Intelligent wireless meter reader

Abstract

An intelligent wireless meter reading device comprises a machine body used for containing a circuit board, an electronic element and a battery. The reading head is used for reading the optical signal; the data transmission module is used for transmitting data; in addition, the system also comprises a repeater which is used for carrying out wireless data transmission with the intelligent wireless meter reading device. The reading head is of a detachable structure and can be separated from the machine body. The intelligent wireless meter reader has the advantages of being firm in installation, convenient in instruction issuing, long in endurance time and the like, and the use experience of a user is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of smart meter devices, and more specifically to a smart wireless meter reader. Background Technology

[0002] Meter readers, as devices used to read electricity meter readings, are widely used in practical applications. Typically, a meter reader has a reading head, which can be installed on the meter's reading window to read the meter's parameters. The meter's reading window can display numbers or transmit data via optical signals. Existing meter readers usually use optical signals for data transmission when interacting with the meter. For example, a flashlight is used to sweep across the light receiving window of the meter or the meter reader, transmitting data through long intervals and combinations of light exposure to achieve functions such as machine matching and command issuance. However, this method is often inconvenient to use. Furthermore, after installing the meter reader, users usually need to remove the meter reader to perform command issuance and other functions, and then reinstall the meter reader afterward. Meter readers typically use battery power, but existing meter readers have high power consumption, short battery life, and require frequent battery replacements. In addition, traditional meter readers are usually connected to the meter by adhesive, which can easily lead to them falling off after prolonged use. Since meter readers usually need to carry batteries and have internal circuit boards, they are relatively large and heavy, which also increases the risk of them falling off after installation.

[0003] Existing meter readers have many shortcomings, causing users a lot of trouble during use, and certain improvements are needed to address these shortcomings. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application addresses the shortcomings of existing technologies by providing an intelligent wireless meter reader, which has advantages such as secure installation, convenient command issuance, and long battery life, thereby improving the user experience.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, an intelligent wireless meter reader is proposed, comprising a body for housing a circuit board, electronic components, and a battery; a reading head for reading optical signals; a data transmission module for data transmission; and a repeater for wireless data transmission with the intelligent wireless meter reader.

[0006] As an improvement to this application, the reading head is a detachable structure that can be separated from the body.

[0007] As an improvement of this application, the device body is provided with a mounting base, and the reading head is detachably mounted on the mounting base by means of a snap-fit ​​or threaded connection, and a data interface is provided between the mounting base and the reading head to realize electrical connection.

[0008] As an improvement of this application, the device body is provided with a Type-C interface, and the reading head is connected to the Type-C interface via a data cable to realize electrical connection and data transmission with the circuit board inside the device body.

[0009] As an improvement of this application, the reading head is provided with an optical element, and the distance between the optical element and the reading window of the reading head is a fixed value; and at least two different types of reading heads are configured, and the physical distance between the optical element and its reading window is different in the different types of reading heads.

[0010] As an improvement to this application, the at least two different types of reading heads include: The optical element of the first reading head is approximately 10mm away from the reading window; The distance between the optical element and the reading window of the second reading head is between 1mm and 3mm.

[0011] As an improvement of this application, an auxiliary component is also included, which is disposed on the same side of the body, and the end face of the auxiliary component is located on the same plane or approximately on the same plane as the end face of the reading head, for use in contact with the surface of the meter when installed with the meter.

[0012] As an improvement of this application, it also includes a pressing part and a light-emitting element; the pressing part is movably disposed on the body, and a triggering boss is provided at its lower part; a pressing switch is correspondingly disposed inside the body, and the triggering boss is configured to trigger the pressing switch when the pressing part is pressed; the light-emitting element is disposed inside the reading head or on the surface of the body. Beneficial effects

[0013] 1. By adopting a detachable reader head design and separating the device body from the reader head, the weight and size of components directly installed on the meter are significantly reduced, fundamentally lowering the risk of detachment. Simultaneously, auxiliary mounting components located on the side of the device body, together with the reader head, form multi-point support, increasing the contact area with the meter and further enhancing the stability and reliability of the equipment installation, enabling it to adapt to more complex installation environments.

