COUNTER ADAPTER

Description

[0001] The application concerns a counter adapter for a counter with a pulse output. Furthermore, the application concerns a system, a procedure, and a computer program.

[0002] Meters for recording the quantity of a supply medium transmitted via a specific supply medium channel are known from the prior art, for example, to determine the amount of medium consumed. Electricity meters are known, for instance, for recording the amount of electricity or energy exchanged via a monitored power line.

[0003] A building or part of a building (e.g., a specific apartment) can be equipped with an electricity meter to record the amount of electricity (or electrical energy) consumed by the building's or part's electrical appliances, specifically the amount of electricity received from the electricity distribution network. It goes without saying that if a generator (e.g., a photovoltaic system) is present, the electricity meter can also record the amount of electricity fed into the electricity distribution network.

[0004] Modern electricity meters can usually be connected to a so-called smart meter gateway (SMGW). Smart meter gateways serve, in particular, to securely transmit the amount of electricity measured by the electricity meter to, for example, the electricity supplier (e.g., a backend system in the form of at least one server), for billing purposes and / or for customer information (e.g., the meter data can be made available to a customer via a user device through the backend system).

[0005] Due to the stringent data protection and data security requirements for smart metering systems, only those systems that meet the requirements of the Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) for a smart meter gateway will be permitted in Germany in the future. Similar requirements generally exist in other countries, so the following explanations are applicable accordingly.

[0006] The same applies to other meters, such as gas meters, heat meters, water meters, etc. For a nationwide rollout of smart meters, it is therefore known from the current state of technology to replace the currently installed meters with modern electronic, especially digital, meters (so-called smart meters). However, a disadvantage of this is that otherwise functional meters (e.g., a diaphragm gas meter) must be replaced. This is associated with correspondingly high costs. In particular, electronic meters, such as electronic gas meters, are more expensive both to purchase and to operate. Furthermore, the lifespan of these meters is significantly reduced compared to conventional meters, such as diaphragm meters.

[0007] EP 2 707 732 A1 discloses a counter adapter for a counter. The counter adapter has a pulse input configured for connecting it to the counter's pulse output. Furthermore, the counter adapter has a data output configured for sending the counter data record to another device, for example via PAN, HAN, or LAN. In addition, the counter adapter includes a processor and a data memory for storing computer program code. It can be assumed that the conversion of the pulse counter data into a counter data record is performed according to the standard used.

[0008] Therefore, the application aims to create a way to continue using already installed and still functional meters and, in particular, to reduce costs.

[0009] The problem is solved according to a first aspect of the application by a meter adapter for a meter with a pulse output according to claim 1. The meter adapter comprises at least one pulse input configured for connecting the meter adapter to the pulse output of the meter. The meter adapter comprises at least one translation device configured for converting the pulse meter data received from the meter via the pulse input into a meter data record in a data format according to a standard protocol of a smart meter gateway. The meter adapter comprises at least one data record output configured for sending the converted meter data record to a smart meter gateway located remotely from the meter adapter.

[0010] In contrast to current technology, this approach uses a meter adapter for connection to a meter (e.g., BGZ) via the meter's pulse output. The meter adapter converts received pulse meter data (e.g., 0 / 1 pulses) into meter data (specifically, a corresponding language) that can be processed by a smart meter gateway. This provides a simple way to continue using already installed and functioning meters. In particular, gateway connectivity can be established via the meter adapter. Replacing a meter can be avoided. The costs of connecting to a smart meter gateway are reduced. Furthermore, the operating costs of the meters can be lowered.

[0011] The meter is a conventional meter (e.g., a BGZ) with at least one pulse output. A pulse output is understood to be a hardware interface. The pulse output is configured to output pulses. In other words, a meter reading is displayed by outputting pulses (and can be updated or converted, particularly in the meter adapter). Meters with pulse outputs are used, in particular, to transmit pulses corresponding to a specific value to a receiver. The way the pulse value is represented can depend on the meter type. For example, the pulse value can be specified as: x (energy units) / pulse, or the pulse output frequency: x pulses / (energy units).

