Device for reading and duplicating an optical signal relating to measured variables in a building

Abstract

A device (100) for reading and duplicating an optical signal (115) relating to measured variables in a building, preferably from a digital utility meter (105), comprises (a.) a receiver unit (110) configured to receive the optical signal; and (b.) a duplication unit (120) configured to duplicate the optical signal.

Description

1. Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for reading and duplicating an optical signal relating to measured variables in a building, preferably from a digital utility meter. The device comprises a receiver unit configured to receive the optical signal and a duplication unit configured to duplicate the optical signal. 2. State of the art

[0002] Digital utility meters are widely known. For example, they can be used to measure and record electricity consumption in a home, building, or other location. Unlike traditional analog meters, which use mechanical counters and only display consumption in kWh but neither historical data nor current electricity consumption to measure energy consumption, digital utility meters use electronic sensors and circuits to record consumption more precisely. Their advantages include increased accuracy through more precise measurement of energy consumption, as well as improved data recording, as energy consumption can be recorded and stored at regular intervals. Therefore, digital utility meters offer an advanced solution for monitoring and managing energy consumption, enabling better control and efficiency.

[0003] Digital utility meters, for example, use the IEC 62056 standard as a communication protocol to enable communication between the utility meters and other devices, such as measuring devices, data concentrators, or smart home systems. Consumption data, operating data, and control commands can then be exchanged via a read head and an optical interface. Digital utility meters that are compliant with IEC 62056 therefore provide a standardized interface for communication with other devices and systems, facilitating interoperability and integration into smart grid and smart home infrastructures. They enable energy suppliers to implement energy efficiency measures, collect and analyze consumption data, and enable efficient energy consumption management.

[0004] Consumption meters are known, for example, from DE 10 2018 005 414 A1, DE 10 2017 114 701 A1 and DE 10 2017 006 506 A1.

[0005] In particular, DE 10 2020 103 310 B4 discloses a system for reading and transmitting data from a consumption meter, which, in accordance with legal provisions, enables both the input of light pulses to activate the output of meter data from the consumption meter and the transmission of the output meter data to a terminal device remotely, in particular over long distances.

[0006] While the above documents claim an improvement over the current state of the art with regard to the operation for releasing the protected meter data via a data interface on the utility meter, the solutions proposed in these documents still have some shortcomings when it comes to providing increased functionality of the widely used utility meters with a reading head.

[0007] Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved device for detecting measured variables in a building, in particular from a digital consumption meter. 3. Summary of the invention

[0008] This problem is at least partially solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are subject matter of the dependent claims, and other suitable aspects of the present invention are described by the overall disclosure of the present application.

[0009] In one aspect, a device for reading and duplicating an optical signal relating to measured variables in a building, preferably from a digital utility meter, comprises (a.) a receiver unit configured to receive the optical signal and (b.) a duplication unit configured to duplicate the optical signal.

[0010] In this way, an improved device for recording measured variables in a building, such as a household, in particular from a digital utility meter, with increased functionality is provided. Known digital utility meters only have an optical interface via which meter data can be received and, if necessary, forwarded. Therefore, a digital utility meter could previously only be read using a single device, e.g., a read head. Another device could then no longer use the utility meter's optical interface. The claimed duplication unit duplicates the received and previously used optical signal (e.g., via an IEC 62056 interface) in order to create additional interfaces for other devices. The use of the device with the duplication unit therefore makes it possible to read an optical interface of a utility meter without blocking it for other devices.Rather, the interface can be duplicated and thus made available for other devices. It should be emphasized that calibration of the device with the duplication unit is not necessary if the digital consumption meter has already been calibrated, since the duplicated signal is not altered but can be read and forwarded unchanged.

