EP2414790A1 - Improvements In and Relating to Utility Meters - Google Patents

Improvements In and Relating to Utility Meters

Info

Publication number
EP2414790A1
EP2414790A1 EP20100719039 EP10719039A EP2414790A1 EP 2414790 A1 EP2414790 A1 EP 2414790A1 EP 20100719039 EP20100719039 EP 20100719039 EP 10719039 A EP10719039 A EP 10719039A EP 2414790 A1 EP2414790 A1 EP 2414790A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
meter
communication means
optical fibre
metering system
utility meter
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP20100719039
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Paul Richard Rowe
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Navetas Energy Management Ltd
Original Assignee
Navetas Energy Management Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Navetas Energy Management Ltd filed Critical Navetas Energy Management Ltd
Publication of EP2414790A1 publication Critical patent/EP2414790A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
    • G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
    • G02B6/38—Mechanical coupling means having fibre to fibre mating means
    • G02B6/3807—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs
    • G02B6/3897—Connectors fixed to housings, casing, frames or circuit boards
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01D—MEASURING NOT SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR A SPECIFIC VARIABLE; ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEASURING TWO OR MORE VARIABLES NOT COVERED IN A SINGLE OTHER SUBCLASS; TARIFF METERING APPARATUS; MEASURING OR TESTING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G01D4/00—Tariff metering apparatus
    • G01D4/002—Remote reading of utility meters
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01D—MEASURING NOT SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR A SPECIFIC VARIABLE; ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEASURING TWO OR MORE VARIABLES NOT COVERED IN A SINGLE OTHER SUBCLASS; TARIFF METERING APPARATUS; MEASURING OR TESTING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G01D4/00—Tariff metering apparatus
    • G01D4/008—Modifications to installed utility meters to enable remote reading
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01D—MEASURING NOT SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR A SPECIFIC VARIABLE; ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEASURING TWO OR MORE VARIABLES NOT COVERED IN A SINGLE OTHER SUBCLASS; TARIFF METERING APPARATUS; MEASURING OR TESTING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G01D5/00—Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable
    • G01D5/26—Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable characterised by optical transfer means, i.e. using infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light
    • G01D5/268—Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing member; Means for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for converting; Transducers not specially adapted for a specific variable characterised by optical transfer means, i.e. using infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light using optical fibres
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01F—MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME
    • G01F15/00—Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups G01F1/00 - G01F13/00 insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
    • G01F15/06—Indicating or recording devices
    • G01F15/061—Indicating or recording devices for remote indication
    • G01F15/063—Indicating or recording devices for remote indication using electrical means
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
    • G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
    • G02B6/3628—Mechanical coupling means for mounting fibres to supporting carriers
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
    • G02B6/42—Coupling light guides with opto-electronic elements
    • G02B6/4292—Coupling light guides with opto-electronic elements the light guide being disconnectable from the opto-electronic element, e.g. mutually self aligning arrangements
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
    • G08C23/00—Non-electrical signal transmission systems, e.g. optical systems
    • G08C23/06—Non-electrical signal transmission systems, e.g. optical systems through light guides, e.g. optical fibres
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02B—BOARDS, SUBSTATIONS OR SWITCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE SUPPLY OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02B1/00—Frameworks, boards, panels, desks, casings; Details of substations or switching arrangements
    • H02B1/015—Boards, panels, desks; Parts thereof or accessories therefor
    • H02B1/03—Boards, panels, desks; Parts thereof or accessories therefor for energy meters
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
    • G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
    • G02B6/38—Mechanical coupling means having fibre to fibre mating means
    • G02B6/3807—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs
    • G02B6/3887—Anchoring optical cables to connector housings, e.g. strain relief features
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
    • G02B6/36—Mechanical coupling means
    • G02B6/38—Mechanical coupling means having fibre to fibre mating means
    • G02B6/3807—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs
    • G02B6/389—Dismountable connectors, i.e. comprising plugs characterised by the method of fastening connecting plugs and sockets, e.g. screw- or nut-lock, snap-in, bayonet type
    • G02B6/3894—Screw-lock type
