AU2020202483A1

AU2020202483A1 - Smart Gas Meter

Info

Publication number: AU2020202483A1
Application number: AU2020202483A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Samantha Leanne McEncroe; Jason WALTERS
Original assignee: Walters Alliance Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Walters Alliance Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2019-04-10
Filing date: 2020-04-10
Publication date: 2020-10-29

Abstract

Smart Gas Meter The present invention relates in general to gas safety valves which are used for the control or shutoff of the gas supply in case of a leak or an emergency situation. The smart gas meter has a housing with a gas inlet port for connection to a high pressure gas outlet and a gas outlet port connecting to a low pressure outlet via a regulator. A valve assembly controls the gas flow and forms a flow path extending from the gas inlet port to the gas outlet port. Sensors detect the pressure, temperature and the flow of gas and generate respective signals. A gas leakage sensor detects any gas leaks and generates a signal in response to a sensed gas leak. An actuating means is connected to the valve assembly to close the flow path of the valve assembly if a leak occurs. A programmable computing device calculates information from the sensors and activates the actuating means to close the flow path of the valve assembly. A display screen is operatively associated with the computing device for displaying the information. 1/15 18 10 16 180 + A ; 12 30 14 20 180 13 137 15 201 200 FIG. 1

Description

1/15

18 10 16

180

+ A ;

12 30 14

20 180

13

137

15 201

200

FIG. 1

Smart Gas Meter

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to gas safety valves and, more specifically, to the gas safety valves which are used for the control or shutoff of the gas supply in case of a leak or an emergency situation. This invention also relates to the remote operation of the gas supply and to the monitoring and control of gas flow originating from a source of gas under pressure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It should be noted that reference to the prior art herein is not to be taken as an acknowledgement that such prior art constitutes common general knowledge in the art.

Liquefied petroleum gas or liquid petroleum gas (LPG or LP gas), also referred to as simply propane or butane, and natural gas such as compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) are flammable mixtures of hydrocarbon gases used as fuel in heating appliances, cooking equipment, and vehicles. As its boiling point is below room temperature, LPG will evaporate quickly at normal temperatures and pressures and is usually supplied in pressurised and completely hermetic steel vessels known as bottles or cylinders. Home appliances can run on either natural gas or LPG. Natural gas is extracted from deep within the earth and can contain ethane, propane, butane and pentane. Typically, home appliances and heating can be fuelled by natural gas, which is delivered in pipelines direct to the home. Also, natural gas can be stored at pressures that are somewhat higher than that of LPG and as such the higher pressure requires a much heavier and more expensive cylinder ortank.

One of the biggest problems associated with gas supply and gas bottles is determining how much gas actually remains in the gas bottle. Another problem associated with the supply of gas is knowing how much gas has actually been used. As the structure of such bottles is completely hermetic, it is not possible to visually determine the amount of gas left in the gas bottle and therefore users have difficulty in determining the amount of gas in, or remaining in the bottle. This leads to user uncertainty in determining when the gas bottle is required to be exchanged or re-filled. Failure to order the gas bottle in time may result in users having problems with cooking, hot water and heating. This failure is further exacerbated for users residing in remote areas. For example, it is generally the case in remote locations that any replacement gas bottles need to be pre-ordered well in advance.

Measurement devices for gauging content levels of fluid holding tanks, such as residential gas bottles, are well known in the art. Systems for monitoring fluid levels and determining refill quantities and frequencies also are known in the art. These existing devices and systems, however present several disadvantages.

One of the known technologies available simply provides a mechanical or analog indicating gauge located beside the opening valve on the gas bottle. The analog indicating gauge has a needle on the device surface which displays the gas level within the gas bottle and simply indicates the level or amount of gas left. These devices typically have a component provided within the bottle itself and comprise a float which is equipped with a suitable gear on which a magnet is mounted. The magnet is connected with the indicating gauge from which it is therefore possible to show the level of the LPG by means of the indicator gauge. Another form of analog gauge utilises a pressure mechanism to indicate the pressure in a gas bottle. The pressure measurement is directly converted into volume measurement to show the amount of gas volume left in the gas bottle. However, these analog gas meters cannot precisely reflect the actual gas volume remaining in the gas bottle due to temperature variations. Gas pressure inside the gas bottle varies in accordance with the temperature variation.

These known systems also require the user to make frequent checks of the analog devices or indicators to know the actual levels in the bottles. This can be difficult due to the positioning of the bottles outdoors. Some improvements have been made with the remote transmission of data relating to the level of the liquid gas contained in the LPG bottles. However, these devices employ a very limited technology which sometimes is even inaccurate such as the replacement of the indicating gauge or dial with potentiometers or with mechanical contacts and the remote cable transmission of the level.

Some fluid measurement devices can employ optical and electromechanical fluid level measurement systems. These systems include floats, capacitance probes, reed switches, ultrasonic level sensors and differential pressure mechanisms. Because these systems incur exposure to internal, caustic tank conditions, they may corrode and provide inaccurate measurements. Additionally, most of these systems also require substantial retrofitting for proper operation with an existing holding tank, which leads to additional cost for the end consumer.

LPG systems have more demanding requirements than some fluid measurement systems. LPG bottles and LPG gauges, which are attached to the bottles, are located outside buildings. Consequently, LPG gauges must withstand extreme environmental conditions. In addition, because LPG is stored under pressure and is highly explosive, a LPG system must ensure that the gas does not leak or inadvertently flow into the building. A stuck valve or gauge can result in catastrophe. The LPG sensor must be able to meet these same stringent demands and not add any risk of leakage or explosion.

Typically, capacitive sensing is not able to be safely used in an LPG installation. The possibility of a capacitive discharge could cause an explosion and the sensors require openings in the LPG bottle for the capacitor apparatus, leaks might result and cause an explosion.

Electronic systems have also been developed for monitoring the fluid level measurement devices and reporting the levels to remote locations for enabling the exchange and re-fill of the bottles. These systems generally exhibit several limitations. The electronic monitoring systems generally require access to a power outlet which may be unavailable due to the LPG bottles being located outdoors. These systems generally require access to a telephone line for sending a signal to the remote location, and transmitting data therefore creates a temporary disruption to a homeowner's phone line. Also, these systems and devices generally provide only a gross indication of a fuel requirement and the information can be difficult to interpret and not easily understood. Precise measurements are neither calculated nor transmitted. No matter which communication scheme is used, the data received from the sensor is often confusing and can require significant time to decode and format into a useful form.

As mentioned above, another problem associated with containing a pressurised gas within a hermetic sealed gas bottle is that the gas is highly explosive. A rupture in the gas lines resulting in gas leakage can cause catastrophic damage to adjacent structures due to fires or explosions. Also, any leakage from the equipment conveying and using the gas may cause problems and thus placing the life and property of the consumer in jeopardy.

LPG is heavier than air, unlike natural gas, and thus will flow along floors and tend to settle in low spots. There are two main dangers from this. The first is a possible explosion if the mixture of LPG and air is within the explosive limits and there is an ignition source. The second is suffocation due to LPG displacing air, causing a decrease in oxygen concentration. In cases of emergencies there is a requirement to be able to shut-off the gas supply as quickly as possible. Therefore the management and control of gas systems remains an important area of interest from a safety perspective.

Known automatic shut-off valves close off the gas line in response to a sudden increase or decrease in pressure in the gas line. A common feature of such automatic shut-off valves is the use of a flexible diaphragm which responds to a sudden increase or decrease of pressure by moving to seal off the valve. When the pressure returns to normal the valve automatically opens. The problem with this type of valve is that the valve can be automatically reset without the cause for the increase or decrease in pressure being determined.

In some conditions these types of valves can oscillate between open and closed conditions when the pressure in the lines fluctuates.

Clearly it would be advantageous if a smart gas meter was designed which could control or shut-off the gas supply in case of a leak or an emergency situation and that helped to at least ameliorate some of the shortcomings described above. In particular, it would be beneficial if the smart gas meter could be remotely operated to monitor and control gas flow originating from a source of gas under pressure or at least provide a useful alternative.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a first aspect, the present invention provides a smart gas meter comprising: a housing comprising a gas inlet port for connection to a high pressure gas outlet, and a gas outlet port for connection to a low pressure outlet via a regulator; a valve assembly to control the gas flow from the high pressure gas outlet and forming a flow path extending from the gas inlet port to the gas outlet port, and an actuating means connected to the valve assembly for closing the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; at least one sensor for detecting at least one characteristic of the gas and being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed characteristic of the gas; a gas leakage sensor for detecting any gas leaks in or around the housing, the gas leakage sensor being adapted to generate a signal in response to a sensed gas leak; a programmable computing device for calculating the gas consumption from the at least one sensor and the at least one sensed characteristic of the gas, the programmable computing device having a wireless communication interface for connecting the smart gas meter to a wireless computer network; a display screen operatively associated with the computing device for displaying the calculated information; and wherein upon sensing a gas leak by the gas leakage sensor the programmable computing device activates the actuating means to close the flow path of the valve assembly to shut-off gas supply.

Preferably, the high pressure outlet may be connected to a gas pressure vessel or directly to a gas pipeline. When the high pressure outlet is connected to the gas pressure vessel, the programmable computing device of the smart gas meter may further comprise calculating the amount of gas in the pressure vessel from the at least one sensor and the at least one sensed characteristic and displaying the amount of gas in the pressure vessel on the display screen.

Preferably, the at least one sensor may comprise any one or more of: a pressure switch for detecting pressure of the gas and being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed pressure; a temperature sensor device for sensing the temperature of the gas, the temperature sensor device being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed temperature of the gas; or a flow sensor for sensing the flow of gas, the flow sensor being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed flow of the gas.

Preferably, the actuating means may further comprise: an electric motor and a gearbox; an actuating shaft coupled to the gearbox, the actuating shaft having an external thread extending longitudinally along the shaft; a piston slideably contained within and extending through a mounting means, an end of the piston extends into engagement with the valve assembly; and wherein upon activation of the electric motor by the programmable computing device the actuating shaft engages the piston and the end of the piston is moved to locate within the valve assembly to shut-off the supply of gas to the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports.

Preferably, the actuating means may further comprise a manual reset mechanism designed to disengage the piston from within the valve assembly to open the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports. The manual reset mechanism may be a switch located on the programmable computing device and when activated reverses the direction of the electric motor to retract the actuating shaft and open the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports. Alternatively, the manual reset mechanism may be a software code forming part of the programmable computing device and when remotely activated resets the programmable computing device to reverse the direction of the electric motor to retract the actuating shaft and open the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports.

Preferably, the electric motor, gearbox, actuating shaft, the piston and the mounting means may be all located within the housing of the smart gas meter.

Preferably, the mounting means may have a central aperture extending therethrough for receiving the piston therein. The central aperture may have at least one sealing member located within a surface of the central aperture for sealing engagement with the outer surface of the piston. The sealing member may be an O-ring, the O-ring being received within a groove located on an internal surface of the central aperture of the mounting means.

Preferably, the piston may have a longitudinally extending shaft having an open first end and a closed second end. The piston may further comprise a coaxial aperture extending from the open first end and extending for substantially the length of the shaft. The coaxial aperture may be adapted to receive the actuating shaft of the actuating means therein. The actuating shaft external thread may be adapted to engage the aperture of the piston. The longitudinal shaft may taper towards the closed second end.

Preferably, the valve assembly may comprise: a valve body having a first passageway and a second passageway, the second passageway formed transverse to the first passageway; an inlet port connected to the gas inlet port of the housing for connecting a first end of the first passageway to the high pressure gas outlet; an outlet port connected to the gas outlet port of the housing for connecting a first end of the second passageway to the low pressure outlet and regulator; a sensing port extending from a second end of the second passageway and connecting to the pressure switch; and a shut-off port extending from a second end of the first passageway for receiving the piston therein.

Preferably, the valve assembly may further comprise a valve seat located within the first passageway for receiving the closed second end of the piston to shut-off the supply of gas to the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the valve assembly. The valve seat may be shaped to receive the tapered closed second end of the longitudinal shaft to shut-off the supply of gas to the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the valve assembly. The first passageway may further comprise at least one sealing member located therein for providing sealing engagement with the longitudinally extending shaft of the piston. The at least one sealing member may be an O-ring locating within a groove of the first passageway. Alternatively, three O-rings may be located within three longitudinally spaced apart grooves in the first passageway.

Preferably, the pressure switch may be connected to the sensing port by a coupling member. The coupling member may be an elbow shaped coupling, the elbow shaped coupling having a first end connected to the sensing port and a second end connected to the pressure switch.

