WO2005036433A1

WO2005036433A1 - Adulteration control system (acs)

Info

Publication number: WO2005036433A1
Application number: PCT/IN2004/000224
Authority: WO
Inventors: Arun Hanumandas Lakhani
Original assignee: Arun Hanumandas Lakhani
Priority date: 2003-08-29
Filing date: 2004-07-28
Publication date: 2005-04-21
Also published as: CA2578823A1

Abstract

An Adulteration Control System to restrain and identify cases of adulteration and provide information on real time basis by way of continuous intelligent interaction between the retail sale point and the dispatch station without human intervention comprising an adulteration control device for retail outlet for reporting to terminal or regional sales office regarding inventory, total fuel dispensed, stock updates and any other relevant data comprising a logic processing unit, a memory unit consisting of electrically erasable and programmable ROM, a real time clock, a crystal for clock generation, a reset unit to provide a power on delayed reset, a communication module with wireless communication support on default and wired communication support as back up, a plurality of input ports including a tank gauging system providing information regarding the volume of the fuel in the tank, a dispensing unit providing the information about the volume dispensed and other additional inputs, LED indicators to show the status of the device, a rectifier to provide the required DC power supply and an inverter with battery back up, all the said parts, the data interfaces and the connectors being arranged on printed circuit boards and kept inside tamper proof boxes.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

1. Title of Invention:

Adulteration Control System "ACS"

2. Field of Invention:

The present invention relates to adulteration control system. The system can be used in any field where problem of mixing / adulteration is encountered. Particularly, so in the field of petroleum products, like mixing of non-standard products in the standard products supplied by petroleum companies. Adulteration is a major problem for these industries. Adulteration Control System ("ACS") addresses this problem comprehensively.

3. Background of the Invention:

The invention addresses the major problems of getting the information about the adulteration instantly i.e. on real time basis and without interference from any human element.

Earlier the adulteration detection was possible only by way of a lucky tip off or by way of reconciling historical data. The historical data can be and is manipulated by the interested parties and therefore the action could not be taken. Hence, no effective real time adulteration control system exists currently.

The invention addresses these problems and informs the concerned official(s) instantly, if there is any adulteration material added to the storage tanks, and this it does without any human intervention, thus addressing the most difficult hurdles of human manipulation, and timely information.

4. Objects of Invention:

The principle object of the present invention is to restrain and identify cases of adulteration by way of continuously monitoring the storage tanks at the retail outlet by way of tank gauging system for volume, temperature & density. The data thus obtained is then compared with the dispatch data available in the depot / terminal of the oil company. The comparison of these data identifies instantaneously cases of adulteration without human participation and on real time basis and provide information to concerned officials / persons on real time basis by way of continuous intelligent interaction between the retail sale point and the dispatch station using convergence of, instrumentation, software, hardware telecommunication technologies to achieve the desired results and keep the system functional on real time basis devoid of any human intervention thus eliminating possibility of tampering & manipulations. The invention helps the user of the system in doing the following tasks and achieves the desired results;

a) To reconcile all the receipts at the Retail end with the Dispatch Station on real time basis and to generate alerts for any mismatch, and send it to the specified recipients. b) To interface with the system software of the dispatch location and process necessary information for alerts / data logging. c) To log - process the sales, inventory and any other data at the retail end. d) To generate randomly passwords on daily basis for preventing tampering. e) To deploy various methods to keep the system tamper proof and maintain the integrity. f) To have a pollution free environment by way of providing standard fuels to motor vehicles. g) To get better efficiencies for motor vehicles by way of providing standard fuels. h) To be a cost effective solution for adulteration control, i) To communicate the adulteration alerts on real time basis, j) To take in following inputs: i) Multiple tanks input to Communication Port via Tank Processing Unit, this will be protocol-based communication. Communication Unit can pull the information based on inventory from the required tank by sending the respective command to the Tank Processing Unit. ii) Electronic Dispensing Unit Interface with the Communication Unit is enabled via Volume Pulser Output, iii) Inputs from sources measuring Temperature, Density etc., can be captured and processed by the Communication Unit. k) To give out following Outputs: i) A wireless alert is to be sent to the Depot whenever there is input to the Tank, ii) A wired alert to follow, if the receipt of the wireless alert is not received in a specified time, iii) The log is maintained on event basis as well as set time frequency basis, iv) The logs to be sent to the Depot Module once every 24 hours or on a preset time frequency, v) Logging Unit will maintain log back up for any desired number of hours, vi) Dispensing Unit readings will be sent to the control station on a preset time frequency, vii) Depot Module will generate acknowledgement for every wireless data received, viii) Power failure alert will be sent to the communication number whenever power is restored. 1) To process the following at the Dispatch Station: i) To analyze data, ii) To reconcile data. iii) To generate MIS (Management Information System) Reports, iv) To interface with Database & Authentication Modules, v) To generate various reports like:

Tank Inventory, Accumulated Grade Totals, Tank Delivery, Dispensers Total Reconciliation, Tank Variance, Site Statistics & Summary, Site Configuration, Tank Reconciliation History, Alert Raised, Customized reports can be added, if required. m) To authenticate every data retrieved or collected from the RO Module and then send for further processing & to change random password of communication and communicate to all the retail points.

5. A Summary of Invention:

The Invention aims to restrain and identify cases of adulteration and provide information to concerned officials / persons on real time basis by way of continuous intelligent interaction between the Retail Sale Point and the Dispatch Station using convergence of instrumentation, software, hardware telecommunication technologies to achieve the desired results and keep the system functional on real time basis devoid of any human intervention thus eliminating possibility of tampering and manipulations.

Typically, the Gasoline/HSD/LDO all petroleum product selling units are known as Retail Outlets / Gas Stations / Petrol Pumps etc.

The adulteration occurs at these places by way of addition of non-standard fuel to the storage tank, which is later on dispensed through the Dispensing Unit to the vehicles, which come for refueling.

In principle the adulterant has to go through the storage tanks to be sold to the customer. Hence, we propose to control these tanks by way of convergence technologies (Software, Instrumentation, Telecommunication etc.) and by connecting them with the Dispatch Station / Dispatch Location System on real time basis to detect any non-standard product coming from the illegal source.

"ACS" System has 2 (Two) Modules, RO Installation Module and Dispatch Station Module.

RO Module:

RO Module consist of "ACD-R" used for reporting of data to Terminal / Regional Sales Office, data such as inventory, total fuel dispensed, stock updates and any other data required to be collected and compared with the data at the Dispatch Location. Data is logged and transmitted to Dispatch Station Modules using "ACD-R" which can use a variety of communication channels including but not limited to GSM, CDMA, TDMA, PSTN, Leased lines, VSAT, RF networks etc.,

Dispatch Station Module:

Dispatch Station Module consists of an "ACD-D". ACD-D is made up of two modules ACD-D Hardware and ACD-D Software used for processing inputs from ACD-R intelligently and sending real time alerts, in case of adulteration detection, logging of data, reconciliation and MIS reports.

6. Detailed description of the Invention with reference to the figure(s)/ Drawings:

The Invention aims to restrain and identify cases of adulteration and provide information to concerned officials / persons on real time basis by way of continuous intelligent interaction between the Retail Sale Point and the Dispatch Station using convergence of instrumentation, software, hardware telecommunication technologies to achieve the desired results and keep the system functional on real time basis devoid of any human intervention thus eliminating possibility of tampering & manipulations.

Typically, the Gasoline/HSD/LDO/all petroleum product selling units are known as Retail Outlets / Gas Station / Petrol Pumps etc.

In principle, the adulterant has to go through the storage tanks to be sold to the customer. Hence, we propose to control these tanks by way of convergence technologies (Software, Instrumentation, Telecommunication etc.,) and by connecting them with the Dispatch Station / Dispatch Location System on real time basis to detect any non-standard product coming from the illegal source.

ACS System has 2 (two) Modules, RO Installation Module and Dispatch Station Module. RO module:

RO module consist of ACD-R used for reporting of data to Terminal / Regional Sales Office, data such as inventory, total fuel dispensed, stock updates and any other data required to be collected and compared with the data at the Dispatch Location. Data is logged and transmitted to Dispatch Station modules using ACD- R, which can use a variety of communication channels including but not limited to GSM, CDMA, TDMA, PSTN, Leased lines, VSAT, RF networks etc.

Dispatch Station Module:

Dispatch Station Module consists of an ACD-D used for processing inputs from ACD-R intelligently and sending real time alerts in case of adulteration detection, logging of data, reconciliation and MIS reports.

According to this invention Adulteration Control System consists of convergence of technologies like instrumentation, software, hardware, telecommunication etc.

