METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR COLLECTING CONSUMPTION DATA MEASURED BY SMART METERS

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] At least one embodiment relates to a method and system for collecting consumption data measured by a smart meter. The system in question is adapted to collect such data from several smart meters, whether for fluid consumption measurements (such as gas, water, heat, gasoline) or electricity consumption measurements. STATE OF PRIOR ART

[0002] Smart meters, such as electricity meters (electricity consumption meters) or fluid meters (fluid consumption meters), are known to include communication interfaces that allow an automated management system to remotely collect consumption data. For example, smart electricity meters have a Power Line Communication (PLC) interface. Consumption data can thus be transmitted, at regular or irregular intervals, to an Information System (IS) for centralized processing.

[0003] The collected consumption data must be error-free to avoid potential disputes arising from disagreements over its values. Errors can occur, for example, due to alteration during transmission. In the event of a dispute between a customer and a service provider regarding the value of consumption data, one solution is for the service provider to send an operator to the customer's home to take a direct reading from the meter's display. This solution is unsatisfactory because it requires both the meter to be equipped with a display and the operator to travel to the customer's home, which is both time-consuming and expensive.

[0004] It is therefore desirable to provide a solution that certifies that consumption data collected remotely from a smart meter by an information system does indeed originate from that smart meter. In particular, it is desirable to provide a solution that allows for easy expansion of an existing data collection infrastructure. (i.e., already deployed in the field) while ensuring non-repudiation of the consumption data collected.

[0005] As an interesting prior art, French patent application FR 3 120 968 A1 is known, which discloses an automated management system configured to perform a collection of consumption data, the automated management system comprising an information system and a data concentrator to which the information system delegates the collection of consumption data, the automated management system further comprising a communication network through which the data concentrator is connected to smart meters. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] To this end, he proposed a method for collecting, within an automated management system, initial consumption data by a first information system of the automated management system and second consumption data by a second information system of the automated management system, the automated management system further comprising a data concentrator to which the first and second information systems respectively delegate the collection of the initial and second consumption data, the automated management system further comprising a communication network through which the data concentrator is connected to smart meters of a first type, the method being such that: pairing is performed between each smart meter of a second type and a said smart meter of the first type, so as to serve as a relay to collect consumption data from the smart meter of the second type in question; a first secure link is established between each smart meter of the first type and the first information system, the first secure link being such that asymmetric encryption is put in place to transmit the first consumption data from the smart meter of the first type in question and the first information system;A second secure link is established between each smart meter of a second type and the second information system, the second secure link being such that asymmetric encryption is implemented to transmit the second consumption data from the smart meter of the second type in question and the second information system using the paired smart meter of the first type as a relay; the data concentrator routes consumption data received through the communication network from said smart meter of the first type, either to the first information system or to the second information system, depending on which secure link is concerned by said received data among the first and second secure links.

[0007] Thus, thanks to secure connections, each information system retains control over the consumption data from its relevant smart meters. The information systems do not need to exchange data with each other, even though they share the same network infrastructure (communication network, data hub). Asymmetric encryption ensures that the data is not repudiated.

[0008] In one particular embodiment, each smart meter of the second type is battery-powered, and the smart meter of the first type, acting as a relay for the smart meter of the second type, programs the second smart meter's wake-up times to obtain the second consumption data to be relayed via the communication network. Thus, consumption data from battery-powered smart meters is easily collected.

[0009] In one particular embodiment, at least one paired smart meter of the first type operates on batteries, and this smart meter of the first type programs its own wake-up times so that it wakes up when each paired smart meter of the second type wakes up. This optimizes battery life for the paired smart meters of the first type with regard to the collection of consumption data from the smart meters of the second type.

[0010] In one particular embodiment, each smart meter of the second type communicates securely via symmetric encryption with its paired smart meter of the first type, which acts as a relay. The smart meter of the first type obtains a symmetric encryption key from the second information system to use with the smart meter of the second type. Thus, symmetric encryption complements asymmetric encryption to provide enhanced security.

[0011] In a particular embodiment, each smart meter of the second type provides the paired smart meter of the first type, which serves as its relay, with an address of a piece of equipment in the second information system from which to obtain the symmetric encryption key to be used with the smart meter of the second type in question.

[0012] In one particular embodiment, each smart meter of the first type communicates securely with the data hub using symmetric encryption. The data hub obtains a symmetric encryption key from the first information system to use with the relevant smart meter of the first type. Thus, symmetric encryption complements asymmetric encryption to provide enhanced security.