Preferably, the valve assembly may further comprise a connector member having a tubular shaped body with a first end coupled to the inlet port of the valve assembly and a second end extending through the gas inlet port of the housing. The second end may have a threaded connector for attachment to a high pressure pipe from the high pressure gas outlet. The temperature sensor may be mounted in thermal communication with the tubular body of the connector member and is adapted to measure the surface temperature of the tubular body, the surface temperature of the tubular body corresponds to the temperature of the gas therein.

Preferably, the flow sensor may be connected between the outlet port of the valve assembly and the regulator. The flow sensor may have a first threaded end connected to a corresponding threaded outlet port on the valve assembly and a second threaded end connected to an inlet port on the regulator. The seconded threaded end may have a reverse or left-handed thread for connection to the corresponding thread on the regulator.

Preferably, the gas leakage sensor may be mounted on an external surface of the housing of the smart gas meter. A cover with a plurality of apertures may be mounted over the gas leakage sensor on the external surface of the housing, the apertures allow any leaked gas to flow therethrough and be sensed by the leakage sensor. The external surface of the housing located beneath the gas leakage sensor may have a plurality of apertures therein to allow any leaked gases from within the housing to be sensed.

Preferably, the housing may comprise a base, an upwardly extending peripheral wall joined to the base, and a housing closure member enclosing the base and the peripheral wall. The peripheral wall may have a top surface and a sealing member is received within the top surface for sealing the housing closure member to the peripheral wall. The peripheral wall may further comprise at least one closure mounting member with a central threaded aperture for receiving a fastener therein.

Preferably, the housing closure member may have an aperture therein for receiving the display screen. The peripheral wall may further comprise a first aperture for the inlet port and a second aperture for the outlet port.

Preferably, the smart gas meter may further comprise a power source connected to power the smart gas meter and the programmable computing device. The power source may be a DC power supply such as a battery or rechargeable battery. The DC power supply and the rechargeable battery may further comprise a renewable energy charging system such as a solar charging system. Alternatively, the smart gas meter may comprise an electric energy generating and storage system for the operation of the smart gas meter. Preferably, the energy generating and storage system may comprise: a) electric power low-voltage generating means for intrinsically safe operation; b) rechargeable energy storage means for storing energy; c) energy storage management means for the controlled charging of the energy storage means; d) energy management means to control the release of the stored energy in the energy storage means; and e) energy measurement means to ascertain the amount of energy available from the energy storage means. The rechargeable energy storage means may be a battery.

Alternatively, the smart gas meter may comprise a power source connected to power the smart gas meter and the programmable computing device. The power source comprising: a) a vaned fan rotor, having a plurality of cavities that deliver a definite volume of gas with each turn, and having means to output a signal for each turn of the fan rotor; and b) an electric energy generating and storage system coupled mechanically to the fan rotor, to generate electric energy to power the smart gas meter. The fan rotor may be installed within the valve assembly. The generated electric energy may be connected to a rechargeable energy storage means. The rechargeable energy storage means may be a battery.

Preferably, the actuating means may be activated in response to any one or more of: i) a gas leak sensed by the gas leakage sensor; ii) a low or high gas pressure or temperature sensed by the respective gas pressure switch and temperature sensor, wherein the low or high gas pressure is determined by a pre-set acceptable operating range for high pressure gas; iii) a no flow indication is sensed by the flow sensor for a pre-determined period of time; or iv) a remote user activation.

Preferably, the smart gas meter may further comprise an indicating means in communication with the programmable computing device, the indicating means is activated in response to: i) activation of the actuating means; ii) a low voltage warning from the DC power supply; or iii) when the high pressure outlet is connected to the gas pressure vessel, a low gas level warning. The indicating means may be an audible warning device such as a loudspeaker. The indicating means may be a visual and/or audible warning device and forms part of the display screen and programmable computing device of the smart gas meter.

Preferably, the display screen may be an LCD display which is adapted to display information from the programmable computing device pictorially, graphically or digitally. Preferably, the LCD display may comprise multiple screens to allow a user to access such information as the amount of gas use, including the total gas use at any given time, and the cost of the amount of gas used. The information may also comprise the amount of gas used over a given time period, for example, for the past hour, past day or past month, or since the smart gas meter was last read. The total gas cost over that period is shown, taking into account how much gas you may have used at low, medium and high price periods. The gas use over a selected period may also be compared with a similar period a day, month or year ago.

Preferably, the programmable computing device may comprise: a communication interface; a central processing unit in communication with the communication interface; and a memory in communication with the central processing unit, the memory having stored therein a set of machine readable code executable by the programmable computing device to perform one or more operations.

Preferably, the programmable computing device may be a microcontroller.

Preferably, the communication interface may be a wireless communicationinterface.

Preferably, the machine readable code may further comprise code for receiving, via the communication interface, instructions for operation of the smart gas meter. The instructions for operation of the smart gas meter when connected to the gas pressure vessel may comprise: instructions to activate the actuating means to shut-off the valve and close the flow path from the compressed gas pressure vessel; instructions to provide a gas level or amount of gas remaining within the compressed gas pressure vessel; instructions to provide a low gas warning signal when a pre-determined amount of gas remains in the gas pressure vessel; and instructions to provide an amount of consumption of gas from the compressed gas pressure vessel.

Preferably, the instructions for operation of the smart gas meter when connected directly to a gas pipeline may comprise: instructions to activate the actuating means to shut-off the valve and close the flow path from the high pressure gas pipeline; and instructions to provide an amount of consumption of gas from the high pressure gas pipeline.

Preferably, the code for receiving instructions for operation of the smart gas meter may further comprise code for accessing a web interface to receive user instructions for operation of the smart gas meter. The code for receiving instructions for operation of the smart gas meter may comprise code for receiving the instruction for operation from an application running on a mobile telephone, wherein the application allows a user to send and receive the instructions.

Preferably, the machine readable code may further comprise: code for selecting a size of the compressed gas pressure vessel from a pre programmed list of vessel sizes; code for receiving a first data set from the pressure switch, the temperature sensor and the flow sensor; code for processing the first data set and the size of the compressed gas pressure vessel to calculate an amount of gas in the compressed gas pressure vessel and the amount of consumption of gas from the compressed gas pressure vessel; code for displaying the calculated amount of gas in the compressed gas pressure vessel and consumption of gas from the gas pressure vessel on the display screen; code for activing an alarm when a pre-determined amount of gas remains in the compressed gas pressure vessel; code for contacting a gas supplier to re-order gas when a pre-determined amount of gas remains in the compressed gas pressure vessel; code for receiving a third data set from the gas leakage sensor; code for processing the third data set to determine if a gas leak exists; code for activating the actuating means to shut-off the valve and close the flow path if there is a gas leak; code for activating the alarm when a gas leak exists; code for monitoring the power supply; code for activating an alarm when a pre-determined amount of energy remains in the power supply; code for receiving and transmitting data via the wireless communication interface; code for receiving and transmitting user instructions and data to and from a remote application; code for updating firmware located on the central processing unit; and code for shutting down the smart gas meter.

Preferably, the smart gas meter may further comprise a remote detection assembly associated with a gas appliance which is supplied from the low pressure outlet via the regulator. The remote detection assembly may comprise: a gas leakage sensor for detecting any gas leaks at the gas appliance; a wireless communication interface; and a power supply.

Preferably, the wireless communication interface may be a wireless transceiver, the wireless transceiver communicates with the programmable computing device to: i) shut-off the flow path of gas from the compressed gas pressure vessel if a gas leak is detected at the gas appliance; ii) update firmware on the remote detection assembly; and iii) monitor the power supply.

Preferably, the power supply may be an AC or a DC power supply, the DC power supply is a battery.

In accordance with a further aspect, the present invention provides a smart gas meter comprising: a housing comprising a gas inlet port associated with the housing for connection to a high pressure outlet, and a gas outlet port associated with the housing, the outlet port connects to a low pressure outlet via a regulator; a valve assembly to control the gas flow from the high pressure outlet and forming a flow path extending from the gas inlet port to the gas outlet port; a pressure switch for detecting pressure of the gas and being adapted to generate a first signal which is a function of the sensed pressure; a temperature sensor device for sensing the temperature of the gas from the high pressure outlet, the temperature sensor device being adapted to generate a second signal which is a function of the sensed temperature of the gas; a flow sensor for sensing the flow of gas from the high pressure outlet, the flow sensor being adapted to generate a third signal which is a function of the sensed flow of the gas; a gas leakage sensor for detecting any gas leaks, the gas leakage sensor being adapted to generate a fourth signal in response to a sensed gas leak; an actuating means connected to the valve assembly; a programmable computing device for: i) calculating information concerning the pressure and temperature of the gas from the first and the second signals; ii) calculating information concerning gas consumption from the third signal; and iii) activating the actuating means to close the flow path of the valve assembly to shut-off gas supply in response to the fourth signal; and a display screen operatively associated with the computing device for displaying the information.

Preferably, the high pressure outlet may be connected to a gas pressure vessel or directly to a gas pipeline. When the high pressure outlet is connected to the gas pressure vessel, the programmable computing device of the smart gas meter may further comprise determining from the calculated gas consumption information an amount of gas remaining in the pressure vessel and displaying the amount of gas remaining on the display screen.

Preferably, the smart gas meter may further comprise any one of the features of the first aspect.

In accordance with a still further aspect, the present invention provides a method of monitoring and controlling a supply of gas, the method comprising: providing a smart gas meter, the smart gas meter comprising: a housing comprising a gas inlet port for connection to a high pressure gas outlet, and a gas outlet port for connection to a low pressure outlet via a regulator; a valve assembly to control the gas flow and forming a flow path extending from the gas inlet port to the gas outlet port; at least one sensor for detecting at least one characteristic of the gas and being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed characteristic of the gas; a gas leakage sensor for detecting any gas leaks in or around the housing, the gas leakage sensor being adapted to generate a signal in response to a sensed gas leak; an actuating means connected to the valve assembly for closing the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; a wireless communication circuit; a programmable computing device for activating the actuating means and calculating from the at least one senor and the at least one sensed characteristic a gas consumption of the gas supplied from the high pressure gas outlet; a display screen operatively associated with the computing device for displaying the calculated information; and a power source connected to power the smart gas meter; providing a wireless communication interface for connectivity with a private or a public wireless network; providing a remote detection assembly associated with a gas appliance which is supplied from the low pressure outlet via the regulator, the remote detection assembly comprising: a gas leakage sensor for detecting any gas leaks at the gas appliance, and a wireless communication circuit; connecting the smart gas meter to the high pressure gas outlet; monitoring the housing gas leakage sensor for any gas leakage from within or around the housing; monitoring the remote detection assembly gas leakage sensor for any gas leakage at the appliance; isolating the supply of gas if a gas leakage is detected by activating the actuating means to close the flow path of the valve assembly; notifying a user via a web interface or mobile application connected via the private or public wireless network that the supply of gas has been shut off by the activating means and including advising a time and a date details of the shut-off; and activating an indicating means in communication with the programmable computing device, the indicating means is activated in response to: i) activation of the actuating means; or ii) a low voltage warning from the power supply.

Preferably, providing the smart gas meter the high pressure outlet may be connected to a gas pressure vessel or directly to a gas pipeline. When the high pressure outlet is connected to the gas pressure vessel, calculating from the at least one senor and the at least one sensed characteristic may further comprise calculating the amount of gas in the pressure vessel and displaying the amount of gas in the pressure vessel on the display screen.

Preferably, the at least one sensor may comprise: a pressure switch for detecting pressure of gas in the gas and being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed pressure; a temperature sensor device for sensing the temperature of the gas, the temperature sensor device being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed temperature of the gas; and a flow sensor for sensing the flow of gas, the flow sensor being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed flow of the gas.

In accordance with a still further aspect, the present invention provides a system comprising: a high pressure gas supply; a smart gas meter comprising: a housing having a gas inlet port for connection to the high pressure gas supply and a gas outlet port for connection to a low pressure outlet via a regulator; a valve assembly to control the gas flow from the high pressure gas supply and forming a flow path extending from the gas inlet port to the gas outlet port; a first gas leakage sensor to generate a first signal in response to a sensed gas leak in or around the housing; an actuating means connected to the valve assembly for closing the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; a pressure switch to determine a value indicative of the pressure and/or a low pressure sensed from the high pressure gas supply; a flow sensor for sensing a flow of gas from the high pressure gas supply and to determine a value indicative of gas consumption from the high pressure gas supply; a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature of the gas in from the high pressure gas supply; a power supply; a first wireless communication circuit; a first processor; a display screen operatively associated with the first processor for displaying the indicative values; at least one storage medium encoded with executable instructions that, when executed by the first processor, cause the first processor to perform a first method, the first method comprising: operating the pressure switch and temperature sensor to determine the value indicative of gas pressure; operating the flow sensor to determine the value indicative of the gas consumption from the high pressure gas supply; and operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit: i) the value indicative of the gas pressure; and ii) the value indicative of the gas consumption from the high pressure gas supply; displaying the gas pressure and gas consumption information on the display screen; and a wireless communication interface for connectivity with a private or a public wireless network.