[0011] The advantage of additional interfaces on a digital utility meter, whether a reading head or another type of interface, allows for a variety of improved options, e.g., in terms of connectivity and flexibility. For example, several of the following functions can be performed simultaneously: For example, an additional interface can enable the digital consumption meter to be read and controlled remotely, e.g. by a reader from the electricity provider, while the end user still has direct access to the data. This can eliminate the need for manual on-site readings and enables energy suppliers to monitor consumption in real time and take action if necessary. At the same time, the end user can use the consumption data independently and without recourse to the (possibly changing) portals of the respective electricity provider. For example, this can enable flexible integration of the digital consumption meter into smart grid systems, which enable optimized energy distribution and management. By communicating with other devices in the network, digital consumption meters can contribute to load control and help identify bottlenecks, e.g.in the distribution networks, or to control or switch devices on or off depending on consumption.

[0012] In addition, additional interfaces allow end users to easily access and analyze their consumption data. This can lead to more conscious energy consumption behavior and help customers reduce their energy costs.

[0013] Furthermore, additional interfaces provide a foundation for future applications and extensions. New technologies and services can be more easily integrated by creating additional interfaces for the digital utility meter.

[0014] Finally, an additional interface also offers expanded data acquisition, allowing the use of a utility's electricity meter while simultaneously collecting additional data beyond pure energy consumption. For example, information on voltage, current, power factor, and other parameters useful for a comprehensive analysis of energy consumption and grid stability can be collected.

[0015] Overall, the additional interfaces created by the claimed device with duplication unit in a digital utility meter offer a variety of advantages that can lead to improved functionality, connectivity and user-friendliness.

[0016] The device for reading can, for example, be designed as a reading head or have a reading head.

[0017] In some embodiments, the duplication unit may comprise at least one light source. The use of a light source in conjunction with a digital utility meter offers the advantage of enabling automated meter readings, particularly in dark or poorly lit environments. This makes it easier for users to read their current consumption.

[0018] The light source can generate electromagnetic radiation, preferably infrared (IR) radiation. This enables contactless data transmission between the digital utility meter and other devices, thus enabling convenient and reliable communication without a physical connection. Furthermore, since IR radiation cannot penetrate walls or other obstacles, it offers increased security for data transmission. This prevents potential eavesdropping attempts or unauthorized access to the digital utility meter's data. Furthermore, the use of IR radiation enables easy operation of the digital utility meter, as no complicated cabling or connectors are required. Furthermore, IR radiation offers reliable data transmission over short distances and is less susceptible to interference compared to wireless technologies. Furthermore, since IR radiation, for example, cannot penetrate walls or other obstacles, it offers increased security for data transmission.Since it can only be activated when data transmission is required, it contributes to the energy efficiency of the digital utility meter, as it eliminates the need for a continuous power supply. Furthermore, IR radiation is used in many devices and applications and is a proven technology for wireless data transmission, making it cost-effective and therefore easy to integrate into digital utility meters.

[0019] In some embodiments, the light source may be compliant with the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 62056 standard. Using the IEC 62056 standard offers several benefits for utility meters, including interoperability, flexibility, security, and future-proofing. The IEC 62056 standard defines a unified communication protocol that can be implemented by different manufacturers. This ensures interoperability between different utility meters and other devices, regardless of the manufacturer. Furthermore, the standard specifies standardized data formats used for utility meter communication. This facilitates the integration of utility meters into existing networks, systems, and software platforms. IEC 62056 also provides a flexible platform that enables the exchange of various types of data, including consumption data, operational data, control commands, and more.This enables a wide range of applications and functions for utility meters. Furthermore, the IEC 62056 standard also includes security mechanisms and authentication methods to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the transmitted data. This is especially important when transmitting sensitive consumption data. Because the IEC 62056 standard is continuously developed and updated to meet changing requirements and technologies, improved utility meters can be provided to support future developments in the energy industry. Furthermore, the use of the IEC 62056 standard provides seamless integration of utility meters into increasingly important smart grid systems. This enables energy utilities to operate more efficiently and better manage electricity consumption.