[0014] 2. To address the issue of varying optical signal strengths across different meter models, this application provides two effective solutions. First, by extending the infrared probe via a Type-C interface, a small probe can be installed nearby for optimal signal capture, while the main unit can be placed remotely, effectively resolving reading difficulties caused by space constraints or signal attenuation. Second, various reader head models (such as standard and slim models) with different optical element distances from the reading window are provided. Users can flexibly change these models according to the meter signal strength, significantly enhancing the reception strength of weak signals by shortening the signal transmission distance, thereby ensuring the accuracy and success rate of data acquisition.

[0015] 3. The modular, detachable reader head design means that when a single component (such as the reader head) is damaged or needs upgrading, the entire meter reader does not need to be replaced; only the corresponding module needs to be replaced, greatly reducing subsequent maintenance costs and electronic waste. At the same time, human-machine interaction (such as command input) is achieved using the device's existing pressing parts and light-emitting elements, eliminating the need for an additional physical keyboard. This not only simplifies the structure and reduces manufacturing costs but also makes the device more aesthetically pleasing and easier to operate.

[0016] 4. The detachable structure offers multiple connection methods. A quick and secure snap-fit ​​or threaded connection can be achieved via the mounting bracket; a wired extension connection is possible via the standard Type-C interface, giving the device greater layout flexibility and versatility, and meeting the installation and usage needs of various complex scenarios.

[0017] Other features and advantages of this application will be set forth in the following description, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practicing this application. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the present application and form part of the specification. Together with the embodiments of the present application, they serve to explain the present application but do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings: The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the present application and form part of the specification. Together with the embodiments of the present application, they serve to explain the present application but do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the intelligent wireless meter reader of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the intelligent wireless meter reader and the electricity meter in this application; Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the structure of the intelligent wireless meter reader of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the push-button switch structure; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the pressing part installation structure; Figure 6 This is an enlarged schematic diagram of the pressing part installation structure; Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the intelligent wireless meter reader of this application; Figure 8 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the pressing part of the intelligent wireless meter reader of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the auxiliary component structure; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the auxiliary room installation structure; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the read head structure. Figure 1 ; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the read head structure. Figure 2 ; Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the data transmission framework between the meter reader and the electricity meter; The attached figures are labeled as follows: 100. Body; 101. First connection port; 102. Cover; 103. Support component; 104. Push switch; 105. Support frame; 106. Auxiliary frame; 107. Mounting hole; 108. Mounting boss; 109. Clearance hole; 110. Second connection port; 111. Mounting base; 200. Read head; 300. Pressing part; 301. Buckle; 302. Trigger boss; 400. Auxiliary parts; 500. Electricity meter. Detailed Implementation

[0019] To make the objectives and technical solutions of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the described embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0020] Those skilled in the art will understand that, unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains. It should also be understood that terms such as those defined in general dictionaries should be understood to have the same meaning as in the context of the prior art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless defined as herein.

[0021] The meaning of "and / or" as used in this application includes both situations where each exists alone or both exist simultaneously.

[0022] The terms "inner" and "outer" as used in this application refer to the direction from the signal line toward the inside of the working area as "inner" and vice versa, relative to the signal line itself; rather than a specific limitation on the device mechanism of this application.

[0023] The term "connection" as used in this application can mean a direct connection between components or an indirect connection between components through other components. Example

[0024] like Figure 1 The illustrated intelligent wireless meter reader includes a body 100 and a reader head 200. The body 100 houses a circuit board and a battery. The reader head 200 is integrated into the body 100. The body 100 also has a pressing part 300, and a cover plate is provided on its surface. The battery can be installed and removed after removing the cover plate. The body 100 also has a first connection port 101 for connecting to an external power source and / or terminal equipment for data transmission. Figure 2 As shown, when the smart wireless meter reader is in use, the surface of the reading head 200 is bonded to the data reading window of the electricity meter 500.

