Universal Remote Metering Device with SIM-Based Data Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote reading devices for utility meters, such as gas meters, are overly complex, bulky, and expensive due to the need for programming, calibration, and software, which complicates setup and increases costs, and requires trained personnel for installation.
Innovation Solution
An integrated device with a universal attachment, pulse counting, and communication capabilities using a standard SIM card and mobile networks, eliminating the need for on-board processing and calibration, allowing immediate operation upon attachment and simplifying design and setup, with options for external antenna and remote gas supply control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional remote reading devices use programming and calibration capabilities, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the calibration and conversion processing functions from the remote reading device and relocates them to a central server. The simple remote device only collects pulse counts and transmits them, while the server performs the complex pulse-to-volume conversion using stored meter-specific calibration data. This extraction eliminates the need for complex onboard processing while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a central server as an intermediary between the simple remote reading device and the final volume calculation. The server receives pulse count data, applies the appropriate meter calibration factors, and returns volume measurements. This intermediary handles the complexity of calibration and conversion, allowing the remote device to remain simple.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional devices include programming interfaces and calibration capabilities, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal remote reading device that can interface with multiple meter types through a standardized pulse input interface. The device's universality comes not from onboard adaptability but from the server's ability to handle different meter types using stored calibration data. This allows any meter with a pulse output to be compatible with the same simple remote device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-service installation by eliminating the need for trained technicians to program or calibrate the device. The remote device automatically begins collecting data immediately upon attachment, and the server automatically handles all calibration and conversion operations. Installation simply requires attaching the device to the meter and ensuring network connectivity.
3Measurement precision
If conventional devices use complex processors and software, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the energy-intensive computational tasks (pulse-to-volume conversion, data processing, scheduling) from the remote device and relocates them to the central server. The remote device only performs simple pulse counting and data transmission, dramatically reducing its power consumption while the server handles the complex calculations using more powerful hardware that can be continuously powered without impacting the remote device's energy efficiency.
4Reliability
If conventional devices include programming and calibration functions, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the reliability-critical calibration data and conversion algorithms from the remote device and stores them in a secure central database. The simple remote device reliably transmits pulse counts, and the server applies the appropriate calibration factors to ensure accurate volume measurements. This separation ensures that calibration accuracy is maintained while device complexity is minimized.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates in particular to an integrated device for the adaptation of fluid metering devices, comprising an attachment means for attachment to the meter, a pulse generating means for generating electrical pulses at a rate dependent on the volume of fluid used, means for counting and storing the number of pulses generated during a particular time period, and communication means for communicating the stored pulse readings. Ideally these elements are integrated into a single housing, attachable to a meter by simply plugging thereto, without the need for any programming.