[0013] Also proposed here is an automated management system configured to collect first consumption data by a first information system of the automated management system and second consumption data by a second information system of the automated management system, the automated management system further comprising a data concentrator to which the first and second information systems respectively delegate the collection of the first and second consumption data, the automated management system further comprising a communication network through which the data concentrator is connected to smart meters of a first type.The automated management system is such that each smart meter of the first type, each smart meter of the second type, the data concentrator, the first information system and the second information system include electronic circuitry configured such that: . pairing is performed between each smart meter of a second type and a said smart meter of the first type, so as to serve as a relay to collect consumption data from the smart meter of the second type in question; a first secure link is established between each smart meter of the first type and the first information system, the first secure link being such that asymmetric encryption is put in place to transmit the first consumption data from the smart meter of the first type in question and the first information system;A second secure link is established between each smart meter of a second type and the second information system, the second secure link being such that asymmetric encryption is implemented to transmit the second consumption data from the smart meter of the second type in question and the second information system using the paired smart meter of the first type as a relay; the data concentrator routes consumption data received through the communication network from said smart meter of the first type, either to the first information system or to the second information system, depending on which secure link is concerned by said received data among the first and second secure links. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The features of the invention mentioned above, as well as others, will become clearer upon reading the following description of at least one exemplary embodiment, said description being made in relation to the accompanying drawings, among which: [ Fig. 1A ] schematically illustrates an automated management system for collecting consumption data; [ Fig. 1B ] schematically illustrates the layout of an information system within an automated management system; [ Fig. 2 ] schematically illustrates an example of hardware architecture, which is suitable for implementing a device of the automated management system; Fig. 3 ] schematically illustrates the exchanges occurring within the automated management system to collect consumption data; [ Fig. 4 ] schematically illustrates details of initial operations carried out within the framework of the exchanges of the Fig. 3 , in a particular embodiment; [ Fig. 5 ] schematically illustrates details of secondary operations carried out within the framework of the exchanges of the Fig. 3 , in a particular embodiment; [ Fig. 6 ] schematically illustrates details of third operations carried out within the framework of the exchanges of the Fig. 3 , in a particular embodiment; [ Fig. 7 ] schematically illustrates details of fourth operations carried out within the framework of the exchanges of the Fig. 3 , in a particular embodiment; and [ Fig. 8 ] schematically illustrates details of fifth operations carried out within the framework of the exchanges of the Fig. 3 , in a particular embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF IMPLEMENTATION METHODS

[0015] There Fig. 1A This schematically illustrates an automated management system 100 in which the present invention can be implemented. The automated management system 100 is configured to collect consumption data from measurements taken by smart meters 150, 150a, 150b, 150c.

[0016] The collected consumption data is processed by several Information Systems (IS) that share the same data collection infrastructure. Each information system is dedicated to a group of smart meters. For example, the first IS1 110a information system is dedicated to processing consumption data from a group of smart electricity meters, the second IS2 110b information system is dedicated to processing consumption data from a group of smart water meters, and the third IS3 110c information system is dedicated to processing consumption data from a group of smart gas meters.In another example, the IS1 110a, IS2 110b and IS3 110c information systems are managed by separate operators and are dedicated to processing consumption data from respective groups of smart fluid (water, gas or other) meters that have subscribed to services with their respective operators.

[0017] The IS1 110a, IS2 110b, and IS3 110c information systems delegate the collection of consumption data to DC (Data Concentrator) 120 units, thereby distributing the collection workload. Each DC 120 data concentrator manages a primary NET1 101 communication network, which serves as the collection network. Each DC 120 data concentrator thus acts as a relay between smart meters and the IS1 110a, IS2 110b, and IS3 110c information systems. As detailed below, each DC 120 data concentrator routes consumption data received through the first NET1 101 communication network from said smart meter to one or the other of the IS1 110a, IS2 110b information systems, according to secure links established in the collection system 100.

[0018] As schematically illustrated on the Fig. 1A , each DC 120 data hub is external to the IS1 110a, IS2 110b and IS3 110c information systems and communicates with the IS1 110a, IS2 110b and IS3 110c information systems through a second NET2 102 communication network.