[0012] The meter adapter as applied for has at least one pulse input, which corresponds in particular to the pulse output of the meter to be connected. In other words, the pulse input is designed in such a way that it can be mechanically and electrically connected to the pulse output of the meter, either directly or indirectly (e.g., via a connecting cable).

[0013] A pulse input is, in particular, a hardware interface. The pulse input is configured to receive pulses (as previously described). In other words, the counter value of a counter can be maintained (or updated) by receiving pulses.

[0014] The received pulses, or pulse counter data, are provided to a translation device. This device converts the pulse counter data, particularly using suitable means, into data that is readable and, more importantly, further processable by a smart meter gateway. Specifically, the translation device transforms the pulse counter data into a meter data record in a data format according to a standard protocol of a smart meter gateway, particularly an OMS (Open Metering System) standard. In other words, the translation device translates the 0 / 1 pulses, such as those emitted by a BGZ (Battery Control Unit), into a language that the smart meter gateway understands and can process.

[0015] The meter adapter as registered further comprises at least one data output, in particular in the form of a communication module or an interface. The data output is configured to send, in particular to transmit, the meter data record made available and converted (or updated) by the translation device to a smart meter gateway located within range of, but away from, the meter adapter.

[0016] In particular, registration allows a manufacturer-neutral OMS (radio) module in the form of the meter adapter to be provided for the BSI (Federal Office for Information Security)-compliant connection of a diaphragm gas meter (BGZ) with pulse output (or the like) to a smart meter gateway.

[0017] According to a first embodiment of the meter adapter according to the application, the at least one pulse input can be a wired pulse input, configured to establish a wired connection between the pulse input of the meter adapter and the pulse output of the meter. In particular, a connecting cable (e.g., between 0.1 m and 10 m, especially between 0.1 m and 3 m) can be connected between the pulse output of the meter and the wired pulse input of the meter adapter. The meter adapter can be connected to the pulse generator of the meter (via the pulse output) by means of the wired connection. The pulse generator is particularly dependent on the type of meter (but can always output a 0 / 1 signal per defined supply quantity (e.g., gas quantity) via a normally open contact).The 0 / 1 signal (pulse) can be processed by the electronics of the translation device and converted into the necessary radio signal, which can be processed by the Smart Meter Gateway.

[0018] A particularly secure communication link can be established between a meter and the meter adapter. Furthermore, the meter adapter can be positioned anywhere within the range defined by the connecting cable.

[0019] In particular, the meter adapter can be positioned in such a way that a communication link can be established between the data output and the smart meter gateway. For example, the meter adapter can be mounted near a gas meter, e.g., on the wall, attached to a pipe using a mounting module (e.g., a clamp), or even directly on the gas meter. The wired connection (cable) to the pulse generator / gas meter allows for the selection of a mounting location that ensures the best possible wireless connection to the smart meter gateway.

[0020] According to a further embodiment of the meter adapter according to the application, the at least one data record output can be a wireless data record output, configured to send the converted meter data record via a wireless connection to the smart meter gateway located remotely from the meter adapter, in particular in accordance with standard EN 13757-4. Meter data records can thus be forwarded to a smart meter gateway in a simple yet secure manner. A smart meter gateway can process the received meter data records in the conventional manner and, in particular, forward them.

[0021] "Converting" specifically means "updating".

[0022] Furthermore, the at least one translation device according to the invention is configured to determine the instantaneous meter reading of the connectable meter from the received pulse counter data. The at least one translation device is configured to convert the determined meter reading such that the converted meter data record contains the determined meter reading. From the meter reading, in particular, the amount of supply medium consumed or received and / or the amount of supply medium generated or injected can be determined. As already described, pulses can be received from which the translation device preferably determines the meter reading. A pulse can be defined as follows: 30 ms ≤ t_IN ≤ 120 ms; 30 ms ≤ t_OFF.

