Multifunctional intelligent meter reading device

Abstract

A multifunctional intelligent meter reading device comprises a meter reading module and a switching module. The meter reading module comprises a shell and an image acquisition unit. The image acquisition unit is arranged in the shell, and the first surface of the shell is provided with a first hole corresponding to the image acquisition unit in position and an annular part surrounding the first hole. The switching module is provided with a central channel and an adhesion surface. The adhesion surface is arranged at one end of the switching module, and the other end of the switching module is detachably arranged on the annular part. And the switching module is fixed on the target energy meter through the adhesion surface, so that the central channel is communicated with the first hole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a watch reading device, and more particularly to a multifunctional intelligent watch reading device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, a large number of buildings still use traditional mechanical or electronic energy meters, such as water meters, electricity meters, gas meters, and pressure gauges.

[0003] To achieve automatic meter reading, users need to replace all traditional energy meters with smart meters. However, the implementation cost of the above solution is extremely high. In addition to the purchase cost of the smart meters themselves, users also need to bear the costs of dismantling and installation, pipeline or wiring modifications, and indirect losses caused during production stoppages or shutdowns.

[0004] Users can also add external devices such as image capture equipment or sensor modules to the existing energy meter to achieve reading recognition and transmission without modifying it. However, these traditional energy meters may have different shapes and requirements. Therefore, the above solution requires redesigning the structure of the external device for energy meters of different types, sizes, and installation environments, resulting in a significant increase in mold manufacturing and R&D costs, keeping the overall cost high. Therefore, this solution still cannot meet the needs of practical applications. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one embodiment of this application, a multifunctional smart meter reading device is proposed, which includes a meter reading module and a conversion module. The meter reading module includes a housing and an image acquisition unit. The image acquisition unit is disposed inside the housing, and the first surface of the housing has a first hole corresponding to the position of the image acquisition unit and an annular portion surrounding the first hole. The conversion module has a central channel and an adhesive surface. The adhesive surface is disposed at one end of the conversion module, and the other end of the conversion module is detachably disposed on the annular portion. The conversion module is fixed to the target energy meter by the adhesive surface, so that the central channel and the first hole are interconnected.

[0006] In one embodiment, the meter reading module further includes a processing unit and a communication unit. The image acquisition unit acquires images of the reading area of ​​the target energy meter through the first aperture and the central channel. The processing unit analyzes the images to generate reading data and transmits the reading data to an external device via the communication unit.

[0007] In one embodiment, the cross-section of the adapter module is circular or rectangular.

[0008] In one embodiment, the adapter module has at least two fixing plates. The two fixing plates are disposed around the periphery of the adapter module, and each fixing plate has at least one screw hole.

[0009] In one embodiment, the cross-sectional area of ​​the adapter module gradually increases from the side of the adapter module closest to the housing to the other side of the adapter module.

[0010] In one embodiment, the second surface of the housing has a second hole corresponding to the position of the image acquisition unit and a cover. The second surface is opposite to the first surface, and the cover is rotatably fixed to the housing and covers the second hole.

[0011] In one embodiment, the smart meter reader further includes an extension module. The extension module replaces the adapter module and includes a U-shaped extension frame and an extension plate. The two ends of the U-shaped extension frame are rotatably fixed to the sides of the housing, while the fixed end of the extension plate is fixed to the middle portion of the U-shaped extension frame. The extension plate is used to fix the device to the target energy meter.

[0012] In one embodiment, the smart meter reader further includes an extension module. The extension module replaces the adapter module and includes a U-shaped extension frame, an extension plate, and a retaining ring. The two ends of the U-shaped extension frame are rotatably fixed to the sides of the housing, and the fixed end of the extension plate is fixed to the middle portion of the U-shaped extension frame. The extension plate is used to fix itself to the target energy meter. The free end of the extension plate includes two fixed wings. Each fixed wing includes a support portion and a mounting portion. The support portion is connected to the free end of the extension plate. The mounting portion is connected to the support portion, and there is an angle of not equal to 90 degrees between the mounting portion and the support portion. The retaining ring passes through the mounting portion of each fixed wing to fix itself to the two fixed wings, creating a distance between the retaining ring and the housing. The retaining ring is used to fix itself to the target energy meter.

[0013] In one embodiment, each fixed wing has a fixing hole, and a fixing ring passes through the fixing hole of each fixed wing to fix the fixing ring to the two fixed wing.

