Water dispenser control electronics that run the entire machine: a water dispenser control system integrating everything from MDB cashless payment to flow control by flow meter. Designed for any water vending machine or automatic water dispenser, it combines a 19” vending touchscreen with 4G telemetry so that every self-service water machine can be monitored remotely.
The system is based on an ARM architecture running the MQX operating system and drives a 19-inch touchscreen through a dynamic graphical interface built on embedded web technologies.
The platform features Ethernet and 4G, as well as MDB Master functionality for integrating different payment devices, including cashless systems. The volume of water dispensed is controlled by a flow meter, while a float level sensor monitors the waste water collection system.
Automatic dispensing control
The electronics manage the machine's complete operating cycle, coordinating the user's selection, payment validation and the dispensing process.
Once the service has been authorised, the controller activates the relevant components and monitors the volume supplied using the flow meter.
The architecture supports a complete sequence:
- Selection
- Payment
- Authorisation
- Dispensing
- Flow measurement
- Completion
Both the user-facing functions and machine control are thus centralised in a single set of electronics.
Fill control by flow meter
The system uses a flow meter to measure the water supplied during each operation.
The pulses or readings from the sensor are processed by the ARM controller to determine the quantity dispensed and control the end of the filling cycle.
This allows dispensing to be based on measured volume as well as on preset times.
MDB payment device management
The platform includes an MDB Master to manage the payment peripherals connected to the machine.
MDB compatibility makes it easy to integrate the different solutions commonly used in automated machines, so payment devices can be tailored to the requirements of each installation.
The controller centralises communication with these devices and links each payment transaction to the corresponding dispensing cycle.
Cashless payments
MDB compatibility allows cashless payment systems to be integrated, enabling electronic payment solutions on the dispenser.
The system can handle the authorisation process before enabling the water supply, keeping payment and machine control functions coordinated.
This architecture allows payment devices to evolve without a complete redesign of the dispenser's main electronics.
19-inch touchscreen
The machine uses a 19” touchscreen as the main interface between the user and the system.
The screen presents the available options, prices, operating instructions, transaction status, payment information and operating messages graphically.
The large format also makes it easier to deliver a clear, intuitive user experience in self-service installations.
Graphical interface based on embedded web technology
The HMI uses a dynamic graphical interface based on embedded web technologies, separating the visual presentation from the low-level control functions.
This approach simplifies the development and updating of screens, menus, text, graphic elements and the information presented to the user.
It also makes it easier to adapt the interface to different machine configurations, languages, services or corporate branding.
Waste water monitoring
The system includes a float to monitor the level of waste water generated while the machine is operating.
The electronics can detect a maximum-level condition and act according to the configured logic, preventing the machine from continuing to operate when the waste water collection system requires attention.
This information can also be used to generate maintenance warnings or service alarms.
ARM and MQX architecture
The controller is based on an ARM architecture with the MQX RTOS real-time operating system.
The firmware coordinates the machine's different functions: HMI, payment devices, flow meter, sensors, communications and dispensing sequences.
Using an RTOS allows these functions to be structured as independent tasks and ensures controlled behaviour in a machine that has to manage multiple peripherals simultaneously.
Ethernet communications
Ethernet connectivity allows the dispenser to be integrated into a local network infrastructure.
It can be used for maintenance, configuration, diagnostics, updates or communication with external services, depending on the final architecture of the platform.
4G mobile connectivity
Built-in 4G allows machines to be installed in locations with no Ethernet infrastructure available.
Mobile connectivity enables telemetry and remote monitoring functions, allowing the dispenser to communicate with servers or centralised platforms.
Depending on the software implemented, this connection can be used to transmit operating states, alarms, service information or operational data.
Diagnostics and maintenance
Centralising sensors, payments and communications gives the system the ability to monitor a range of operating states.
Where the hardware and firmware have the necessary signals, the controller can detect situations such as dispensing problems, lack of flow, high waste water level, payment device faults or communication failures.
This information makes maintenance easier and helps reduce machine downtime.
Applications
The platform is aimed at automatic water dispensers, pay-per-use water fountains, bottle refill systems, self-service stations and automated liquid dispensing machines.
Its modular architecture also makes it a suitable basis for other machines that need to combine liquid dosing, a touch HMI, payment devices and remote communications.
Technical specifications
| Application | Automatic water dispenser |
|---|---|
| Processor | ARM architecture |
| Operating system | MQX RTOS |
| Display | 19” touchscreen |
| HMI | Embedded web interface |
| Dispensing control | By flow meter |
| Waste water | Float-based monitoring |
| Payment systems | MDB |
| MDB role | Master |
| Cashless | Yes |
| Ethernet | Yes |
| Mobile communications | 4G |
| Operation | Autonomous machine control |
| Remote monitoring | Via network connectivity |
