Method and apparatus for implementing voice over internet protocol in the refueling environment

Abstract

A digital intercom system is integrally provided at each dispenser position of a refueling environment. Each intercom system is enabled for communications with a packet-based network disposed at the service station site. The site operator terminal is similarly equipped with an intercom system that is enabled for communications with the packet-based network, thereby permitting voice communications between the operator terminal and customer. The network is connected to a packet-based network such as a WAN, Internet, or Intranet disposed apart from the refueling site. Remote facilities may access the refueling environment by connecting to the network. In one form, the WAN includes the Internet, the LAN supports Internet Protocol (IP), ATM protocol, or frame relay protocol communications, and both the operator terminal intercom system and the various dispenser intercom systems are so enabled.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.