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/24—Coupling light guides
    • G02B6/42—Coupling light guides with opto-electronic elements
    • G02B6/4201—Packages, e.g. shape, construction, internal or external details
    • G02B6/4219—Mechanical fixtures for holding or positioning the elements relative to each other in the couplings; Alignment methods for the elements, e.g. measuring or observing methods especially used therefor
    • G02B6/4228—Passive alignment, i.e. without a detection of the degree of coupling or the position of the elements
    • G02B6/423—Passive alignment, i.e. without a detection of the degree of coupling or the position of the elements using guiding surfaces for the alignment
    • G02B6/4231—Passive alignment, i.e. without a detection of the degree of coupling or the position of the elements using guiding surfaces for the alignment with intermediate elements, e.g. rods and balls, between the elements
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
    • Y02B90/00—Enabling technologies or technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02B90/20—Smart grids as enabling technology in buildings sector
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y04—INFORMATION OR COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES HAVING AN IMPACT ON OTHER TECHNOLOGY AREAS
    • Y04S—SYSTEMS INTEGRATING TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO POWER NETWORK OPERATION, COMMUNICATION OR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES FOR IMPROVING THE ELECTRICAL POWER GENERATION, TRANSMISSION, DISTRIBUTION, MANAGEMENT OR USAGE, i.e. SMART GRIDS
    • Y04S20/00—Management or operation of end-user stationary applications or the last stages of power distribution; Controlling, monitoring or operating thereof
    • Y04S20/30—Smart metering, e.g. specially adapted for remote reading

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to utility meters and to a method of remotely communicating with a utility meter and more specifically the present invention relates to automated utility meter reading and smart utility meters.
  • Utility bills are often based on estimates of usage and are frequently inaccurate. To generate a bill based on actual usage either requires the customer to take a meter reading and communicate this to the utility supplier or the supplier must send an employee to read the meter in person, which is both time consuming and expensive.
  • Smart meters can be used to take meter readings automatically. These are then transmitted back to a central database via a network. This has a number of advantages. Meter readings can be taken at regular intervals or on-demand. Furthermore, with meter readings being taken regularly it is possible to monitor energy usage so that a customer and/or utility supplier can see when there are peaks in usage and can introduce energy saving measures or adjust supply accordingly. Another benefit is the ability to easily read meters that would otherwise be difficult to access. Smart meters can also include means for transferring data to the meter allowing the utility companies to control aspects of the meter. This functionality may include, for example, start/stop functionality or the ability to adjust features of the system remotely.
  • Any installation in a utility meter must be intrinsically safe. This is of particular concern with gas meters. A safe distance between the gas meter and any electrical items must be maintained in order to minimise the risk of a potential electrical fault causing an explosion.
  • gas meters are encased inside a meter box or other enclosed area. If a gas leak occurred, it is likely that the enclosed area would fill with gas, increasing the safety concerns. The use of mains electricity in water meters is also prohibited due to the risk of electric shock if the electricity supply were to make contact with the water.
  • a metering system comprising a utility meter, communication means for communicating with a remote host and an optical fibre; wherein the optical fibre is arranged in use to transmit signals including a utility meter reading from the utility meter to the communication means, and wherein the communication means is arranged, in use, to be located spaced apart from the utility meter.
  • the optical fibre is arranged, in use, to transmit and receive signals.
  • the meter comprises an internal power source to power a transmitter in the meter.
  • the system comprises an external power source to power the communication means.
  • the meter comprises a gas meter or water meter.
  • the meter includes a meter interface for processing signals between the utility meter and the optical fibre.
  • the meter interface may comprise a transmitter and/or receiver and preferably comprises a transceiver.
  • the meter interface may comprise a transmitter-receiver.
  • the meter interface comprises a first transceiver which is arranged, in use, to transmit optical signals along the optical fibre to the communication means, and may receive optical signals from the optical fibre from the communication means.
  • the first transceiver may be an opto-electronic transceiver.
  • the meter interface may comprise sensors for detecting the status of the utility meter, and control circuitry for controlling functions of the utility meter.
  • the power supply (internal power source) may comprise a battery.
  • the meter interface may comprise a printed circuit board.
  • the communication means includes means for processing signals between the remote host and the optical fibre.
  • the communication means may comprise a transmitter and/or receiver and preferably comprises and transceiver.
  • the communication means may comprise a transmitter-receiver.
