AMR Direct Mount Module Patch Antenna RF Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility companies face high costs and inefficiencies in manually reading utility meters, including labor expenses, reader errors, safety hazards, and difficulties in accessing remote locations, which are exacerbated by the need for frequent replacements of traditional meter endpoints when transitioning to automated meter reader systems.
Innovation Solution
An automated meter reader (AMR) direct mount endpoint module that can be easily installed on existing utility meters, featuring a patch antenna for improved RF signal transmission, a rugged environmentally protected enclosure, and a gasket for water resistance, allowing for secure and efficient data collection without disrupting utility service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional manual meter reading is used, then labor costs and operational inefficiencies are high, but the simplicity of the system is maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical meter reading with an automated electronic system. The AMR module uses an encoder to convert mechanical rotations of the meter drive shaft into electronic signals, which are then transmitted via RF communication. This substitution eliminates the need for manual visual inspection and significantly improves reading efficiency while reducing labor costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary AMR module that bridges the traditional mechanical meter and the electronic data collection system. The module includes an encoder as an intermediary mechanism between the mechanical drive shaft and the electronic transmitter, enabling seamless conversion and communication without requiring complete system replacement.
2Measurement precision
If AMR modules are mounted between meter drive mechanisms and index attachments, then data collection accuracy is improved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the meter reading system into distinct functional modules: the existing mechanical meter, the intermediary AMR module with encoder, and the electronic transmitter. This segmentation allows the AMR module to be independently manufactured and installed without disrupting the entire meter system, thereby improving installation ease while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The AMR module serves as an intermediary component that interfaces between the meter drive mechanisms and index attachments. It includes mounting brackets and interface mechanisms that facilitate easy installation while ensuring accurate data collection through proper alignment with the drive shaft and index attachment components.
3Reliability
If frequent replacement of traditional meter endpoints is performed, then service continuity is maintained, but costs and disruptions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-assembling the AMR module with all necessary electronic components, encoders, and mounting mechanisms before field installation. This pre-preparation ensures that the module can be quickly installed and calibrated without extending service disruption time, while the modular design allows for easy replacement if failures occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptability through the AMR module's ability to interface with various meter types and configurations. The modular design with adjustable mounting mechanisms allows the system to adapt to different installation scenarios, ensuring service continuity without requiring frequent replacements or extensive reconfiguration.
4Reliability
If patch antenna is used for RF signal transmission, then data transmission reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the patch antenna directly with the printed circuit board (PCB) that houses the electronic components and encoder. This integration eliminates the need for separate antenna assemblies, connectors, and mounting hardware, thereby improving signal transmission reliability through better grounding and shielding while reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch antenna is designed as a multi-functional component that serves both as the RF signal transmission element and as part of the structural support for the electronic components. The antenna substrate also provides mechanical support and electrical grounding, reducing the total component count and simplifying the overall device architecture.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The AMR module reduces costs and operational inefficiencies by enabling quick and cost-effective installation, enhancing data collection accuracy, and improving durability and accessibility, while minimizing disruptions to utility service.
Implementation Method 1
Communication between the AMR endpoint and remote reading device is normally accomplished by radio frequency (RF)
Data Source
AI summary
An automated meter reader module can be operably connected to an existing utility meter to provide an endpoint for use in an automated meter reader system. The automated meter reader module can utilize an index attachment drive mechanism to electronically and mechanically monitor consumption of a utility such as water, gas, or electricity. The index attachment of the existing utility meter is attached so that it does not physically impede reception or transmission of radio frequency communications by a patch antenna integrated into a printed circuit board located inside the automated meter reader module. A gasket around the edge of the housing sealingly interfaces with the existing utility meter and a multi-faced cover that allows the registered dials located on the index attached to be viewed from a plurality of vantage points.