✅ Patent Strategy V2 — Two-Phase IP Moat
New provisional filing ASAP (V1 expires May 31, 2026) with 72 expanded claims covering single-hopper + liquid CaCl₂ injection architecture, hybrid exchange+dispensing model, weather-responsive pricing, and independent formulation claims 59–64. V1 expires May 2026 → V2 filing ASAP → utility filing ~12 months after. The patent is the moat that makes SaltTap un-cuttable from the Blue Rhino deal.
| Detail | Value |
|---|
| Title | Automated Bulk Granular Dispensing System with Optional Liquid Additive Integration |
| Inventor | Keith Aubin |
| Filing Type | Provisional Patent Application (35 U.S.C. §111(b)) |
| Status | Filed |
| Claims | 72 total claims covering automated dispensing, single-hopper + liquid CaCl₂ injection, hybrid exchange, weather-responsive pricing, seasonal conversion, and independent formulation claims 59–64 |
Abstract
The invention is an automated, self-service system for dispensing bulk granular materials such as de-icing salt, animal feed, or grains. It features one or more independently operable dispensing mechanisms housed in a weather-resistant enclosure, enabling individual or simultaneous multi-user operation. A contactless payment system allows for 24/7 unattended use via tap-to-pay cards or mobile devices. An optional liquid additive injection system can apply agents such as magnesium chloride to improve material performance. Sensors detect container presence and control dispensing to prevent overflow.
Key Claims
- Claim 1: Core system with independent auger-based dispensers, hopper, container sensors, overflow prevention, and payment system
- Claim 2: Dual dispenser configuration for simultaneous multi-user service
- Claim 3: NFC-based contactless payment (credit cards, mobile devices)
- Claim 4: Liquid additive injection system (e.g., magnesium chloride)
- Claim 5: Overflow detection via optical, infrared, or weight-based sensors
- Claim 6: Ground-level refill auger for light-duty equipment
- Claim 7: Wireless telemetry for remote monitoring
- Claim 8: Flexible power (AC, battery, solar, hybrid)
- Claim 9: Alternate use cases (animal feed, food aid with RFID access)
- Claim 10: Modular deployment (shipping container, trailer)