  • the communication means includes a second transceiver which is arranged, in use, to transmit optical signals along the optical fibre to the utility meter, and may be arranged, in use, to receive optical signals from the optical fibre from the utility meter.
  • a second transceiver which is arranged, in use, to transmit optical signals along the optical fibre to the utility meter, and may be arranged, in use, to receive optical signals from the optical fibre from the utility meter.
  • the second transceiver may comprise an opto-electronic transceiver.
  • the means for processing signals may comprise a printed circuit board.
  • the communication means may communicate with the remote host via telephone lines, power lines, radio frequency networks, wi-fi, mobile data networks or by satellite communication.
  • the communication means may be located in another meter.
  • the communication means may be located in an electricity meter.
  • the meter comprises a cover.
  • the cover may comprise a guide for receiving a first end of the optical fibre such that, in use, the optical fibre is held in a fixed position with respect to the first transceiver.
  • the guide comprises a lens for focussing the light transmitted and/or received by the optical fibre.
  • the guide may be integral with the cover.
  • the lens may be integral with the cover.
  • a method of remotely monitoring a utility meter comprising the steps of transmitting optical signals from the utility meter to the communication means via an optical fibre and transmitting signals from the communication means to a remote host and wherein the communication means is located spaced apart from the utility meter.
  • the method may comprise receiving optical signals at the utility meter from the communication means.
  • the method may also include receiving a signal from the host and transmitting signals from the communication means to the meter via the optical fibre.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic view of the smart metering system of the present invention
  • Figure 2 is a detailed view of the means for restraining an end of an optical fibre to a meter according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • Figure 3 is an enlarged view of a part of the retaining means of Figure 2.
  • FIG. 1 shows a schematic of a smart metering system 1 .
  • the metering system 1 is being used to take readings from a gas meter 2.
  • the smart metering system 1 comprises a meter 2, a communication means 6 for communicating with a remote host 8 and an optical fibre 10 connecting the meter 2 and to the communication means 6.
  • the optical communication means 10 may comprise a single optical fibre or may comprise a bundle of optical fibres.
  • the remote host 8 may be a utility company or other company responsible for billing or for maintenance of the meter 2.
  • the remote host 8 may be one or more computers, which may be linked by a local network, and which may be located in a central building.
  • the remote host 8 may be a person, possibly employed by a utility company, who is able to collect data from a number of meters using a handheld device.
  • the handheld device may be able to collect data from individual meters at a distance so that the person does not have to approach each meter, but may simply walk or drive past a row of houses.
  • Each gas meter 2 typically has a display 16 which shows the current meter reading.
  • This display 16 may be mechanical, in the form of a dial or a counter with numbered rings that rotate as gas flows through the meter 2, or the display 16 may be a battery powered LCD display.
  • the gas meter 2 includes a conventional mechanical bellows system which records the volume of gas through the meter 2. The hazards and specific regulations specify that electrical measuring systems cannot be used in gas meters and the like.
  • the meter 2 also includes a meter interface 4 which is permanently installed in the meter 2.
  • This interface 4 is adapted to receive data from and transmit data to the meter 2.
  • the meter interface 4 will typically comprise a printed circuit board.
  • the meter interface 4 includes one or more sensors 18 for collecting data from the meter 2 and in particular for obtaining the current meter reading. Other forms of data may also be collected from the meter 2, for example gas flow rates or battery life.
  • a very low voltage power supply 20 is required. This will generally be a battery 20 connected to the printed circuit board. Alternatively, if a battery is already used within the meter to power, for example, the display 16, then the meter interface 4 may be connected to this battery.
  • the meter interface 4 also includes control circuitry 22, used to control various aspects of the running of the meter 2. This control circuitry 22 may also be provided on a printed circuit board.
  • the present invention provides an optical fibre 10 which connects the meter interface 4 of the utility meter 2 to a communication means 6 which is located at a distance from the meter 2.
  • the communication means is able to be located spaced apart at a safe distance from the utility mater.
  • the communication means is, therefore, not restricted to the use of a very low power source which would present a significant risk if it was located in or near the utility meter. This distance thereby enables the communication means to be used frequently and as and when required.
  • previous utility meters may have had to use very low power sources within a meter so as to avoid the risks associated with a gas leak etc. Such low power sources therefore restrict the amount of use of a communication means since these are generally relatively high in power consumption. These meters may only be able to transmit the meter reading infrequently and have a short life span as the power source expires.