[0014] In one embodiment, the housing further includes a transparent plate. The transparent plate is disposed over the first hole to close the first hole.

[0015] As described above, the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the embodiments of this application may have one or more of the following advantages: (1) In one embodiment of this application, the smart meter reading device includes a meter reading module and a converter module. The meter reading module includes a housing and an image acquisition unit. The image acquisition unit is disposed inside the housing, and the first surface of the housing has a first hole corresponding to the position of the image acquisition unit and an annular portion surrounding the first hole. The converter module has a central channel and an adhesive surface. The adhesive surface is disposed at one end of the converter module, and the other end of the converter module is detachably disposed on the annular portion. The converter module is fixed to the target energy meter through the adhesive surface, so that the central channel and the first hole are interconnected. As can be seen from the above, the housing of the smart meter reading device has an annular portion, which can be used to house the converter module, so that the smart meter reading device can be fixed to the target energy meter through the converter module. In addition, the converter module is detachably disposed on the annular portion, so the converter module can be replaced according to different needs. Through the above modular converter structure design, users can flexibly replace the corresponding converter module according to different energy meter models without redesigning or adjusting the meter reading device structure for different meter bodies. Therefore, smart meter reading devices can achieve high versatility, which greatly reduces the installation costs and complexity caused by differences in meter specifications, making smart meter reading devices more widely used.

[0016] (2) In one embodiment of this application, the smart meter reading device has a modular adapter structure design, which can be directly installed on various different energy meters through the adapter module without replacing the original energy meter. Therefore, the user does not need to bear the disassembly and installation work, pipeline or line modification, nor does he / she need to bear the indirect losses caused by production stoppage or shutdown. Therefore, the smart meter reading device can achieve high practicality and meet the needs of actual applications.

[0017] (3) In one embodiment of this application, the smart meter reader has a modular adapter structure design. Its adapter module can be directly installed on various energy meters using non-invasive methods such as adhesives, without drilling or damaging the existing structure of the energy meter, thus ensuring that the original waterproof sealing of the energy meter is not compromised. Furthermore, a waterproof ring can also be provided between the annular portion of the smart meter reader's housing and the adapter module to achieve good waterproofing. Therefore, the smart meter reader can operate stably for a long time in harsh environments, significantly reducing the failure rate and extending its service life, greatly improving the device's environmental adaptability and reliability.

[0018] (4) In one embodiment of this application, the smart meter reader further includes an extension module. The extension module replaces the adapter module and includes a U-shaped extension frame and an extension plate. The two ends of the U-shaped extension frame are rotatably fixed to the two sides of the housing, while the fixed end of the extension plate is fixed to the middle part of the U-shaped extension frame. The extension plate is used to fix it to the target energy meter. For scenarios where the adapter module cannot be used for installation, the smart meter reader can still be installed on the target energy meter through the extension module. In addition, the extension module also has angle adjustment function, height adjustment function, and distance adjustment function to ensure that the smart meter reader can meet the application requirements of different scenarios.

[0019] (5) In one embodiment of this application, the meter reading module of the smart meter reading device includes an image acquisition unit, a processing unit, and a communication unit. The image acquisition unit acquires images of the reading area of ​​the target energy meter through a first aperture and a central channel. The processing unit analyzes the images to generate reading data and transmits the reading data to an external device through the communication unit. Therefore, the smart meter reading device can effectively achieve automatic meter reading function, and can also perform functions such as abnormal usage alarm, energy data integration and analysis, and optimized energy scheduling to achieve energy saving. Therefore, the smart meter reading device does indeed conform to the trend of future development. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the multifunctional smart meter reader device according to the first embodiment of this application.

[0021] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the multifunctional smart meter reader device according to the first embodiment of this application.

[0022] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the reading module of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the first embodiment of this application.

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the reading module of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the first embodiment of this application.

[0024] Figure 5 This is a first schematic diagram showing the usage state of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the first embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure 6 This is a second schematic diagram showing the usage state of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the first embodiment of this application.

[0026] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a multifunctional smart meter reader according to a second embodiment of this application.

[0027] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of a multifunctional smart meter reader according to a second embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the usage state of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the second embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a multifunctional smart meter reader according to a third embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figure 11 This is an exploded view of the extension module of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the third embodiment of this application.

[0031] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the usage state of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the third embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure 13 This is a first schematic diagram showing the usage state of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the fourth embodiment of this application.

[0033] Figure 14 This is a second schematic diagram showing the usage state of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the fourth embodiment of this application.

