Patent Description:
This background description is set forth below for the purpose of providing context only.

<CIT> discloses a refueling system which comprises an aircraft and a refueling apparatus. The aircraft comprises a fuel tank, a refuel line, a control valve controlling a flow of fuel through the refuel line, a fuel sensor outputting a fuel signal indicative of an amount of fuel in the fuel tank, a first controller receiving the fuel signal and controlling the control valve in response to the fuel signal; and a first wireless communication system operably coupled to the first controller. The refueling apparatus comprises a fuel supply, a dispensing hose configured to mate with the inlet of the refuel line, a pump fluidly coupling the dispensing hose to the fuel supply, a second controller having a memory in which is stored a fuel profile including fuel data indicative of the amount of fuel to be supplied to the fuel tank and controlling the pump, and a second wireless communication system operably coupled to the second controller. The first and second wireless communication systems are in communication such that the first and second controllers control the operation of the control valve and the pump to fill the at least one fuel tank in accordance with the fuel profile and in response to the fuel signal.

In <CIT> there is disclosed a control system for aircraft refueling trucks, which control system is intended for facilitating remote troubleshooting of one or more safety mechanisms associated with a flow of liquid fuel from a refueling vehicle to an aircraft.

Further aircraft fuel control systems are shown in <CIT>, <CIT> and
<CIT>.

With some refueling systems, there may not be an efficient way to provide modifications and upgrades to controllers.

Some refueling systems may be standalone devices that may not be configured for receiving data, transmitting data to remote locations, or analyzing data from a plurality of systems to improve system performance.

There is a desire for solutions/options that minimize or eliminate one or more challenges or shortcomings of aircraft refueling systems. The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate examples of the present field and should not be taken as a disavowal of scope.

The present invention is an aircraft refueling system as it is defined in claim <NUM>. The aircraft refueling system includes a master controller, a fleet controller in communication with the master controller, at least one platform controller in communication with the fleet controller, and a fuel control system in communication with the platform controller. The fuel control system includes a primary pressure controller, a secondary pressure controller, a programmable logic controller, and a data logger controller. The master controller is configured to receive and analyze data from at least one of the fleet controller, the platform controller, and the fuel control system. The master controller is configured to modify operational parameters or upgrade (e.g., remotely upgrade) the fuel control system based at least in part on said analysis of the received data.

The foregoing and other aspects, features, details, utilities, and/or advantages of embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent from reading the following description, and from reviewing the accompanying drawings.

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

In embodiments, such as generally illustrated in <FIG>, an aircraft refueling system <NUM> may include a master controller <NUM>, one or more airport/fleet controllers <NUM>, one or more refueling platforms (e.g., a truck, a hydrant, etc.), and/or one or more fuel control systems (FCS) <NUM>. The master controller <NUM>, the airport/fleet controller(s) <NUM>, a platform controller <NUM> connected to the platform, and/or the FCS <NUM> may work in conjunction to control refueling of an aircraft (e.g., ground refueling at an airport). The master controller <NUM>, the airport/fleet controller <NUM>, the platform controller <NUM>, and/or the FCS <NUM> may communicate with each other directly or indirectly, such as via wired and/or wireless communication, such as GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), GPRS (General Packet Radio Service), WiFi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, CAN (controller area network), and/or others.

With embodiments, such as generally illustrated in <FIG>, the FCS <NUM> may be configured to control (e.g., directly) fuel flow to an aircraft <NUM>. An exemplary FCS <NUM> may include, for example and without limitation, the Digital IV system available from Eaton Corporation. The FCS <NUM> may include a primary pressure control module (PPCM) controller <NUM>, a secondary pressure control module (SPCM) controller <NUM>, a programmable logic controller (PLC) <NUM>, a data logger unit <NUM>, and/or a display unit <NUM>. For example and without limitation, the PPCM controller <NUM> and/or the SPCM controller <NUM> may control a fuel control valve <NUM>. When open, the fuel control valve <NUM> may provide fuel to the aircraft <NUM>, such as via a nozzle <NUM>. The PPCM controller <NUM> and/or the SPCM controller <NUM> may be configured to control the fuel control valve <NUM> according to a fluid pressure at or about the nozzle <NUM>. One or more sensors <NUM> (e.g., a flow meter, a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a water presence sensor, a contamination sensor, a timer/clock, etc.) may be provided and/or may be connected at or about a nozzle <NUM>.