[0019] Two types of smart meters are schematically illustrated on the Fig. 1A : a first type of smart meters, which could be called "primary smart meters" PSM ("Primary Smart Meters" in English), which are able to communicate via the first NET1 101 communication network and thus transmit their consumption data directly to the DC 120 data concentrator managing the first NET1 101 communication network; and a second type of smart meters, which could be called "secondary smart meters" SSM ("Secondary Smart Meters" in English), which are not able to communicate via the first NET1 101 communication network and therefore transmit their consumption data to the DC 120 data concentrator managing the first NET1 101 communication network by relying on a said first type smart meter serving as a relay.

[0020] As schematically illustrated on the Fig. 1A A DC 120 data concentrator manages the collection of consumption data on behalf of the IS2 110b information system. The smart meters involved in this data collection include an SM2 150b smart meter (which is a secondary SSM smart meter). The DC 120 data concentrator also manages the collection of consumption data on behalf of the IS3 110c information system. The smart meters involved in this additional data collection include an SM3 150c smart meter (which is a secondary SSM smart meter). Finally, the DC 120 data concentrator manages the collection of consumption data on behalf of the IS1 110a information system. The smart meters involved in this last data collection include an SM1 150 smart meter and an eSM1 150a smart meter (which are primary PSM smart meters).Unlike the SM1 150 smart meter, the eSM1 150a smart meter is an enhanced smart meter that acts as a gateway for at least one other smart meter that relies on a different IS (Information System) than the IS1 110a on which the eSM1 150a smart meter depends. Thus, on the . Fig. 1A , the eSM1 150a smart meter acts as a relay for the SM2 150b and SM3 150c smart meters.

[0021] For example, the first NET1 101 communication network is a Power Line Communication (PLC) network, conforming to G3-PLC or PRIME specifications. The primary smart meters (PSMs) are then smart electricity meters, and therefore potentially operating continuously. As another example, the first NET1 101 communication network is a Low-Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN), a wireless network of the type found in the Internet of Things (IoT). The primary smart meters (PSMs) can then be smart fluid meters (water, gas, or other), typically battery-powered, and therefore operating intermittently (standby periods) to conserve battery power.

[0022] For example, the second NET2 102 communication network is a 5G (5th Generation) wireless communication network. According to other examples, the NET2 102 communication network is a GPRS (General Packet Radio Service), UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System), or LTE (Long-Term Evolution) wireless communication network.

[0023] For example, each secondary smart meter SSM is connected to the primary smart meter PSM which acts as its relay through a communication link conforming to the M-Bus (“Meter Bus” in English) remote metering specifications, as defined in standard EN 13757-2, or to the wM-Bus (“Wireless M-Bus” in English) specifications, as defined in standard EN 13757-4.

[0024] There Fig. 1B This schematically illustrates an IS 110 information system arrangement (corresponding to IS1 110a, IS2 110b, and IS3 110c information systems) in a particular embodiment. Thus, the IS 110 information system comprises various components, including a Head-End System (HES) 112, a Meter Data Management System (MDMS) 111, and a Key Management System (KMS) 113.

[0025] The components of the IS 110 information system communicate, for example, using the Internet, or more generally an IP-type network (“Internet Protocol” in English), or potentially using a virtual private network (VPN) (“Virtual Private Network” in English).

[0026] The HES 112 headend system is configured to perform transmission management as part of consumption data collection.

[0027] The MDMS 111 meter data management system is configured to process the collected consumption data.

[0028] The KMS 113 key management system is configured to store encryption keys required by the smart meters that rely on the IS 110 information system. The KMS 113 key management system provides the MDMS 111 meter data management system with the keys necessary for the decryption operations that the MDMS 111 meter data management system must perform.

[0029] Thus, the KMS key management system of the IS1 110a information system manages the keys required for the smart meters that depend on the IS1 110a information system, the KMS key management system of the IS2 110b information system manages the keys required for the smart meters that depend on the IS2 110b information system, and the KMS key management system of the IS3 110c information system manages the keys required for the smart meters that depend on the IS3 110c information system.

[0030] Specifically, the KMS 113 key management system is configured to store asymmetric encryption public keys. There is one asymmetric encryption public key, AK1, for each smart meter that is part of the relevant IS 110 information system. Each asymmetric encryption public key, AK1, corresponds to an asymmetric encryption private key, AK2, which is held in the automated management system 100 solely by the smart meter in question. The asymmetric encryption private key, AK2, is derived, for example, from a serial number of the corresponding smart meter. The asymmetric encryption public key, AK1, is used to decrypt data signed using the corresponding asymmetric encryption private key, AK2.Each pair of asymmetric encryption public key AK1 and asymmetric encryption private key AK2 ensures the non-repudiation of consumption data transmitted (measured) by the smart meter in question to the IS 110 information system on which said smart meter depends.

