Meter Recognition Apparatus Using Image Processing for Automated Data Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing meter monitoring systems lack efficient and automated methods for acquiring and processing data from monitoring meters, leading to labor-intensive and error-prone data collection.
Innovation Solution
A meter monitoring system comprising a wireless gateway, a monitoring device, and at least one meter recognition apparatus, which includes an image acquirer, a processor, and a wireless transceiver. The image acquirer captures images of monitoring meters at set intervals, and the processor determines monitoring data using image processing algorithms, sending this data to the wireless gateway and then to the monitoring device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual data collection methods are used, then labor intensity is high and errors are frequent, but automation introduces device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image copying technology to capture the display screen of the monitoring meter through a camera, converting visual information into digital images for processing. This allows automated data extraction without direct physical interaction with the meter, improving efficiency while keeping the system relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data reading with automated image processing algorithms. The processor automatically recognizes and extracts monitoring data from captured images, eliminating the need for human operators to manually read and record data, thereby improving productivity
2Extent of automation
If robot inspection methods are used, then automation is achieved, but the system is highly affected by external environments and has high cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the monitoring function into independent components: image acquisition by camera, light control by controllable light sources, and data processing by processor. This modular approach allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing environmental sensitivity while maintaining automation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses periodic lighting control where controllable light sources are turned on and off in cycles to provide optimal illumination for image capture at different time intervals. This periodic action ensures consistent image quality regardless of external environmental conditions, reducing environmental sensitivity
3Measurement precision
If image processing is performed at high frequency, then monitoring accuracy improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the image acquisition frequency based on the specific monitoring requirements and meter characteristics. The processor determines optimal processing intervals, performing image processing at high frequency only when necessary to maintain accuracy while reducing energy consumption during stable periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the timing parameters of image acquisition and processing based on monitoring needs. By adjusting the frequency and timing of image capture and processing operations, the system maintains measurement precision while optimizing energy consumption through parameter optimization
Data Source
AI summary
A meter monitoring system (200) includes: a wireless gateway (202), a monitoring device (201), and at least one meter recognition apparatus (100). The meter recognition apparatus (100) includes: an image acquirer (1), a processor (2), and a wireless transceiver (3). The image acquirer (1) is configured to acquire images of a display side of a monitoring meter (4) at set time intervals. The processor (2) is coupled to the image acquirer (1) and configured to determine, according to an image of the images acquired by the image acquirer (1) and based on an image processing algorithm, monitoring data displayed by the monitoring meter (4). The wireless transceiver (3) is coupled to the processor (2) and configured to send the monitoring data determined by the processor (2) to the wireless gateway (202). The wireless gateway (202) is configured to transmit the received monitoring data to the monitoring device (201).