[0023] According to the invention, the meter adapter comprises at least one data memory configured for storing at least one meter-type-based translation rule, in particular in the form of at least one stored meter-type-based translation relationship. The at least one translation device is configured to convert the pulse counter data received from the meter via the pulse input into the meter data record, based on the at least one translation rule, i.e., by applying or processing this rule. In particular, the translation rule can depend on the pulse value of the connected meter. Based on the pulse value and the pulse counter data, the corresponding value, in particular the meter reading, can be determined and subsequently transferred into a data format according to a standard protocol of a smart meter gateway.In particular, the translation rule can be a rule for a direct conversion of pulse counter data into meter data or a meter data set in a data format according to a standard protocol of a smart meter gateway.

[0024] According to the invention, a plurality of selectable meter-type-based translation rules for a corresponding plurality of different meter types are stored (in advance) in the data storage device, in particular in the form of a translation table (or the like) with a plurality of meter-type-based translation relationships. In particular, a plurality of different translation rules for a corresponding plurality of different meter types, for example, different gas meter types and / or different water meter types and / or different heat meter types and / or different electricity meter types, can be stored in advance, preferably at the factory.

[0025] It is understood that only one translation rule of only one counter type can be implemented initially. In normal operation, only one translation rule is ever selected.

[0026] The meter-type-based translation rule actually applicable by the translation device can be selected depending on the meter type of the meter to be connected. In other words, when a meter is connected, its meter type is determined, and then the translation rule associated with that meter is selected. "Selecting" specifically means that the corresponding rule is activated, and the translation device performs data conversion only on the activated rule. In other words, the meter adapter can be easily configured during installation.

[0027] The at least one translation unit is configured to convert the pulse counter data received from the meter via the pulse input into the meter data record, based on the selected translation rule. By storing and making selectable a large number of translation rules for a corresponding number of different meter types in the meter adapter, a manufacturer-independent and industry-independent communication adapter can be provided. In particular, a corresponding registration-compliant meter adapter is not limited to use with a specific meter, but can be used for different gas meters, water meters, heat meters, electricity meters, etc.

[0028] According to the invention, the data storage unit contains at least one identifier of a counter type together with the associated translation rule. An identifier of a counter type is understood to be, in particular, a specification by which the counter type of a counter can be (uniquely) determined. For example, a serial number or a similar, in particular unique, alphanumeric designation with a numerical component can be used as an identifier of a counter type.

[0029] According to the invention, the meter adapter comprises at least one reading device configured to detect an identifier assigned to the meter to be connected (in particular, a previously described identifier of a meter type). The reading device can, in particular, be an optical scanner. In other versions, an RFID-based reader, NFC-based reader, etc., can also be provided alternatively or additionally.

[0030] The system includes at least one translation device for selecting the translation rule based on the detected identifier. Specifically, a unique assignment between the meter and the identifier is provided, allowing the type of meter connected or to be connected to be determined from the detected identifier. Such an assignment exists, for example, if the identifier, such as a readable coding module (e.g., barcode, QR code, RFID or NFC tag, etc.), is located in, on, or at least adjacent to the meter. Alternatively, a corresponding coding module, particularly a barcode or QR code, may be included in the meter's operating instructions. The translation rule that is uniquely assigned to the meter to be connected can then be selected in a simple and, in particular, reliable manner.

[0031] According to a further embodiment of the meter adapter according to the application, at least the translation device can be integrated into a housing of the meter adapter. In particular, at least the translation device can be completely enclosed by the housing (e.g., made of plastic). The housing can be a BSI-compliant housing. Preferably, at least the data storage can also be integrated into the housing.

[0032] Furthermore, according to another embodiment, the meter adapter can have an integrated power supply, particularly in the form of a battery. The meter adapter can therefore be battery-powered. A separate power supply connection is not required.