  • a low powered communication device If only a low powered communication device is enabled then this may be restricted to a radio frequency device. Such communications may not be secure and are susceptible to interference and are may not be available in some locations due to obstructions etc.
  • Removable batteries for recharging purposes would introduce further problems with users being able to tamper with the system and/or introduce the opportunity of problems associated with theft .
  • An electronic communication connection from the utility meter also introduces significant risks and expense. For example, expensive isolation boxes and equipment may be required to try and minimise the risks.
  • the present invention provides optical communication means to transmit the meter reading to a communication device which can be located at a safe distance from the utility meter.
  • the communication means and the associated power source can be located in a free air space.
  • the communication means may be spaced apart from the gas meter by less than 1 metre or possibly 2 metres or at any intrinsically safe distance.
  • the minimum distance can be specified by the utility company or operating company.
  • a first transceiver 24 is connected to or provided on the meter interface 4 and is in communication with a first end of the optical fibre 10.
  • the transceiver sends signals from the meter 2 along the optical fibre 10, and receives signals from the optical fibre 10 from the communication means 6.
  • the first transceiver 24 is an opto-electronic transceiver able to both transmit and receive electrical and optical signals.
  • the first transceiver comprises a Light Emitting Diode (LED). The LED acts as both a transmitter and a receiver.
  • LED Light Emitting Diode
  • a gas meter 2 will be fully enclosed within a casing 3 which is usually including a clear plastics material.
  • the gas meter 2 includes a front panel of a clear plastics material which enables a user to view the mechanism, and in particular, the display 16.
  • the meter interface 4 is permanently fixed within this casing 3 and a hole 13 is provided in the casing 3 through which the optical fibre 10 passes.
  • a guide 5 may be fixed to inside of the casing 3. The guide 5 acts to hold the end of the optical fibre 10 in the correct position so that it is in alignment with the first transceiver 24.
  • the guide 5 is also preferably made from a clear plastics material.
  • the guide 5 is in the form of a tube 7 projecting from the inner surface of the meter casing 3.
  • the tubular guide 5 may have a flange 9 at one end to allow the guide 5 to be joined to the inner surface of the casing 3, by, for example, adhesive or ultrasonic welding.
  • the guide may be integrally formed with the casing 3.
  • the distal end 11 of the tube 7 is closed so that no path exists between the outside and the inside of the casing 3.
  • the end 11 of the tube 7 is made from a clear plastics material or glass, and may be moulded or otherwise shaped so as to form a lens to focus the light entering or leaving the optical fibre 10.
  • the edges of the hole 13 in the casing 3 are bevelled, so that the diameter of the hole 13 at the inner surface 15 of the casing 3 is smaller than the diameter of the hole 13 at the outer surface 17 of the casing 3, as shown in Figure 3.
  • the bevel is such that the diameter of the hole 13 at the inner surface 15 of the casing 3 is also smaller than the diameter of the bore of the tubular guide 5.
  • Part of the casing 3 therefore projects into the hole 13 and acts to grip the optical fibre as it is pushed into the guide 5.
  • the direction of the slope of the bevel means that it is relatively easy to push the optical fibre 10 into the guide 5, but much more difficult to pull the optical fibre 10 back out the other way.
  • the retaining means may comprise any suitable retaining means for retaining the end of the optical fibre in position with respect to the relevant transceiver.
  • the retaining means mat comprise a flexible gripping edge to retain the optical fibre or may comprise another device (for example, an arrangement similar to a household appliance plug).
  • the optical fibre 10 may have an outer covering, for example a (plastic) sheath to protect the optical fibre from scratches or dents.
  • the optical fibre 10 may be encased within trunking or similar extending between the meter 2 and the communication means 6.
  • the second end of the optical fibre 10, is aligned with and in communication with a second transceiver 26 provided in the communication means 6.
  • This second transceiver 26 is typically an opto-electronic transceiver and sends signals from the communication means 6 along the optical fibre 10, and receives signals from the optical fibre 10 and transmits them to the communication means 6.
  • the communication means 6 is used to transmit data from the meter 2 to the remote host 8 via a network 26 or other wireless means and to process control signals from the remote host 8, which are subsequently used to control the meter 2.