Preferably, the high pressure gas supply may comprise a high pressure outlet connected to a gas pressure vessel or directly to a gas pipeline. When the high pressure outlet is connected to the gas pressure vessel, the pressure switch, flow sensor and temperature sensor may further comprise determining a value indicative of the amount of gas or level of gas in the gas pressure vessel.

Preferably, the first method may further comprise: operating the pressure switch and temperature sensor to determine the value indicative of the level of gas in the gas pressure vessel; operating the flow sensor to determine the value indicative of the gas consumption from the gas pressure vessel and the amount of gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel; operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit: i) the value indicative of the level of gas in the gas pressure vessel; ii) the value indicative of the gas consumption from the gas pressure vessel; iii) the value indicative of the amount of gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel; and iv) a message to a gas supplier to re order gas when a pre-determined amount of gas remains in the compressed gas pressure vessel; and displaying the gas level or gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel pressure and gas consumption information on the display screen.

Preferably, the first method may further comprise: determining if the first gas leakage sensor has generated the first signal that there is a gas leakage; when the first gas leakage sensor generates the first signal, operating the actuating means to close the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit the signal from the first gas leakage sensor that the actuating means has been activated due to a gas leak to a remote user on the private or public wireless network; and activating an indicating means.

Preferably, the system may further comprise at least one remote detection assembly associated with a gas appliance which is supplied from the low pressure outlet via the regulator, the at least one remote detection assembly comprising: a second gas leakage sensor to generate a second signal in response to a sensed gas leak at the gas appliance; a second processor; a second wireless communication circuit; a power supply; and at least one storage medium encoded with executable instructions that, when executed by the second processor, cause the second processor to perform a second method, the second method comprising: when the second gas leakage sensor generates the second signal in response to a gas leak at the appliance, operating the second wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit the second signal.

Preferably, the first method may further comprise: when the second gas leakage sensor generates the second signal, operating the first wireless communication circuit to receive the first signal; determining if the first wireless communication circuit has received the second signal, and operating the actuating means to close the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit the signal from the second gas leakage sensor that the actuating means has been activated due to a gas leak at the appliance to the remote user on the private or public wireless network; and activating the indicating means.

Preferably, the wireless communication interface for connectivity with a private or a public wireless network may be a wireless modem.

Preferably, the remote user may have access to the system via a web interface or mobile application connected via the private or public wireless network. The remote user via the web interface or mobile application may have access to the system to perform or receive any one or more of: i) activate the actuating means to close the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; ii) receive notifications that the actuating means has been activated by the first or second gas leakage sensor to close the flow path between the gas inlet or outlet ports due to a gas leakage at or around the smart gas meter or the at least one remote detection assembly; iii) access data and information from the smart gas meter and the at least one remote detection assembly by communicating with the first and second processors via respective first and second wireless circuits, the data and information comprising: when connected directly to the gas pipeline: a) the value indicative of the level of gas pressure in the pipeline; and b) the gas consumption from the high gas pressure gas supply; when connected to the gas pressure vessel: a) the value indicative of the level of gas in the gas pressure vessel; b) the value indicative of the gas consumption from the gas pressure vessel; and c) the value indicative of the amount of gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel.

Preferably, the data and information available for access to the remote user may be provided for display pictorially, graphically or digitally.

Preferably, the system may further comprise a remote storage medium for receiving and storing data and information from the system. The remote storage medium may be any one or more of: i) a server connected to the private or public wireless network; or ii) a cloud storage medium connected to the private or public wireless network. The remote storage medium may allow the user to access archived data and information from the system.

Any one or more of the above embodiments or preferred features can be combined with any one or more of the above aspects.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will be understood more fully from the detailed description given hereinafter and from the accompanying drawings of the preferred embodiment of the present invention, which, however, should not be taken to be limitative to the invention, but are for explanation and understanding only. Fig. 1 shows a block diagram overview of the smart gas meter system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figs. 2 to 4 illustrate perspective views of the smart gas meter in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 5 shows a front view of the smart gas meter of Figs 2 to 4 with the front cover removed for clarity of the underlying components; Fig. 6 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the smart gas meter of Figs. 2 to 4;

Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of the housing for the smart gas meter of Figs 2 to 4; Fig. 8 shows the assembled and exploded components of the actuating assembly and the gas valve of the smart gas meter of Figs. 2 to 4; Figs. 9 and 10 illustrate side and top views of the assembled actuating assembly and gas valve of Fig 8; Fig. 11 is a sectional view taken along the line AA of Fig. 10; Figs. 12 to 14 show the base of the actuating assembly and gas valve of Fig. 8; Fig. 15 shows a sectional view taken along the line CC of Fig. 14; Figs 16 and 17 illustrate the connector member between the smart gas meter and the high pressure gas vessel with the connector removed for clarity; Fig. 18 shows a sectional view taken along the line BB of Fig. 17; Figs. 19 and 20 show perspective views of the gas leakage sensor cover for the smart gas meter of Figs 2 to 4; Figs 21 and 22 show perspective views of the gas leakage sensor for the smart gas meter of Figs. 2 to 4; Figs 23 illustrate a perspective view of the flow sensor for the smart gas meter of Figs 2 to 4; Fig 24 shows a partial sectional view of the flow sensor of Fig. 23; Fig. 25 shows the LCD display for the smart gas meter of Figs. 2 to 4; Figs 26 to 28 illustrate perspective views of the microcontroller for the smart gas meter of Figs. 2 to 4; Fig. 29 illustrates a block diagram of the smart gas meter system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and Figs. 30 and 31 show perspective views of the remote detection assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description, given by way of example only, is described in order to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of a preferred embodiment or embodiments.

The present invention was designed to provide a smart gas meter which could be used for the control or shut-off of the gas supply in case of a leak or an emergency situation. This invention also relates to the remote operation of the gas supply and to the monitoring and control of gas flow originating from a source ofgas under pressure.

Gas supply to homes and business is typically provided by either natural gas or LPG. Natural gas is extracted from deep within the earth and can contain ethane, propane, butane and pentane. Typically, homes appliances and heating can be fuelled by natural gas 200, which is delivered in pipelines 201 direct to the home. Also, natural gas can be stored at pressures that are somewhat higher than that of LPG and as such the higher pressure requires a much heavier and more expensive cylinder or tank. LPG is usually supplied in pressurised and completely hermetic steel vessels known as bottles or cylinders 15.

The present invention provides in it broadest form, a smart gas meter 20 for connection to a source of high pressure gas. The source may be natural gas 200 supplied by pipeline 201 or an LPG compressed gas pressure vessel 15. The smart gas meter 20 has a housing 21 which has apertures therein for a gas inlet port for connection to the high pressure gas source, and a gas outlet port for connection to a low pressure outlet via a gas regulator 30. Located within the housing 21 are the valve assembly 80 and the actuating means 70. The valve assembly 80 controls the gas flow from the high pressure gas supply and forms a flow path extending from the gas inlet port to the gas outlet port. The actuating means 70 is connected to the valve assembly 80 and when actuated closes the flow path extending from the gas inlet port to the gas outlet port. Also located within or adjacent the housing 21 are sensors 56, 60, 105. A pressure switch 105 is used to detect pressure of the gas and generates a first signal which is a function of the sensed gas pressure. A temperature sensor device 56 senses the temperature of the gas from the high pressure source and generates a second signal which is a function of the sensed temperature of the gas. A flow sensor 60 senses the flow of gas and generates a third signal which is a function of the sensed flow of the gas. Mounted on the outside of the housing 21 but having access to the inside of the housing 21 is a gas leakage sensor 47 for detecting any gas leaks within or around the housing 21. The gas leakage sensor 47 generates a fourth signal in response to a sensed gas leak.

Also retained within the housing 21 is a programmable computing device 50 which is encoded with executable instructions that, when executed can be used to calculate information concerning the gas pressure and the gas consumption from the first, second and third signals. The executable instructions on the programmable computing device 50 are also executed to activate the actuating means 70 to close the flow path of the valve assembly 80 to shut-off gas supply in response to the fourth signal from the gas leakage sensor 47. Mounted within an opening of the housing cover 23 is a display screen 40 which is operatively associated with the computing device 50 for displaying the above information. The programmable computing device 50 has a wireless communications circuit which is designed to allow the programmable computing device 50 to communicate with the remote detection assemblies 180 and also to provide information to a mobile application or other device. Likewise, the wireless communication circuit allows the mobile application or other wireless device to communicate and control the smart gas meter 20.

When a gas leak has been sensed, the programmable computing device 50 activates the actuating means 70 to close the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports. For the smart gas meter 20 to be reset and to open the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports a manual reset switch located within the housing 20 and in electrical communication with the programmable computing device 50 is utilised to reset the smart gas meter 20. To access the manual reset switch the cover 23 is removed from the housing 21 and the reset switch is located on the back of the programmable computing device 50. The pressing of the manual reset switch reverses the direction of the actuating means 70 to open the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports. This ensures that the smart gas meter 20 cannot be reset without confirming, that in the case of a gas leak, the leak has been rectified.

Alternatively, the manual reset mechanism may be a software code forming part of the programmable computing device 50. Like the manual reset switch, when remotely activated the software code resets the programmable computing device 50 to reverse the direction of the electric motor 74 to retract the actuating shaft 72 and the piston 88 to open the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports. Alternatively, for maintenance purposes and testing a technician can remotely access the smart gas meter 20 via the wireless communication circuit to remotely perform routine servicing on the smart gas meter 20. The ability to have the remote access for a technician can save time and money for the user especially in the advent of a malfunction with the smart gas meter 20.

As described above the present invention has been designed to be used with both natural gas 200 supplied via a pipeline 201 and LPG supplied from a pressure cylinder 15. While the operation of the smart gas meter 20 is largely the same for both LPG and natural gas, some minor refinements are required. For example, as the pressure of the natural gas in the pipeline 201 is somewhat higher than that of the pressure of the gas in the LPG cylinder 15 a different pressure switch 105 is required. Likewise the difference in the gas supply requires a change to the gas leakage sensor 47. As the natural gas pipeline 201 is a continuous supply of natural gas there is also no need to determine the amount of gas remaining in the gas cylinder 15. Likewise as the supply of natural gas includes a gas meter and a regulator to reduce and control the pressure of the natural gas supplied to the household there is no requirement for a regulator 30 on the outlet port of the smart gas meter 20. Alternatively, a further regulator may be connected to the outlet port in a similar manner as for the LPG supply. With the exception of the above the remaining components and processes remain the same, as such the majority of the description will be limited to the smart gas meter 20 as it would be used in conjunction with an LPG gas cylinder 15.

Fig. 1 illustrates a block diagram of the smart gas meter system 10. A smart gas mater 20 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is attached to either a compressed gas cylinder 15 or natural gas supply 200 by hose or pipe 13. Alternatively, the smart gas meter 20 may be directly coupled to the top of the gas cylinder 15 or the natural gas meter without the need for the attachment hose or pipe 13. In Fig. 1 the pipe 13 is attached to the gas inlet port on the smart gas meter 20 and in a dotted line format, the pipe 13 can also be connected to the natural gas supply 200. To the outlet port a gas regulator 30 is secured. The gas regulator 30 automatically modulates high pressure gas to a maximum pre-determined limit. Typically, the pressure within the compressed gas vessel 15 is around 800-900kPa and the gas regulator 30 reduces the gas pressure delivered to the gas appliances 16, 17 to around 2.75kPa. The outlet port and regulator 30 provide the low pressure outlet, which is connected to the appliances 16, 17 via the low pressure lines 14. Attached adjacent each appliance 16, 17 is a remote detection assembly 180 which has a gas leakage sensor for sensing any leaked gas from in or around the gas appliance 16, 17. A gas appliance 16, 17 can include any device that uses compressed gas as its power source rather than electricity. For example, gas hot water system 16 or gas cooker 17, and the like.

Each remote detection assembly 180 has a wireless transceiver for communicating with the programmable computing device 50 of the smart gas meter 20. When a gas leak is detected by a remote detection assembly 180 at an appliance 16, 17, a shut-off signal is wirelessly sent to the programmable computing device 50 of the smart gas meter 20 to activate the actuating means 70 to close the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the smart gas meter 20. This effectively shuts-off the supply of gas from the gas cylinder 15 or natural gas supply and contains any leakage from the equipment conveying and using the gas.

The smart gas meter 20 also has a gas leakage sensor which is designed to sense any leakage from within or around the housing 21 of the smart gas meter 20, the natural gas supply or from the gas pressure vessel 15. Like the remote detection assembly 180, the gas leakage sensor on the housing 21, when a gas leak is detected, a shut-off signal is sent to the programmable computing device 50 of the smart gas meter 20 to activate the actuating means 70 to close the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the smart gas meter 20.