[0033] Another aspect of the registration is a system. The system comprises at least one counter with a pulse output. The system also includes at least one previously described counter adapter. In normal operation, the pulse output of the counter is connected to the pulse input of the counter adapter via a wired connection.

[0034] The meter is, in particular, a conventional meter (e.g., a bellows meter) with a pulse output (e.g., for outputting 0 / 1 signals). A meter can be installed on a supply medium conduit (e.g., pipe, cable, etc.) to measure the quantity of the supply medium transmitted through the conduit. The supply medium can be, in particular, a fluid medium, but also electrical power (or current or electrical energy). Examples of meters, though not exhaustive, include water meters, gas meters, electricity meters, and heat meters. As already described, in normal operation, the pulse output of the meter can be connected to the pulse input of the meter adapter via a wired connection.

[0035] Using the meter adapter eliminates the need for a meter replacement (for connecting the meter to a smart meter). The existing meter (BGZ) can continue to be used. Despite the electronic meter adapter, the BGZ can achieve a service life of over 20 years using sampling methods, whereas electronic gas meters with integrated radio units must be replaced every five years due to calibration requirements.

[0036] The registered meter adapter can be used in particular for all pulse-generating meters, such as water meters, heat meters, even conventional electricity meters, electronic gas quantity converters, large gas meters (rotary piston, turbine wheel gas meters, etc.), etc.

[0037] Another aspect of the application is a method according to claim 10.

[0038] As previously described, conversion primarily means updating. Specifically, the initial counter value set via the described parameterization is updated in the counter adapter based on the registered pulses (with the configured pulse value).

[0039] Another aspect is a computer program with instructions, executable by a processor of a counter adapter, in particular a previously described counter adapter, for operating the counter adapter according to the previously described procedure.

[0040] The computer program, in particular the instructions or program statements, can be stored in a computer program product, especially a program memory (of the counter adapter). For example, a program memory is a non-volatile memory such as flash memory, magnetic memory, EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), and / or optical memory.

[0041] Additionally, a counter adapter may have main memory, for example, volatile or non-volatile memory, in particular random access memory (RAM), such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), and / or magnetic RAM (MRAM). The counter adapter's processor may, for example, store intermediate results or similar information in the main memory. It should be noted that a device such as a translation device may consist at least partially of hardware and / or at least partially of software.

[0042] There are now numerous possibilities for designing and further developing the registered counter adapter, the registered method, the registered system, and the registered computer program. Reference is made, on the one hand, to the claims subordinate to the independent patent claims, and on the other hand, to the description of exemplary embodiments in conjunction with the drawing. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a meter adapter that is not covered by the subject matter of the claim. Fig. 2 is a schematic view of another embodiment of a meter adapter according to the present invention. Fig. 3 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a system according to the present application, and Fig. 4 is a diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present application.

[0043] The same reference symbols are used for the same elements.

[0044] The Figure 1 Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a meter adapter 100 that is not covered by the subject matter of the claim. The meter adapter 100 is designed for use with a conventional meter (e.g., BGZ). In particular, the meter adapter 100 can be communicatively connected to a meter such as a water meter, gas meter, electricity meter, and / or heat meter.

[0045] The illustrated meter adapter 100 has a (compact) housing 110, made in particular of a plastic material. In particular, the entire meter adapter 100 can be BSI-compliant.

[0046] Furthermore, the counter adapter 100 has a pulse input 102. In other registration variants, a counter adapter may also have two or more pulse inputs.

[0047] The pulse input 102 enables the connection of the counter adapter 100 to a pulse output of a counter. In other words, the at least one pulse input 102 is configured for connecting the counter adapter 100 to the pulse output of a counter. The pulse input 102 is, in particular, a hardware interface 102 configured specifically for receiving pulses, as previously described. In other words, the (instantaneous) counter reading of the connected counter can be obtained by receiving pulses (in particular, a corresponding number of pulses) via the pulse input 102.