[0025] like Figure 3 and 4 As shown, a support member 103 is provided inside the body 100. The support member 103 has space for installing the battery, and a pressing part 300 is mounted on the support member 103. A PCB board is provided inside the body 100. The installation and configuration of the PCB board are conventional techniques in the art and will not be described in detail here. In this solution, a push switch 104 is provided on the side of the PCB board facing the pressing part 300. A support frame 105 and an auxiliary frame 106 are fixedly connected to the PCB board or the support member 103. The support frame 105 is positioned between the PCB board and the support member 103, serving to help fix their positions. The auxiliary frame 106 is U-shaped and used to guide the trigger boss 302. Figure 5 and 6As shown, the pressing part 300 is provided with a buckle 301 and a trigger boss 302. The support member 103 is provided with a mounting hole 107 and a mounting boss 108 corresponding to the buckle 301. At the same time, the support member 103 is provided with a clearance hole 109 corresponding to the trigger boss 302. The pressing part 300 is provided with two buckles 301, which are engaged with the mounting boss 108 to connect the pressing part 300 to the support member 103. Meanwhile, the trigger boss 302 passes through the clearance hole 109 and the auxiliary bracket 106, and the end of the trigger boss 302 can contact the push switch 104. There is a certain gap between the pressing part 300 and the support member 103 to facilitate pressing the pressing part 300. In order to ensure the stability of the pressing part 300, protrusions are provided at the four corners of the pressing part 300 to assist in stabilizing the pressing part 300.

[0026] like Figure 7 and 8 As shown, after installation, pressing the pressing part 300 causes the trigger boss 302 to contact the pressing switch 104, thus triggering the pressing switch 104. In this solution, in addition to optical information reading components, the reading head 200 also contains a light-emitting element. This light-emitting element can be controlled by the pressing switch 104 to emit light. The duration of the light emission can be controlled by the length of the pressing time. Specifically, the light-emitting element can be an LED. Alternatively, the corresponding data information can be confirmed by pressing the pressing part 300 to confirm the light by flashing the light a different number of times.

[0027] Based on the structure and design of the press unit 300 described above, an interactive PIN code input system is created using existing hardware resources on the smart wireless meter reader—the LED light and the press unit 300. Users can input the PIN code by controlling the flashing pattern of the LED light, eliminating the need for traditional numeric keypads or flashlights. Users determine the required number by observing the LED light's flashing pattern and then select the corresponding number by pressing the press unit 300. For example, the LED light may flash different numbers or frequencies to represent different numbers. After seeing the flashing pattern representing a specific number, the user presses the press unit 300 to confirm the selection. This process is repeated until the entire PIN code is entered.

[0028] The implementation steps of the plan are as follows: 1. Initialization: The smart wireless meter reader starts up and enters PIN code input mode.

[0029] 2. LED prompt: The LED light starts flashing in a specific pattern to prompt the user to enter the PIN code.

[0030] 3. User input: The user observes the flashing pattern of the LED light and presses the button 300 to input the corresponding number.

[0031] 4. Verification: The smart wireless meter reader verifies whether the PIN code entered by the user is correct.

[0032] 5. Feedback: If the PIN code is correct, the LED will display a success mode (e.g., continuously lit); if incorrect, it will display an error mode (e.g., rapidly flashing).

[0033] 6. Storage: Once the PIN code is successfully entered, the smart wireless meter reader will store the PIN code in the FLASH memory so that it can be automatically entered when the device is powered on again.

[0034] The advantages of this solution lie in its simplicity and security. Since a traditional numeric keypad is unnecessary, the smart wireless meter reader can have a more streamlined design, reducing manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the combination of LEDs and buttons reduces the risk of PIN code eavesdropping, enhancing security. In practical applications, this PIN code input method provides users with a quick and intuitive way to unlock the smart wireless meter reader. This method is particularly suitable for outdoor environments or low-light conditions, as the LEDs provide clear visual indication. Additionally, the elimination of a physical keypad improves the device's waterproof and dustproof performance.