[0034] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1-Intelligent meter reader; 11-Meter reader module; 111-Housing; 112-Image acquisition unit; 113-Processing unit; 114-Communication unit; 115-Transparent plate; 116-Cover; 12A-First adapter module; 12B-Second adapter module; 13-Mounting bracket; 131-U-shaped part; 132-Connecting part; 14-Extension module; 141-U-shaped extension frame; 142-Extension plate; 143-Fixing ring; FW-Fixing wing; W1-Support part; W2 - Mounting section; EM1 - Water meter; EM2 - Electricity meter; EM3 - Pressure gauge; RP - Ring-shaped part; B1 - Button; B2 - Charging port; B3 - Bracket fixing interface; Fx - Locking fastener; BT - Adjustable strap; AS - Adhesive surface; S1 - First surface; S2 - Second surface; H1 - First hole; H2 - Second hole; MC - Central channel; CH - Central hole; TG - Side groove; VG - Vertical adjustment groove; HG - Horizontal adjustment groove; FG - Fixing groove; θ1 - Included angle.

[0035] The following detailed description of the features and advantages of the present invention is sufficient to enable anyone skilled in the art to understand the technical content of the present invention and implement it accordingly. Based on the content disclosed in this specification, the claims and drawings, anyone skilled in the art can easily understand the purpose and advantages of this creation. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, illustrates embodiments of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to this application. For clarity and ease of illustration, the dimensions and proportions of the components in the drawings may be exaggerated or reduced. In the following description and / or claims, when a component is referred to as "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it may be directly connected or coupled to that other component or there may be an intervening component; when a component is referred to as "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, there is no intervening component. Other terms used to describe the relationship between components or layers should be interpreted in the same manner. For ease of understanding, the same components in the following embodiments are indicated by the same symbols.

[0037] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 . Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the multifunctional smart meter reader device according to the first embodiment of this application. Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the multifunctional smart meter reader device according to the first embodiment of this application. Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the reading module of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the first embodiment of this application. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the reading module of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the first embodiment of this application. As shown in the figure, the smart meter reader 1 includes a reading module 11 and a first adapter module 12A.

[0038] The meter reading module 11 includes a housing 111, an image acquisition unit 112, a processing unit 113, and a communication unit 114. In one embodiment, the image acquisition unit 112 may be a CCD camera. In another embodiment, the image acquisition unit 112 may also be a CMOS camera or other components with the same or similar functions. In one embodiment, the processing unit 113 may be a graphics processing unit (GPU). In another embodiment, the image acquisition unit 112 may also be a microcontroller (MCU), a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other components with the same or similar functions. In one embodiment, the communication unit 114 may be a Bluetooth module. In another embodiment, the communication unit 114 may also be a WiFi module, a ZigBee module, or other components with the same or similar functions.

[0039] The image acquisition unit 112, processing unit 113, and communication unit 114 are disposed inside the housing 111, and the first surface S1 of the housing 111 has a first hole H1 corresponding to the position of the image acquisition unit 112 and an annular portion RP surrounding the first hole H1. The housing 111 also has a transparent plate 115. The transparent plate 115 is disposed on the first hole H1 to close the first hole. The housing 111 may also have a button B1, a charging port B2, and a bracket fixing interface B3 to perform corresponding functions. In one embodiment, the housing 111 may be made of plastic. In one embodiment, the housing 111 may also be made of metal (such as stainless steel, aluminum, etc.). In one embodiment, the transparent plate 115 may be made of plastic. In one embodiment, the transparent plate 115 may also be made of glass or other transparent materials.

[0040] The first adapter module 12A has a central channel MC and an adhesive surface AS. The adhesive surface AS is disposed at one end of the first adapter module 12A, while the other end of the first adapter module 12A is detachably disposed on the annular portion RP. The adhesive surface of the first adapter module 12A can be coated with an adhesive, so that the first adapter module 12A can be fixed to the target energy meter through the adhesive surface AS. The outer surface of the annular portion RP can have external threads, and the inner surface of the first adapter module 12A can have internal threads, so that the first adapter module 12A can be detachably fixed to the annular portion RP. A waterproof ring can also be provided between the annular portion RP and the first adapter module 12A to achieve a good waterproof effect. In another embodiment, the first adapter module 12A can also be detachably fixed to the annular portion RP by a magnetic or snap-fit ​​structure.