[0048] Furthermore, the counter adapter 100 has a translation device 104, which is integrated in the housing 110 (tamper-proof). The pulse counter data received via the pulse input 102 (e.g., comprising a counter reading) is provided to the translation device 104 for further processing.

[0049] The translation device 104 is configured to convert, in particular to update, the pulse counter data received from the meter via pulse input 102 into a meter data record that has a data format according to a standard protocol of a smart meter gateway. The meter data record, which may contain at least the meter reading of the connected meter, can be provided to a data record output 106. It is understood that two or more data record outputs may be provided.

[0050] The data output 106 is configured to send the converted, in particular updated, meter data record to a smart meter gateway located remotely from the meter adapter 100. Preferably, the data output 106 can be a wireless data output 106, configured to send the converted meter data record via a wireless connection 108 to the smart meter gateway located remotely from the meter adapter 100, in particular according to standard EN 13757-4.

[0051] In particular, at least one data record output 106 is set up to enable or establish an OMS (e.g. MOD 7) compliant radio connection to a smart meter gateway.

[0052] The Figure 2 Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a counter adapter 200 according to the present invention. To avoid repetition, only the differences from the previous embodiment are essentially described below. Figure 1explained and otherwise referred to the information above.

[0053] The illustrated counter adapter 200 has, in addition to a data record output 206, a translation device 204 and a pulse input 202, a data storage device 216 and a reading device 218.

[0054] The pulse input 202 is a wired pulse input 202, configured to establish a wired connection 214, in particular a connecting cable 214 or an electrical line 214, between the pulse input 202 of the meter adapter 20 and the pulse output of the meter. Specifically, a cable 214 with a length between 0.1 m and 10 m, particularly between 0.1 m and 3 m, can be connected between the pulse output of the meter and the wired pulse input 202. A particularly secure, and in particular BSI-compliant, communication connection can be established between a meter and the meter adapter 200.

[0055] The data storage device 216 contains at least one translation rule applicable by the translation device 204. , Preferably, a large number of selectable translation rules for a corresponding large number of different meter types. Particularly preferably, at least one translation rule per meter type can be pre-stored, i.e., especially at the factory, for almost all common gas meters, water meters, electricity meters and / or heat meters.

[0056] In particular, in data storage 216 each translation rule is uniquely associated with an identifier, especially a counter type identifier (e.g. in the form of a serial number or another unique designation). . When installing the meter adapter 200, i.e., when connecting the meter adapter 200 to the meter, the translation rule can be selected, in particular activated, which is associated with the meter type of the meter to be connected.

[0057] Based on the selected translation rule (which in particular depicts the pulse value of the respective meter type and the conversion of a meter reading into a data format that is Smart Meter Gateway compliant), the at least one translation device 204 can convert the pulse counter data received from the meter via the pulse input 202 into the aforementioned meter data set.

[0058] To simplify the selection of the correct translation rule, the meter adapter 200 is equipped with a reading device 218, for example, an optical scanner 218 (with an image evaluation module). The scanner 218 can read, for example, a coding module (e.g., a barcode, QR code, etc.) containing the identifier, in particular the meter type identifier described above. The coding module can be located on, in, or adjacent to the connected meter, or in a user manual (or similar document) for the meter. For other registration methods, a different technology, such as NFC or RFID, can be used alternatively or additionally.

[0059] Based on the read identifier, the translation device 204 can access the translation rule assigned to this identifier and stored in the data storage 216 and apply it to translate the received pulse counter data into a meter data set with a data format according to a standard protocol of a smart meter gateway.

[0060] The Figure 3 Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a system 330 according to the present application, comprising at least one meter 332, in this case, by way of example, a gas meter 332 (e.g., BGZ), and at least one meter adapter 300. To avoid repetition, reference is made, particularly with regard to the meter adapter 300, to the descriptions of the embodiments according to [reference to relevant document]. Figure 1 or 2 referred.