The smart gas meter 20 has an LCD display screen 40 which is operatively associated with the computing device 50 and is used to display the information concerning the amount of contents in the pressure vessel 15 and the gas consumption from the pressure vessel 15. The LCD display 40 has a touch screen which allows the user to access multiple screens on the LCD display 40. A cover (not shown) can be located over the LCD display 40 and mounted on the cover 23 to protect the LCD display 40 from any damage, and in particular, damage due to direct sunlight. The multiple screens allow a user to access such information as the amount of gas use, including the total gas use at any given time, and the cost of the amount of gas used. The information may also comprise the amount of gas used over a given time period, for example, for the past hour, past day or past month, or since the smart gas meter was last read. The total gas cost over that period is shown, taking into account how much gas you may have used at low, medium and high price periods. The gas use over a selected period may also be compared with a similar period a day, month or year ago. The multiple screens allow a user to access archived data for all of the above from the computing device 50.

The computing device 50 is also wirelessly connected to a wireless communications interface 19. The wireless communications interface such as wireless modem 19 allows the smart gas meter 20 to communicate with the internet 18 and therefore be accessible to mobile applications 12 or other computing devices (not shown). This allows information such as the amount of contents and the gas consumption from the pressure vessel 15, or any shut-off signals from the gas leakage sensors to be wirelessly transmitted and accessed anywhere by the mobile application 12. This also allows a user to remotely activate the actuating means 70 to close the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the smart gas meter 20 to shut-off the supply of gas from the gas pressure vessel 15 or the natural gas supply. The user can remotely activate the activating means 70 via a mobile application or web user interface.

Figs. 2 to 5 show views of the smart gas meter 20 completely assembled and with some components removed for clarity as shown in Fig. 5. As shown in Fig. 2, to the top of the housing 21, a regulator 30 is attached at one end to the outlet port by fitting 34. The regulator 30 has a body 31 with a low pressure outlet 33 and a pressure adjusting knob 32. Due to the fluctuation in pressure within the compressed gas vessel 15 the regulator 30 is used to maintain a constant pressure and deliver a steady flow pressure to downstream appliances. The gas leakage sensor 47 is also located on the same side of the housing 21 as the regulator 30. The gas leakage sensor 47 is located within the housing cover 45, the housing cover 45 having a plurality of apertures which allow the leakage sensor 47 to be in fluid communication with the area surrounding the smart gas meter 20. As will be illustrated in Fig. 7, located beneath the gas leakage sensor 47 is a further plurality of apertures which allow the gas leakage sensor 47 to be in fluid communication with the area located within the housing 21 of the smart gas meter 20.

The housing 21 has a removable cover 23 which is secured to the front of the housing 21 by fasteners 26. The housing 21 has an upstanding peripheral wall which extends around the base 24 of the housing 21. An aperture within the cover 23 allows the LCD display 40 to be located therein and accessible from the outside of the housing 21 of the smart gas meter 20. As noted above, a cover can be located over the LCD display 40 and mounted on the cover 23 to protect the LCD display 40 from any damage. Fitting 22 is located on one side of the housing 21 and is adapted for connection to the high pressure gas vessel 15 or alternatively to a pipe 13 which is attached to the high pressure gas vessel 15 or natural gas supply. All inlet and outlet fittings on the smart gas meter are suitable for connection to gas cylinders or vessels 15 or can be adapted for connection to the natural gas meter and natural gas supply. For example, Prest-O-Lite (POL) fittings suitable for use with LPG Gas cylinders are utilised on all inlet and outlet ports. A POL fitting is an LPG gas connection fitting utilising a left-handed or reverse thread. Standard gas fittings are utilised when natural gas is supplied to the smart gas meter 20.

Fig. 5 illustrates the smart gas meter 20 with the cover 23 removed to show the underlying components of the smart gas meter. When the cover 23 is removed the microcontroller 50 is attached to the rear side of the cover 23 behind the LCD display 40. Located within the housing 21 are the sensors 56, 60 and 105, the actuating means 70, the valve assembly 80 and the batteries 55 used to power the smart gas meter 20. Alternatively, the batteries 55 can be located within a separate contained housing (not shown) located within the housing 21. The batteries 55 when mounted in a separate container may be accessible through an opening in the base 110 of the housing 21. Further alternatively, the batteries 55 may be mounted within a container located externally of the housing 21 and be electrically connected to the smart gas meter 20. The container may also be conveniently mounted to the exterior of the base 110. As previously discussed the housing 21 has an inlet port aperture for receiving the connector pipe 95 which has at one end the fitting 22 for connection to the high pressure vessel 15 or natural gas meter. At the opposing end the connector pipe 95 is connected to the valve assembly 80. The temperature sensor 56 is mounted in thermal communication with the tubular body of the connector pipe 95 and is adapted to measure the surface temperature of the tubular body. The surface temperature of the tubular body of the connector pipe 95 corresponds to the temperature of the gas from the high pressure vessel 15 or natural gas supply.

The valve assembly 80 has two passageways formed at right angles to each other and will be described in more detail below. The connector pipe 95 is attached at one end of a first passageway and at the opposing end of the first passageway the actuating means 70 is located therein. The second passageway formed transverse to the first passageway has the two further sensors 60, 105 attached thereto. At one side an end of the flow sensor 60 is attached and the other end of the flow sensor 60 passes through the outlet port in the housing 21 for attachment to the fitting 34 of the regulator 30. On the other side of the second passageway the elbow 85 attaches the pressure switch 105 to the valve assembly 80.

Fig. 6 shows an exploded view showing each component of the smart gas meter 20. One end 97 of the connector pipe 95 has an internal thread which is mated to the external thread 82 on the valve assembly 80. An O-ring 83 is located within the end of the connector pipe 95 to seal the joint between the connector pipe 95 and the valve assembly 80. The tubular connector pipe 95 has a raised lip 96 on one end for retaining the fitting 22 thereon. The actuating means 70 is attached at the opposing end of the valve assembly 80 to the tubular pipe 95. The actuating means is located within the housing 21 and mounted on offsets to place the base of the actuating means 70 away from the base 24 of the housing 21. The valve assembly 80 has a threaded socket 81 for receiving the complementary threaded end 62 of the flow sensor 60. The opposing end 61 of the flow sensor 60 is connected to the fitting 34 of the regulator 30.

The opposite side of the valve assembly 80 from the threaded socket 81 has an elbow connector 85 with an end 86 which is threaded to receive an end 107 of the pressure switch 105. The pressure switch 105 shown in Fig. 6 has two electrical terminals 106 for connecting the output of the pressure switch 105 to the microcontroller 50. In use, the pressure switch 105 is set to provide an indication when the pressure in the gas pressure vessel 15 reaches a pre determined amount, and typically when a preferred low or high pressure is reached. A low pressure will typically indicate that the gas pressure bottle 15 is running low on gas, and a high pressure could indicate a blockage in the associate devices, such as pipes, connectors or the valve assembly 80.

Fig. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the housing 21 with all other components of the smart gas meter 20 removed. The housing 21 is a moulded plastic housing made from either ABS, polypropylene or polycarbonate. The housing 21 provides a strong, tough and durable plastic housing for the smart gas meter 20. A peripheral wall 112 extends upwardly from the base 110 and has a top edge 25 and a sealing member is received within the top edge 25 for sealing the housing closure member 23 to the peripheral wall 112. Located around the peripheral wall 112 are four closure mounting members 27 with a central threaded aperture for receiving a fastener therein. Also located within the peripheral wall 112 are the inlet and outlet port apertures 111, 29. Located to one side of the outlet port aperture 29 are the plurality of apertures 28 which allow the gas leakage sensor when mounted to the outside peripheral wall 112 above the apertures 28 to be in fluid communication with the inside of the housing 21 of the smart gas meter 20. Also, as noted above the base 110 may have an opening therein for allowing access to the batteries 55.

Figs. 8 to 15 show the combined actuating means 70 and the valve member 80 and exploded views showing each component. The actuating means 70 consists of the electric motor 74 with the actuating shaft 72 extending from one end of the motor 74. At an opposing end of the motor 74 are located two electrical terminals 73 for connecting the electric motor 74 to the microcontroller 50. The longitudinally extending shaft 72 is threaded along its length for receiving the piston 88 thereon. The actuating means 70 is mounted at one end of the base 75 with the electric motor 74 secured above the pad 76 by cover 79. The cover 79 has four apertures 155 for receiving fasteners which are secured to threaded receptacles 150 in the base 75. At the opposing end of the base 75 has a piston receiving mount 77 with a central aperture 78 through which the piston 88 is received therein.

The valve 80 is formed of two transverse passageways as described above. The one end 84 of the valve is threaded and the threaded portion is received within one end of the piston receiving mount 77. This effectively secures the valve 80 to the actuating means 70. The pressure switch 105 is mounted to one side of the valve 80 by elbow 85. The elbow 85 has first and second threaded ends 86, 87, the pressure switch is attached to the first threaded end 86 and the second threaded end is screwed into a threaded aperture in the top of the valve 80.

Figs. 9 to 11 show further views of the assembled combined valve 80 and actuating means 70. In particular, Fig. 11 shows a sectional view taken along line AA of Fig. 10. The electric motor 74 of the actuating means 70 is secured to the base 75 by the cover 79 and suitable fasteners. The electric motor 74 is a direct current reversible non-sparking electronically commutated electric motor with a gearbox attached to the actuating shaft 72. When the electric motor 74 is activated to rotate by the programmable computing device 50 the threaded actuating shaft 72 rotates and laterally drives the piston 88 with the tapered end 89 into engagement with the corresponding taper 131 within the passageway 130 of the valve 80 to close the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports. The actuating shaft 72 and the piston 88 extend through the piston receiving mount 77 and into the valve 80. The valve 80 has one threaded end 84 which is received within the bore 78 of the piston receiving mount 77. The threaded end 84 and the bore 78 are sealed together by an 0 ring 125 to prevent any associated gas leaks. The piston 88 extends into the passageway 130 of the valve 80 and is sealed within by three O-rings 120 located within grooves in the passageway 130 of the valve 80. The threaded end 82 of the valve 80 attaches to the gas inlet port of the smart gas meter 20. The threaded socket 81 of the valve 80 attaches to the end 62 of the flow meter 60. On the opposing side to the socket 81 of the valve 80 is the elbow 85 for attachment to the pressure switch 105.

Figs. 12 to 15 show the base 75 of the actuating means 70 in more detail. The base 75 is mounted within the housing 20 and located on spacers mounted to the base 110 of the housing 21. In particular, Fig. 13 shows the piston receiving mount 77 which has the central aperture or bore 78 received within a cylindrical body 145 and mounted within the mount 77. Fig. 15 shows a sectional view along the line CC of Fig. 14 which illustrates the thread 140 which receives the threaded end 84 of the valve 80. Within the central aperture 78 is the groove 135 which is adapted to receive an O-ring for sealing the piston 88 within the aperture 78. The base or pad 76 for mounting the electric motor 74 is positioned to ensure that when the electric motor and the actuating shaft 72 are mounted on the pad 76 the actuating shaft 72 is aligned with the centre of the aperture 78.

Figs. 16 to 18 shows the tubular body of the connector member 95 which has a first end 96 and a second end 97 with a bore extending between the first and second ends 96, 97. The end 96 has a lip 150 extending around the periphery of the tubular body. The lip 150 is adapted to retain the fitting 22 on the tubular body. The opposing end 97 has an internal thread 155 which receives the threaded end 82 of the valve 80. The temperature sensor 56 is mounted in thermal communication with the tubular body of the connector member 95.

Figs. 19 and 20 illustrate the gas leakage sensor cover 45 which has the plurality of holes 46 in the surface which allow the flow of any leaked gas to be in fluid communication with the leakage sensor 47. The cover 45 has two mounting tabs 160 on either end of the cover 45 for receiving fasteners to mount the cover to the housing 21. While the apertures 46 are illustrated as circular apertures, other shapes could be substituted without departing from the invention. The cover 45 is shaped and sized to fit over the gas leakage sensor 47.