[0020] The light source may be located on a top surface of the device. In relation to the device, the top surface refers to the surface located on top of the device's housing, which is normally viewed from the front when the device is installed, for example, on the meter. This can provide easy accessibility, improved communication, protection against interference, and improved compatibility with readers. By placing the optical interface on top of the device, it is easily accessible and highly visible. This facilitates use and access for installers, technicians, or users who need to access the interface. Also, because the optical interface is placed on top of the device, it is in a position that allows a clear line of sight for the optical communication device.This ensures reliable and interference-free data transmission. Placing the optical interface on top of the device can further protect it from potential interference or contamination that might occur at ground level. This can improve the reliability of optical communication. Furthermore, top-mounted placement can save space and reduce the overall dimensions of the device. Furthermore, optical readers can be easily positioned via the optical interface on top of the device, enabling smooth and efficient data transmission. This facilitates the use of readers and reduces potential installation problems.

[0021] In some embodiments, the light source may comprise at least one LED. This can contribute to an improved user experience, energy efficiency, and reliability of the digital utility meter. Modern LED light sources are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent or fluorescent lamps. As a result, they consume less power, which contributes to the overall improved energy efficiency of the utility meter. Furthermore, LEDs have a significantly longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent or fluorescent lamps. This reduces the maintenance effort and cost of replacing the light source over the lifetime of the utility meter. In addition, LEDs generate less heat than traditional incandescent bulbs. This can help lower the overall operating temperature of the digital utility meter and thus extend its lifespan.In addition, LEDs are available in various colors and shapes, thus offering greater design flexibility for the meter manufacturer. This allows the meter to be better integrated into its surroundings. Furthermore, LED light sources can be used to implement various display settings, such as displaying different colors or flashing patterns to signal specific states or events of the digital utility meter.

[0022] In some embodiments, the device may comprise a communication unit configured to transmit data based on the optical signal. A communication unit enables efficient transmission of consumption data or other relevant information. This allows digital utility meters to be seamlessly integrated into a network to send consumption data to energy suppliers, smart grid systems, or other recipients. Furthermore, communication units may be equipped with various connectivity options, such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, cellular, or PLC (Power Line Communication). This enables flexible integration into existing networks or infrastructures. By implementing a communication unit, digital utility meters can also be remotely read and controlled.This facilitates the monitoring of energy consumption, fault diagnosis, and remote control of utility meters. Furthermore, a dedicated communication unit enables the transmission of real-time data, which enables precise monitoring and analysis of energy consumption. This is particularly important for applications such as load management, energy management, and operational management. Furthermore, communication units can be equipped with security features to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the transmitted data. This includes encryption, authentication, and other security mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access or data manipulation. Therefore, the installation of a communication unit makes it possible to prepare utility meters for future requirements and technologies. Through the integration orBy installing firmware updates or supporting new communication standards, the functionality and performance of the digital consumption meters can be maintained in the long term.

[0023] This allows data from a consumption meter, for example, to be read and used flexibly without "consuming" the interface required for reading. This enables seamless integration of the data into any network and / or system without compromising the functionality of the consumption meter or its readability.

[0024] Furthermore, the communication unit can alternatively or additionally be configured to receive data. Data reception can, for example, be used to configure the communication unit, e.g., to control the frequency / intervals / times at which data transmission occurs, the format in which the data should be transmitted, the power level, etc.

