Meter Reading Device with Mirror and Optical Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing meter reading systems require manual visits by meter readers to collect data, which is time-consuming and inefficient, and many existing meter devices lack data transmission capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A meter reading device equipped with a camera, mirror, and recognition unit that captures and interprets the measurement values displayed on existing meter devices, transmitting the data via low power wide area (LPWA) standards for remote monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual meter reading is performed by visiting each residence, then measurement data can be collected from existing meter devices, but it takes long time and requires significant effort for data collection and aggregation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual reading process with an automated optical system. A camera captures images of the display surface, and an recognition unit (using OCR or AI) automatically extracts measurement values from the images, eliminating the need for manual visual reading and data aggregation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the measurement data by capturing images of the display surface and converting them into numerical data through image recognition. This digital copy can be stored and processed without requiring physical presence at the meter device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing meter devices without data transmission means are used, then no additional transmission infrastructure is needed, but data cannot be transmitted remotely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal reading device that can interface with various types of existing meter devices through the attachment member. The device combines multiple functions: optical capture, image recognition, data processing, and wireless transmission, making it adaptable to different meter types while enabling remote transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary device (the meter reading device with attachment member) that bridges the gap between existing meter devices without transmission capabilities and the remote data collection system. The attachment member physically connects to the meter, while the reading device acts as a mediator to capture, process, and transmit the data.
3Productivity
If a camera and recognition unit are added to read meter data, then automated reading is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple components (camera, recognition unit, storage device, transmission unit) into a single integrated meter reading device. The attachment member further integrates the optical path by incorporating a mirror that redirects light from the display surface to the camera, combining structural and functional elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a nested structure where the attachment member holds the meter reading device, which contains the camera and recognition unit, which in turn processes images from the display surface. The semi-reflective mirror is nested within the attachment member structure to redirect light paths.
4Use of energy by moving object
If LPWA transmission is used for data communication, then power consumption is reduced, but transmission range and data rate are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses LPWA transmission which provides partial action in terms of transmission rate but achieves excessive action in power efficiency. The system transmits only essential measurement data rather than continuous video streams, reducing data volume while maintaining adequate functionality.
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 remote and efficient reading of meter data, improving data accuracy through AI-enhanced character recognition and reducing the need for manual data collection, while prolonging battery life with low power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a mirror provided inside the casing, the mirror being arranged so as to be opposed to the display surface at a given angle, and being configured to reflect light that has been reflected by the display surface and has passed through the opening
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a meter reading device, an attachment member, and a remote meter reading system. The meter reading device includes a recognition unit configured to recognize a measurement value measured by a meter device from an image picked up by a camera and generate numerical data indicating the recognized measurement value, a transmission unit configured to transmit the numerical data generated by the recognition unit to a storage device installed on a network, a mirror arranged so as to be opposed to a display surface at a given angle, and other components. The attachment member enables attachment of the meter reading device to the meter device. The remote meter reading system allows the measurement value displayed on an existing meter device to be checked at a remote location.