Figs. 21 and 22 illustrate an embodiment of a gas leakage sensor 47. The gas leakage sensor 47 is a gas detector device that detects the presence of gases in an area. The gas leakage sensor 47 is used to detect a gas leak and interface with the microcontroller 50 to activate the activating means 70. The gas leakage sensor 47 is mounted on a control board 48 which contains calibration and control electronics along with a wiring connector. By way of example only, the gas leakage sensor 47 is a semiconductor sensor which detects gases by a chemical reaction that takes place when the gas comes in direct contact with the sensor. The sensor is a tin dioxide sensor and the electrical resistance in the sensor is decreased when it comes in contact with the monitored gas. The electronic circuitry on the control board 48 converts the change in resistance to correspond to an output signal which represents the gas concentration. Alternatively, the gas leakage sensor 47 may be an electrochemical gas detector which is adapted to allow gases to diffuse through a porous membrane to an electrode where it is either chemically oxidized or reduced. The amount of current produced is determined by how much of the gas is oxidized at the electrode, indicating the concentration of the gas. The diffusion barrier or porous membrane is a physical/mechanical barrier which provides a more stable and reliable the gas leakage sensor 47. Other gas leakage sensors 47 could be utilised, for example the gas leakage sensor 47 could be a catalytic bead sensor or a photoionization detector. The gas leakage sensor 47 illustrated is the MQ6 propane gas sensor which detects the concentrations of LPG, isobutane, and propane in the air and outputs its reading as an analog voltage. Alternatively, when the smart gas meter 20 is connected to a natural gas supply the MQ4 methane gas sensor detects the concentration of natural gas in the air and outputs its reading as an analog voltage.

Figs. 23 and 24 illustrate an embodiment of the gas flow sensor 60. The gas flow sensor 60 is a mass flow meter, also known as an inertial flow meter and is a device that measures mass flow rate of a fluid traveling through a tube. The mass flow rate is the mass of the fluid traveling past a fixed point per unit time. By way of example only, the gas flow meter is a Clark Solutions DFS-2 Flow Sensor. In operation, the gas flows through the sensor 60, first passing the fixed worm 64 imparting a spiral flow which, in turn, spins the rotor 65. The rotor blades 65 interrupt an infrared beam 66, thus generating a square wave digital output signal. The rotor 65 is the only moving part. Due to its light weight and the helical pattern of the fluid flow, the rotor 65 has a minimal response time, thus resulting in a very high level of resolution, accuracy, linearity, and repeatability throughout flow and viscosity ranges. The flow sensor 60 is connected to the programmable computing device 50 via connector 63 on the body of the sensor 60. At either end of the sensor 60 are 14 inch (8mm) male threads 61, 62. The thread 61 is received within the fitting 34 of the regulator 30 and the fitting 62 is received within the threaded socket 81 of the valve 80.

The gas flow meter 60 is connected to the programmable computing device 50 and adapted to monitor both flow rates and quantity of gas in the compressed gas vessel 15. The sensed flow rates are also used to determine the consumption of gas from the compressed gas vessel 15 and the natural gas supply.

Alternatively, the gas flow sensor 60 may be a mass flow meter which is a low pressure drop flow meter. The digital flow meter is especially suitable for high-volume applications. The design of the flow channel results in very low pressure drop through the sensor element. This flow sensor 60 is able to bi directionally measure the flow of gas. The sensor outputs a 14-bit digital signal at a 2 kHz update rate. The signal is internally linearised and temperature compensated. Furthermore, the flow meter operates from a 5 VDC supply voltage and features a digital 2-wire interface, making it easy to connect directly to the microcontroller 50.

Fig. 25 shows the LCD display 40 which is mounted within the aperture in the cover 23 of the smart gas meter 20. The LCD display 40 is mounted to a circuit board 42 which has mounting holes 43 located at each corner of the circuit board 42. Also located on one side of the circuit board 42 are the electrical connectors 41 for connecting the LCD display 40 to the microcontroller 50. The LCD display 40 is adapted to display information from the programmable computing device 50 pictorially, graphically or digitally. The LCD display 40 is an electronic display that consists of segments of a liquid crystal whose reflectivity varies according to the voltage applied to them. By way of example only, the LCD display 40 is a 20 character by four line display using a backlight yellow/green LCD. Alternatively, the LCD display 40 is a touch screen input device layered on top of an LCD electronic visual display to form an information processing system. A user can give input or control the information processing system through simple or multi-touch gestures by touching the screen with a special stylus or one or more fingers. The user can use the touch screen to react to what is displayed and software on programmable computing device 50 controls how it is displayed. The touchscreen enables the user to interact directly with what is displayed and allows the user to access multiple screens on the one display 40.

Figs. 26 to 28 show an embodiment of the programmable computing device 50. The programmable computing device 50 is a microcomputer with a microprocessor as its central processing unit. The microcomputer 50 includes a microprocessor 58, memory, and minimal input/output (I/O) circuitry 53, 57 mounted on a single printed circuit board. The programmable computing device 50 can be connected to another computer for programming purposes via the USB connector 52. The programmable computing device 50 is powered by 7 to 12 VDC though the power connector 51. The power connector 51 connects the programmable computing device 50 to the battery 55. The programmable computing device 50 also can provide regulated output voltages though the power output pins 54.

By way of example only, the programmable computing device 50 is an ATmega328 microcontroller. The microcontroller 50 has 14 digital input/output pins (of which 6 can be used as PWM outputs) 53, 6 analog inputs 57, a 16 MHz ceramic resonator, a USB connection 52, a power jack 51, memory, a reset button and an in-circuit serial programming (ICSP) header. The ICSP provides the microcontroller 50 with the ability to be programmed while installed in the smart gas meter 20, rather than requiring the microcontroller 50 to be programmed prior to installation in the smart gas meter 20.

Alternatively, the programmable computing device 50 is any open-source hardware and software microcontroller 50 such as any arduino single-board microcontroller 50.

The microcontroller 50 has 32 KB of memory which simply refers to the computer hardware integrated circuits that store information for immediate use in the microcontroller 50. The microcontroller 50 may also have an SD or micro SD card (not shown) for providing more memory storage for the microcontroller 50. The microcontroller 50 can be powered via the USB connection 52 or with an external power supply 55 via the power jack 51. The microcontroller is programmed to automatically select a power source. The power jack 51 receives a 2.1 mm centre-positive plug which is connected to the battery 55. The voltage regulator on the programmable computing device 50 is designed to operate with an input voltage of between 7 to 12 VDC. The voltage regulator generates a 3.3 V supply with a maximum current draw of 50 mA.

The reset button provides a physical switch on the microcontroller 50 which can be used to reset the software on the microcontroller 50. Alternatively, the microcontroller 50 has also been designed in a way that allows it to be reset by software running on a connected computer or like device.

The microcontroller 50 has a communication circuit which allows the microcontroller 50 to connect to a network to interact and exchange data. The communication circuit may be a stand-alone system in communication with the microcontroller 50 or incorporated within the microcontroller 50. The communication circuit is preferably a wireless module provided in a self contained system on a chip that integrates all components of the wireless module. The self-contained system on a chip includes a central processing unit (CPU), memory, input/output ports, RF antenna contained on a single substrate. The wireless module may include a full set of networking protocols which allows the programmable computing device 50 to connect to a Wi-Fi network. The wireless module is designed using low power technology and supports standard IEEE802.11 protocols. By way of example only, the wireless module may be an Espressif ESP-12-E module. Alternatively, the wireless module may be a single 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth combined chip designed with ultra-low-power technology. In a further alternative, the wireless module may be a Google Cast transceiver utilising Chromecast or the like. Chromecast uses the mDNS (multicast Domain Name System) protocol to search for available devices on a Wi-Fi network.

Fig. 29 shows a block diagram of the smart gas meter system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As described above the smart gas meter 20 consists of the microcontroller 50 which controls the operation of the smart gas meter 20 and also the operation of the locking faucet or activating means 70 which is designed to close the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the valve assembly 80 and stop the flow of gas from the compressed gas vessel 15 or the natural gas supply. Sensors 47, 56, 60 and 105 provide the required information to the microcontroller 50 to enable the smart gas meter 20 to provide such information as the contents remaining in the gas pressure vessel 15 and also the required activation in the advent of a gas leak. An LCD screen 40 is provided to convey the information to a user along with an indication means 170 if a leak occurs. The smart gas meter 20 is powered by batteries 55 housed within or externally of the smart gas meter 20. In order to communicate with the remote detection assemblies 180 and users, the smart gas meter 20 has a wireless communication circuit 175. The wireless circuit 175 connects the smart gas meter 20 via a wireless interface such as a modem to the internet 18 and effectively allows a user to remotely control the smart gas meter 20 by a mobile application on a user mobile phone device. As noted above the wireless circuit 175 also allows the smart gas meter 20 to send and receive data from the remote detection assemblies 180.

The at least one remote detection assembly 180 located at an appliance is designed to activate the actuating means 70 to close the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the smart gas meter 20 if a leak occurs at the appliance. This provides the smart gas meter 20 with the ability to safely shut off the gas supply from the compressed gas vessel 15 or natural gas supply if a gas leak occurs at any one or more of, an appliance, the gas meter 20, the compressed gas vessel 15 or the natural gas pipeline. The remote detection assembly consists of a gas leakage sensor 182, a wireless transceiver 183 and a power supply 181 all located on a single board. When a gas leak occurs at an appliance, the wireless transceiver 183 communicates with the programmable computing device 50 of the smart gas meter 20 to shut-off the supply of gas from the compressed gas vessel 15 or natural gas supply by activating the actuating means 70 to close the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the smart gas meter 20. Remote detection assemblies 180 can be located at any number of individual appliances to protect the smart gas meter system 10.

Figs. 30 and 31 illustrate perspective views of the remote detection assemblies 180 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The remote detection assemblies 180 consist of a single board which will be housed in a suitable container for mounting on or near the gas appliance. The housing will have apertures for allowing the flow of any leaked gas to communicate with the gas leakage sensor 182. The gas leakage sensor 182 is the same sensor as used in the smart gas meter 20 to detect a gas leak and interface with the microcontroller 50 via the wireless transceiver 183. The gas leakage sensor 180 is mounted on a control board which contains calibration and control electronics along with a wiring connector 181 for connecting to a power source. The power source may be either AC or DC, and when powered by a DC source is typically a battery. The gas leakage sensor 182 is a semiconductor sensor which detects gases by a chemical reaction that takes place when the gas comes in direct contact with the sensor. The sensor is a tin dioxide sensor and the electrical resistance in the sensor is decreased when it comes in contact with the monitored gas. The electronic circuitry on the control board converts the change in resistance to correspond to an output signal which represents the gas concentration. The wireless transceiver 183 is preferably a wireless module 183 provided in a self-contained system on a chip that integrates all components of the wireless module 183. When a gas leak is detected at an appliance by the leakage sensor 182, the wireless transceiver 183 transmits a signal to the wireless circuit 175 on the smart gas meter 20 to activate the activating means 70 to close the flow of gas from the compressed gas cylinder 15. The wireless transceiver 183 can also receive firmware updates for the remote detection assembly 180 and transmit a power low signal when the connected power source is a battery to provide a user with an indication that the batteries are running low and may require changing.

As discussed above the present invention has at the centre of the smart gas meter 20 a programmable computing device 50, and as illustrated in one embodiment the programmable computing device 50 is a microcontroller 50. In order to perform the various tasks involved with the operation of the smart gas meter 20 and the smart gas meter system the microcontroller 50 has at least one storage medium encoded with executable instructions that, when executed by the microcontroller 50 perform the set of tasks required for the operation of the smart gas meter 20 and the smart gas meter system. Those operations can include but are not only limited to, any one or more of the following:

• When the smart gas meter 20 is first connected to the compressed gas vessel 15: o connecting the smart gas meter 20 to the wireless interface 19 to allow the remote operation of the smart gas meter 20; o connecting any remote detection assemblies 180 at appliances to the smart gas meter via the smart gas meter wireless circuit; o allowing a user via a user interface on the smart gas meter or via a user interface such as a mobile application or web browser, to select the size of the compressed gas pressure vessel to which the smart gas meter 20 will be attached. The size of the bottle is chosen from a pre-programmed list of vessel sizes and loads from memory the parameters relating to a bottle of that size; o displaying the information on the LCD display of the smart gas meter 20 and on the user interface such as the mobile application; o initialising the system by receiving a first data set from the pressure switch, the temperature sensor and the flow sensor; o calculating from the size of the bottle and the first data set the amount of gas in the gas pressure vessel 15; o displaying the amount of gas in the gas pressure vessel on the LCD display and on the mobile application; o checking the position of the actuating means to ensure that the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the smart gas meter is open. Initially the actuating means should be de-energised and the flow path open; and o checking the gas leakage sensors at the smart gas meter and the appliance for any leaked gas and • if a gas leak is sensed activating the actuating means to close the flow path through the valve and providing an indication to the user application and on the display that a leak exists. The information provided may include advising a time and a date details of the shut-off; • a manual reset will be required once the leak is rectified; and • if no leak continue to normal operation.