[0025] The data can be transferred to a remote data storage, preferably a cloud, via the communication unit. Using a remote data storage such as the cloud offers several advantages for storing and managing utility meter data, including reliability, scalability, accessibility, data analytics, security, and integration with other services. Cloud storage platforms are typically highly reliable and offer redundancy mechanisms to ensure data integrity. This minimizes data loss and increases the availability of utility meter data. Furthermore, cloud storage platforms can be flexibly scaled to adapt to changing storage capacity requirements. This allows utility meter data to be managed efficiently and cost-effectively, regardless of the data volume.Furthermore, cloud storage makes meter data accessible from anywhere and at any time via the internet. This allows energy suppliers, grid operators, and other authorized users to access and analyze the data without requiring physical presence. Furthermore, cloud platforms often offer integrated tools and services for data analysis and visualization. This enables energy suppliers and grid operators to identify consumption patterns, spot trends, and make informed decisions for grid optimization and load management. Cloud storage platforms also offer advanced security features, including encryption, access control, and monitoring. By using proven security mechanisms, meter data can be better protected in the cloud than on local servers or storage media.Finally, cloud storage platforms often integrate seamlessly with other services and platforms, such as IoT platforms, energy management systems, or billing systems. This allows utility meter data to be used more effectively to optimize operational processes and offer value-added services.

[0026] In some embodiments, the communication unit may use one of the following wired or wireless telecommunications standards: IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard, USB-C, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, ZigBee, Z-Wave, Enocean, WLAN or Wi-Fi based on the IEEE 802.11 family, Universal Mobile Telecommunications System, UMTS, 3G, Long Term Evolution, LTE, 4G, LTE Advanced, 5G, NarrowBand IoT or LTE-M, and future wired or wireless telecommunications standards.

[0027] Wired telecommunications, such as the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard, USB-C, or Power Line Communication (PLC), offer reliable data transmission because they are less susceptible to interference, glitches, or interruptions than wireless communication technologies. This ensures consistent and stable transmission of utility meter data. Furthermore, wired telecommunications generally offer a higher level of security than wireless technologies because transmission occurs over physical cables, which are more difficult to intercept or tamper with. Furthermore, using wired communication technologies allows utility meter data to be transmitted securely without the risk of being intercepted or compromised by unauthorized persons. Wired telecommunications also generally offer lower latency than wireless technologies.This enables faster transmission of utility meter data and faster response to real-time events in the power grid. Furthermore, wired telecommunications networks offer virtually unlimited bandwidth for data transmission, unlike wireless technologies, which can have limited bandwidth. This enables the transmission of large amounts of utility meter data without performance bottlenecks. Furthermore, wired telecommunications infrastructures are often more robust and resilient to environmental influences such as extreme weather conditions or electromagnetic interference compared to wireless technologies. Furthermore, wired telecommunications networks can be easily expanded and scaled to integrate additional utility meters or other devices into the network. This enables a flexible and cost-effective solution for managing large utility meter infrastructures.

[0028] In contrast, the use of wireless telecommunications, preferably LTE or 5G, for transmitting utility meter data offers several advantages, including flexibility, ease of installation, rapid implementation, scalability, lower costs, and widespread technology availability. Wireless telecommunications allows utility meter data to be transmitted without a physical connection, providing flexibility and mobility. This is particularly useful in situations where cabling is not practical or possible. Wireless telecommunications technologies also do not require complex cabling and installation, saving time and money. This facilitates the installation of utility meters in various environments and buildings. The implementation of wireless telecommunications is generally quick and easy, as no physical cabling is required.This enables faster deployment of utility metering systems and faster collection of consumption data. Since no physical cabling is required, installation costs for wireless telecommunications technologies can be lower than for wired solutions. This can be particularly advantageous in environments with difficult accessibility or in buildings with high installation costs. A variety of wireless telecommunications technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and ZigBee, can be used depending on the use case and requirements. This diversity makes it possible to select the best technology for each application.

[0029] The device may further comprise a transmission unit assigned to the receiver unit, which is configured to transmit a further optical signal, preferably to the digital utility meter. In some embodiments, the device may alternatively or additionally comprise a second receiver unit assigned to the duplication unit. It may be configured to receive a further optical signal. In some embodiments, the second receiver unit may be configured to cooperate with the transmission unit. In particular, the second receiver unit may receive a further optical signal, and the transmission unit may be configured to duplicate the further optical signal.