[0041] When the first adapter module 12A is mounted on the annular portion RP, the central channel MC is interconnected with the first hole H1. The cross-section of the first adapter module 12A can be circular, and the area of ​​the cross-section of the first adapter module 12A gradually increases from the side of the first adapter module 12A closest to the housing 111 to the other side of the first adapter module 12A, making the first adapter module 12A bowl-shaped. The structure of the first adapter module 12A can be matched with a circular water meter or other circular energy meter, so it can be mounted on a circular water meter or other circular energy meter.

[0042] Through the above-mentioned modular adapter structure design, the first adapter module 12A can be directly installed on various energy meters in a non-invasive manner such as by adhesive, without drilling or damaging the existing structure of the energy meter, thereby ensuring that the original waterproof sealing of the energy meter is not compromised.

[0043] When the smart meter reader 1 is fixed to the target energy meter via the first adapter module 12A, the image acquisition unit 112 acquires images of the reading area of ​​the target energy meter through the first hole H1, the transparent plate 115, and the central channel MC. The processing unit 113 analyzes the images to generate reading data and transmits the reading data to an external device (such as a cloud management device, a local management platform, or other devices with the same or similar functions) via the communication unit 114. The processing unit 113 can analyze the images to generate reading data using artificial intelligence image recognition technology, such as YOLO, Faster R-CNN, Mask R-CNN, or other image recognition technologies with the same or similar functions. Therefore, the smart meter reader 1 can effectively achieve automatic meter reading and can also perform functions such as abnormal usage alarm, energy data integration and analysis, and optimized energy scheduling to achieve energy saving.

[0044] Additionally, the second surface S2 of the housing 111 has a second hole H2 corresponding to the position of the image acquisition unit 112 and a cover 116. The second surface S2 is opposite to the first surface S1, and the cover 116 is rotatably fixed to the housing 111 and covers the second hole H2. In this way, the user can also open the cover 116 to directly see the reading data of the target energy meter.

[0045] As described above, in this embodiment, the smart meter reader 1 features a modular adapter structure design, allowing users to flexibly replace the corresponding adapter module according to different energy meter models without needing to redesign or adjust the meter reader structure for different meter bodies. Therefore, the smart meter reader 1 achieves high versatility, significantly reducing installation costs and complexity arising from differences in meter specifications, thus broadening its application.

[0046] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the smart meter reading device 1 features a modular adapter structure design, allowing it to be directly installed on various energy meters via the first adapter module 12A without replacing the existing energy meter. Therefore, users do not need to bear the costs of disassembly and installation, pipeline or wiring modifications, nor do they need to bear the indirect losses caused by production stoppages or shutdowns. Thus, the smart meter reading device 1 achieves high practicality and meets the needs of real-world applications.

[0047] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the smart meter reader 1 features a modular adapter structure design. Its first adapter module 12A can be directly installed on various energy meters using non-invasive methods such as adhesives, without requiring drilling or damaging the existing structure of the energy meter, thus ensuring that the original waterproof seal of the energy meter remains intact. Additionally, a waterproof ring can be provided between the annular portion RP of the housing 111 of the smart meter reader 1 and the first adapter module 12A to achieve good waterproofing. Therefore, the smart meter reader 1 can operate stably for extended periods in harsh environments, significantly reducing the failure rate and extending its service life, greatly improving the device's environmental adaptability and reliability.

[0048] Of course, this embodiment is only for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Equivalent modifications or changes made to the smart meter reading device 1 according to this embodiment should still be included within the patent scope of this application.

[0049] Please see Figure 5 This is a first schematic diagram of the multifunctional smart meter reader device in use according to the first embodiment of this application. As shown in the figure, the adhesive surface AS of the first adapter module 12A can be coated with adhesive, so that the smart meter reader device 1 can be fixed to the circular water meter EM1 through the first adapter module 12A.

[0050] Of course, this embodiment is only for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Equivalent modifications or changes made to the smart meter reading device 1 according to this embodiment should still be included within the patent scope of this application.

[0051] Please see Figure 6 This is a second schematic diagram illustrating the usage state of the multifunctional smart meter reader device according to the first embodiment of this application. As shown, the smart meter reader device 1 may further include a mounting bracket 13. The mounting bracket 13 includes two U-shaped portions 131 and two connecting portions 132. The two ends of one U-shaped portion 131 are respectively connected to the two ends of the other U-shaped portion 131 through the two connecting portions 132, forming a central hole CH in the middle. Each U-shaped portion 131 has a side groove TG.

