RF Triangulation for Missing Utility Meter Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility companies face challenges in locating missing endpoints in utility meter networks, such as stolen or misplaced meters, due to the large search area and limited precision of existing RF communication systems.
Innovation Solution
A data collection system that uses GPS data and RF signal strength indicators to implement a triangulation procedure, allowing for the estimation of missing endpoint locations through the collection of RF data transmissions from multiple positions, with weighted averaging to enhance accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional RF communication systems are used to locate missing endpoints, then the system can cover a large area, but the location precision is insufficient and search area remains large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional area coverage to three-dimensional spatial localization by incorporating signal strength indicators (RSSI) as a vertical dimension. Mobile readers collect RF transmissions with associated signal strengths at different GPS locations, enabling triangulation that pinpoints endpoints in three-dimensional space rather than merely covering two-dimensional areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual search and physical inspection methods with automated electronic triangulation. Mobile readers automatically collect RF signal data with GPS coordinates, and the system computationally determines endpoint locations through triangulation algorithms, substituting mechanical search processes with electronic detection and calculation.
2Productivity
If manual search methods are used to locate missing endpoints, then the system is simple to implement, but the time and resources required are excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service locating where mobile readers automatically perform data collection, triangulation calculations, and endpoint identification without requiring utility company personnel to manually search or physically inspect potential locations. The automated system serves itself by processing RF signal data and GPS coordinates to independently determine endpoint locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback through signal strength indicators (RSSI) that provide continuous information about endpoint proximity. As mobile readers move through the area, they collect RF transmissions with associated signal strengths, and this feedback data is used to iteratively refine location estimates through triangulation, allowing the system to converge on accurate endpoint positions efficiently.
3Measurement precision
If RF signal strength data is collected from multiple locations to improve precision, then the triangulation accuracy improves, but the device complexity and data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile reader is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously performs RF signal reception, GPS location tracking, and data storage. This universal device consolidates multiple functions into a single platform, reducing overall system complexity despite the sophisticated triangulation process it enables.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges RF signal strength measurement, GPS coordinate collection, and endpoint location calculation into an integrated triangulation process. By combining these separate functions into a unified data collection and processing system, the patent reduces complexity that would arise from separate systems while maintaining high location accuracy.
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 method provides a more precise location of missing endpoints, reducing the search area and improving the efficiency of utility meter tracking and recovery processes.
Implementation Method 1
Radio frequency (RF) data transmissions sent by one or more missing nodes/endpoints in proximity to the mobile communication device are also collected
Implementation Method 2
periodically receiving electronic GPS data including GPS coordinates identifying the physical location of a mobile communication device
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of locating missing endpoints in a utility meter network include periodically receiving electronic GPS data including coordinates identifying the physical location of a mobile meter reading device and collecting radio frequency (RF) data transmissions sent by one or more missing endpoints in proximity to the mobile meter reading device. Energy levels associated with the RF data transmissions can be used to determine a signal strength indicator for each transmission. The transmissions are collected while the mobile meter reading device is positioned in at least first and second different locations relative to each missing endpoint. A triangulation procedure is electronically implemented using the GPS coordinates and the signal strength indicator for a given missing endpoint as determined in the at least first and second different locations in order to identify an estimated location for the given missing endpoint, which is provided as electronic output to a user.