to satisfy the station demand and any excess electricity to charge the batteries of the battery bank.

14. A system as recited in claim 7, wherein said electrical generation subsystem is controlled by the station control computer to charge the battery bank with electricity produced by the standby generator when an overall charge of the battery bank is less than 50% of capacity.

15. A system as recited in claim 7, further comprising a status sensor subsystem with bulk fuel level sensors, electricity production sensors, electricity consumption sensors, and security sensors controlled by the station control computer and automatically monitored by a central control center computer through the communications link.

16. A modular system for selling fuels at remote locations, comprising:

a central control center with a central control computer operably connected to a plurality of station control computers in remote satellite stations through a communications link; and

an electricity generation subsystem with a solar array, a battery bank, a battery charger and a standby generator;

a retail transaction subsystem with a card reader, key pad and display; a fuel dispensing subsystem with at least one bulk fuel storage tank and at least one fuel dispenser with a pump, pump controller, hose and nozzle fluidly connected to the fuel storage tank;

a security subsystem with a plurality of digital cameras and sensors detecting tampering with a fuel dispenser or card reader; and

a station control subsystem with a station control computer with programming operably coupled to the central control center through a communications link and to the electricity generation subsystem, the retail transaction subsystem, the security subsystem and the fuel dispensing subsystem;

wherein the central control center can control the electricity generation subsystem, the retail transaction subsystem, the fuel dispensing subsystem, the security subsystem and station control subsystem remotely; and

wherein a transaction is initiated by the card reader and authorized by a communication from the station control computer to a credit provider and the station control computer activates the pump controller to dispense a volume of fuel upon authorization of a transaction by the credit provider.

17. A system as recited in claim 16, wherein said retail transaction

subsystem further comprises:

wherein an attendant at the central control center can receive real time audio and video images of a purchaser at the fuel dispenser and communicate with the purchaser over the communications link.

18. A system as recited in claim 16, further comprising a status sensor subsystem with bulk fuel level sensors, electricity production sensors, electricity consumption sensors, and security sensors controlled by the station control computer and automatically monitored by the central control center computer through the communications link.

19. A system as recited in claim 16, wherein said electrical generation subsystem is controlled by the station control computer to provide all electricity produced by the solar array to satisfy station electrical demand and any excess electricity to charge the batteries of the battery bank; and

wherein said station control computer charges the battery bank with electricity produced by engaging the standby generator when an overall charge of the battery bank is less than 50% of capacity.

20. A method of electrical power production and management, comprising: controlling a system of a solar array, electrical storage bank, and standby generator configured to supply electricity to a user with a controller;

charging the electrical storage bank with the solar array;

supplying user electrical demands with the solar array;

supplying user electrical demands in excess of production by the solar array with the electrical storage bank;

supplying electrical demands of a user with the standby generator when user demand exceeds the production by the solar array and the electrical storage bank capacity is below a preset limit; and

re-charging said electrical storage bank with the standby generator and the solar array;

wherein the electrical demands of the user are first satisfied with the solar array, the electrical storage bank and then the standby generator.

21 . A method as recited in claim 20, further comprising:

re-charging the electrical storage bank with electricity from a public utility until the electrical storage bank capacity is above a preset limit while the electrical demands of a user are supplied with the standby generator.

22. A method as recited in claim 20, wherein said standby generator does not begin to re-charge the electrical storage bank until its capacity is below 50%.

23. A method as recited in claim 20, further comprising:

supplying electrical demands of a user with electricity from a public utility when user demand exceeds the production by the solar array and the electrical storage bank capacity is below a preset limit; and

re-charging the electrical storage bank with electricity from a public utility until the electrical storage bank capacity is above a preset limit.

24. A method as recited in claim 23, wherein said public utility re-charges the electrical storage bank until its capacity is above 75% and the user electrical demand is below the production of the solar array.