[0052] The smart meter reader 1 can be mounted on the mounting bracket 13, with the first adapter module 12A exposed through the central hole CH of the mounting bracket 13, and the bracket fixing interfaces B3 on both sides of the housing 111 corresponding to the side grooves TG of the two U-shaped portions 131. Thus, the user can use a fastener Fx passing through the side grooves TG and the bracket fixing interfaces B3 to fix the smart meter reader 1 to the mounting bracket 13. Then, the user can place the smart meter reader 1 inside the water meter EM1 and fix the various connecting parts 132 of the mounting bracket 13 to the water meter EM1 using adjustable straps BT. At this time, the first adapter module 12A provides waterproofing. The first adapter module 12A also provides sunshade to ensure the automatic meter reading function can operate normally.

[0053] Of course, this embodiment is only for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Equivalent modifications or changes made to the smart meter reading device 1 according to this embodiment should still be included within the patent scope of this application.

[0054] Please see Figure 7 and Figure 8 . Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a multifunctional smart meter reader according to a second embodiment of this application. Figure 8 This is an exploded view of a multifunctional smart meter reader according to a second embodiment of this application. As shown, the smart meter reader 1 includes a meter reader module 11 and a second adapter module 12B. The meter reader module 11 includes a housing 111, an image acquisition unit 112, a processing unit 113, and a communication unit 114.

[0055] The components described above are similar to those in the previous embodiments, and therefore will not be repeated here. The difference from the previous embodiments is that the first adapter module 12A is replaced by a second adapter module 12B, which is rectangular. The cross-sectional area of ​​the second adapter module 12B gradually increases from the side of the adapter module 12B closest to the housing 111 to the other side, making the second adapter module 12B a three-dimensional trapezoid. The structure of the second adapter module 12B can be matched with a rectangular electricity meter or other rectangular energy meter, and therefore can be installed on an electricity meter or other rectangular energy meter. Similarly, the second adapter module 12B can be fixed to the target energy meter by adhesive (or magnetic attraction, etc.).

[0056] Of course, this embodiment is only for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Equivalent modifications or changes made to the smart meter reading device 1 according to this embodiment should still be included within the patent scope of this application.

[0057] Please see Figure 9This is a schematic diagram illustrating the usage state of the multifunctional smart meter reader device according to the second embodiment of this application. As shown in the figure, the adhesive surface AS of the second adapter module 12B can be coated with adhesive, so that the smart meter reader device 1 can be fixed to the energy meter EM2 through the second adapter module 12B.

[0058] Of course, this embodiment is only for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Equivalent modifications or changes made to the smart meter reading device 1 according to this embodiment should still be included within the patent scope of this application.

[0059] It is worth mentioning that in order to achieve the automatic meter reading function, users need to replace all traditional energy meters with smart meters. However, the implementation cost of the above solution is extremely high. In addition to the purchase cost of the smart meter itself, users also need to bear the costs of disassembly and installation, pipeline or wiring modifications, and indirect losses caused during production stoppages or shutdowns. Users can also add external devices such as image capture equipment or sensor modules to the existing energy meters to achieve reading recognition and transmission without modifying them. However, these traditional energy meters may have different shapes and requirements. Therefore, the above solution requires redesigning the external device for different types, sizes, and installation environments of energy meters, resulting in a significant increase in mold manufacturing and R&D costs, keeping the overall cost high. Therefore, this solution still cannot meet the needs of practical applications. In contrast, according to the embodiments of this application, the smart meter reading device includes a meter reading module and an adapter module. The meter reading module includes a housing and an image acquisition unit. The image acquisition unit is disposed inside the housing, and the first surface of the housing has a first hole corresponding to the position of the image acquisition unit and an annular portion surrounding the first hole. The adapter module has a central channel and an adhesive surface. The adhesive surface is located at one end of the adapter module, while the other end is detachably mounted on the annular portion. The adapter module is fixed to the target energy meter via the adhesive surface, allowing the central channel to communicate with the first hole. As described above, the housing of the smart meter reader has an annular portion, which can be used to mount the adapter module, enabling the smart meter reader to be fixed to the target energy meter. Furthermore, the adapter module is detachably mounted on the annular portion, allowing it to be replaced according to different needs. Through this modular adapter structure design, users can flexibly replace the corresponding adapter module according to different energy meter models without needing to redesign or adjust the meter reader structure for different meter bodies. Therefore, the smart meter reader achieves high versatility, significantly reducing the installation costs and complexity arising from differences in meter specifications, thus broadening its application.