[0030] This can improve connectivity, as the device can not only receive data from the utility meter but also actively send data to other devices, such as digital utility meters. This enables efficient bidirectional communication, enabling both data reception and transmission. This improves the flexibility and adaptability of the device. By transmitting optical signals to digital utility meters, the transmission unit also enables seamless integration with these devices. For example, the utility meter's output can be locked, unlocked, and / or configured.

[0031] The second receiver unit and the transmission unit can be configured like the (first) receiver unit and duplication unit described herein, respectively. The second receiver unit and the transmission unit can, in particular, each comprise a light source, as previously described for the duplication unit. The light source can be compatible with the IEC 62056 standard. The light source can further comprise at least one LED.

[0032] In some embodiments with a communication unit, the device can have a transmission unit associated with the receiver unit. This can, for example, be configured like the transmission unit described above. However, the transmission unit can alternatively or additionally also be configured to generate the further optical signal, and preferably output it to the digital utility meter, based at least partially on the data received from the communication unit. For example, the output of the utility meter can be locked, unlocked, and / or configured, allowing a variety of advantages, including configuration flexibility, easy remote control, performance optimization, dynamic adaptation to changes, and centralized management. This contributes to improving the efficiency, reliability, and adaptability of the device.

[0033] In some examples, for example, based at least in part on the data received by the communication unit, the transmission unit may be selectively controlled remotely (e.g., the second receiver unit may be disabled) or switched to local control (e.g., the second receiver unit may be activated).

[0034] The digital utility meter can include one of the following: a digital electricity meter, a digital gas meter, a digital heating meter, a digital heat meter, or a digital water meter. Each of these digital utility meters is crucial for measuring and monitoring energy consumption in residential, commercial, and industrial facilities. They play an important role in billing electricity, gas, and water consumption, as well as in identifying savings opportunities and improving energy efficiency.

[0035] In some embodiments, the device may further comprise at least one interface unit configured to convert the optical signal (and / or the further optical signal) into a non-optical signal and / or vice versa. Such an interface unit enables the seamless integration of optical devices with non-optical systems or devices. This is particularly important when the digital utility meter needs to be connected to a non-optical communication network or a control unit. By converting optical signals into non-optical signals, flexibility is increased, as the digital utility meter can communicate with a variety of non-optical devices or systems, regardless of the communication technologies used.The use of an interface unit also allows the digital utility meter to be expanded or upgraded as needed without replacing existing non-optical infrastructure. This facilitates scaling and adapting to changing requirements or technologies. An interface unit can also help solve interoperability issues by ensuring that optical devices are compatible with a wide variety of non-optical devices or systems. This promotes seamless communication and data exchange between different systems or platforms. Furthermore, using an interface unit can be a cost-effective solution rather than replacing all non-optical devices or systems with optical variants to improve connectivity and interoperability. This can reduce the overall cost of implementing or upgrading communication systems.

[0036] For example, the interface unit can be a component of the receiver unit and convert the optical signal received by it into an electronic (e.g., digitized) signal. The latter can then be looped through to the duplication unit, for example, and converted there, for example, back into the duplicated optical signal. In embodiments with a second receiver unit and / or a transmission unit, at least one interface unit can be provided analogously, or the corresponding conversion can be performed by a common (bidirectional) interface unit.

[0037] In a second aspect of the present disclosure, the objects are achieved by a method for operating the claimed device. The method comprises the steps of receiving the optical signal and duplicating the optical signal. The aforementioned advantages of the claimed device are also applicable to the method.

[0038] All aspects described herein with respect to a device can also be realized as corresponding features of corresponding method steps. 4. Short description of the characters

[0039] In the following, the invention is described in more detail with reference to the following figure: Fig. 1: shows an exemplary device for reading and duplicating an optical signal relating to measured variables in a building, preferably from a digital utility meter, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 5. Detailed description of the preferred embodiment

[0040] In the following, only one possible embodiment of the invention is described in detail. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and a variety of other embodiments are applicable without departing from the scope of the invention. The illustrated embodiment can be modified in various ways and combined with other possible embodiments, whenever compatible and certain features can be omitted where they appear to be dispensable. In particular, the disclosed embodiment can be modified by combining certain features of one embodiment with one or more features of another conceivable embodiment.