The Figure / Drawing No.l shows an overview of the Adulteration Control System characterized in that is a Retail Outlet, Dispatch Station, Sales Offices, and the Officers on the field moving.

As shown in the Figure / Drawing No.l, Box No.l shows the components of Retail Outlet. The underground tanks are shown as 1.1 and the gauging probes as 1.2. These probes are mounted on the tanks. The probes send the data about the levels (volume) and temperature. If required, additional probes can be put for density etc., and the data can be sent to ACD-R.

As shown in the Figure / Drawing No.l, the Dispensing Units are shown as 1.4. From the Dispensing Unit with electronic output or equipped with a device which converts mechanical to electronic pulse, electronic output is taken by cable to the ACD-R to register the sales as shown in the figure. The 1.2 (probes) and 1.4 (DU's) are connected to ACD-R as shown in the Figure / Drawing No. 1 as 1.6 by the cabling shown as 1.3. ACD-R 1.6 is installed within the office premise 1.5 as shown in the Figure. 1.7 represents the telecommunication medium (GSM, CDMA, VHF, UHF, VSAT, PSTN or any other available medium). ACD-R also comprises of data logger, real time clock, a battery back up and inverter and the communication modem for various types of wireless and wired telecommunications, which communicates with ACD-D as shown in the figure.

By way of 1.7, the ACD-R communicates with 2.3 - ACD-D in Box No.2 as shown in the Figure / Drawing No.l which is the Dispatch Station location arrangement. Here the ACD-D is shown as 2.3 which is connected to 2.2 which is ACD-D Software Server, which in turn is connected to the Server of the client ACD-D as shown in the figure has modules like Authentication Module, MIS Module, Data Base Interface and Communication Module. After receiving the data from the ACD-R, ACD-D intelligently processes the data and decides either to send an alert or log it as regular data. The communication process from ACD-D is shown in the figure, as it receives, asks ACD-R data, it compares it with the ERP System - Enterprise Reporting Process of the client, and then sends alerts in the form of SMS, Fax, IVRS call etc.

As shown in the Figure / Drawing No.l, 2.3 ACD-D communicates the alerts / data to the Box No.3 which is user box as alerts in 3.1 by wireless mode or as email / fax communication in 3.2.

A physical diagram / details are shown in Figure / Drawing No.5 including a sample alert for the field officers in case of any adulteration on real time anywhere anytime basis.

RO Module as shown in Figure / Drawing No. 2 & 3.

The following are the three major components of the RO Module.

Tank Gauging System:

Tank Gauging System, which provides digital output of inventory or other source of information, can be connected to ACD-R using intrinsically safe boxes. The ACD-R collects every stock in and out of tank for data logging or initiating alerts. Dispensing Unit Integration:

ACD-R can be interfaced directly with electronic dispensers to automatically access metered sales information. This data is used for reconciliation of volume reports like short deliveries, leak detection etc.

Adulteration Control Device for Retail end "ACD-R":

ACD-R is the heart of the system. It takes inputs from tanks and multiple dispensing units as well as the tank gauging system and is capable of interfacing with any other modules like POS (Point of Sale System). It is equipped with more than 3 (three) types of communication ports.

Inputs:

■ Multiple tank inputs to communication port via tank processing unit. This will be protocol-based communication. ACD-R can pull the information based on inventory from the required tank by sending the respective command to the tank-processing unit.

^■ Electronic Dispensing Unit interface with the ACD-R is enabled via volume pulse output.

■ Inputs from sources measuring temperature, density etc., can also be captured and processed by the ACD-R.

Outputs:

■ The communication port is capable of transmitting wireless data / alerts to Dispatch Station Head Office for further processing, using ACD-R which can use a variety of communication channels including but not limited to GSM, CDMA, TDMA, PSTN, Leased lines, VSAT, RF networks etc.

■ ACD-R communicates with dispensers, tank probes and other electronic devices in the network. If the input data reveals a situation requiring urgent investigation or action e.g. inventory update, power off, pumps off-line, possible leakage, etc., the ACD-R can automatically send alerts to the Dispatch Station Module. Features of ACD-R as shown in Figure / Drawing No. 2 & 3:

A wireless alert is to be sent to the Dispatch Station whenever there is input to the tank. A wired alert to follow, if the receipt of the wireless alert is not received in a specified time. The log is maintained on event basis as well as set time frequency basis. The logs to be sent to the Dispatch Station Module once every 24 hours or on a preset time frequency. Logging unit will maintain 24 hours sent log back up for any desired number of hours. Dispensing Unit readings will be sent to the control station on a preset time frequency. Dispatch Station Module will generate acknowledgement for every wireless date received. Power failure alert will be sent to the communication number whenever power is restored.