[0031] In addition, the KMS 113 key management system is configured to store symmetric encryption keys.

[0032] There is a first symmetric encryption key SK1 for each secondary smart meter (SSM), to communicate securely with the primary smart meter (PSM) which acts as its relay. Thus, in the example of the Fig. 1A The KMS 113 key management system of the IS2 110b information system stores the SK1 symmetric encryption key for each secondary SSM smart meter that depends on said IS2 110b information system, including the SM2 150b smart meter. And in the example of the Fig. 1A The KMS 113 key management system of the IS3 110c information system stores the SK1 symmetric encryption key for each secondary smart meter (SSM) that depends on said IS3 110c information system, including the SM3 150c smart meter. There is a second SK2 symmetric encryption key for each primary smart meter (PSM) to communicate securely with the DC 120 data concentrator. Thus, in the example of the Fig. 1A , the KMS 113 key management system of the IS1 110a information system stores the SK2 symmetric encryption key for each primary PSM smart meter that depends on said IS1 110a information system, including SM1 150 and eSM1 150a smart meters.

[0033] There Fig. 2 This schematically illustrates a hardware architecture example 200, which is suitable for implementing any device controller in the automated management system 100. The hardware architecture example is thus suitable for implementing an information system (IS) controller, or any component of the IS. The hardware architecture example is also suitable for implementing a DC data concentrator controller 120. The hardware architecture example is also suitable for implementing a primary smart meter (PSM) controller. The hardware architecture example is also suitable for implementing a secondary smart meter (SSM) controller.

[0034] The hardware architecture 200 then comprises, connected by a communication bus 210: a processor or CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201; a RAM (Random Access Memory) 202; a ROM (Read Only Memory) 203, or EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), or a Flash memory; a DSM (Data Storage Medium) 204, such as a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or a storage medium reader, such as an SD (Secure Digital) card reader; and at least one COM communication interface 205. Depending on the device considered, the hardware architecture 200 may also include I / O (Inputs / Outputs) 206, for example to perform consumption measurements.

[0035] The processor 201 is capable of executing instructions loaded into RAM 202 from ROM 203, external memory (not shown), storage media such as an SD card, or a communication network. When the hardware architecture 200 is powered on, the processor 201 can read instructions from RAM 202 and execute them. These instructions form a computer program that causes the processor 201 to implement the steps and algorithms described herein in relation to the device in question.

[0036] All or part of the steps and algorithms described here can be implemented in software form by executing a set of instructions by a programmable machine, such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) or a microcontroller, or implemented in hardware form by a machine or component (chip) or a set of components (chipset), such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit). Generally, each device in the automated management system 100 comprises electronic circuitry arranged and configured to implement the steps and algorithms described here in relation to that specific device.

[0037] There Fig. 3 schematically illustrates the exchanges taking place in the automated management system 100 to collect consumption data.

[0038] Before consumption data can be collected from the SM2 150b smart meter, a step 300 is performed to establish secure communications and set up the relay via the eSM1 150a smart meter. This step 300 is detailed in relation to the Fig. 4 .

[0039] Thus, following step 401 of the eSM1 150a smart meter installation, a secure link is established, in step 402, between the eSM1 150a smart meter and the IS1 110a information system, and more specifically the MDMS 111a meter data management system (MDMS1) of the IS1 110a information system. The MDMS1 111a meter data management system then retrieves the asymmetric encryption public key associated with the eSM1 150a smart meter from the KMS 113 key management system of the IS1 110a information system. The secure link is ensured by the activation of asymmetric encryption between the eSM1 150a smart meter and the IS1 110a information system. This secure link is suitable to ensure the non-repudiation of data provided (measured) by the eSM1 150a smart meter and to prevent the identity of the eSM1 150a smart meter from being usurped.