[0041] It is understood that not all features of the described aspects / embodiments need to be present to realize the technical advantages provided by the present disclosure, which is defined by the subject matter of the claims. The disclosed aspects / embodiments may be modified by combining certain features of one aspect / embodiment with one or more features of another aspect / embodiment. In particular, those skilled in the art will understand that features and / or functional elements of one aspect / embodiment may be combined with technically compatible features and / or functional elements of another aspect / embodiment of the present disclosure, provided that the resulting combination falls within the definition of the present disclosure.

[0042] While the following embodiment is described primarily with reference to a digital electricity meter, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure of the invention may equally be applied in a variety of different technical fields and / or applications.

[0043] As will be understood by those skilled in the art and / or to avoid redundancies, reference is also made to the explanations in the preceding sections, which also apply to the following detailed description. Furthermore, for the sake of brevity and clarity, not all features, parts, elements, aspects, components, and / or steps are expressly identified by reference numerals. This applies in particular if those skilled in the art recognize that such features, parts, elements, aspects, components, and / or steps exist in multiples.

[0044] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure and the features of the described aspects / embodiments are also applicable to a general signal rather than an optical signal. It is also conceivable that the device can be used to read and duplicate electrical signals, such as analog or digital signals, periodic or non-periodic signals, as well as acoustic signals, and all features described herein are also applicable to these signals.

[0045] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present disclosure and the features of the described aspects / embodiments are also applicable to an analog utility meter. For this purpose, a non-optical or analog signal from the analog utility meter can be converted into a digital signal. This digital signal can then be converted into the optical signal and later duplicated. This could be an analog electricity meter, an analog gas meter, an analog heating meter, an analog heat meter, or an analog water meter. Each of these analog utility meters is crucial for measuring and monitoring energy consumption in residential, commercial, and industrial facilities. They play an important role in billing electricity, gas, and water consumption, as well as in identifying savings potential and improving energy efficiency.This option combines the advantages of an analog utility meter with the benefits of optical communication. Analog utility meters are often mechanical and have less vulnerable electronic components than digital meters. They also generally require less maintenance and calibration than digital meters. They are therefore also more cost-effective. However, by integrating an optical signal into an analog utility meter, additional benefits such as remote reading, automated billing, or data integrity and security can be realized.

[0046] Fig. 1 shows a device 100 for reading and duplicating an optical signal 115 of a digital electricity meter 105. The device 100 comprises a receiver unit 110 configured to receive the optical signal 115 from the digital electricity meter 105 and a duplication unit 120 configured to duplicate the optical signal.

[0047] The receiver unit 110 (e.g., read head) can comprise a receiver module and associated electronics. The receiver module can receive various types of data, preferably optically via light waves. Alternatively or additionally, wireless transmission via radio or a wired connection would also be conceivable.

[0048] For receiving the optical signal 115, an IEC 62056 interface, such as that used by the digital electricity meter 105, can be provided. Other optical signals from existing or future standards are also conceivable.

[0049] The optical signal 115 is received, preferably digitized, and then forwarded to the device 100, preferably via an Ethernet cable. Other wired or wireless connections are also conceivable. The receiver unit 110 and the device 100 are in Fig.1 with the respective housings. However, they can also be designed as a single piece or integral unit.

[0050] In some embodiments, the receiver unit 110 may include an input unit configured to input optical signals in the form of an optical pulse sequence, wherein the optical pulse sequence may correspond to a PIN for the digital electricity meter 105. If the digital electricity meter is unlocked, extended information can be loaded, such as live data or historical consumption data stored on the digital electricity meter.