Figure / Drawing No.2 shows the Adulteration Control Device for Retail Outlet "ACD-R" in a construction diagram. This diagram describes the components in the communication unit, component details and how components work together is also explained.

The present invention of Adulteration Control Device for Retail end comprises of the following components;

a) Rectifier as shown in Figure No. 2(1). The device converts alternating current / voltage into pulsating direct current / voltage, arranged on a board within a tamper proof box. It connects to the power system of the ACD-R. b) Battery Backup with Inverter as shown in Figure No. 2(2) provides power backup of 2 (two) hours & is provided with inverter. It connects to the Power system of the ACD-R with an automatic switching in case of power failure. c) Crystals shown in Figure No. 2(3) are connected to logic processing unit and real time clock unit. d) Real Time Clock shown in Figure No. 2(4) is arranged on a board, The DS1307 Serial Real-Time Clock is a low-power, full binary-coded decimal (BCD) clock/calendar plus 56 bytes of NV SRAM. Address and data are transferred serially via a 2-wire, bi-directional bus. The clock/calendar provides seconds, minutes, hours, day, date, month, and year information. The end of the month date is automatically adjusted for months with fewer than 31 days, including corrections for leap year. The clock operates in either the 24-hour or 12-hour format with AM/PM indicator. The DS1307 has a built-in power sense circuit that detects power failures and automatically switches to the battery supply. e) Reset Unit - shown in Figure No. 2(5) resets the Communication Unit. It provides power-supply malfunction exception and a guaranteed power-up reset delay, while typically consuming l/27th the power from a +5V supply. It monitors the power supply in communication unit. The device offers excellent circuit reliability and low cost by eliminating external components and adjustments. f) Communication Module shown in Figure No. 2(6) arranged on a board within a tamperproof box provides default support for available wireless network (GSM, CDMA, RHF, VHF, VSAT, SATPHONE etc.) with PSTN line / leased line as backup. g) Logic Processing Unit - (LPU) shown in Figure No. 2(7) arranged on a board within a tamperproof box. The LPU is a low-power micro-controller. By executing powerful instructions in a single clock cycle, the device optimizes power consumption versus processing speed. h) Memory Unit - MU shown in Figure No. 2(8) arranged on a board within a tamperproof box, the device provides electrically erasable and programmable read only memory (EEPROM). The device's cascadable feature allows number of devices to share a common 2-wire bus. The device is optimized for use in circuits like communication units, where low power and low voltage operation are essential. i) Data Interfaces (DI)- shown in Figure No. 2(9) arranged on a board within a tamperproof box. The DI is intended for RS232 or other form of input communications interfaces, particularly applications where ±12V is not available. These parts are especially useful in battery-powered systems, since their low- power shutdown mode reduces power dissipation to less than 5μW. j) DU Connectors/ Additional inputs shown in Figure No. 2(10) arranged on a board within a tamperproof box RS232 / other data format input connectors are provided for interfacing dispensing unit and additional inputs like temperature control, densitometer, etc. can be picked up by the unit, k) Probe or Volume Processing Connectors shown in Figure No. 2(11) arranged on a board within a tamperproof box RS232 / other data format connector is provided for interfacing volume processing unit or probes. 1) LED Indicators shown in Figure No. 2(12) arranged on a board within a tamperproof box showing outside, LED indicates status and processing happening inside the Communication Unit, m) Tank input ports shown in Figure No. 2(13) arranged on a board within a tamperproof box. Tank input ports can take the direct input from the probe with RS232 / other data format standard or an input from the volume-processing unit, n) Dispensing Unit Input shown in Figure No. 2(14) arranged on a board within a tamperproof box. This is input from dispensing unit or additional devices like temperature control, densitometer etc.

All of the components are arranged on PCB (Printed Circuit Board) shown in Figure No.2 within a tamperproof box. The heart of Communication Unit is Logic Processing Unit (LPU). Every input from the peripheral components is processed by LPU.