[0035] Specifically, to facilitate user observation of LED lights, the reading unit can be designed with a semi-transparent or transparent structure to make it easier to observe the light, or a window can be set on the reading unit to allow the light to overflow for easier observation. Example

[0036] like Figure 9 As shown, in this embodiment, the reading head 200 is specifically disposed on the upper part of one side of the body 100, and an auxiliary component 400 is disposed on the lower part of the corresponding side to assist in the installation of the meter reader and the electricity meter 500. The auxiliary component 400 can be integrally formed with the body 100, or it can be an independent component connected to the body 100 by means of bonding, such as a foam block. Figure 10 As shown, during installation, the surfaces of the reading head 200 and the auxiliary component 400 are bonded to the surface of the meter 500, which improves the stability of the reader installation and prevents the reader from falling off.

[0037] The reader head 200 is designed as a detachable and replaceable module, allowing users to replace it with different types of infrared reader heads 200 as needed. This design not only improves the adaptability of the device but also reduces maintenance costs, as users can replace a damaged reader head 200 individually without replacing the entire device.

[0038] Based on this model, two different height models of the reader head 200 can be provided to accommodate the optical signal reading needs of various meters 500. By adjusting the distance between the reader head 200 and the meter 500, the reception strength of the optical signal can be optimized, especially in situations with weak signals. Specifically, the reader head 200 is designed in two models: Model A and Model B. Model A is the standard height, approximately 1 cm thick, suitable for reading most standard meters 500. Model B is a thinner model, approximately 1-3 mm thick, suitable for meters 500 with weak signals, enhancing the optical signal by reducing the distance between the reader head 200 and the meter 500.

[0039] In practical applications, this solution allows smart wireless meter readers to more flexibly adapt to different meter models and installation environments. For example, when reading meters installed at high locations or with weak signals, users can easily switch to the slimmer reader head (model 200) to improve signal reception quality. This design not only improves reading efficiency but also reduces misreadings and rereadings caused by signal problems, thus enhancing the user experience. Example

[0040] like Figure 11 As shown, in some implementation schemes, the reading head 200 can be detached from the body 100. The reading head 200 and the body 100 can transmit data via a data cable or wireless communication means such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. With this scheme, the reading head 200 can be installed separately on the meter 500, greatly reducing the installation size and weight. The reading head 200 is not easy to fall off. The body 100 can be placed in other locations according to customer needs. In this scheme, the body 100 is provided with a second connection port 110 for connecting to the reading head 200 via a data cable. The data cable is not shown in the figure. Example

[0041] like Figure 12 As shown, the difference between this solution and Embodiment 3 is that in this solution, the reading head 200 can be connected to the body 100. A mounting base 111 is provided on the body 100 for mounting the reading head 200. The mounting base 111 and the reading head 200 can be detachably connected by means of clips 301, threads, etc. A corresponding data interface can be provided between the mounting base 111 and the reading head 200, allowing data transmission after the reading head 200 is connected to the mounting base 111. Data transmission between the reading head 200 and the body 100 can also be achieved via wireless communication methods such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. like Figure 13 The diagram shows a framework for the intelligent wireless meter reader to connect with the electricity meter 500 and transmit data during actual use. The following content can be applied to the scheme of any of the above embodiments.

[0042] To improve the accuracy and reliability of the 500-meter data monitoring system, a power consumption detection algorithm was designed. This algorithm ensures accurate power consumption readings under different operating conditions by precisely controlling the timing of data acquisition and processing strategies. The core of the power consumption detection algorithm lies in two key points: First, voltage detection begins at the instant of radio frequency transmission. The voltage at this moment is considered the true voltage value because it eliminates interference that may occur during radio frequency transmission. Second, a power-locking strategy is employed, meaning that once the voltage value is recorded, it is locked and can only decrease, not increase, ensuring the authenticity and consistency of the voltage reading. To enhance the robustness of the algorithm, an auxiliary mechanism for power-on voltage detection is also involved. When the meter reader is powered on for the first time, the program sends three test frames. Simultaneously with sending these test frames, the system detects and records the voltage, using this as the initial voltage value. This mechanism helps prevent potentially inflated voltage readings that may occur when the device is first powered on, ensuring the accuracy of the voltage reading.