[0040] Then, following step 403 of the SM2 150b smart meter installation, pairing is performed between the eSM1 150a smart meter and the SM2 150b smart meter in step 404. For example, a press ( e.g., A long press on a push button on both the eSM1 150a and SM2 150b smart meters initiates pairing. The eSM1 150a and SM2 150b smart meters recognize each other and configure themselves so that the eSM1 150a relays data on behalf of the SM2 150b. Once paired, the eSM1 150a synchronizes the SM2 150b and schedules its next wake-up time. The SM2 150b can then enter sleep mode.

[0041] In a particular embodiment, in step 405, to complete the pairing between the eSM1 150a smart meter and the SM2 150b smart meter, secure communications using symmetric encryption are established between the eSM1 150a and SM2 150b smart meters. To achieve this, the eSM1 150a smart meter obtains the symmetric encryption key from the IS2 110b information system to be used for secure communication with the SM2 150b smart meter. For example, the eSM1 150a smart meter obtains this symmetric encryption key from the KMS 113 key management system associated with the MDMS 111b (labeled MDMS2) of the IS2 110b information system.The eSM1 150a smart meter obtains an address (typically, an IP address) to contact equipment in the IS2 110b information system, typically the MDMS2 111b meter data management system, to declare itself as a relay on behalf of the SM2 150b smart meter and thus obtain in return from the KMS 113 key management system the symmetric encryption key associated with the SM2 150b smart meter.

[0042] In step 406, a secure link is established between the SM2 150b smart meter and the IS2 110b information system, specifically the MDMS2 111b meter data management system. The MDMS2 111b meter data management system then retrieves the asymmetric encryption public key associated with the SM2 150b smart meter from the KMS 113 key management system of the IS2 110b information system. The secure link is ensured by the activation of asymmetric encryption between the SM2 150b smart meter and the IS2 110b information system. This secure link is suitable to ensure the non-repudiation of data provided (measured) by the SM2 150b smart meter and to prevent the identity of the SM2 150b smart meter from being usurped.

[0043] Next, consumption data can be collected from the SM2 150b smart meter, using the eSM1 150a smart meter as a relay.

[0044] Thus, back to the Fig. 3 In step 301, the eSM1 150a smart meter prepares to receive consumption data from the SM2 150b smart meter. As detailed in the Fig. 5 The eSM1 150a smart meter wakes up in step 301a and waits, in step 301b, for consumption data from the SM2 150b smart meter. The eSM1 150a smart meter wakes up a few moments (for example, 1 second) before a scheduled wake-up of the SM2 150b smart meter.

[0045] Note that, when the eSM1 150a smart meter is powered by mains electricity, it is not necessary to set up standby periods at the eSM1 150a smart meter, although this does allow for limiting energy consumption.

[0046] So, in steps 302 to 305 as detailed on the Fig. 6 , a retrieval of consumption data is carried out from the SM2 150b smart meter to the IS2 110b information system (preferably to the MDMS2 111b meter data management system) via the secure link of step 406, using the eSM1 150a smart meter as a relay.

[0047] Thus, in step 302, the SM2 150b smart meter transmits consumption data to the eSM1 150a smart meter. More specifically, in step 302a, the SM2 150b smart meter wakes up from standby and obtains consumption data to transmit to the IS2 110b information system. Then, in step 302b, the SM2 150b smart meter signs its consumption data using its asymmetric encryption key and transmits it to the eSM1 150a smart meter in step 302c. The transmission between the SM2 150b and eSM1 150a smart meters is preferentially carried out securely, using the symmetric encryption key associated with the SM2 150b smart meter. (i.e., The SM2 150b smart meter encrypts the data with the symmetric encryption key).

[0048] In step 303, the eSM1 150a smart meter relays data to the IS2 110b information system via the DC 120 data concentrator. In step 303a, the eSM1 150a smart meter receives the data transmitted by the SM2 150b smart meter in step 302c. If the transmission between the SM2 150b and eSM1 150a smart meters is secure, the eSM1 150a smart meter can decrypt the data using the symmetric encryption key provided by the IS2 110b information system. Then, in step 303b, the eSM1 150a smart meter transmits the data (still signed using the asymmetric encryption of the SM2 150b smart meter) to the DC 120 data concentrator.The transmission between the eSM1 150a smart meter and the DC 120 data concentrator is preferentially carried out securely, using the symmetric encryption key associated with the eSM1 150a smart meter. (i.e., The eSM1 150a smart meter encrypts the data using a symmetric encryption key. In this transmission, the eSM1 150a smart meter informs the DC 120 data concentrator that the data recipient is the IS2 110b information system (preferably, the MDMS2 111b meter data management system). Typically, a destination address field contains the IP address of the MDMS2 111b meter data management system.