Event/Time based behavior:

The system is Event / Time based i.e. every action or processing starts as response to Events / Time Schedule. The following are some of the event / time schedules which when triggers, action is taken by the Integrated Circuit (IC).

■ Tank event: Input to the tank or output from the tank causes this event and as a response event is logged or alert is sent.

■ DU event: Whenever preset time is crossed, this event is fired and as a response the readings are logged.

■ Timeouts: Timeouts for log sending is event that is responded by sending all the logs. ^■ Request: Any request from remote system is event that is responded by fulfilling that request.

Configuration of Communication Unit:

Configuration can be done locally as well as remotely. Remote system or the Site Engineer can also configure the Configuration Unit with the help of protocols.

Currently proposed configurable parameters are to which many other can be added, if required. -

^■ Tanks. ^■ Dispensing Units. ^■ Additional Inputs. ^■ Log sending time. ^■ Exception sending time. ■ Slab Interval for tank gauging. ■ Polling time intervals for gathering reading from Tanks / DU's / Addl. Inputs. ■ Admin PIN. ^■ User PIN. ^■ Communication number of remote system.

Typically, but not limiting to. Communication Unit sends data packets for every.

Fuel addition. Sending sales log to remote system. Sending DU Log. Sending Exception Log. Requesting current tank reading & responding tank reading. Requesting DU reading & responding DU reading. Configuration Request (ADMIN ONLY). Sending backup sales log. Sending backup sending DU Log.

The data packet typically but not limited to contains: Data Packet includes - Request a) Header having information about the configuration request.

Data Packet includes - Response a) Header having information about the enclosed data. b) Response code. c) Tanks. d) Tank codes. e) Dispensing Units. f) Additional inputs. g) Log sending time. h) Exception sending time. i) Slab interval for tank gauging. j) Polling time intervals for gathering reading from Tanks / DU's / Addl. Inputs, k) Admin PIN. 1) User PIN. m) Communication number of remote system.

Figure / Drawing No.3, shows Adulteration Control Device for Retail Outlet ACD-R in a block diagram.

At the retail outlet there are underground storage tanks equipped with Tank Gauging System. This system gives output in electronic standard forms, which is carried to the ACD-R through the cable. The diagram shows the ports for Tank Inputs, which is routed through Volume Processing Unit.

Similarly there are Dispensing Units to dispense the product to customers, from the Dispensing Unit with electronic output or equipped with a device which converts mechanical to electronic pulse, electronic output is taken by cable to the ACD-R to register the sales as shown in the figure, the third port for dispensing unit inputs which goes to the DU interfacing unit. Any other inputs like temperature, density from the storage tanks can be taken up through additional input port.

The processed output from these units go to the Logic Processing Unit which in turn is connected to data logger, real time clock, a battery back up and inverter and the communication modem for various type of wireless and wired telecommunications.

Adulteration Control Device for Dispatch Station "ACD-D" (Dispatch Station Module):

The present invention of Adulteration Control Device for Dispatch Station end comprises of the following components;

1. ACD-D Hardware 2. ACD-D Software

Figure / Drawing No.4, shows Adulteration Control Device for Dispatch Station ACD-D in constructional diagram.

ACD-D Hardware part comprises of following components:

(a) Logic Processing Hardware is in the chip arranged on a PCB arranged on a board within a tamper proof box. It connects to Figure No. 4(7.2) communication ports and Figure No. 4(7.3) wireless network input port, it also connects to the 7.4 PSTN network in port (back up for the wireless) as shown in the Figure 4(7.5 & 7.6) are the Personal Computer (PC) - output ports. Whereas Figure No. 4(7.7) is a Rectifier as shown in the figure. The rectifier converts alternating current / voltage into pulsating direct current / voltage arranged on a board within a tamper proof box, it connects to the power system of the ACD-D.

(b) Battery Backup with Inverter as shown in Figure No. 4(7.11) provides power backup of 2 hours & is provided with Inverter. It connects to the Power System of the ACD-R with an automatic switching in case of power failure.

(c) Real Time Clock - shown in Figure No. 4(7.10) is arranged on a board, the DS1307 Serial Real Time Clock is a low power, full binary-coded decimal (BCD) clock calendar plus 56 bytes of NV SRAM. Address and data are transferred serially via a 2-wire, bi-directional bus. The clock/calendar provides seconds, minutes, hours, day, date, month and year information. The end of the month date is automatically adjusted for months with fewer than 31 days, including corrections for leap year. The clock operates in either the 24-hour or 12-hour format with AM PM indicator. The DS1307 has a built-in power sense circuit that detects power failures and automatically switches to the battery supply.