In embodiments, one or more of the PPCM controller <NUM>, the SPCM controller <NUM>, the PLC <NUM>, the data logger unit <NUM>, and the display unit <NUM> may communicate with each other, such as, for example and without limitation, via a CAN bus protocol <NUM>.

In embodiments, the data logger unit <NUM> may include a data logger controller <NUM>. The data logger controller <NUM> may, inter alia :.

In embodiments, the data logger controller <NUM> may act as an interface between a master computer, which may include a dedicated server, and the respective FCS <NUM>. A communication interface between the data logger controller and the master controller may include a CAN bus, GSM, GPRS, and/or any applicable communication network. With embodiments, data and communication loss may be minimized and/or prevented, at least during critical operation of the FCS <NUM>. The FCS may be installed on a platform (e.g., a refueling truck) and may include one or more unique node identifiers. For example and without limitation, the PLC <NUM>, the PPCM controller <NUM>, the SPCM controller <NUM> and/or the display unit <NUM> may each include unique node identifiers. The master controller <NUM> may be configured to access the FCS <NUM> and components thereof according to such unique node identifiers.

In embodiments, a smart protocol may be utilized to communicate with the FCS <NUM>. A smart protocol may dictate what action should be taken at what time. For example and without limitation, the frequency of data logging and communicating logged data to the master controller <NUM> may be determined according to certain specifications or requirements, (e.g., end user specifications, regulations, standards, etc.).

With each refueling event, the FCS <NUM> may log data and communicate a refueling log, any faults detected, and/or any corrective action taken to a platform controller, such as, for example and without limitation, via a wired and/or wireless CAN network. Such a system may, among other things, provide for better control of refueling pressure, more accurate determination of the volume of fuel dispensed, reduced fueling times, and/or better or more efficient error reporting. One or more of the PPCM controller <NUM>, the SPCM controller <NUM>, the PLC <NUM>, the data logger controller <NUM>, the platform controller <NUM>, the fleet controller <NUM>, and the master controller <NUM> may include macro level corrective logic that may, for example and without limitation, incorporate machine learning to analyze/study current fueling performance (e.g., control valve performance) and adjust control parameters to achieve improved and/or optimum system performance. Relative to other systems, embodiments of an aircraft refueling system <NUM> and/or an FCS <NUM> may provide greater control over prognostic and diagnostic capabilities. The FCS <NUM> may include full system built-in-test (BIT) functionality that may be configured to ensure proper functioning of the FCS <NUM> without requiring periodic maintenance or the downtime that may associated therewith. One or more of the PPCM controller <NUM>, the SPCM controller <NUM>, the PLC <NUM>, the data logger controller <NUM>, the platform controller <NUM>, the fleet controller <NUM>, and the master controller <NUM> may be configured to monitor trends in changes in operational performance that may indicate time-dependent wear for one or more components of the FCS <NUM>.

In embodiments, a platform controller <NUM> may be configured to communicate with the FCS <NUM>, the fleet controller <NUM>, the master controller <NUM>, and/or other controllers. The platform controller <NUM> may be configured to log maintenance schedules and overhaul or fault details identified for components that may not be part of a digital system. The platform controller <NUM> may be configured to uniquely tag or identify information/logged data for further analysis (e.g., via the fleet controller <NUM> and/or the master controller <NUM>). With embodiments, the platform controller <NUM> may include wireless communication functionality and may communicate information from other components that may have limited or no wireless communication functionality, such as sensors and/or controllers, which may facilitate communication via a single wireless channel. Information communicated by the platform controller <NUM> may be relayed to a handheld device (e.g., via a web interface, via an application or app, etc.) that may facilitate monitoring by an operator.

With embodiments, the fleet controller <NUM> may log data from a plurality of platform controllers <NUM>, such as periodically (e.g., weekly). Data captured from platform controllers <NUM> may be uploaded to the master controller <NUM>, such as via the internet. Consolidated data gathered from a plurality of platform controllers <NUM> may be used in analyzing fleet utilization, such as for an airport refueling operator. Efficiency of refueling operations may be improved as critical data for each platform, such as the number of refueling events, volume of fuel handled, maintenance logs, and/or failure frequency, may be recorded.

