Remote Meter Reading Network Frequency Band Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard fixed network remote meter reading systems with unidirectional operation have low electrical energy consumption, leading to long battery life, but require frequent battery replacements and increased costs due to complex network architectures and limited coverage radius, especially with the 868 MHz frequency band, which is not favorable for long-distance transmissions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a fixed network system using low-power modules in the UHF band for meter-module communication and intermediate concentrators in the VHF band for inter-concentrator communication, allowing for increased coverage radius while maintaining low power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the 868 MHz frequency band is used for intermediate concentrators, then low-power modules can be used, but the coverage radius is limited and more intermediate concentrators are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the frequency parameter from UHF (868 MHz) to VHF (433 MHz) for intermediate concentrators. This parameter change allows longer transmission distances and larger coverage radius while maintaining low-power module operation, resolving the contradiction between low power consumption and limited coverage area
2Area of stationary object
If the number of intermediate concentrators is increased to extend coverage, then the coverage area increases, but the construction and maintenance costs increase and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By changing the operating frequency parameter to VHF band, the patent achieves extended coverage area with fewer intermediate concentrators, thereby reducing system complexity, construction costs, and maintenance requirements while improving reliability
3Use of energy by moving object
If unidirectional radio links are used from modules to concentrators, then energy consumption is low and battery life is extended, but frequent battery replacement is still required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends battery life by changing the frequency parameter and optimizing the communication protocol. The VHF frequency combined with optimized transmission parameters reduces energy consumption further, extending battery life to 10 years or more, making battery replacement unnecessary during the typical service period
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
This approach enables a remote reading network with low-power modules to achieve a larger coverage radius without increasing the number of intermediate concentrators, reducing construction and maintenance costs and improving network reliability.
Implementation Method 1
the radio communications between the modules and the concentrators take place in the UHF frequency band
Implementation Method 2
the radio communications between the concentrators take place in the VHF frequency band
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The method involves utilizing a radio communication network comprising radio communication modules (40-44) associated to a meter to be read, central computer (48) and intermediate concentrators (45, 46). The communication between the modules and the concentrators is performed in a UHF band such as greater than 310 mega hertz. The communication between the intermediate concentrators and a main concentrator (47) is performed in a VHF band such as less than 310 Mega hertz. The computer is connected to the main concentrator by global system for mobile communication (GSM) connection.