Inductive Coupling for Utility Meter Data Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automatic meter reading systems require conductive connections for manual readings, which are inconvenient and costly, especially in freezing conditions, and existing remote reading solutions face challenges with signal transmission through metallic pit lids.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing inductive coupling between a communication device and a reading module allows for wireless data transfer and programming without conductive connections, enabling local manual readings and reducing installation complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conductive connection is used to connect the reading module to the communication device, then data transfer reliability is improved, but installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/conductive connection system with an inductive coupling system. Instead of requiring physical wire connections and gel-cap splicing kits, the reading module uses inductive coupling to wirelessly communicate with the communication device through the pit lid, eliminating the need for complex conductive connections while maintaining data transfer capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the pit lid as an intermediary medium that enables inductive coupling between the reading module and the communication device. The pit lid serves as a non-conductive barrier that allows magnetic field penetration for inductive communication while blocking electrical conduction, thus enabling wireless data transfer without direct conductive contact
2Measurement precision
If manual meter reading is performed, then data accuracy is improved, but manpower requirements and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication device is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as an automatic meter reading transmitter using RF signals and as a manual reading interface through inductive coupling. This allows the same device to support both automated remote reading (improving productivity) and manual verification reading (maintaining data accuracy), eliminating the need for separate systems
3Reliability
If the antenna extends above the pit lid for RF transmission, then signal transmission capability is improved, but protection from environmental factors worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from three-dimensional physical antenna extension above the pit lid to a two-dimensional inductive coupling interface on the pit lid surface. The inductive coupling system achieves communication through the lid surface without requiring the antenna to physically extend into exposed space, thus maintaining signal capability while reducing environmental exposure to rain, ice, and physical damage
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
Enables secure, wireless data transfer and programming of utility meter readings, reducing manpower costs and installation time while maintaining data accuracy and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
The coil is inductively coupled to a programming coil of the communication device such that data and programming commands can be transferred to and from the communication device
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for providing the ability to obtain consumption data from a communication device used to transmit accumulated data from the meter register. The system includes a programming port formed as part of the communication device. The programming port includes the programming coil that allows the accumulation data received from the meter register to be read by an interrogation device. Further, the programming coil allows programming information to be transferred to the communication device from the interrogation device. The system can also include a reading module coupled to the programming port of the communication device through an inductive coupling. The reading module can extend through a pit lid such that the reading module can be accessed without removing the pit lid.