[0051] The duplication unit 120 includes at least one light source (not shown). The light source uses electromagnetic infrared (IR) radiation, which is compatible with the IEC 62056 standard. For this purpose, the light source can be installed on a circuit board.

[0052] The light source is located on top of the device 100 - that is, on the surface located on top of the housing of the device 100, which is normally viewed from the front when the device 100 is installed.

[0053] The light source comprises at least one LED (not shown). The LED can duplicate the received optical signal by emitting an optical signal 115' with the same wavelength and luminous intensity. Thus, additional interfaces for additional devices can be provided, whereby calibration of the device 100 is not relevant, since the digital electricity meter 105 has already been calibrated and the duplicated signal is not altered, but can be read and forwarded unchanged.

[0054] The light source of the duplication unit 120 can be configured to transmit only IR radiation, allowing additional devices that wish to use the optical interface of the digital electricity meter to be connected to the device 100. A sequence of the optical signal can be copied and output immediately.

[0055] The device 100 further comprises a communication unit 125 configured to transmit data based on the optical signal. The communication unit 125 enables efficient transmission of consumption data or other relevant information, and the duplication unit 120 can connect another device, such as an end-user device. The communication unit 125 can comprise an antenna with approximate dimensions of 70 × 20 × 2 mm, which is mounted on the aforementioned circuit board. The duplication unit 120 can be integrated into the communication unit 125.

[0056] In some embodiments, the data is transmitted to a remote data storage, preferably a cloud, by the communication unit 125. The following wired or wireless telecommunications standards mentioned above can be used for transmission: IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard, USB-C, Power Line Communication, PLC, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, ZigBee, Z-Wave, Enocean, WLAN or Wi-Fi based on the IEEE 802.11 family, Universal Mobile Telecommunications System, UMTS, 3G, Long Term Evolution, LTE, 4G, LTE Advanced, 5G, and future wired or wireless telecommunications standards.

[0057] Frequencies for the wireless transmission of the communication unit can be the following: 440-460 MHz, preferably 445-455 MHz, 863-870 MHz, preferably 868 MHz, 1.9-2.6 GHz, preferably 2.1 GHz or preferably 2.4 GHz, 4.5-5.5 GHz, preferably 5 GHz.

[0058] Furthermore, it is also possible for the communication unit 125 to use a cascade of connection technologies depending on availability or customer requirements. For example, the first priority could be Ethernet (LAN with RJ connectors), a second priority could be Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz network), a third priority could be LTE-NB NarrowBand IoT, and a fourth priority could be LTE-M. It is also conceivable to use only LAN and Wi-Fi. USB-C with appropriate connectors or fixed cabling on the device is also conceivable.

[0059] In some embodiments, the device 100 may further include a status LED (in RGB colors) to indicate the connection or status of the device 100.

[0060] In some embodiments, the device 100 may further comprise a transmission unit assigned to the receiver unit 110, which is configured to transmit a further optical signal, preferably to the digital utility meter. The device 100 may further comprise a second receiver unit assigned to the duplication unit and interacting with the transmission unit. It may be configured to receive data for the further optical signal and transmit it to the transmission unit. For example, the duplication unit and the second receiver unit may be configured to form a duplicated interface, which may be coupled, for example, to another device 100 having an associated receiver unit and optionally an associated transmission unit.

[0061] In some embodiments, the second receiver unit is controllable via the communication unit.

[0062] In some embodiments, the device 100 may include an interface unit configured to convert the optical signal 115 into a non-optical signal.

[0063] Alternatively, or in addition to duplication, the device 100 may also be capable of reading the optical signal 115 (or another previously described signal) and then converting it into another signal and outputting the converted signal. The other signal may, for example, be an optical signal in a different format. This enables, for example, the conversion of a format used by one manufacturer of the utility meter into a format used by a manufacturer of another utility meter and / or a current format. Thus, the device can form a universal interface that can be used regardless of the format of the utility meter. For example, the optical signal of the IEC 62056 standard can also be converted into a format for an optical fiber, such as a fiber optic cable.