[0043] The specific implementation steps of the algorithm are as follows: 1. Initialization: After the meter reader starts, it enters the initialization state and prepares to perform voltage detection.

[0044] 2. Sending test frames: During the initialization phase, the meter reader sends three test frames to detect the initial voltage.

[0045] 3. Voltage detection: While sending the test frame, the meter reader detects and records the voltage value as the initial voltage.

[0046] 4. Radio Frequency Transmission and Voltage Locking: At the moment of radio frequency transmission, the meter reader detects the voltage again and locks it to the actual voltage value.

[0047] 5. Continuous monitoring: The meter reader continuously monitors voltage changes, but according to the power-locking strategy, it only records the voltage decrease and ignores any voltage rise.

[0048] 6. Data Reporting: The collected voltage data will be reported to the central processing system for further data analysis and processing.

[0049] The advantage of the power consumption detection algorithm lies in its ability to provide stable voltage readings, unaffected by radio frequency transmissions and other external factors. Through a power-locking strategy, the algorithm ensures the consistency and reliability of voltage values, which is crucial for the 500-meter data monitoring system. Furthermore, the auxiliary mechanism for power-on voltage detection further enhances the system's robustness, reducing erroneous readings caused by voltage fluctuations during device startup. In practical applications, the power consumption detection algorithm provides accurate 500-meter data monitoring for residential users. It not only improves data accuracy but also enhances system stability and reliability. Users can rely on this data for home energy management, optimizing energy efficiency and reducing energy costs.

[0050] To improve the energy efficiency and extend battery life of the device, while ensuring the real-time performance and accuracy of data, a low-power algorithm incorporating an interval synchronization mechanism was designed. This algorithm optimizes the communication mode between the smart wireless meter reader and the repeater through the interval synchronization mechanism, achieving a balance between low power consumption and efficient communication. The specific implementation steps of the algorithm are as follows: 1. After the meter reader starts, it establishes communication with the repeater and synchronizes the time base; 2. The meter reader reports one frame of data every T1 interval, and the repeater responds, which serves as the starting point for time synchronization. 3. When the repeater connects to other external terminals and receives the instruction to obtain the meter 500 data from the external terminal, the repeater sends an interval frame every T2 interval. The meter reader receives the frame and adjusts the reporting frequency according to the interval value. 4. After receiving the interval frame, the meter reader switches to the high-frequency reporting mode, which reports once at interval T3. 5. When the repeater disconnects from the external terminal and stops sending interval frames, the meter reader resumes reporting one frame of data every interval T1.

[0051] During non-reporting periods, the collector enters a low-power mode to reduce energy consumption; in step b, when the repeater is not connected to other terminals and receives an instruction to obtain data from meter 500, its response information does not include interval frames; in terms of time settings, T1>T2>T3.

[0052] In practical use, users typically want to view more rapidly updated real-time data when connecting to a repeater via a terminal. This method allows for increased data update frequency during this time. When the customer is not using the terminal to view the data, the frequency of data transmission by the meter reader can be reduced to lower power consumption. Simultaneously, using this mechanism, once the user opens the app and issues a command to view the data, the data collector will switch to high-frequency data transmission mode within a maximum of T2, without requiring the meter reader to respond to the command after a T1 time interval. Since the repeater is usually connected to AC power, there is no concern about battery depletion.

[0053] The following provides a more specific set of steps: 1. Initialization Synchronization: After the meter reader starts, it establishes communication with the repeater and synchronizes the time base.

[0054] 2. Normal reporting: The meter reader reports one frame of data every 300 seconds, and the repeater responds, which serves as the starting point for time synchronization.

[0055] 3. Interval frame transmission: The repeater transmits an interval frame every 10 seconds. The meter reader receives the frame and adjusts the reporting frequency according to the interval value.

