Pulse Meter Communication Converter with RS485 Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
The communication distance of pulse meters is limited, making it difficult to establish effective communication between electric meters and consumer devices, and existing solutions like PLC-based conversion are costly and not widely adopted.
Innovation Solution
A communication converting apparatus and method that includes a pulse collection unit, storage unit, micro control unit, and RS485 communication unit to convert pulse signals into RS485 communication signals, reducing costs and extending communication distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If PLC is used to convert pulse communication into RS485 communication, then communication distance is extended, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the expensive PLC with a low-cost microcontroller unit (MCU) that performs the same communication conversion function. The MCU-based solution achieves RS485 communication capability at a fraction of the cost, making the system economically viable for widespread deployment while maintaining the extended communication distance of 1200 meters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary conversion module that bridges pulse meter output and RS485 communication. This intermediate device collects pulse signals, processes them through the MCU, and converts them to RS485 format, enabling communication distance extension without requiring expensive PLC equipment
2Length of stationary object
If pulse meter communication is used, then installation size is maintained, but communication distance is limited to 200 meters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional communication converting apparatus that handles both pulse signal collection and RS485 communication conversion within a single device. The integrated design combines the pulse collection unit, storage unit, micro control unit, and RS485 communication unit into one compact system, extending communication distance without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
3Reliability
If photoelectric isolation is added to the pulse collection unit, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses photoelectric isolation as an intermediary component between the pulse meter and the micro control unit. This isolation mechanism transfers signals through optical coupling, providing galvanic isolation that enhances safety and noise immunity while adding minimal complexity compared to full PLC-based solutions
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 effective RS485 communication between pulse meters and consumer devices, reducing costs and improving communication distance, while ensuring safety with photoelectric isolation and voltage detection features.
Implementation Method 1
the pulse collection unit may be provided with photoelectric isolation
Data Source
AI summary
A communication converting apparatus for a pulse meter is provided, comprising: a pulse collection unit, configured to collect a pulse signal generated from the pulse meter; a storage unit, configured to store a reading of the pulse meter; a micro control unit, configured to control the pulse collection unit to collect the pulse signal, to read the reading stored in the storage unit, and to obtain an updated reading of the pulse meter according to the pulse signal and the reading stored in the storage unit; and a RS485 communication unit, configured to covert the updated reading of the pulse meter into a RS485 communication signal for outputting.