Retrofit Kit for Utility Meters Using Segmented Sensor and Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote meter reading devices require precise positioning and are not standardized, making them incompatible with different meter models and configurations, limiting their universal application.
Innovation Solution
A remote reading device kit with a separate sensor and electronic box, featuring a pulse sensor and mechanical connectors, allowing for adaptable installation on various meter types without gluing or prior knowledge of the meter model, using connectors that fit different interface notches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the remote reading device uses a fixed mechanical interface for precise positioning, then the sensor can accurately detect magnet rotation, but the device cannot be adapted to different meter models and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two independent functional modules: a sensor module for detecting magnet rotation and a housing module for mechanical attachment. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently - the sensor module maintains positioning precision while the housing module provides adaptability through multiple mechanical interface options that fit different meter models
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed with multiple mechanical interface types that can accommodate different meter models and configurations. This universal design allows the same remote reading device to be installed on various meter types without requiring model-specific customization, resolving the contradiction between precision and adaptability
2Measurement precision
If the remote reading device is customized for each meter model, then precise positioning is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the sensor function from the housing function, the invention eliminates the need to create customized versions for each meter model. The standardized sensor module maintains positioning precision while the housing with multiple interface options reduces manufacturing complexity by using a single design for multiple applications
3Ease of manufacture
If adhesive mounting is used for the sensor, then installation is simplified, but the positioning precision and reliability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The separation of sensor and housing allows the sensor to be mounted on the housing with adhesive (simple installation) while the housing itself provides the precise mechanical positioning relative to the meter. This resolves the contradiction by distributing the positioning function across two components rather than requiring the sensor mounting method alone to provide both simplicity and precision
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 universal remote reading capability across different meter models and configurations, simplifying the mechanical interface and reducing positioning constraints, facilitating easy adaptation and installation.
Implementation Method 1
a pulse sensor 2 to detect the rotation of a small magnet A fixed on the 'unit' wheel of the mechanical totalizer TM of the counter C. Such a pulse sensor 2 is for example a Reed bulb. It detects the passage of magnet A at its level with each new revolution of the wheel carrying the magnet
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a kit for retrofit (15) of a meter which comprises: • a remote-reading device intended to be hooked up to a meter (C) and comprising a sensor (6) for following the rotation of at least one wheel of a mechanical totalizer (TM) of the meter, and an electronic box (B) separated moreover from the part forming a sensor, and • a set of support components (14) forming mechanical connection facilities suitable for fixing onto various models of meters.