[0060] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this application, the smart meter reading device features a modular adapter structure design, allowing it to be directly installed on various energy meters without replacing the existing meters. Therefore, users do not need to bear the costs of disassembly and installation, pipeline or wiring modifications, or indirect losses incurred during production stoppages or shutdowns. Thus, the smart meter reading device achieves high practicality and meets the needs of real-world applications.

[0061] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this application, the smart meter reader features a modular adapter structure design. Its adapter module can be directly installed on various energy meters using non-invasive methods such as adhesives, without requiring drilling or damaging the existing structure of the energy meter, thus ensuring that the original waterproof sealing of the energy meter remains undamaged. Additionally, a waterproof ring can be provided between the annular portion of the smart meter reader's housing and the adapter module to achieve excellent waterproofing. Therefore, the smart meter reader can operate stably for extended periods in harsh environments, significantly reducing the failure rate and extending its service life, greatly improving the device's environmental adaptability and reliability.

[0062] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this application, the reading module of the smart meter reading device includes an image acquisition unit, a processing unit, and a communication unit. The image acquisition unit acquires images of the reading area of ​​the target energy meter through a first aperture and a central channel. The processing unit analyzes the images to generate reading data and transmits the reading data to an external device via the communication unit. Therefore, the smart meter reading device can effectively achieve automatic meter reading, and can also perform functions such as abnormal usage alarms, energy data integration and analysis, and optimized energy scheduling to achieve energy saving. Therefore, the smart meter reading device does indeed conform to future development trends. As can be seen from the above description, the multifunctional smart meter reading device according to embodiments of this application can indeed achieve excellent technical effects.

[0063] Please see Figure 10 and Figure 11 . Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a multifunctional smart meter reader according to a third embodiment of this application. Figure 11 This is an exploded view of the extension module of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the third embodiment of this application. As shown in the figure, the smart meter reader 1 includes a meter reader module 11 and an extension module 14. The meter reader module 11 includes a housing 111, an image acquisition unit 112, a processing unit 113, and a communication unit 114.

[0064] The components described above are similar to those in the previous embodiments, and therefore will not be described in detail here. The difference from the previous embodiments is that this embodiment replaces the first adapter module 12A or the second adapter module 12B of the previous embodiments with an extension module 14.

[0065] The extension module 14 includes a U-shaped extension frame 141, an extension plate 142, and a retaining ring 143. The two ends of the U-shaped extension frame 141 are rotatably fixed to the two sides of the housing 111, while the fixed end of the extension plate 142 is fixed to the middle part of the U-shaped extension frame 141. The extension plate 142 is used to fix it to the target energy meter.

[0066] The U-shaped extension bracket 141 has multiple vertical adjustment slots VG at both ends. The middle portion of the U-shaped extension bracket 141 has a fixing slot FG. Users can pass fasteners Fx (such as screws, rivets, pins, etc.) through the vertical adjustment slots VG and the corresponding bracket fixing interfaces B3 of the housing 111, so that both ends of the U-shaped extension bracket 142 are rotatably fixed to both sides of the housing 111, thereby achieving angle adjustment. The vertical adjustment slots VG can also be used to adjust the distance between the middle portion of the U-shaped extension bracket 142 and the housing 111, thereby achieving height adjustment.

[0067] The extension plate 142 has multiple horizontal adjustment slots HG. The extension plate 142 can be fixed to the fixing slots FG of the middle portion of the U-shaped extension frame 141 via these horizontal adjustment slots HG (using screws, rivets, pins, etc.). The user can also adjust the fixing position to change the distance between the free end of the extension plate 142 and the middle portion of the U-shaped extension frame 141, thus achieving a distance adjustment function. The free end of the extension plate 142 includes two fixed wings FW. Each fixed wing FW includes a support part W1 and a mounting part W2. The support part W1 is connected to the free end of the extension plate 142. The mounting part W2 is connected to the support part W1, and there is an angle θ1 between the mounting part W2 and the support part W1 that is not equal to 90 degrees. The angle θ1 can be between 95 degrees and 135 degrees, and can be adjusted according to actual needs. A fixing ring 143 passes through the mounting part W2 of each fixing wing FW to be fixed to the two fixing wings FW, so that there is a distance between the fixing ring 143 and the housing 111. The retaining ring 143 is used to fix it to the target energy meter.

[0068] Of course, this embodiment is only for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Equivalent modifications or changes made to the smart meter reading device 1 according to this embodiment should still be included within the patent scope of this application.