  • Data and control signals may be transmitted using any of a number of well- known technologies. These include sending data via telephone lines or mobile networks, using radio frequency systems or by satellite communication.
  • the communication means 6 is powered using a low voltage power supply 28.
  • the communication means 6 is installed in an electricity meter.
  • the communication means 6 is then powered by a low voltage connection inside the electricity meter, isolated from any mains voltage circuits. This has the advantage that the communication means 6 is powered by an existing supply, and in addition, the communication means 6 may also be set up to communicate with the electricity meter.
  • the communication means 6 should be situated away from the gas meter 2 so that there is sufficient distance between any electrical systems used in the communication means 6 and the gas supply.
  • the communication means comprises a plastic guide/lens holder, a printed circuit board comprising electrical components. Wires extend from the communication unit to a low voltage power supply which may reside in an electricity meter.
  • meter readings may be collected automatically at set periods or meter readings may be collected on-demand.
  • a request is sent by the remote host 8 for a current meter reading. This request is sent via a suitable network to the communication means 6.
  • the communication means 6 processes the request and an appropriate demand signal is sent along the optical fibre 10 by the second transceiver 26.
  • the demand signal is received by the first transceiver 24 and processed by the meter interface 4.
  • the sensors 18 obtain the current meter reading and this data is sent back to the communication means 6 via the optical fibre 10.
  • the meter reading data is then transmitted to the remote host 8 via the network 26.
  • the present invention provides an intrinsically safe system of remotely communicating with a utility meter and, in particular, with a gas (or water) meter.
  • the smart metering system includes a first optical fibre or first bundle of optical fibres for transmitting a signal from the meter to the communication means and a second optical fibre or a second bundle of optical fibres for transmitting a signal from the communication means to the meter.
  • This provides an extra intrinsically safe communication method.
  • This system may, therefore, include a first transmitter and a first separate receiver in the meter and a second transmitter and a second receiver in the communication means.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Power Engineering (AREA)
  • Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
  • Optical Couplings Of Light Guides (AREA)
  • Measuring Volume Flow (AREA)
  • Arrangements For Transmission Of Measured Signals (AREA)

Abstract

-15- P5814pc.docx 30 March 2010 ABSTRACT IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO UTILITY METERS 5 The present invention provides a smart metering system 1 comprising a meter 2, a communication means 6 for communicating with a remote host 8 and an optical fibre 10 connecting the meter 2 and to the communication means 6. The optical communication means 10 may comprise a single optical fibre or maycomprise a bundle of optical fibres. In particular, the communication means 6 is able to be 10 located spaced apart at a safe distance from the utility mater 2. The communication means 6 is, therefore, not restricted to the use of a very low power source which would present a significant risk if it was located in or near the utility meter. This distance thereby enables the communication means 6 to be used frequently and as and when required.15 [FIGURE 1] 20 25

Description

IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO UTILITY METERS
BACKGROUND
a. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to utility meters and to a method of remotely communicating with a utility meter and more specifically the present invention relates to automated utility meter reading and smart utility meters.
b. Related Art
Utility bills are often based on estimates of usage and are frequently inaccurate. To generate a bill based on actual usage either requires the customer to take a meter reading and communicate this to the utility supplier or the supplier must send an employee to read the meter in person, which is both time consuming and expensive.
Smart meters can be used to take meter readings automatically. These are then transmitted back to a central database via a network. This has a number of advantages. Meter readings can be taken at regular intervals or on-demand. Furthermore, with meter readings being taken regularly it is possible to monitor energy usage so that a customer and/or utility supplier can see when there are peaks in usage and can introduce energy saving measures or adjust supply accordingly. Another benefit is the ability to easily read meters that would otherwise be difficult to access. Smart meters can also include means for transferring data to the meter allowing the utility companies to control aspects of the meter. This functionality may include, for example, start/stop functionality or the ability to adjust features of the system remotely.
Generally, current systems are battery powered. However, battery life is limited and typically it is the battery that determines the life of the meter. Batteries can last between five and ten years, but with greater functionality being introduced into smart metering such that frequent data transfer is required, this lifetime can be greatly reduced.