[0049] Then, in step 304, the DC 120 data concentrator forwards the consumption data from the SM2 150b smart meter, relayed by the eSM1 150a smart meter, to the IS2 110b information system (preferably, to the MDMS2 111b meter data management system). Thus, the DC 120 data concentrator routes the received consumption data to the IS2 110b information system, since this consumption data relates to a secure link involving the IS2 110b information system. More specifically, in step 304a, the DC 120 data concentrator receives the data transmitted by the eSM1 150a smart meter in step 303b. If the data was transmitted securely over the first NET1 101 communication network by the eSM1 150a smart meter, the DC 120 data concentrator uses the symmetric encryption key associated with the eSM1 150a smart meter to decrypt the received data.For example, the DC 120 data concentrator obtained this symmetric encryption key from the IS1 110a information system (specifically, the KMS 113 key management system) when the eSM1 150a smart meter registered on the first NET1 101 communication network. Then, in step 304b, the DC 120 data concentrator identifies the recipient of the received data, which in this case is the IS2 110b information system (preferably, the MDMS2 111b meter data management system). And in step 304c, the DC 120 data concentrator forwards the consumption data from the SM2 150b smart meter to the identified recipient.

[0050] Then, in step 305, the IS2 110b information system processes the consumption data from the SM2 150b smart meter. More specifically, in step 305a, the IS2 110b information system (preferably, the MDMS2 111b meter data management system) receives the data transmitted by the DC 120 data concentrator in step 304c. Then, in step 305b, the IS2 110b information system (preferably, the MDMS2 111b meter data management system) verifies the authenticity of the consumption data from the SM2 150b smart meter using the asymmetric encryption public key associated with the SM2 150b smart meter. The IS2 110b information system can thus verify that the data received actually comes, via the secure link established between the SM2 150b smart meter and the IS2 110b information system, from consumption measurements made by the SM2 150b smart meter in question.

[0051] Thus, back to the Fig. 3 In step 306, the eSM1 150a smart meter reprograms the SM2 150b smart meter for subsequent reading of consumption data measured by said SM2 150b smart meter. More specifically, as detailed on the Fig. 7 In step 306a, the eSM1 150a smart meter acknowledges the data transmitted by the SM2 150b smart meter in step 302c. Then, preferably in step 306b, the eSM1 150a smart meter synchronizes the SM2 150b smart meter, for example, to align the SM2 150b smart meter with Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). And, in step 306c, the eSM1 150a smart meter programs the next wake-up time (sleep mode) for the SM2 150b smart meter.

[0052] So, in step 307, the SM2 150b smart meter follows the instructions of the eSM1 150a smart meter and enters a standby period until the next consumption data reading. More specifically, as detailed on the Fig. 7 In step 307a, the SM2 150b smart meter is configured according to the instructions of the eSM1 150a smart meter: time synchronization and programming of the next wake-up time. Then, in step 307b, the SM2 150b smart meter enters standby mode. This conserves the batteries of the SM2 150b smart meter.

[0053] When the eSM1 150a smart meter is itself battery-powered, it is advantageous to take advantage of its wake-up time to transmit its own consumption data in addition to the consumption data from the SM2 150b smart meter. Thus, in step 308, the eSM1 150a smart meter transmits consumption data to the DC 120 data concentrator, this time destined for the IS1 110a information system. More specifically, as detailed in the Fig. 8 In step 308a, the eSM1 150a smart meter obtains consumption data to transmit to the IS1 110a information system. Then, in step 308b, the eSM1 150a smart meter signs its consumption data using its asymmetric encryption key and transmits it to the DC 120 data concentrator in step 308c. The transmission between the eSM1 150a smart meter and the DC 120 data concentrator is preferentially carried out securely, using the symmetric encryption key associated with the eSM1 150a smart meter. (i.e., The eSM1 150a smart meter encrypts the data with the symmetric encryption key). In a particular embodiment, to preserve its batteries if necessary, the eSM1 150a smart meter programs its own wake-up time to a wake-up time earlier than the programmed wake-up time of the SM2 150b smart meter and goes into standby mode in step 308d.