[0069] Please see Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the usage state of the multifunctional smart meter reader according to the third embodiment of this application. As shown, the user can fit the retaining ring 143 onto the circular pressure gauge EM3, allowing the smart meter reader 1 to be mounted on the pressure gauge EM3 via the extension module 14. However, the smart meter reader 1 of this embodiment still includes a first adapter module 12A, which provides waterproofing. Simultaneously, the first adapter module 12A also provides sunshade functionality to ensure the automatic meter reading function can operate normally.

[0070] For scenarios where an adapter module cannot be used for installation, the smart meter reader 1 can still be installed on the target energy meter, such as a pressure gauge or gas meter, via the extension module 14. Furthermore, the extension module 14 also features angle adjustment, height adjustment, and distance adjustment functions to ensure that the smart meter reader 1 can meet the application needs of different scenarios.

[0071] Of course, this embodiment is only for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Equivalent modifications or changes made to the smart meter reading device 1 according to this embodiment should still be included within the patent scope of this application.

[0072] Please see Figure 13 This is a first schematic diagram of the multifunctional smart meter reader device in use according to the fourth embodiment of this application. As shown in the figure, the user can remove the fixing ring 143 of the extension module 14. In addition, the user can flip the extension plate 142 and then fix the fixing end of the extension plate 142 to the middle part of the U-shaped extension frame 141.

[0073] Next, the user can fix the free end of the extension plate 142 to the energy meter EM2 using the adjustable strap BT, so that the smart meter reading device 1 can be installed on the energy meter EM2 through the extension module 14.

[0074] Of course, this embodiment is only for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Equivalent modifications or changes made to the smart meter reading device 1 according to this embodiment should still be included within the patent scope of this application.

[0075] Please see Figure 14 This is a first schematic diagram illustrating the usage state of the multifunctional smart watch reader according to the fourth embodiment of this application. As shown in the figure, the smart watch reader 1 of this embodiment may still have a second adapter module 12B, which can provide waterproofing. Simultaneously, the second adapter module 12B can also provide sunshade functionality to ensure that the automatic watch reading function can operate normally.

[0076] Of course, this embodiment is only for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. Equivalent modifications or changes made to the smart meter reading device 1 according to this embodiment should still be included within the patent scope of this application.

[0077] In summary, according to the embodiments of this application, the smart meter reading device includes a meter reading module and an adapter module. The meter reading module includes a housing and an image acquisition unit. The image acquisition unit is disposed inside the housing, and the first surface of the housing has a first hole corresponding to the position of the image acquisition unit and an annular portion surrounding the first hole. The adapter module has a central channel and an adhesive surface. The adhesive surface is disposed at one end of the adapter module, while the other end of the adapter module is detachably disposed on the annular portion. The adapter module is fixed to the target energy meter through the adhesive surface, so that the central channel and the first hole are interconnected. As can be seen from the above, the housing of the smart meter reading device has an annular portion, which can be used to house the adapter module, so that the smart meter reading device can be fixed to the target energy meter through the adapter module. In addition, the adapter module is detachably disposed on the annular portion, so the adapter module can be replaced according to different needs. Through the above modular adapter structure design, users can flexibly replace the corresponding adapter module according to different energy meter models without redesigning or adjusting the structure of the meter reading device for different meter bodies. Therefore, smart meter reading devices can achieve high versatility, which greatly reduces the installation costs and complexity caused by differences in meter specifications, making smart meter reading devices more widely used.

[0078] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this application, the smart meter reading device features a modular adapter structure design, allowing it to be directly installed on various energy meters without replacing the existing meters. Therefore, users do not need to bear the costs of disassembly and installation, pipeline or wiring modifications, or indirect losses incurred during production stoppages or shutdowns. Thus, the smart meter reading device achieves high practicality and meets the needs of real-world applications.

[0079] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this application, the smart meter reader features a modular adapter structure design. Its adapter module can be directly installed on various energy meters using non-invasive methods such as adhesives, without requiring drilling or damaging the existing structure of the energy meter, thus ensuring that the original waterproof sealing of the energy meter remains intact. Additionally, a waterproof ring can be provided between the annular portion of the smart meter reader's housing and the adapter module to achieve excellent waterproofing. Therefore, the smart meter reader can operate stably for extended periods in harsh environments, significantly reducing the failure rate and extending its service life, greatly improving the device's environmental adaptability and reliability.