In embodiments, a master controller <NUM> may be configured to store some or all information that may be received from the FCS(s) <NUM>, platform controllers <NUM>, and/or fleet controllers <NUM>. The master controller <NUM> may be configured to utilize data mining to analyze available data to update monitored data values and/or current software of controllers (e.g., the fleet controller(s) <NUM>, the platform controller(s) <NUM>, the PPCM controller <NUM>, the SPCM controller <NUM>, the PLC <NUM>, and/or the data logger controller <NUM>). The master controller <NUM> may be configured to analyze location-based issues or performance as digital and non-digital system- related data may be captured. Reliability numbers may be established and opportunities for improvement can be addressed. Based on trends/data from one location (e.g., one airport, one platform, etc.), the master controller <NUM> may predict impending or anticipated failure at a second location (e.g., a different FCS <NUM> connected to a different platform at a different airport with a different fleet controller <NUM>) if the same or a similar trend is observed. The master controller <NUM> may be configured to simulate an overall impact, at a micro level, of software changes. For example and without limitation, a master controller may include models of one or more FCS(s), platform controller(s) <NUM>, and/or fleet controller(s) <NUM>. The master controller <NUM> may be configured to deploy software updates to some or all existing systems, such as fleet controller(s) <NUM>, platform controller(s) <NUM>, and/or FCS(s) <NUM>. For example and without limitation, software upgrades may be communicated to each fleet controller <NUM> over the internet and the software may be loaded on to each platform controller <NUM> and/or FCS <NUM> via the respective fleet controller(s) <NUM>.

With embodiments, the aircraft refueling system <NUM> may be configured for smart remote programming of controllers and data logging used in connection with refueling platforms. For example and without limitation, an aircraft refueling system may, inter alia :.

With embodiments, the aircraft refueling system <NUM> may include one or more operating modes, such as a general operating mode, a data capturing mode, a data analysis mode, a programming mode, and/or a smart mode.

In embodiments, in a general operating mode, the data logger controller <NUM> may log data and may store the data in local storage and/or in a storage expansion device/card.

With embodiments, in a data capturing mode, the data logger controller <NUM> may fetch/transmit the logged data to a master controller according to a specified time interval. The master controller <NUM> may determine or receive input for the refueling truck operating condition for stored data. A time interval for transmitting data to the master controller <NUM> may be user controlled and/or automated (e.g., preset). The data logger controller <NUM> may fetch/transmit the data when there is reliable cellular connection (e.g., to avoid data loss). The system may be configured for various types of data capturing (e.g., as specified by a user, by airport authorities, etc.). Examples of data to be captured include quantity of fuel, quality of fuel, and time required for fueling the aircraft, among others.

In embodiments, a data analysis mode may be an independent mode of operation. Once fetched/received, data may be available on/at the master controller <NUM>. The master controller <NUM> may conduct or receive analysis and use the analysis to determine whether the aircraft refueling system <NUM> and/or the FCS is operating as expected. The data analysis may be done using smart scripts. The data can be analyzed (e.g., continuously), such as via an offline batch-type process triggered at a certain time and/or upon certain requests/conditions. The master controller <NUM> may create a backup of received raw field data from platform controllers/refueling trucks. The output of analysis may include a confirmation that the aircraft refueling system and/or the fuel control system is operating as desired or expected. The data analysis statistics may be used to improve system efficiency. A smart script may compensate for potential issues and/or may automate communications with a user (e.g., a service engineer, a system engineer, airport authorities), such as via auto generated message or email.

With embodiments, a user may determine what data should be monitored. For example and without limitation, a user may decide to monitor specific data that may be helpful for predictive and/or preventive maintenance for refueling components.

In embodiments, in a programming mode, the master controller may control one or more FCS that may already be in the field, such as via a unique node identification of the FCS. Controlling a respective FCS may include upgrading and/or modifying the software of the system automatically and/or remotely.

With embodiments, the aircraft refueling system <NUM> may include interlocks and/or other access control features to control access to the programming mode. A programming mode may be run in a highly controlled manner (e.g., safety protocols, password requirements, etc.). Access to the programming mode may be limited to certain users with appropriate qualifications (e.g., appropriate experience with programming refueling controllers).

With embodiments, in a smart mode, if a hazardous condition is diagnosed/detected (e.g., via the master controller <NUM>), the aircraft refueling system <NUM> may immediately generate and send an email or other notification to a respective airport authority department (or other remote location). The email or other notification may, for example, include details of the platform/truck and the observed hazardous situation, which may be utilized by the airport authority to take appropriate action.