Any installation in a utility meter must be intrinsically safe. This is of particular concern with gas meters. A safe distance between the gas meter and any electrical items must be maintained in order to minimise the risk of a potential electrical fault causing an explosion. In many cases, gas meters are encased inside a meter box or other enclosed area. If a gas leak occurred, it is likely that the enclosed area would fill with gas, increasing the safety concerns. The use of mains electricity in water meters is also prohibited due to the risk of electric shock if the electricity supply were to make contact with the water.
There is, therefore, a need to provide smart meters for a range of utility meters that are safe and reliable. Furthermore, it is desirable for these meters to be able to transfer data reliably and frequently over a long time without requiring replacement.
It is an aim of the present invention to overcome at least one problem associated with the prior art whether referred to herein or otherwise.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a metering system comprising a utility meter, communication means for communicating with a remote host and an optical fibre; wherein the optical fibre is arranged in use to transmit signals including a utility meter reading from the utility meter to the communication means, and wherein the communication means is arranged, in use, to be located spaced apart from the utility meter.
Preferably the optical fibre is arranged, in use, to transmit and receive signals. Preferably the meter comprises an internal power source to power a transmitter in the meter.
Preferably the system comprises an external power source to power the communication means.
Preferably the meter comprises a gas meter or water meter.
Preferably the meter includes a meter interface for processing signals between the utility meter and the optical fibre.
The meter interface may comprise a transmitter and/or receiver and preferably comprises a transceiver. The meter interface may comprise a transmitter-receiver.
Preferably the meter interface comprises a first transceiver which is arranged, in use, to transmit optical signals along the optical fibre to the communication means, and may receive optical signals from the optical fibre from the communication means.
The first transceiver may be an opto-electronic transceiver.
The meter interface may comprise sensors for detecting the status of the utility meter, and control circuitry for controlling functions of the utility meter.
The power supply (internal power source) may comprise a battery.
The meter interface may comprise a printed circuit board.
Preferably the communication means includes means for processing signals between the remote host and the optical fibre.
The communication means may comprise a transmitter and/or receiver and preferably comprises and transceiver. The communication means may comprise a transmitter-receiver.
Preferably the communication means includes a second transceiver which is arranged, in use, to transmit optical signals along the optical fibre to the utility meter, and may be arranged, in use, to receive optical signals from the optical fibre from the utility meter.
The second transceiver may comprise an opto-electronic transceiver.
The means for processing signals may comprise a printed circuit board.
The communication means may communicate with the remote host via telephone lines, power lines, radio frequency networks, wi-fi, mobile data networks or by satellite communication.
The communication means may be located in another meter.
The communication means may be located in an electricity meter.
Preferably the meter comprises a cover. The cover may comprise a guide for receiving a first end of the optical fibre such that, in use, the optical fibre is held in a fixed position with respect to the first transceiver.
Preferably the guide comprises a lens for focussing the light transmitted and/or received by the optical fibre.
The guide may be integral with the cover.
The lens may be integral with the cover.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of remotely monitoring a utility meter wherein the method comprises the steps of transmitting optical signals from the utility meter to the communication means via an optical fibre and transmitting signals from the communication means to a remote host and wherein the communication means is located spaced apart from the utility meter.
The method may comprise receiving optical signals at the utility meter from the communication means.
The method may also include receiving a signal from the host and transmitting signals from the communication means to the meter via the optical fibre.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be further described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of the smart metering system of the present invention;
Figure 2 is a detailed view of the means for restraining an end of an optical fibre to a meter according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; and
Figure 3 is an enlarged view of a part of the retaining means of Figure 2.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Figure 1 shows a schematic of a smart metering system 1 . In this example the metering system 1 is being used to take readings from a gas meter 2. However, the system may be applied to any utility meter or similar and, in particular, may relate to water meters or electricity meters. The smart metering system 1 comprises a meter 2, a communication means 6 for communicating with a remote host 8 and an optical fibre 10 connecting the meter 2 and to the communication means 6. The optical communication means 10 may comprise a single optical fibre or may comprise a bundle of optical fibres.
The remote host 8 may be a utility company or other company responsible for billing or for maintenance of the meter 2. The remote host 8 may be one or more computers, which may be linked by a local network, and which may be located in a central building. Alternatively, the remote host 8 may be a person, possibly employed by a utility company, who is able to collect data from a number of meters using a handheld device. The handheld device may be able to collect data from individual meters at a distance so that the person does not have to approach each meter, but may simply walk or drive past a row of houses.