[0054] Then, in step 309, the DC 120 data concentrator forwards the consumption data from the eSM1 150a smart meter to the IS 1 110a information system (preferably, to the MDMS 1 111a meter data management system). Thus, the DC 120 data concentrator routes the received consumption data to the IS1 110a information system, since this consumption data relates to a secure link involving the IS1 110a information system. More specifically, in step 309a, the DC 120 data concentrator receives the data transmitted by the eSM1 150a smart meter in step 308c. If the data was transmitted securely over the first NET1 101 communication network by the eSM1 150a smart meter, the DC 120 data concentrator uses the symmetric encryption key associated with the eSM1 150a smart meter to decrypt the received data.Then, in step 309b, the DC 120 data concentrator identifies the recipient of the received data, namely the IS1 110a information system (preferably, the MDMS1 111a meter data management system). And in step 309c, the DC 120 data concentrator forwards the consumption data from the eSM1 150a smart meter to the identified recipient.

[0055] Then, in step 310, the IS1 110a information system processes the consumption data from the eSM1 150a smart meter. More specifically, in step 310a, the IS1 110a information system (preferably, the MDMS1 111a meter data management system) receives the data transmitted by the DC 120 data concentrator in step 309c. Then, in step 310b, the IS1 110a information system (preferably, the MDMS1 111a meter data management system) verifies the authenticity of the consumption data from the eSM1 150a smart meter using the asymmetric encryption public key associated with the eSM1 150a smart meter. The IS1 110a information system can thus verify that the received data, via the secure link established between the eSM1 150a smart meter and the IS1 110a information system, actually originates from consumption measurements taken by the eSM1 150a smart meter in question.

[0056] It follows from the above that, thanks to the relay carried out by the smart meter eSM1 150a on behalf of the smart meter SM2 150b, as well as the secure link between each said smart meter and the information system on which said smart meter depends, the collection of consumption data is carried out efficiently through the same network infrastructure (first communication network NET1 101) and securely (non-repudiation of transmitted data), without the various information systems (which correspond to separate operators) having to communicate with each other.

[0057] In a particular embodiment, the data transmitted by a smart meter to the IS information system on which said smart meter depends is obtained by asymmetric encryption (signature) of a data set including a hash denoted HASH calculated from the following pair: a serial number of the smart meter in question; and the consumption data D from the measurements taken by the smart meter in question.

[0058] To obtain the fingerprint, a hash function H(.) is used. The hash function H(.) is a special function that, given input data, calculates a digital fingerprint used to quickly identify the original data. In other words, a unique set of data corresponds to a unique fingerprint, which is the result of the hash function H(.). Therefore, for two different sets of data Q1 and Q2, the smart meter in question generates two distinct fingerprints S1=H(Q1) and S2=H(Q2).

[0059] In one embodiment, the H(.) function is a SHA-2 function (for example, SHA-224, SHA-256, SHA-384, or SHA-512). If the H(.) function is SHA-256, the resulting hash comprises 256 bits. If the H(.) function is SHA-512, the resulting hash comprises 512 bits. Other functions can be used as the H(.) function, such as SHA-3, MD4, MD5, or SHA-1, all well-known in the field of cryptography.

[0060] In one embodiment, the aforementioned dataset is padded with padding bits to achieve alignment over an integer number of bytes suitable for the hash function H(.) to be applied.

[0061] A concatenation of the obtained footprint with the consumption data D is then included in the transmitted data.

[0062] Thus, the relevant IS can verify that the received data is indeed that transmitted by the smart meter in question. After decryption using the asymmetric encryption public key associated with the smart meter, the IS (preferably, the relevant MDMS 111 meter data management system) generates a reference fingerprint with the information it holds about the smart meter. More precisely, the reference fingerprint is generated in the same way as the HASH fingerprint generated by the smart meter, using the consumption data (D) concatenated with the HASH fingerprint and the smart meter serial number known to the IS. If the HASH fingerprint and the reference fingerprint match, then the received data is indeed data transmitted by the smart meter.

[0063] In a particular embodiment, when the smart meter is a water meter, the consumption data D are: a metrological index of water consumption; a metrological index of backflow, i.e., in the opposite direction of water supply flow; maximum and minimum water temperature over a predetermined period, e.g., since the last shift change.

[0064] In a particular embodiment, when the smart meter is a gas meter, the consumption data D are: a metrological index of gas consumption; maximum and minimum gas pressure during a predetermined period, e.g., since the last reading.