(d) Reset Unit - shown in Figure No. 4(7.9) resets the communication unit. It provides power- supply malfunction exception and a guaranteed power-up reset delay, while typically consuming l/27th the power from a +5V supply. It monitors the power supply in Communication Unit. The device offers excellent circuit reliability and low cost by eliminating external components and adjustments.

(e) Communication Module shown in Figure No. 4(7.8) arranged on a board within a tamperproof box provides default support for available wireless network (GSM / CDMA / RHF / VHF / VSAT / SATPHONE etc.) with PSTN line / leased line as backup.

The ACD-D Software part consists of software within the server having;

■ Existing Database System. ■ Database interface layer. ■ Local database (ACD-D). ■ Management Information System. ■ Authentication Model. ■ Communication Unit Interface layer. ■ ACD-D Communication hardware unit

The communication modem picks up the data from ACD-R and sends it to the authentication module through which it is routed to the database interface where it intelligently fires the required queries and processes the data after which it communicates to the MIS Module and the Communication Modem for required action. This module is deployed at Dispatch Station for data analysis, data reconciliation and MIS reports. This module has four sub modules; a) Communication server. b) MIS (Management information system) c) Authentication module d) Database interface

Refer to annexed Dispatch Station Module Integration Diagram - Figure No.4.

(a) Communication Server:

Communication Server installed at Dispatch Station collects data from remote RO's having an ACS system. Communication Server collects data from each RO through the ACS system installed. All alerts are forwarded to respective recipients. By default, the Communication Server is configured for GSM as primary network and PSTN as backup, but can be configured for other wireless networks like CDMA, TDMA, VSAT, RF networks etc.

(b) MIS (Management Information System):

Following type of analysis, data reconciliation is done using this module, the reports produced by the system include;

Tank Inventory Accumulated Grade Totals Tank Delivery Dispenser Total Reconciliation Tank Variance Site Statistics & Summary Site Configuration Tank Reconciliation History Alert Raised Customized reports can be added, if required.

(c) Authentication Module:

This module permits only authenticate users to logon the system, every data retrieved or collected from the RO module is first authenticated and then it is send for further processing. The modules are responsible for changing the password of ACD-R all across RO randomly.

(d) Database Interface:

This module is responsible for retrieving or collecting the required data from the existing Dispatch Station database server. The data retrieved by the database interface layer is read only data, i.e., no updates or changes are made to the Dispatch Station database.

ACD-D Software:

This document describes the modules in the ACD-D Software; it explains every module and their functionality in brief.

ACD-D is divided in two parts.

1. ACD-D Software 2. ACD-D Hardware

ACD-D Software works in synergy with ACD-D Hardware. Every data received from Retail Outlet is collected by ACD-D Hardware, which sends this data for processing to ACD-D Software. This document describes about the ACD-D Software part.

ACD-D Software modules: ACD-D consists of mainly three modules.

1. ACD-D Client & ACD-D message processor. 2. Management Information System. 3. Communication Unit Interface Layer.

1. ACD-D Client & ACD-D Message Processor:

ACD-D Client provides the way to the user to interact with ACD-D system. Logically client is divided into two modules user authentication & authorization and user interface for activities. The details of each module are given below; User authentication & authorization:

This module will authenticate the user during log on and authorizes the user for the set privileges. The module provides the facility to create the users. As per requirement the privileges of the users can be altered. Log is maintained to keep track of all the users who use the system. In short following functions are taken care by the module.

^■ Authenticating and authorizing users ■ Creating and altering users ^■ Maintaining log of activities ^■ User interface for activities

The various activities that can occur during usage are grouped into two. Activities related to data and activities related to communication.

Client PC is provided with the required data entry screens to maintain the master and transaction data, which includes:

Depot/Terminal details. Personnel data. Product details. Retail Outlet details. ACD-R configuration details. Retail Outlet-wise tank details. Retail Outlet-wise dispensing unit data Retail Outlet configuration data. Retail Outlet-wise dispatches.

