Anti-fraud Ring for Fluid Meter Remote Reading Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid meters with remote reading modules are costly to manufacture and require complex assembly, and existing anti-fraud mechanisms are cumbersome and expensive to produce, necessitating a more economical and efficient solution for securing these modules.
Innovation Solution
A fluid meter with a removable remote reading module secured by a closed cylindrical ring featuring a breakable zone with reduced radial thickness and external radial flanges, allowing secure attachment and easy removal using tools like pliers or screwdrivers, made from styrene acrylonitrile for cost-effective manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a non-removable clipping means with a breakable part is used to secure the remote reading module, then the module is secured against fraud, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The ring is designed as a disposable anti-fraud element that breaks upon removal attempts. Instead of creating a complex permanent locking mechanism, the invention uses a simple ring with a breakable zone that can be easily manufactured and provides effective security through its irreversible breakage characteristic.
Solution Approach 2:
The ring is segmented into a breakable zone with reduced radial thickness bordered by two external radial flanges. This segmentation creates a weak point that allows controlled breakage while maintaining the overall structural integrity and simplicity of the ring design.
2Strength
If a complex clipping mechanism is used to secure the module, then the module is firmly fixed, but the removal process becomes difficult and may damage the module
Solution Approach 1:
The ring serves as a sacrificial security element that is designed to break rather than damage the expensive remote reading module. The breakable zone allows the ring to be removed (by breaking) without applying damaging forces to the module it secures.
3Reliability
If the remote reading module is permanently fixed on the meter, then fraud by removal is prevented, but the ability to replace modules for administrative or technological constraints is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides dynamic security: during normal operation, the ring securely fixes the module to prevent fraud. When replacement is needed, the ring can be broken (using tools like pliers or screwdrivers) to allow module removal. The flanges provide grip points for tool application, enabling controlled breakage without damaging the module.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
The invention relates to a fluid meter equipped with a totaliser (2) and a remote reading module (4) disposed on the totaliser in a zone referred to as the upper zone, the said totaliser being provided with a cover (3) made from plastic material, the meter including a ring (5) for sealing of the said module (4) disposed around the said upper zone and joined by means of a non-removable clipping means. According to the invention, the said ring (5) consists of a closed cylindrical piece and includes a breakable zone (5A) with reduced radial thickness bordered by two external radial flanges (5B, 5C).