[0056] 4. High-frequency reporting mode: After receiving the interval frame, the meter reader switches to a high-frequency reporting mode that occurs once every 2 seconds.

[0057] 5. Low power mode: During non-reporting periods, the meter reader enters a low power mode to reduce energy consumption.

[0058] 6. Data Reporting and Response: The meter reader reports data, and the repeater responds, maintaining the continuity of communication and the real-time nature of the data.

[0059] Under normal reporting conditions, the meter reader reports one frame of data every 300 seconds, and the repeater responds, thus establishing a time base. Based on this time base, both parties agree that the repeater sends an interval frame every 10 seconds, and the meter reader receives the interval value, thereby achieving synchronization. After receiving the repeater's response, the meter reader switches to a more frequent reporting mode, i.e., sampling once every 2 seconds. This mechanism allows the smart wireless meter reader to enter high-frequency reporting mode after the APP is opened, waiting a maximum of 10 seconds, ensuring real-time data. In the low-power algorithm, the meter reader's communication current consumption is optimized. The transmitting current is controlled below 100mA, while the receiving current is only 8mA. This design significantly reduces energy consumption, especially during the data reporting phase. The interval synchronization mechanism allows the meter reader to enter a low-power mode when there is no data reporting, only waking up at agreed intervals to receive the repeater's interval frames. This design reduces unnecessary communication, further reducing power consumption.

[0060] The advantage of this algorithm lies in its ability to dynamically adjust the reporting frequency according to actual communication needs, achieving an optimal balance between energy consumption and data real-time performance. Furthermore, by reducing unnecessary communication, the algorithm significantly lowers the power consumption of the smart wireless meter reader, extending the device's lifespan.

[0061] To further improve the single-charge battery life of the smart wireless meter reader and reduce overall power consumption, a power adjustment algorithm is adopted to optimize the device's communication efficiency and energy consumption. This algorithm dynamically adjusts the transmission power to achieve effective communication with the repeater while reducing unnecessary energy consumption. The algorithm logic includes the following steps: 1. Initial maximum power transmission: The meter reader transmits connection frames at maximum power in the initial stage to ensure that the repeater can receive the signal.

[0062] 2. Repeater Response Detection: The meter reader detects the repeater's response to the response frame. If the repeater responds, the reader proceeds to the stage of sending the reporting frame.

[0063] 3. Power reduction condition judgment: The meter reader determines whether power reduction is necessary based on the number of consecutive responses from the repeater.

[0064] 4. Power Adjustment Execution: Based on the judgment result, the meter reader performs power adjustment, either reducing the power or maintaining the current power.

[0065] 5. Power Lockout: When the meter reader cannot receive a response from the repeater, the power is locked at the previous valid power point. The core of the power adjustment algorithm lies in classifying the reader's communication frames into connection frames and reporting frames, and dynamically adjusting the power based on the repeater's response. Connection frames are used to establish and maintain the connection with the repeater, while reporting frames are used to transmit the actual data. The reader uses maximum power when sending connection frames to ensure that the repeater can receive the signal and establish a connection. Once the repeater responds to the connection frame, the reader switches to sending reporting frames and gradually reduces the power based on the repeater's response. In practical applications, a more specific implementation can be as follows: 1. The meter reader sends connection frames at maximum power. If the repeater does not reply, the meter reader continues to send at maximum power.

[0066] 2. If the repeater replies, the meter reader will start sending reporting frames.

[0067] 3. After the meter reader sends the reporting frame, the repeater responds, and the meter reader gradually reduces its power based on the number of consecutive successful communications.

[0068] 4. If the repeater responds 6 times consecutively, the meter reader will reduce its power by 2dBm.

[0069] 5. The meter reader continuously reduces its power until it no longer receives a response from the repeater, and then locks the power at the previous valid power point.