Client PC also includes the screens to communicate with Retail Outlets. It is possible to make the request for following details;

■ Current ACD-R configuration ■ Modify ACD-R configuration ■ Current Dispensing Unit reading ■ Current tank reading ^■ Request for backup logs ACD-D Message Processor:

This is a background process that doesn't need any user interaction. At Retail Outlets ACD-R are configured to send data messages to terminal / depot. ACD-D Message Processor is responsible for parsing these messages and store in database. The various data messages that need to be parsed are as follows:

Fuel addition. Sales Log. Backup Sales Log. DU Log. Backup DU Log. Request Sales Log. Request DU Log. Exception Log. Backup exception Log. Configuration.

The Message Processor keeps on looking for non-conformance against fuel addition message data and invoiced data for the Retail Outlet. On non-conformance, the alert will be generated. Alert will be communicated to concerned person.

To protect the tampering of ACD-R Message Processor will generate the random password. Every week new password will be remotely configured.

In addition to activities mentioned above Message Processor archives the data every day for last seven days safeguarding against loss of data.

In short the Message Processor will carry out following activities;

■ Retail Outlet message data parsing. ■ Non-conformance alert. ■ Archiving log data. ■ New password configuration. 2. Management Information System (MIS):

The data received from each of the RO can be analyzed for different purposes using MIS Module. Data reconciliation is also available for dispensing units. The below mentioned MIS is available in Data report format and different chart format.

Retail Outlet-wise Tank Analysis:

The analysis can be done on tanks / products. This analysis is based on the data collected from the Retail Outlets. If tank data is not available for the particular day due to some unexpected reasons, then the reading for that day will be treated as reading with exceptions, so that the correct analysis can be possible on the available data.

Variance Report - Dispensers vs. Tank:

ACD-D automatically gathers information from the meter readings, deliveries from the dispensing unit and daily sales from the tank. It reconciles the total at the end of the day. Variance report shows sudden losses and short deliveries from the dispensing unit.

Variance Report - Dispatches vs. Receipt:

It is possible to capture information on the dispatches, but the option of integrating with the existing system is also available (as most of the terminals have their own dispatching software). Every dispatches of the product to retail outlet will reply back with the automatic receipt. This report can display any non-conformance, if found in the dispatches and receipt.

Alert raised:

If there is non-conformance in dispatches and receipt, then software will send alert in the form of wireless data messages / e-mail / fax to the configured recipient in the database. Every time the alert is send, it will be logged by the system. This report will help user in tracking, when the alert was raised, to which concerned officer the alert was sent, etc. Exception raised:

Every exceptions like dispensing unit not responding, tank gauging probe not responding or frequent power failure etc., are reported to ACD-D software by the (ACD-R) communication unit installed at Retail Outlet. This expectation data collected can be used for exception analysis.

Retail Outlet details:

If required, it is possible to get the information on the owner name, address, site address, latest stock, numbers of tanks and dispensing unit connected.

Retail Outlet configuration:

This will display the configuration of Communication Unit (ACD-R) installed at the Retail Outlet. Here, user can see the latest configuration and can change it remotely on just pressing of the button.

3. Communication Unit Interface Layer:

The Communication Unit Interface Layer (CUIL) handles the hardware interfacing with the ACD-D hardware. Advantage of this layer is that it is scalable to cope up with communication traffic; this is possible due to modem pool solution. It is reliable as the system hardware is backed with battery and inverter, which doesn't lead to any data losses. It handles below mention functions.

Receive message from Retail Outlets:

Messages are collected form every Retail Outlet, and are stored in the received message queue; this queue is then processed by ACD-D software. Every message is processed on the First In First Out (FIFO) principle.

Send alerts to personnel:

An alert that has to be sent to concerned personnel will be sent using this feature. Send messages to Retail Outlet:

■ Messages that have to be sent to concerned Retail Outlet will be sent using this feature. ■ Maintain in/out message log with date/time stamp. ^■ Every message received and sent is logged with the time stamp as history of data. ■ Modem stack support. ■ Scale up option to cope up with communication traffic. ■ Backup support for PSTN line.

If primary communication link fails, then this layer will automatically shift to backup support of PSTN line. This will help the system to work round the clock.

Configuration of Communication Server User Interface:

This is used to configure the ACD-D hardware. Parameter required for communication between ACD-D software and hardware can be configured using this feature.

Communication log status:

Pending or not communicated message status can be found using this feature.

Overall description of the operations of the system is as described in Figure / Drawing

No. 5.