[0080] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this application, the smart meter reading device also includes an extension module. The extension module replaces the adapter module and includes a U-shaped extension frame and an extension plate. The two ends of the U-shaped extension frame are rotatably fixed to the two sides of the housing, while the fixed end of the extension plate is fixed to the middle portion of the U-shaped extension frame. The extension plate is used to fix the device to the target energy meter. For scenarios where the adapter module cannot be used, the smart meter reading device can still be installed on the target energy meter via the extension module. In addition, the extension module also has angle adjustment, height adjustment, and distance adjustment functions to ensure that the smart meter reading device can meet the application requirements of different scenarios.

[0081] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this application, the reading module of the smart meter reading device includes an image acquisition unit, a processing unit, and a communication unit. The image acquisition unit acquires images of the reading area of ​​the target energy meter through a first aperture and a central channel. The processing unit analyzes the images to generate reading data and transmits the reading data to an external device via the communication unit. Therefore, the smart meter reading device can effectively achieve automatic meter reading, and can also perform functions such as abnormal usage alarms, energy data integration and analysis, and optimized energy scheduling to achieve energy saving. Therefore, the smart meter reading device does indeed conform to future development trends.

[0082] It should be noted that although the above embodiments have been described herein, this does not limit the scope of patent protection for this invention. Therefore, any changes and modifications made to the embodiments described herein based on the innovative concept of this invention, or equivalent structural or procedural transformations made using the description and drawings of this invention, directly or indirectly applying the above technical solutions to other related technical fields, are all included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A multifunctional intelligent watch reader, characterized in that, include: The meter reading module includes a housing and an image acquisition unit. The image acquisition unit is disposed inside the housing, and the first surface of the housing has a first hole corresponding to the position of the image acquisition unit and an annular portion surrounding the first hole. as well as The adapter module has a central channel and an adhesive surface. The adhesive surface is disposed at one end of the adapter module, and the other end of the adapter module is detachably disposed on the annular portion. The adapter module is fixed to the target energy meter through the adhesive surface, so that the central channel is interconnected with the first hole.

2. The multifunctional intelligent watch reader as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The meter reading module also includes a processing unit and a communication unit. The image acquisition unit acquires images of the reading area of ​​the target energy meter through the first hole and the central channel. The processing unit analyzes the images to generate reading data and transmits the reading data to an external device through the communication unit.

3. The multifunctional intelligent watch reader as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cross-section of the adapter module is circular or rectangular.

4. The multifunctional intelligent watch reader as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The adapter module has at least two fixing plates, which are disposed around the periphery of the adapter module, and each fixing plate has at least one screw hole.

5. The multifunctional intelligent watch reader as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The cross-sectional area of ​​the adapter module gradually increases from the side of the adapter module closest to the housing to the other side of the adapter module.

6. The multifunctional intelligent watch reader as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The second surface of the housing has a second hole corresponding to the position of the image acquisition unit and a cover. The second surface is opposite to the first surface, and the cover is rotatably fixed to the housing and covers the second hole.

7. The multifunctional intelligent watch reader as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an extension module, which replaces the adapter module and includes a U-shaped extension frame and an extension plate. The two ends of the U-shaped extension frame are rotatably fixed to the two sides of the housing, and the fixed end of the extension plate is fixed to the middle part of the U-shaped extension frame. The extension plate is used to fix the target energy meter.

8. The multifunctional intelligent watch reader as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an extension module, which replaces the adapter module and includes a U-shaped extension frame, an extension plate, and a fixing ring. The two ends of the U-shaped extension frame are rotatably fixed to the two sides of the housing, and the fixed end of the extension plate is fixed to the middle part of the U-shaped extension frame. The extension plate is used to fix to the target energy meter. The free end of the extension plate includes two fixed wings. Each fixed wing includes a support part and a mounting part. The support part is connected to the free end of the extension plate, and the mounting part is connected to the support part. The mounting part and the support part have an angle of not equal to 90 degrees. The fixing ring passes through the mounting part of each fixed wing to fix to the two fixed wings, so that there is a distance between the fixing ring and the housing. The fixing ring is used to fix to the target energy meter.

9. The multifunctional intelligent meter reader as described in claim 8, characterized in that, Each of the fixed wings has a fixing hole, and the fixing ring passes through the fixing hole of each of the fixed wings to fix the fixing ring to the two fixed wings.

10. The multifunctional intelligent watch reader as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The housing also has a transparent plate disposed over the first hole to close the first hole.

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