In embodiments, in a smart mode, the aircraft refueling system <NUM> may provide prognostic functionality, such as generating and sending an advance email to a respective airport authority department along with details of the platform and the observed prognostic condition so that the airport authority may take action quickly to avoid down time of a platform (e.g., a refueling truck). Additional functionality (e.g., user friendly intelligence) may be provided in the smart mode and may be shared with airport authorities.

In embodiments, the aircraft refueling system <NUM> may include one or more other modes.

With embodiments, remote programming of controllers and data logging may be implemented by region. For example and without limitation, controllers/servers can be installed at airports or regional locations and may be connected to the master controller <NUM> to collect the data. Disposing controllers at regional locations may facilitate resolution of field issues in a timely and efficient manner (e.g., automatically and/or remotely).

Embodiments of aircraft refueling systems <NUM> according to teachings of the present disclosure may be configured to provide one or more advantages relative to other systems. For example and without limitation, embodiments of aircraft refueling systems may, inter alia :.

In embodiments, a controller (e.g., the master controller <NUM>, the fleet controller(s) <NUM>, the platform controller <NUM>, the PPCM controller <NUM>, the SPCM controller <NUM>, the PLC <NUM>, and/or the data logger controller <NUM>) may include an electronic controller, a computer, and/or include an electronic processor, such as a programmable microprocessor and/or microcontroller. In embodiments, a controller may include, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). A controller may include a central processing unit (CPU), a memory, and/or an input/output (EO) interface. A controller may be configured to perform various functions, including those described in greater detail herein, with appropriate programming instructions and/or code embodied in software, hardware, and/or other medium. In embodiments, a controller may include a plurality of controllers. In embodiments, a controller may be connected to a display, such as a touchscreen display.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may be configured to operate in connection with Internet of Things (IoT) systems and/or features. Embodiments may be used in connection a variety of applications, such as applications that include smart components (e.g., aerospace, hydraulics, electrical, vehicles, trucks, etc.). IoT systems may be relatively complex as execution may involve use of different sets of technology layers, such as cloud computing or services, various application specific communication protocols, different connectivity or networking options, and/or embedded systems software/firmware developments, among others.

Various embodiments are described herein for various apparatuses, systems, and/or methods. Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the invention which is defined by the appended claims.

Reference throughout the specification to "various embodiments," "with embodiments," "in embodiments," or "an embodiment," or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in various embodiments," "with embodiments," "in embodiments," or "an embodiment," or the like, in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Moreover, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present invention the scope of which is defined by the appended claims.

It should be understood that references to a single element are not necessarily so limited and may include one or more of such element. Any directional references (e.g., plus, minus, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of embodiments.

Joinder references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, joinder references do not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected/coupled and in fixed relation to each other. The use of "e.g." in the specification is to be construed broadly and is used to provide non-limiting examples of embodiments of the disclosure, and the disclosure is not limited to such examples. Uses of "and" and "or" are to be construed broadly (e.g., to be treated as "and/or"). For example and without limitation, uses of "and" do not necessarily require all elements or features listed, and uses of "or" are intended to be inclusive unless such a construction would be illogical.

It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting.

It should be understood that a controller, a system, and/or a processor as described herein may include a conventional processing apparatus known in the art, which may be capable of executing preprogrammed instructions stored in an associated memory, all performing in accordance with the functionality described herein. To the extent that the methods described herein are embodied in software, the resulting software can be stored in an associated memory and can also constitute means for performing such methods. Such a system or processor may further be of the type having both ROM and RAM and/or a combination of non-volatile and volatile (modifiable) memory so that any software may be stored and yet allow storage and processing of dynamically produced data and/or signals.

Claim 1:
An aircraft refueling system (<NUM>), comprising:
a master controller (<NUM>);
a fleet controller (<NUM>) in communication with the master controller (<NUM>);
at least one platform controller (<NUM>) in communication with the fleet controller (<NUM>); and
a fuel control system (<NUM>) in communication with the platform controller (<NUM>), the fuel control system including a primary pressure controller (<NUM>), a secondary pressure controller (<NUM>), a programmable logic controller (<NUM>), and a data logger controller (<NUM>);
characterised in that
the master controller (<NUM>) is configured to receive and analyze data from at least one of the fleet controller (<NUM>), the platform controller (<NUM>), and the fuel control system (<NUM>); and the master controller (<NUM>) is configured to modify operational parameters or upgrade the fuel control system (<NUM>) based at least in part on the analysis of the received data.