[0064] However, it is also possible for the optical signal to be converted into a non-optical signal and output. This can be achieved by the interface unit described above or by other components of the device 100. Converting optical signals into other forms offers a number of advantages. It enables compatibility with various devices and systems that cannot work directly with optical signals. For example, optical signals can be converted into electrical signals to communicate with conventional electronic devices. Furthermore, converting optical signals expands the possibilities for transmitting data over various media. For example, optical signals can be converted into electrical signals for transmission over copper cables or radio transmission, which offers flexibility in the choice of transmission medium.In addition, converting optical signals into other forms facilitates direct connection between optical and non-optical devices or systems. This conversion allows optical devices to be seamlessly connected to conventional electronic devices or networks. Furthermore, converting optical signals into other forms can improve interoperability between different technologies and platforms. For example, optical signals can be converted into electrical signals to enable seamless integration of optical and electronic networks. In some cases, optical signals can be susceptible to interference, such as light scattering or fiber attenuation. By converting optical signals into other forms, this interference can be reduced or eliminated, resulting in improved signal quality and reliability.In many cases, optical signal conversion is required for use with existing infrastructure. For example, optical signals can be converted to electrical signals for use with existing electronic networks or devices without requiring extensive changes to the infrastructure. 6. List of reference symbols used 100 device 105 Digital electricity meter 110 Receiver unit 115 optical signal 115' duplicated optical signal 120 duplication unit 125 Communication unit QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2018 005 414 A1

[0004] DE 10 2017 114 701 A1

[0004] DE 10 2017 006 506 A1

[0004] DE 10 2020 103 310 B4

[0005]

Claims

[1] A device (100) for reading and duplicating an optical signal (115) relating to measured variables in a building, preferably from a digital consumption meter (105), comprising: (a.) a receiver unit (110) configured to receive the optical signal; and (b.) a duplication unit (120) configured to duplicate the optical signal. [2] The device according to the preceding claim, wherein the duplication unit comprises at least one light source. [3] The device according to the preceding claim, wherein the light source generates electromagnetic radiation, preferably infrared, IR, radiation. [4] The device according to the preceding claim, wherein the light source is compatible with the International Electrotechnical Commission, IEC, 62056 standard. [5] The device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the light source is arranged on a top side of the device. [6] The device according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the light source comprises at least one LED. [7] The device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a communication unit (125) configured to transmit data based on the optical signal and / or to receive data. [8] The device according to the preceding claim, wherein the data can be transferred to a remote data storage, in particular a cloud, by the communication unit. [9] The device according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the communication unit uses one of the following wired or wireless telecommunications standards: IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standard, USB-C, Power Line Communication, PLC, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, ZigBee, Z-Wave, Enocean, WLAN or Wi-Fi based on the IEEE 802.11 family, Universal Mobile Telecommunications System, UMTS, 3G, Long Term Evolution, LTE, 4G, LTE Advanced, 5G, NarrowBand IoT or LTE-M and future wired or wireless telecommunications standards. [10] The device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a second receiver unit associated with the duplication unit and configured to receive a further optical signal. [11] The device according to the preceding claim, further comprising: a transmission unit associated with the receiver unit, wherein the transmission unit is configured to duplicate the further optical signal and preferably to output it to the digital consumption meter. [12] The device according to any one of claims 7-9, further comprising: a transmission unit associated with the receiver unit, wherein the transmission unit is configured to generate a further optical signal and preferably to output it to the digital consumption meter, wherein the further optical signal is based at least partially on the data received by the communication unit. [13] The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the digital utility meter comprises one of the following: a digital electricity meter, a digital gas meter, a digital heating meter, a digital heat meter, or a digital water meter. [14] The device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one interface unit configured to convert the optical signal into a non-optical signal. [15] A method of operating the device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: Receiving the optical signal, and Duplicating the optical signal.

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