The Figure / Drawing No.5 shows an overview of the Adulteration Control System characterized in that is a Retail Outlet Module, Dispatch Station Module, Sales Offices, the Officers and the alert messages on the field.

The Retail Outlet Module as shown in 1 of Figure No.5 consists of ACD-R connected to the underground tank gauging system and the dispensing units as shown in 1 of Figure No.5. Functioning:

At the time of any input to the underground storage tank, the probes therein records the required information like level, density, temperature etc. and sends it across to the ACD-R device installed in the RO office.

Similarly, when any sales takes place, the sales volume and amount is sent to the ACD-R by the dispensing units via the cables shown in the figure.

ACD-R processes the data further and sends it to the communication modem of the Dispatch Station Module shown as 2 in the Figure No.5.

The Dispatch Station Module shown as 2 in the Figure No.5 consists of ACD-D, Database Interface Module, Authentication Module and MIS Module.

The Dispatch Station Module on receipt of the information from the ACD-R processes it further and seeks from the ERP system of the company verification of the receipt at the RO by way of dispatch details.

If the said quantity of the said quality has been dispatched to the said RO then the system logs the dispatch in its database. However, if there is a mismatch in quantity or quality of the product dispatched and the product received at the Retail Outlet, then an alert by way of SMS / Fax / E-mail is sent to various officers at various sites as shown in 3 of the Figure No.5.

Claims

I Claim: -

1. An adulteration control system to restrain and identify cases of adulteration and provide information on real time basis by way of alerts generated by way of continuous intelligent wireless / wired interaction between dispatch station and retail outlets. The real time reconciliation of dispatches from depot & receipts at retail outlet without human intervention / interference generates automatic alerts for the concerned officials by way of wireless / wired communication , comprising an adulteration control device for retail outlet for reporting to terminal/ Regional office on real time basis receipts details like type of fuel received, quantity, quality like density, temp, and time of receipt. . Also the data regarding inventory, quantity data about product received total fuel dispensed, slock updates and any other relevant data comprising a logic processing unit, a memory unit consisting of electrically erasable and pre-programmed program able ROM, a real time clock, a crystal for clock-generation, a reset unit to provide a power on delayed reset, a communication module with wireless communication support on default and wired communication support as back up, a plurality of input ports including a tank gauging system providing information regarding the volume of the fuel in the tank, a dispensing unit providing ihc information about the volume dispensed and other additional inputs, LED indicators to show the status of the device, a rectifier to provide the required DC power supply and an inverter with battery back up, all the said parts, the data interfaces and the connectors being arranged on printed circuit boards and kepr inside tamper proof boxes,

(§) An adulteration control device for dispatch station receiving information by wireless and wired way for processing inputs from different retail outlets, like quantity received, quantity of the product received, time of receipt etc. & intelligently reconciling it with actual dispatch details on real time basis without any human intervention and sending real time alert in case of adulteration detection, logging of data, reconciliation producing and MIS reports comprising a logic processing unit, a memory unit consisting of electrically erasable and preprogrammed programmable ROM, a real time clock, a crystal for clock generation, a reset unit to provide a power on delayed reset, a communication module with wireless & wired communication support on default and wired communication support as back up, a rectifier to provide the required DC power supply and an inverter with battery back up; all the said parts, the data interfaces and the connectors being arranged on printed circuit boards and kept inside tamper proof boxes, a tailor made software within a server having an existing data base system, database interface layer, local database, management information system, authentication module and a communication unit interface layer to carry out the required job.

"2- An adulteration control system as claimed in Claim 1 where in the logic processing units are low-power micro controllers.

j . An adulteration control system as claimed in Claim 1 where in the wireless communication support is based on GSM / CDMA / RHF / VHF / VSAT / SATPHONE./ any other mode available.

A. An adulteration control system as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the wired communication back up PSTN / Other line is available.

g. An adulteration control system as claimed in Claim I where in the alerts are in the form of SMS, FAX /mail/voice/Any other mode of communication.

g. An adulteration control system as claimed in Claim 1 where in the other additional inputs include density of the fuel and temperature of the tank &the time of receipt, & any other data made available to it ^j.. An adulteration control system as claimed in Claim 1 where in the depot system also polls periodically & keeps a check on functional health of all the retail outlet system connected to it and generals and sends all the required reports / alerts to various officers.

β. An adulteration control system substantially described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.