Wireless Optical Data Probe for Utility Meters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical data probes for utility meters are prone to malfunction and are not user-friendly, particularly due to the reliance on cables that can cause reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
A wireless probe apparatus with an optical transceiver connected to a wireless transmission device, housed in a portable unit that eliminates the need for cables by converting between electrical and optical signals and communicating wirelessly with computing devices using Bluetooth technology.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wired optical probe with cable is used, then data communication between meter and computer is achieved, but reliability deteriorates due to cable-related malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the cable from the optical probe system, extracting the problematic connection medium while maintaining optical communication functionality between the meter and computer through wireless transmission
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical cable connection system with a wireless optical communication system, eliminating physical connectors and reducing malfunctions associated with cable connections
2Ease of operation
If exposed electrical connections are used on the meter, then electrical data transfer is enabled, but safety deteriorates due to exposure to high voltage and current
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical connections with optical communication, substituting electrical signals with light signals to eliminate exposure to high voltage and current while maintaining data transfer capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical transceiver as an intermediary device that converts electrical signals to optical signals and back, serving as a barrier that isolates the technician from hazardous electrical components while enabling data communication
3Productivity
If an optical transceiver with cable is used, then local data transfer is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to cable management requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the cable from the optical transceiver assembly, eliminating cable management requirements and simplifying the operation of the device while maintaining optical data transfer functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the static cable-connected system into a dynamic wireless system, allowing flexible positioning and movement of the optical probe without being constrained by physical cable connections
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
The wireless probe design enhances reliability and user-friendliness by eliminating cable-related malfunctions and allowing for secure, wireless data transfer between utility meters and computing devices, improving data communication efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
The optical transceiver circuit is operable to convert between electrical signals and corresponding optical signals
Implementation Method 2
The wireless communication circuit is operable to communicate wireless signals to a remote wireless circuit
Data Source
AI summary
A portable data probe includes a portable housing, an optical transceiver circuit and a wireless communication circuit. The optical transceiver circuit is disposed substantially within the portable housing, but is also configured to be in optical communication with an exterior of the portable housing. The optical transceiver circuit is operable to convert between electrical signals and corresponding optical signals. The wireless communication circuit is also disposed substantially within the housing, and is operably coupled to the optical transceiver circuit. The wireless communication circuit is operable to communicate wireless signals to a remote wireless circuit.