[0065] In a particular embodiment, when the smart meter is a heat meter, the consumption data D are: a metrological index of energy consumption calculated from measurements of fluid temperature at the inlet and fluid temperature at the outlet, and flow rate measurements.

Claims

1. Method for collecting, in an automated management system (100), first consumption data by a first information system (110a) of the automated management system (100) and second consumption data by a second information system (110b) of the automated management system (100), the automated management system (100) furthermore comprising a data concentrator (120) to which the first and second information systems (110a, 110b) respectively delegate the collection of the first and second consumption data, the automated management system (100) furthermore comprising a communication network (101) via which the data concentrator (120) is connected to smart meters of a first type (150, 150a), the method being such that: - a pairing is made between each smart meter of a second type (150b) and a said smart meter of the first type (150a), so as to serve as relays for collecting consumption data from the smart meter of the second type (150b) in question; - a first secure link is established between each smart meter of the first type (150a) and the first information system (110a), the first secure link being such that an asymmetric encryption is established to transmit the first consumption data from the smart meter of the first type (150a) in question and the first information system (110a); - a second secure link is established between each smart meter of a second type (150b) and the second information system (110b), the second secure link being such that an asymmetric encryption is established to transmit the second consumption data from the smart meter of the second type (150b) in question and the second information system (110b) using the smart meter of the first type (150a) paired as a relay; - the data concentrator switches consumption data received through the communication network (101) coming from a said smart meter of the first type (150, 150a), either to the first information system (110a) or to the second information system (110b), on the secure link to which said received data relate from the first and second secure links.

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein each smart meter of the second type (150b) operates on batteries, and the smart meter of the first type (150a) which is paired with the smart meter of the second type (150b) in question programs times for the smart meter of the second type (150b) in question to wake up to obtain the second consumption data to be relayed via the communication network (101).

3. Method according to claim 2, wherein at least one smart meter of the first type (150a) paired operates on batteries, and the smart meter of the first type (150a) in question programs its own times for waking up, so as to be awakened when each smart meter of the second type (150b) paired with the smart meter of the first type in question wakes up.

4. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each smart meter of the second type (150b) communicates in a secure manner by symmetric encryption with the smart meter of the first type (150a) paired that serves as a relay for it, the smart meter of the first type (150a) in question obtaining a symmetric encryption key to be used with the smart meter of the second type (150b) in question from the second information system (110b).

5. Method according to claim 4, wherein each smart meter of the second type provides to the smart meter of the first type (150a) paired that serves as a relay for it an address of an item of equipment (113) of the second information system (110b) from which to obtain the symmetric encryption key to be used with the smart meter of the second type (150b) in question.

6. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each smart meter of the first type (150a) communicates in a secure manner by symmetric encryption with the data concentrator (120), the data concentrator (120) obtaining a symmetric encryption key to be used with the smart meter of the first type (150a) in question from the first information system (110a).

7. Automated management system (100) configured to make a collection of first consumption data by a first information system (110a) of the automated management system (100) and of second consumption data by a second information system (110b) of the automated management system (100), the automated management system (100) furthermore comprising a data concentrator (120) to which the first and second information systems (110a, 110b) respectively delegate the collection of the first and second consumption data, the automated management system (100) furthermore comprising a communication network (101) via which the data concentrator (120) is connected to smart meters of a first type (150, 150a), the automated management system (100) furthermore comprising smart meters of a second type (150b), the automated management system (100) being such that each smart meter of the first type (150, 150a), each smart meter of the second type (150b), the data concentrator (120), the first information system (110a) and the second information system (110b) comprise electronic circuitry configured so that: - a pairing is made between each smart meter of the second type and a said smart meter of the first type (150a), so as to serve as relays for collecting consumption data from the smart meter of the second type (150b) in question; - a first secure link is established between each smart meter of the first type (150, 150a) and the first information system (110a), the first secure link being such that an asymmetric encryption is established to transmit the first consumption data from the smart meter of the first type (150a) in question and the first information system (110a); - a second secure link is established between each smart meter of a second type (150b) and the second information system (110b), the second secure link being such that an asymmetric encryption is established to transmit the second consumption data from the smart meter of the second type (150b) in question and the second information system (110b) using the smart meter of the first type (150a) paired as a relay; - the data concentrator (120) switches consumption data received through the communication network (101) coming from a said smart meter of the first type (150, 150a), either to the first information system (110a) or to the second information system (110b), on the secure link to which said received data relate from the first and second secure links.