• When the smart gas meter 20 is first connected to the natural gas pipeline 201: o connecting the smart gas meter 20 to the wireless interface 19 to allow the remote operation of the smart gas meter 20; o connecting any remote detection assemblies 180 at appliances to the smart gas meter via the smart gas meter wireless circuit; o initialising the system by receiving a first data set from the pressure switch, the temperature sensor and the flow sensor; o displaying the gas pressure on the LCD display and on the mobile application; o checking the position of the actuating means to ensure that the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the smart gas meter is open. Initially the actuating means should be de-energised and the flow path open; and o checking the gas leakage sensors at the smart gas meter and the appliance for any leaked gas and • if a gas leak is sensed activating the actuating means to close the flow path through the valve and providing an indication to the user application and on the display that a leak exists. The information provided may include advising a time and a date details of the shut-off; • a manual reset will be required once the leak is rectified; and • if no leak continue to normal operation.

Under normal operation the smart gas meter 20 will perform the following operations: o checking the pressure switch has not been activated to indicate a low pressure in the gas pressure vessel, if a low pressure occurs the LCD display and the user application are provided with a warning that the gas level in the bottle is low and refill needs to be ordered. Multiple gas levels can be set using the programmable computing device to accommodate different set points for various faults and indicators. This may also include sending a message to the supplier that a new bottle is required. The message may include but is not only limited to an SMS or an email via the web browser or mobile application; o checking the flow and temperature sensors and calculating the gas consumption per minute from the pressure vessel and/or the natural gas pipeline and providing the updated usage and when connected to the pressure vessel the level of gas remaining in the bottle to the LCD screen and sending the data via the wireless circuit to the user interface such as the mobile application; o using the mobile application, the user can upload archived information and current information to analyse trends and usage patterns; o from the flow measurement checking if no consumption is recorded for a pre-determined period of time and activating the activating means to close the flow of gas; o checking the gas leakage sensors at the gas appliance and at the smart gas meter for any gas leakage: • if a leak occurs activate the activating means to close the flow of gas; • a manual reset will be required once the leak is rectified; and • if no leak continue to normal operation; o monitoring the power supply voltages and activating an alarm when a pre-determined amount of energy remains in the power supply and providing the indication on the LCD screen and sending the data via the wireless circuit to the mobile application.

• Under periodic maintenance conditions: o updating the firmware located on the central processing unit and on the remote detection assembly.

The executable instructions may also include instructions that, when executed by the microcontroller 50 perform the required wireless communication between the smart gas meter 20, the wireless interface, the remote detection assembly 180 of the smart gas meter system. The user application is also designed to allow the user to remotely control and monitor smart gas meter 20 and the smart gas meter system. This may include but is not only limited to the remote activation of the actuating means 70 to close the flow path between the input and output ports of the valve assembly of the smart gas meter 20.

The remote detection assemblies 180 have been designed to allow the sensing of any gas leaks at or around the appliance which is utilising the gas supply form the compressed gas vessel 15 or the natural gas pipeline 201. LPG gas bottle installation regulations specify location and clearances for the placement of gas bottles 15. In particular, the distances from ignition sources, wall openings and below ground spaces, such as drains or pits, are all specified. Gas bottles 15 must be placed in well ventilated locations at the outside of the building and in most cases a distance from the gas appliances. The remote detection assemblies 180 are necessary for checking for gas leaks inside or outside the building near any location where gas is being consumed. If a gas leak is sensed by a remote detection assembly 180 the detected signal is sent wirelessly to the smart gas meter 20 to shut-off the supply of gas from the compressed gas vessel 15 or natural gas supply. The programmable computing device 50 will also activate the alarm on the smart gas meter 20 and sends a warning signal to the user application that the smart gas meter has sensed a leak and shut down supply of gas to the building. As described above in this situation the smart gas meter 20 will require a manual reset at the device 20 in order for the supply of gas to be resumed. The manual reset switch is located within the housing of the smart gas meter 20 and will only be reset when the gas leak has been repaired.

In use, the present invention provides a method of monitoring and controlling the supply of gas from a compressed gas pressure vessel 15 or from the natural gas pipeline 201. The smart meter 20 and the remote detection assemblies 180 are provided as described above. The wireless connectivity allows for the transfer of data from the smart gas meter 20, to and from the remote detection assemblies 180 and from the smart gas meter 20 to a wireless interface such as a wireless modem located within the building. The wireless modem allows the smart gas meter 20 to connect to a public or private network such as the internet and allows the smart gas meter 20 to be controlled via a user interface such as a web browser or mobile application. The programmable computing device 50 controls and activates the actuating means and calculates from the sensors the amount of gas remaining in the pressure vessel 15, the gas consumption from the pressure vessel and displays the information on the smart gas meter LCD display or wirelessly transmits the information to a user application via the wireless interface. The wireless interface allows the smart gas meter to connect with a private or a public wireless network. The smart gas meter 20 when connected to the compressed gas pressure vessel 15 or natural gas supply is adapted to monitor both the housing and remote detection gas leakage sensors for any gas leakage therefrom. If a leak is detected by a gas leakage sensor the programmable computing device 50 will activate the actuating means to close the flow path of the valve assembly and isolate the compressed gas vessel 15 or natural gas supply. An audible warning device is also activated by the closure of the activating means and a warning signal is also sent via the wireless interface to the user application to advise that the flow path has been closed. As described above in order to restart the flow of gas from the compressed gas vessel 15 a manual reset is required.

The present invention may also extend to a renewable energy charging system for recharging the power supply 55 for the smart gas meter 20. In this embodiment the battery 55 is replaced with a rechargeable battery 55 and an external high efficiency solar panel connected via a charging circuit assembly can be used to keep the battery 55 in a charged state. A voltage regulator may also be utilised to reduce the voltage from the charging circuit to the required voltage for the programmable computing device 50.

The present invention also extends to a smart gas meter with an electric energy generating and storage system. The system consists of an electric power low-voltage generating means for intrinsically safe operation and a rechargeable energy storage means, such as a battery for storing energy. An energy storage management means is used to control charging of the energy storage means. The system also has an energy management means to control the release of the stored energy in the energy storage means to power the smart gas meter. Finally the system also consists of an energy measurement means to ascertain the amount of energy available from the energy storage means.

By way of example only, the electric power low-voltage generating means is a vaned fan rotor, having a plurality of cavities that deliver a definite volume of gas with each turn, and having means to output a signal for each turn of the fan rotor. The vaned fan rotor may be installed within the connector member 95 within the bore between the first and second ends 96, 97. An electric energy generating and storage system is mechanically coupled to the fan rotor, to generate electric energy to power the smart gas meter and provide charge for the battery 55. Alternatively, the fan rotor may be installed within the valve assembly 80. The generated electric energy is electrically connected to a rechargeable energy storage means such as a rechargeable battery 55.

The user application can be used to both monitor and control the smart gas meter 20. The user application may be a web based or a mobile application. The web-based application is any program that is accessed over a network connection using HTTP and run in a web browser. Alternatively, the web-based may be client-based, where a small part of the program is downloaded to a user's desktop, but processing is done over the internet on an external server. The mobile application is programmed to operate on any operating system, such as iOS, Android or Windows 10 Mobile. By way of example only, the information available on the LCD display of the smart gas meter 20 will also be available on the mobile or web-based application. For example, the user application will receive alerts for low gas warning and high usage. The user application can also receive text message and email alerts.

The smart gas meter 20 of the present invention will also allow backend access for gas suppliers to further enhance supply of gas to users. Backend data can be provided to suppliers with the consumer's permission. For example, trends and pattern of use can be provided to the gas suppliers to improve efficiency in scheduled deliveries and thus reduce wastage. The smart gas meter will provide information to the gas suppliers which will improve the delivery of gas and avoid any problems associated with the user running out of gas.

The present invention also extends to a system which consists of a high gas pressure gas 15, 201 connected to the smart gas meter 20. The smart gas meter comprises all of the components described above and also includes a first wireless communication circuit, a first processor and a display screen operatively associated with the first processor for displaying the indicative values provided by the sensors and switches from the smart gas meter 20. The processor also has at least one storage medium encoded with executable instructions that, when executed by the first processor, cause the first processor to perform a first method. The first method comprises at least the following processes when connected to the high gas pressure source:

* operating the pressure switch and temperature sensor to determine the value indicative of the gas pressure; • operating the flow sensor to determine the value indicative of the gas consumption from the high gas pressure supply; • operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit the value indicative of the gas pressure and the gas consumption from the high pressure gas supply; • displaying the gas pressure and gas consumption information on the display screen.

The system also comprises a wireless communication interface for connecting the smart gas meter to a private or a public wireless network.

When the system is connected to a gas pressure vessel 15, the pressure switch, flow sensor and temperature sensor also determine a value indicative of the amount of gas or level of gas in the gas pressure vessel 15. Also, when connected to the gas pressure vessel 15 the first method further comprises the steps of:

* operating the pressure switch and temperature sensor to determine the value indicative of the level of gas in the gas pressure vessel; • operating the flow sensor to determine the value indicative of the gas consumption from the gas pressure vessel and the amount of gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel; • operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit the level of gas in the gas pressure vessel, the gas consumption from the gas pressure vessel, and the amount of gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel; and • a message to a gas supplier to re-order gas when a pre-determined amount of gas remains in the compressed gas pressure vessel; and • displaying the gas level or gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel pressure and gas consumption information on the display screen.

When a gas leak occurs the first method also provides the steps of: * determining if the first gas leakage sensor has generated the first signal that there is a gas leakage; • when the first gas leakage sensor generates the first signal, operating the actuating means to close the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; • operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit the signal from the first gas leakage sensor that the actuating means has been activated due to a gas leak to a remote user on the private or public wireless network; and • activating an indicating means.

The system also includes at least one remote detection assembly 180 associated with a gas appliance 16, 17 which is supplied from the low pressure outlet via the regulator 30. The remote detection assembly 180 comprises all of the components and features described above and further comprises at least one storage medium encoded with executable instructions that, when executed by a second processor, cause the second processor to perform a second method. The second method comprises at least the step of when the second gas leakage sensor generates a signal in response to a gas leak at the appliance, operating the second wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit the second signal. At the same time the first method further comprises the steps of:

* operating the first wireless communication circuit to receive the second signal from the remote detection assembly; • determining if the first wireless communication circuit has received the second signal, and operating the actuating means to close the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; • operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit the signal from the second gas leakage sensor that the actuating means has been activated due to a gas leak at the appliance to the remote user on the private or public wireless network; and • activating the indicating means.

The system also allows the remote access by a user via the web interface or mobile application to access the system to perform or receive any one or more of:

• activate the actuating means to close the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; • receive notifications that the actuating means has been activated by the first or second gas leakage sensor to close the flow path between the gas inlet or outlet ports due to a gas leakage at or around the smart gas meter or the at least one remote detection assembly; • access data and information from the smart gas meter and the at least one remote detection assembly by communicating with the first and second processors via respective first and second wireless circuits, the data and information comprising at least:

o when connected directly to the gas pipeline: a) the value indicative of the level of gas pressure in the pipeline; and b) the gas consumption from the high gas pressure gas supply; o when connected to the gas pressure vessel: a) the value indicative of the level of gas in the gas pressure vessel; b) the value indicative of the gas consumption from the gas pressure vessel; and c) the value indicative of the amount of gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel.

The system also has a remote storage medium for receiving and storing data and information from the system. The remote storage medium may be any one or more of a server connected to the private or public wireless network or cloud storage medium connected to the private or public wireless network. This allows a user to access archived data and information from the system.

ADVANTAGES

The present invention provides a smart gas safety valve which is used for the monitoring, control and shutoff of the gas supply from a compressed gas vessel and in particular, to a valve which can shut-off supply in case of a leak or an emergency situation. This invention also relates to the remote operation of a smart gas meter for the monitoring and control of gas flow originating from a source ofgas under pressure.

One of the advantages of the present invention is the provision of a smart gas meter which provides a shut-off valve in response to user activation or a gas leak. Gases can cause severe damage and fatalities, as well as damage to the appliances that utilise the gas as an energy source. A gas leak could cause possible explosion or fire which can be fatal to those in or around the fire, such as animals, children and people with mobility and other restrictions. The present invention shuts-off the supply of gas immediately if there is a fault/leak in the system to reduce the health and safety risks that gases can cause. The addition of the remote detecting assemblies at the appliances using the gas can detect a leak or fault and isolate the issue by cutting off the supply of gas.

The ability of the device to remain shut-off until a qualified technician can isolate the fault and then manually reset the shut-off valve means that there is also a reduced risk of injury to the technician. To find a leak or safety issue in a system requires a professional to attend and investigate. Professionals are at risk due to the severity of possible gas poisoning if the gas supply has not been shut-off, the present invention will heavily reduce this issue. The manual reset function of the present invention ensures that the potential risk is assessed and eliminated prior to turning flow back on. The manual reset is a failsafe, which also solves the issue if you are away from the gas system, it can still be remotely turned off by a user with access to the user application.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the current applications available are not easy to understand and do not provide easy access to information about the consumption of gas. The present invention provides easy to read and understand data in a graphical and readable format.