[0070] In practical applications, the power adjustment algorithm enables smart wireless meter readers to maintain stable communication with repeaters under varying environmental and distance conditions. This adaptive power adjustment mechanism improves the device's communication efficiency, reduces energy consumption, and also enhances device reliability and user experience. In this solution, firmware upgrade is a crucial maintenance step, ensuring that the device can adapt to new technical requirements and security standards. The meter reader proxy upgrade mechanism algorithm proposed in this application provides an efficient OTA (Over-The-Air) upgrade solution, achieving automatic firmware upgrades for the meter reader through the function of a repeater proxy server. The core of this mechanism lies in using the repeater as an intermediary for firmware upgrades. The repeater is responsible not only for data relay transmission but also for firmware distribution. When a new firmware version needs to be deployed, the server only needs to send the complete firmware (including the firmware for both the repeater and the meter reader) to the repeater. During the OTA upgrade process, the repeater firmware and the meter reader firmware are packaged into a single complete firmware. Thus, when the server sends an upgrade command to the repeater, it is actually sending a packaged file containing both firmware versions. This packaging method simplifies the upgrade process because the server does not need to handle the upgrades of the two firmware versions separately. The repeater first upgrades its own firmware. Once the upgrade is complete, the repeater parses the meter reader firmware portion from the complete firmware and begins its proxy server function, communicating directly with the meter reader to deliver the new firmware version. The meter reader receives firmware from the repeater and performs upgrades. This process does not require direct server involvement, thus reducing the server load and improving the efficiency of the upgrade process. The advantage of the meter reader proxy upgrade mechanism algorithm lies in its ability to achieve automatic and seamless firmware upgrades. This mechanism reduces the server load, as it only needs to handle repeater upgrades. Furthermore, if the meter reader's firmware version is low, the repeater can automatically upgrade it to the latest version, which improves system stability and security.

[0071] The above are merely embodiments of this application, and their descriptions are quite specific and detailed, but they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A smart wireless meter reader, characterized in that, include The fuselage (100) is used to house circuit boards, electronic components, and batteries; A read head (200) is used to read optical signals; The data transmission module is used for data transmission. Additionally, it includes a repeater for wireless data transmission with the smart wireless meter reader.

2. The intelligent wireless meter reader according to claim 1, characterized in that, include: The reading head (200) is a detachable structure and can be separated from the body (100).

3. The intelligent wireless meter reader according to claim 2, characterized in that, The housing (100) is provided with a mounting base (111), and the reading head (200) is detachably mounted on the mounting base (111) by means of a snap or threaded connection. A data interface is provided between the mounting base (111) and the reading head (200) to realize electrical connection.

4. The intelligent wireless meter reader according to claim 2, characterized in that, The housing (100) is provided with a Type-C interface (110), and the reading head (200) is connected to the Type-C interface (110) via a data cable to realize electrical connection and data transmission with the circuit board inside the housing (100).

5. The intelligent wireless meter reader according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The reading head (200) is provided with an optical element, and the distance between the optical element and the reading window of the reading head (200) is a fixed value; and at least two different types of reading heads (200) are configured, and the physical distance between the optical element and its reading window is different in the different types of reading heads (200).

6. The intelligent wireless meter reader according to claim 5, characterized in that, The at least two different types of reader heads (200) include: The optical element of the first reading head is approximately 10mm away from the reading window; The distance between the optical element and the reading window of the second reading head is between 1mm and 3mm.

7. The intelligent wireless meter reader according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes an auxiliary component (400), which is disposed on the same side of the body (100), and the end face of the auxiliary component (400) is located on the same plane or approximately the same plane as the end face of the reading head (200), for use in contact with the surface of the meter when installed with the meter (500).

8. The intelligent wireless meter reader according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a pressing part (300) and a light-emitting element; the pressing part (300) is movably disposed on the body (100), and a trigger boss (302) is provided at its lower part; a press switch (104) is correspondingly disposed inside the body (100), and the trigger boss (302) is configured to trigger the press switch (104) when the pressing part (300) is pressed; the light-emitting element is disposed inside the reading head (200) or on the surface of the body (100).

Images