[0061] The illustrated meter adapter 300 optionally includes at least one mounting module (e.g., screw module, clamp, etc.) designed for attaching the meter adapter, for example, to a wall or, as shown, to the ceiling of a building 346. As can be seen, the system 330 is located in a building 346. The gas meter 332 is located in a basement area 350 of the building 346. The gas meter 332 can be installed in the area of ​​the gas connection of the building 346, in order to record, in particular, the quantity of gas supplied by a gas supply network 334.

[0062] Furthermore, an electricity meter 338 is located in a ground floor area 348 of building 346. The electricity meter 338 can be implemented in the area of ​​the building's electrical connection 346, in order to record, in particular, the electrical energy drawn from an electrical supply or distribution network 334.

[0063] In the present embodiment, the electricity meter 338 has a conventional smart meter gateway 340, which has a wireless communication module 342.

[0064] Furthermore, it can be seen that in the intended operation of system 330, the pulse input 302 of the meter adapter 300 is connected to the pulse output 336 of the gas meter 332 via a cable (or the like) 314. A converted meter data set can be transmitted to the smart meter gateway 340, located remotely from the meter adapter 300, via the wireless connection 308, in particular an OMS (e.g., MOD 7) compliant radio connection 308. Specifically, it is possible that, due to structural conditions, a communication connection between the meter adapter 300 and the smart meter gateway 340 would not be possible if the meter adapter 300 were located directly next to the gas meter.In the present case, the meter adapter 300 can be arranged such that a (secure) communication connection 308 between the meter adapter 300 and the smart meter gateway 340 can be established by positioning the meter adapter 300 in such a way that a connection 308 can be established.

[0065] Meter data can be transmitted in a simple manner, especially without replacing a conventional meter and using an already implemented smart meter gateway.

[0066] The Figure 4 Figure 1 shows a diagram of an embodiment of a method according to the present application. In particular, a method for operating a (previously described by way of example) counter adapter is shown.

[0067] In a first optional step 401, a counter adapter can be installed. This can include, in particular, connecting the counter adapter, especially its pulse input, to a counter, especially its pulse output. Furthermore, during installation, a translation rule to be applied by the translation device can be selected and, in particular, activated, as previously described by way of example.

[0068] In a further step 402, the pulse counter data obtained via a pulse input of the counter adapter from a pulse output of a counter connected to the pulse input are converted into a counter data set with a data format according to a standard protocol of a smart meter gateway, as described in particular above.

[0069] In the next step 403, the converted meter data set is sent to a smart meter gateway located remotely from the meter adapter, as described in particular above.

Claims

1. A meter adapter (100, 200, 300) for a meter (332) having a pulse output (336), comprising: - at least one pulse input (102, 202, 302) configured to connect the meter adapter (100, 200, 300) to the pulse output (336) of the meter (332), - at least one translation equipment (104, 204, 304) configured to convert the pulse meter data received from the meter (332) via the pulse input (102, 202, 302) into a meter data set in a data format according to a standard protocol of a smart meter gateway (340), and - at least one data set output (106, 206, 306) configured to send the converted meter data set to a smart meter gateway (340) located remotely from the meter adapter (100, 200, 300), wherein - the meter adapter (100, 200, 300) comprises at least one data memory (216) configured to store at least one meter type-based translation rule, - wherein the translation equipment (104, 204, 304) is configured to convert the pulse meter data received from the meter (332) via the pulse input (102, 202, 302) into the meter data record based on the at least one translation rule, - wherein a plurality of selectable meter type-based translation rules for a corresponding plurality of different meter types are stored in the data storage (216), - wherein the applicable meter type-based translation rule from the translation equipment (104, 204, 304) is selectable depending on the meter type of the meter (332) to be connected, - wherein the translation equipment (104, 204, 304) is configured to convert the pulse meter data received from the meter (332) via the pulse input (102, 202, 302) into the meter data set based on the selected translation rule, - characterized in that the meter adapter comprises at least one reading device (218) configured to detect a meter identifier associated with the meter (332) to be connected, and - wherein the at least one translation equipment (104, 204, 304) is configured to select the translation rule depending on the detected meter identifier.