The smart gas meter solves the issue of running out of gas, users will receive notifications via the communications interface on their mobile or computer devices that provide information on current availability, overview of usage, when bottles were changed over or last filled. Working within this industry, attending properties due to apparent hot water system issues, to find that people simply have run out of gas will be eliminated, reducing unnecessary costs associated.

As gas can be used in recreational vehicles that are at times not in regular use, this solves issues of appliances being left for a space of time without checks and advise of problems immediately. Portable gas appliances are used widely in camper vans, caravans, boats, BBQ's and many other areas without a system to ensure gas systems are safe.

The present invention has also been manufactured with environmental impact heavily considered, such as, quality and affordability to ensure it can be implemented in all areas and cost to benefit is able to reach full potential.

The user application will allow access to information regarding the gas supply from any remote application. Backend access will also be provided for gas suppliers to further enhance supply of gas to users. Backend data can be provided to suppliers with consumer permission. Trends and pattern of use will provide improvements in efficiency and cost reductions for the gas supply companies due to the availability of more information from the backend access to the smart gas meter. For example, gas deliveries can be scheduled more accurately and thus reduce wastage.

The remote detection assemblies on appliances are a major advantage over the known systems. A remote detection assembly can be set up on each appliance using the gas supplied from a compressed gas vessel to increase safety and provide quick response to leaks and possible faults, which are contained using the smart gas meter auto/manual locking capabilities. Appliances such as gas heaters are used seasonally and a major cause of gas leaks and deaths. Currently, in the case of a gas leak and carbon monoxide poisoning, gas systems are not shut off until the cause is determined and in some cases the gas is shut-off and the property ventilated by fire service personnel. The present invention reduces the safety risks to these personnel by safely shutting off the gas supply immediately a leak is sensed.

The present invention also provides an "away mode", so it is aware that no gas should be used and places a higher alert system for any activity within the gas system. The smart gas system will also shut-off if for a pre-determined period of time there is no usage of gas. If the away mode is initiated by the user and the gas starts being used it will notify the user as well if there is a sudden high use of gas flow it will automatically shut-off.

VARIATIONS

It will be realized that the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative example only and that all other modifications and variations as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of the invention as herein defined in the appended claims.

As used herein the term "and/or" means "and" or "or", or both.

As used herein "(s)" following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

The term "gas" as used herein includes within its scope a gas mixture. The gas may be a permanent gas, in which case it can be stored in a pressure vessel entirely in gaseous state, or a non-permanent gas, in which case it may exist under pressure in the storage vessel as a liquid phase in equilibrium with a gaseous phase according to the storage pressure. The gas may also include natural gas supplied directly by pipelines to the users.

In this specification, adjectives such as first and second, left and right, top and bottom, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one element or action from another element or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order. Where the context permits, reference to an integer or a component or step (or the like) is not to be interpreted as being limited to only one of that integer, component, or step, but rather could be one or more of that integer, component, or step etc.

The above description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided for purposes of description to one of ordinary skill in the related art. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to a single disclosed embodiment. As mentioned above, numerous alternatives and variations to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art of the above teaching. Accordingly, while some alternative embodiments have been discussed specifically, other embodiments will be apparent or relatively easily developed by those of ordinary skill in the art. The invention is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications, and variations of the present invention that have been discussed herein, and other embodiments that fall within the scope of the above described invention.

In the specification the term "comprising" shall be understood to have a broad meaning similar to the term "including" and will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. This definition also applies to variations on the term "comprising" such as "comprise" and "comprises".

Claims

1. A smart gas meter comprising: a housing comprising a gas inlet port for connection to a high pressure gas outlet, and a gas outlet port for connection to a low pressure outlet via a regulator; a valve assembly to control the gas flow from the high pressure gas outlet and forming a flow path extending from the gas inlet port to the gas outlet port, and an actuating means connected to the valve assembly for closing the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; at least one sensor for detecting at least one characteristic of the gas and being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed characteristic of the gas; a gas leakage sensor for detecting any gas leaks in or around the housing, the gas leakage sensor being adapted to generate a signal in response to a sensed gas leak; a programmable computing device for calculating the gas consumption from the at least one sensor and the at least one sensed characteristic of the gas, the programmable computing device having a wireless communication interface for connecting the smart gas meter to a wireless computer network; a display screen operatively associated with the computing device for displaying the calculated information; and wherein upon sensing a gas leak by the gas leakage sensor the programmable computing device activates the actuating means to close the flow path of the valve assembly to shut-off gas supply.

2. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 1, wherein the high pressure outlet is connected to a gas pressure vessel or directly to a gas pipeline.

3. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 2, when the high pressure outlet is connected to the gas pressure vessel, the programmable computing device of the smart gas meter further comprises calculating the amount of gas in the pressure vessel from the at least one sensor and the at least one sensed characteristic and displaying the amount of gas in the pressure vessel on the display screen.

4. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one sensor comprises any one or more of: a pressure switch for detecting pressure of the gas and being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed pressure; a temperature sensor device for sensing the temperature of the gas, the temperature sensor device being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed temperature of the gas; or a flow sensor for sensing the flow of gas, the flow sensor being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed flow of the gas.

5. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 1, wherein the actuating means further comprises: an electric motor and a gearbox; an actuating shaft coupled to the gearbox, the actuating shaft having an external thread extending longitudinally along the shaft; a piston slideably contained within and extending through a mounting means, an end of the piston extends into engagement with the valve assembly; and wherein upon activation of the electric motor by the programmable computing device the actuating shaft engages the piston and the end of the piston is moved to locate within the valve assembly to shut-off the supply of gas to the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports.

6. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 5, wherein the actuating means further comprises a manual reset mechanism designed to disengage the piston from within the valve assembly to open the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports.

7. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 6, wherein the manual reset mechanism is a switch located on the programmable computing device and when activated reverses the direction of the electric motor to retract the actuating shaft and open the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports.

8. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 6, wherein the manual reset mechanism is a software code forming part of the programmable computing device and when remotely activated resets the programmable computing device to reverse the direction of the electric motor to retract the actuating shaft and open the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports.

9. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electric motor, gearbox, actuating shaft, the piston and the mounting means are all located within the housing of the smart gas meter.

10. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 5, wherein the mounting means has a central aperture extending therethrough for receiving the piston therein.

11. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 10, wherein the central aperture has at least one sealing member located within a surface of the central aperture for sealing engagement with the outer surface of the piston.

12. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 5, wherein the piston has a longitudinally extending shaft having an open first end and a closed second end.

13. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 12, wherein the piston further comprises a coaxial aperture extending from the open first end and extending for substantially the length of the shaft.

14. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the coaxial aperture is adapted to receive the actuating shaft of the actuating means therein.

15. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of claim 12 to 14, wherein the actuating shaft external thread is adapted to engage the aperture of the piston.

16. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the longitudinal shaft tapers towards the closed second end.

17. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 1, wherein the valve assembly comprises: a valve body having a first passageway and a second passageway, the second passageway formed transverse to the first passageway; an inlet port connected to the gas inlet port of the housing for connecting a first end of the first passageway to the high pressure gas outlet; an outlet port connected to the gas outlet port of the housing for connecting a first end of the second passageway to the low pressure outlet and regulator; a sensing port extending from a second end of the second passageway and connecting to the pressure switch; and a shut-off port extending from a second end of the first passageway for receiving the piston therein.

18. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 17, wherein the valve assembly further comprises a valve seat located within the first passageway for receiving the closed second end of the piston to shut-off the supply of gas to the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the valve assembly.

19. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the valve seat is shaped to receive the tapered closed second end of the longitudinal shaft to shut-off the supply of gas to the flow path between the inlet and outlet ports of the valve assembly.

20. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the first passageway further comprises at least one sealing member located therein for providing sealing engagement with the longitudinally extending shaft of the piston.

21. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 17, wherein the pressure switch is connected to the sensing port by a coupling member.

22. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 17, the valve assembly further comprises a connector member having a tubular shaped body with a first end coupled to the inlet port of the valve assembly and a second end extending through the gas inlet port of the housing.

23. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 22, wherein the second end has a threaded connector for attachment to a high pressure pipe from the high pressure gas outlet.

24. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 22 or claim 23, wherein the temperature sensor is mounted in thermal communication with the tubular body of the connector member and is adapted to measure the surface temperature of the tubular body, the surface temperature of the tubular body corresponds to the temperature of the gas flowing therein.

25. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 17, wherein the flow sensor is connected between the outlet port of the valve assembly and the regulator.

26. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 25, wherein the flow sensor has a first threaded end connected to a corresponding threaded outlet port on the valve assembly and a second threaded end connected to an inlet port on the regulator.

27. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 1, wherein the gas leakage sensor is mounted on an external surface of the housing of the smart gas meter.

28. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 27, wherein a cover with a plurality of apertures is mounted over the gas leakage sensor on the external surface of the housing, the apertures allow any leaked gas to flow therethrough and be sensed by the leakage sensor.

29. A smart gas mater as claimed in claim 27 or claim 28, wherein the external surface of the housing located beneath the gas leakage sensor has a plurality of apertures therein to allow any leaked gases from within the housing to be sensed by the gas leakage sensor.

30. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a base, an upwardly extending peripheral wall joined to the base, and a housing closure member enclosing the base and the peripheral wall.

31. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 30, wherein the peripheral wall has a top surface and a sealing member is received within the top surface for sealing the housing closure member to the peripheral wall.

32. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 30 or claim 31, wherein the peripheral wall further comprise at least one closure mounting member with a central threaded aperture for receiving a fastener therein.

33. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein the housing closure member has an aperture therein for receiving the display screen.

34. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of claims 30 to 33, wherein the peripheral wall further comprises a first aperture for the inlet port and a second aperture for the outlet port.

35. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the smart gas meter further comprises a power source connected to power the smart gas meter and the programmable computing device.

36. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 35, wherein the power source is a DC power supply such as a battery or rechargeable battery.

37. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 35 or claim 36, wherein the DC power supply and the rechargeable battery further comprises a renewable energy charging system.

38. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 35, wherein the power source is an electric energy generating and storage system comprising: a) an electric power low-voltage generating means for intrinsically safe operation; b) a rechargeable energy storage means for storing energy; c) an energy storage management means for the controlled charging of the energy storage means; d) an energy management means to control the release of the stored energy in the energy storage means; and e) an energy measurement means to ascertain the amount of energy available from the energy storage means. The rechargeable energy storage means may be a battery.

39. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 35, wherein the power source comprises: a) a vaned fan rotor, having a plurality of cavities that deliver a definite volume of gas with each turn, and having means to output a signal for each turn of the fan rotor; and b) an electric energy generating and storage system coupled mechanically to the fan rotor, to generate electric energy to power the smart gas meter.

40. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 39, wherein the fan rotor is installed within the valve assembly and the generated electric energy is connected to a rechargeable energy storage means.

41. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuating means is activated in response to any one or more of: i) a gas leak sensed by the gas leakage sensor; ii) a low or high gas pressure or temperature sensed by the respective gas pressure switch and temperature sensor, wherein the low or high gas pressure is determined by a pre-set acceptable operating range for high pressure gas; iii) a no flow indication is sensed by the flow sensor for a pre-determined period of time; or iv) a remote user activation.

42. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the smart gas meter further comprises an indicating means in communication with the programmable computing device, the indicating means is activated in response to: i) activation of the actuating means; ii) a low voltage warning from the DC power supply; or iii) when the high pressure outlet is connected to the gas pressure vessel, a low gas level warning.

43. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 42, wherein the indicating means is an audible warning device such as a loudspeaker.

44. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 43, wherein the indicating means is a visual and/or audible warning device and forms part of the display screen and programmable computing device of the smart gas meter.

45. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the display screen is an LCD display which is adapted to display information from the programmable computing device pictorially, graphically or digitally.

46. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 45, wherein the LCD display is a multiple screen display allowing a user to access such information as the amount of gas use, including the total gas use at any given time, the cost of the amount of gas used, the amount of gas used over a given time period.

47. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 1, wherein the programmable computing device comprises: a communication interface; a central processing unit in communication with the communication interface; and a memory in communication with the central processing unit, the memory having stored therein a set of machine readable code executable by the programmable computing device to perform one or more operations.

48. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 47, wherein the programmable computing device is a microcontroller.

49. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 47 or claim 48, wherein the machine readable code further comprises code for receiving, via the communication interface, instructions for operation of the smart gas meter.

50. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 49, wherein the instructions for operation of the smart gas meter when connected to the gas pressure vessel comprises: instructions to activate the actuating means to shut-off the valve and close the flow path from the compressed gas pressure vessel; instructions to provide a gas level or amount of gas remaining within the compressed gas pressure vessel; instructions to provide a low gas warning signal when a pre-determined amount of gas remains in the gas pressure vessel; and instructions to provide an amount of consumption of gas from the compressed gas pressure vessel.

51. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 49, wherein the instructions for operation of the smart gas meter when connected directly to a gas pipeline comprises: instructions to activate the actuating means to shut-off the valve and close the flow path from the high pressure gas pipeline; and instructions to provide an amount of consumption of gas from the high pressure gas pipeline.

52. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of claims 49 to 51, wherein the code for receiving instructions for operation of the smart gas meter further comprises code for accessing a web interface to receive user instructions for operation of the smart gas meter.

53. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of claims 49 to 52, wherein the code for receiving instructions for operation of the smart gas meter comprises code for receiving the instruction for operation from an application running on a mobile telephone, wherein the application allows a user to send and receive the instructions.

54. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of claims 47 to 53, wherein the machine readable code further comprises: code for selecting a size of the compressed gas pressure vessel from a pre-programmed list of vessel sizes; code for receiving a first data set from the pressure switch, the temperature sensor and the flow sensor; code for processing the first data set and the size of the compressed gas pressure vessel to calculate an amount of gas in the compressed gas pressure vessel and the amount of consumption of gas from the compressed gas pressure vessel; code for displaying the calculated amount of gas in the compressed gas pressure vessel and consumption of gas from the gas pressure vessel on the display screen; code for activing an alarm when a pre-determined amount of gas remains in the compressed gas pressure vessel; code for receiving a third data set from the gas leakage sensor; code for processing the third data set to determine if a gas leak exists; code for activating the actuating means to shut-off the valve and close the flow path if there is a gas leak; code for activating the alarm when a gas leak exists; code for monitoring the power supply; code for activating an alarm when a pre-determined amount of energy remains in the power supply; code for contacting a gas supplier to re-order gas when a pre determined amount of gas remains in the compressed gas pressure vessel; code for receiving and transmitting data via the wireless communication interface; code for receiving and transmitting user instructions and data to and from a remote application; code for updating firmware located on the central processing unit; and code for shutting down the smart gas meter.

55. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one remote detection assembly associated with a gas appliance which is supplied from the low pressure outlet via the regulator.

56. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 55, wherein the at least one remote detection assembly comprises a gas leakage sensor for detecting any gas leaks at the gas appliance, a wireless communication circuit for communicating with the smart gas meter and a power supply.

57. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 56, wherein the wireless communication circuit is a wireless transceiver, the wireless transceiver communicates with the programmable computing device of the smart gas meter to: i) shut-off the flow path of gas from the compressed gas pressure vessel if a gas leak is detected at the gas appliance; ii) update firmware on the remote detection assembly; and iii) monitor the power supply.

58. A smart gas meter as claimed in claims 56 or claim 57, wherein the power supply is an AC or a DC power supply, the DC power supply is a battery.

59. A smart gas meter comprising: a housing comprising a gas inlet port associated with the housing for connection to a high pressure outlet, and a gas outlet port associated with the housing, the outlet port connects to a low pressure outlet via a regulator; a valve assembly to control the gas flow from the high pressure outlet and forming a flow path extending from the gas inlet port to the gas outlet port; a pressure switch for detecting pressure of the gas and being adapted to generate a first signal which is a function of the sensed pressure; a temperature sensor device for sensing the temperature of the gas from the high pressure outlet, the temperature sensor device being adapted to generate a second signal which is a function of the sensed temperature of the gas; a flow sensor for sensing the flow of gas from the high pressure outlet, the flow sensor being adapted to generate a third signal which is a function of the sensed flow of the gas; a gas leakage sensor for detecting any gas leaks, the gas leakage sensor being adapted to generate a fourth signal in response to a sensed gas leak; an actuating means connected to the valve assembly; a programmable computing device for: i) calculating information concerning the pressure and temperature of the gas from the first and the second signals; ii) calculating information concerning gas consumption from the third signal; and iii) activating the actuating means to close the flow path of the valve assembly to shut-off gas supply in response to the fourth signal; and a display screen operatively associated with the computing device for displaying the information.

60. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 59, wherein the high pressure outlet is connected to a gas pressure vessel or directly to a gas pipeline.

61. A smart gas meter as claimed in claim 60, when the high pressure outlet is connected to the gas pressure vessel, the programmable computing device of the smart gas meter further comprises determining from the calculated gas consumption information an amount of gas remaining in the pressure vessel and displaying the amount of gas remaining on the display screen.

62. A smart gas meter as claimed in any one of claims 59 to 61, wherein the smart gas meter further comprises any one of the features of claims 5 to 58.

63. A method of monitoring and controlling a supply of gas, the method comprising: providing a smart gas meter, the smart gas meter comprising: a housing comprising a gas inlet port for connection to a high pressure gas outlet, and a gas outlet port for connection to a low pressure outlet via a regulator; a valve assembly to control the gas flow and forming a flow path extending from the gas inlet port to the gas outlet port; at least one sensor for detecting at least one characteristic of the gas and being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed characteristic of the gas; a gas leakage sensor for detecting any gas leaks in or around the housing, the gas leakage sensor being adapted to generate a signal in response to a sensed gas leak; an actuating means connected to the valve assembly for closing the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; a wireless communication circuit; a programmable computing device for activating the actuating means and calculating from the at least one senor and the at least one sensed characteristic a gas consumption of the gas supplied from the high pressure gas outlet; a display screen operatively associated with the computing device for displaying the calculated information; and providing a power source connected to power the smart gas meter; providing a wireless communication interface for connectivity with a private or a public wireless network; providing a remote detection assembly associated with a gas appliance which is supplied from the low pressure outlet via the regulator, the remote detection assembly comprising: a gas leakage sensor for detecting any gas leaks at the gas appliance,and a wireless communication circuit; connecting the smart gas meter to the high pressure gas outlet; monitoring the housing gas leakage sensor for any gas leakage from within and around the housing; monitoring the remote detection assembly gas leakage sensor for any gas leakage at the appliance; isolating the supply of gas if a gas leakage is detected by activating the actuating means to close the flow path of the valve assembly; notifying a user via a web interface or mobile application connected via the private or public wireless network that the supply of gas has been shut-off by the activating means and including advising a time and a date details of the shut-off; and activating an indicating means in communication with the programmable computing device, the indicating means is activated in response to: i) activation of the actuating means; or ii) a low voltage warning from the power supply.

64. A method as claimed in claim 63, wherein providing the smart gas meter the high pressure outlet is connected to a gas pressure vessel or directly to a gas pipeline.

65. A method as claimed in claim 64, when the high pressure outlet is connected to the gas pressure vessel, calculating from the at least one senor and the at least one sensed characteristic further comprises calculating the amount of gas in the pressure vessel and displaying the amount of gas in the pressure vessel on the display screen.

66. A method as claimed in any one of claims 63 to 65, wherein the at least one sensor comprises: a pressure switch for detecting pressure of gas and being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed pressure; a temperature sensor device for sensing the temperature of the gas, the temperature sensor device being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed temperature of the gas; and a flow sensor for sensing the flow of gas, the flow sensor being adapted to generate a signal which is a function of the sensed flow of the gas.

67. A method as claimed in any one of claims 63 to 66, wherein the smart gas meter further comprises any one of the features of claims 5 to 58.

68. A system comprising: a high pressure gas supply; a smart gas meter comprising: a housing having a gas inlet port for connection to the high pressure gas supply and a gas outlet port for connection to a low pressure outlet via a regulator; a valve assembly to control the gas flow from the high pressure gas supply and forming a flow path extending from the gas inlet port to the gas outlet port; a first gas leakage sensor to generate a first signal in response to a sensed gas leak in or around the housing; an actuating means connected to the valve assembly for closing the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; a pressure switch to determine a value indicative of the pressure and/or a low pressure sensed from the high pressure gas supply ; a flow sensor for sensing a flow of gas from the high pressure gas supply and to determine a value indicative of gas consumption from the high pressure gas supply; a temperature sensor for sensing a temperature of the gas from the high pressure gas supply; a power supply; a first wireless communication circuit; a first processor; a display screen operatively associated with the first processor for displaying the indicative values; at least one storage medium encoded with executable instructions that, when executed by the first processor, cause the first processor to perform a first method, the first method comprising: operating the pressure switch and temperature sensor to determine the value indicative of the gas pressure; operating the flow sensor to determine the value indicative of the gas consumption from the high pressure gas supply; operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit: i) the value indicative of the gas pressure; and ii) the value indicative of the gas consumption from the high pressure gas supply; displaying the gas pressure and gas consumption information on the display screen; and a wireless communication interface for connectivity with a private or a public wireless network.

69. A system as claimed in claim 68, wherein the high pressure gas supply comprises a high pressure outlet connected to a gas pressure vessel or directly to a gas pipeline.

70. A system as claimed in claim 69, when the high pressure outlet is connected to the gas pressure vessel, the pressure switch, flow sensor and temperature sensor further comprises determining a value indicative of the amount of gas or level of gas in the gas pressure vessel.

71. A system as claimed in any one of claims 68 to 70, wherein the first method further comprises: operating the pressure switch and temperature sensor to determine the value indicative of the level of gas in the gas pressure vessel; operating the flow sensor to determine the value indicative of the gas consumption from the gas pressure vessel and the amount of gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel; operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit: i) the value indicative of the level of gas in the gas pressure vessel; ii) the value indicative of the gas consumption from the gas pressure vessel; iii) the value indicative of the amount of gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel; and iv) a message to a gas supplier to re-order gas when a pre determined amount of gas remains in the compressed gas pressure vessel; and displaying the gas level or gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel pressure and gas consumption information on the display screen.

72. A system as claimed in any one of claims 68 to 71, wherein the first method further comprises: determining if the first gas leakage sensor has generated the first signal that there is a gas leakage; when the first gas leakage sensor generates the first signal, operating the actuating means to close the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit the signal from the first gas leakage sensor that the actuating means has been activated due to a gas leak to a remote user on the private or public wireless network; and activating an indicating means.

73. A system as claimed in any one of claims 68 to 72, wherein the system further comprises at least one remote detection assembly associated with a gas appliance which is supplied from the low pressure outlet via the regulator, the at least one remote detection assembly comprising: a second gas leakage sensor to generate a second signal in response to a sensed gas leak at the gas appliance; a second processor; a second wireless communication circuit; a power supply; and at least one storage medium encoded with executable instructions that, when executed by the second processor, cause the second processor to perform a second method, the second method comprising: when the second gas leakage sensor generates the second signal in response to a gas leak at the appliance, operating the second wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit the second signal.

74. A system as claimed in any one of claims 68 to 73, wherein the first method further comprises: when the second gas leakage sensor generates the second signal, operating the first wireless communication circuit to receive the first signal; determining if the first wireless communication circuit has received the second signal, and operating the actuating means to close the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; operating the first wireless communication circuit to wirelessly transmit the signal from the second gas leakage sensor that the actuating means has been activated due to a gas leak at the appliance to the remote user on the private or public wireless network; and activating the indicating means.

75. A system as claimed in any one of claims 68 to 74, wherein the wireless communication interface for connectivity with a private or a public wireless network is a wireless modem.

76. A system as claimed in any one of claims 72 to 75, wherein the remote user has access to the system via a web interface or mobile application connected via the private or public wireless network.

77. A system as claimed in claim 76, wherein the remote user via the web interface or mobile application has access to the system to perform or receive any one or more of: i) activate the actuating means to close the flow path between the gas inlet and outlet ports; ii) receive notifications that the actuating means has been activated by the first or second gas leakage sensor to close the flow path between the gas inlet or outlet ports due to a gas leakage at or around the smart gas meter or the at least one remote detection assembly; iii) access data and information from the smart gas meter and the at least one remote detection assembly by communicating with the first and second processors via respective first and second wireless circuits, the data and information comprising: when connected directly to the gas pipeline: a) the value indicative of the level of gas pressure in the pipeline; and b) the gas consumption from the high gas pressure gas supply; when connected to the gas pressure vessel: a) the value indicative of the level of gas in the gas pressure vessel; b) the value indicative of the gas consumption from the gas pressure vessel; and c) the value indicative of the amount of gas remaining in the gas pressure vessel.

78. A system as claimed in claim 76 or claim 77, wherein the data and information available for access to the remote user is provided for display pictorially, graphically or digitally.

79. A system as claimed in any one of claims 68 to 78, wherein the system further comprises a remote storage medium for receiving and storing data and information from the system.

80. A system as claimed in claim 79, wherein the remote storage medium is any one or more of: i) a server connected to the private or public wireless network; or ii) a cloud storage medium connected to the private or public wireless network.

81. A system as claimed in claim 79 or claim 80, wherein the remote storage medium allows the user to access archived data and information from the system.

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82. A system as claimed in any one of claims 68 to 81, wherein the smart gas meter further comprises any one of the features of claims 5 to 58.