2. The meter adapter (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, characterized in that - the at least one pulse input (102, 202, 302) is a wired pulse input (102, 202, 302) configured to establish a wired connection (214, 314) between the pulse input (102, 202, 302) of the meter adapter (100, 200, 300) and the pulse output (336) of the meter (332).

3. The meter adapter (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that - the at least one data set output (106, 206, 306) is a wireless data set output (106, 206, 306) configured to transmit the converted meter data set via a wireless connection (108, 208, 308) to the smart meter gateway (340) located remotely from the meter adapter (100, 200, 300), in particular, in accordance with the EN 13757-4 standard.

4. The meter adapter (100, 200, 300) according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that - the translation equipment (104, 204, 304) is configured to determine the current meter reading of the connectable meter (332) from the received pulse meter data, - wherein the at least one translation equipment (104, 204, 304) is configured to convert the determined meter reading such that the converted meter data set contains the determined meter reading.

5. The meter adapter (100, 200, 300) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that - the at least one reading device is an optical scanner, an RFID-based reader, and / or an NFC-based reader.

6. The meter adapter (100, 200, 300) according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that - an assignment between the meter and the identifier exists if the identifier is arranged in the form of a readable coding module in or at or at least adjacent to the meter, - wherein the coding module is a barcode, QR code, RFID tag or NFC tag.

7. The meter adapter (100, 200, 300) according to any of the previous claims 1 to 6, characterized in that - an assignment between the meter and the identifier exits if the identifier is arranged in the form of a coding module in an operating manual for the meter, - wherein the coding module is a barcode or QR code.

8. The meter adapter (100, 200, 300) according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that - at least the translation equipment (104, 204, 304) is integrated in a housing (110, 210, 310) of the meter adapter (100, 200, 300).

9. A system (330) comprising: - at least one meter (332) with a pulse output (336), and - at least one meter adapter (100, 200, 300) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 8, - wherein, in intended operation, the pulse output (336) of the meter (332) is connected to the pulse input (102, 202, 302) of the meter adapter (100, 200, 300) via a wired connection (214, 314).

10. A method for operating a meter adapter (100, 200, 300) according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 8, comprising: - converting pulse meter data obtained from a pulse output (336) of a meter (332) connected to a pulse input (102, 202, 302) of the meter adapter (100, 200, 300) via a pulse input (102, 202, 302) of the meter adapter (100, 200, 300) into a meter data set in a data format according to a standard protocol of a smart meter gateway (340), and - causing a transmitting of the converted meter data set to a smart meter gateway (340) located remotely from the meter adapter (100, 200, 300), - storing at least one meter type-based translation rule in a data memory (216) of the meter adapter (100, 200, 300), - wherein a plurality of selectable meter type-based translation rules for a corresponding plurality of different meter types are stored in the data storage (216), - selecting the meter type-based translation rule to be applied by the translation equipment (104, 204, 304) depending on the meter type of the meter (332) to be connected, and - converting, by the translation equipment (104, 204, 304), the pulse meter data received from the meter (332) via the pulse input (102, 202, 302) into the meter data set based on the selected translation rule, - detecting, by at least one reading device (218), a meter identification assigned to the meter (332) to be connected, and - selecting, by the at least one translation equipment (104, 204, 304), the translation rule depending on the detected meter identification.

11. A computer program with instructions, executable by a processor of a meter adapter (100, 200, 300) according to one of claims 1 to 8 for operating the meter adapter (100, 200, 300) according to the method according to claim 10.