Each gas meter 2 typically has a display 16 which shows the current meter reading. This display 16 may be mechanical, in the form of a dial or a counter with numbered rings that rotate as gas flows through the meter 2, or the display 16 may be a battery powered LCD display. The gas meter 2 includes a conventional mechanical bellows system which records the volume of gas through the meter 2. The hazards and specific regulations specify that electrical measuring systems cannot be used in gas meters and the like.
The meter 2 also includes a meter interface 4 which is permanently installed in the meter 2. This interface 4 is adapted to receive data from and transmit data to the meter 2. The meter interface 4 will typically comprise a printed circuit board. The meter interface 4 includes one or more sensors 18 for collecting data from the meter 2 and in particular for obtaining the current meter reading. Other forms of data may also be collected from the meter 2, for example gas flow rates or battery life. In order to power the meter interface 4, a very low voltage power supply 20 is required. This will generally be a battery 20 connected to the printed circuit board. Alternatively, if a battery is already used within the meter to power, for example, the display 16, then the meter interface 4 may be connected to this battery. The meter interface 4 also includes control circuitry 22, used to control various aspects of the running of the meter 2. This control circuitry 22 may also be provided on a printed circuit board.
The present invention provides an optical fibre 10 which connects the meter interface 4 of the utility meter 2 to a communication means 6 which is located at a distance from the meter 2. In particular, the communication means is able to be located spaced apart at a safe distance from the utility mater. The communication means is, therefore, not restricted to the use of a very low power source which would present a significant risk if it was located in or near the utility meter. This distance thereby enables the communication means to be used frequently and as and when required. As previously explained, previous utility meters may have had to use very low power sources within a meter so as to avoid the risks associated with a gas leak etc. Such low power sources therefore restrict the amount of use of a communication means since these are generally relatively high in power consumption. These meters may only be able to transmit the meter reading infrequently and have a short life span as the power source expires.
If only a low powered communication device is enabled then this may be restricted to a radio frequency device. Such communications may not be secure and are susceptible to interference and are may not be available in some locations due to obstructions etc.
Removable batteries for recharging purposes would introduce further problems with users being able to tamper with the system and/or introduce the opportunity of problems associated with theft . An electronic communication connection from the utility meter also introduces significant risks and expense. For example, expensive isolation boxes and equipment may be required to try and minimise the risks.
Accordingly, the present invention provides optical communication means to transmit the meter reading to a communication device which can be located at a safe distance from the utility meter. In particular the communication means and the associated power source can be located in a free air space. The communication means may be spaced apart from the gas meter by less than 1 metre or possibly 2 metres or at any intrinsically safe distance. However, in the present system the minimum distance can be specified by the utility company or operating company.
A first transceiver 24 is connected to or provided on the meter interface 4 and is in communication with a first end of the optical fibre 10. The transceiver sends signals from the meter 2 along the optical fibre 10, and receives signals from the optical fibre 10 from the communication means 6. Typically the first transceiver 24 is an opto-electronic transceiver able to both transmit and receive electrical and optical signals. In the preferred embodiment, the first transceiver comprises a Light Emitting Diode (LED). The LED acts as both a transmitter and a receiver.
Typically, a gas meter 2 will be fully enclosed within a casing 3 which is usually including a clear plastics material. In particular, the gas meter 2 includes a front panel of a clear plastics material which enables a user to view the mechanism, and in particular, the display 16. In a preferred embodiment, the meter interface 4 is permanently fixed within this casing 3 and a hole 13 is provided in the casing 3 through which the optical fibre 10 passes. In order to allow the optical fibre 10 to be simply pushed into position from the outside of the casing 3, a guide 5 may be fixed to inside of the casing 3. The guide 5 acts to hold the end of the optical fibre 10 in the correct position so that it is in alignment with the first transceiver 24. The guide 5 is also preferably made from a clear plastics material. As shown in Figure 2, the guide 5 is in the form of a tube 7 projecting from the inner surface of the meter casing 3. The tubular guide 5 may have a flange 9 at one end to allow the guide 5 to be joined to the inner surface of the casing 3, by, for example, adhesive or ultrasonic welding. Alternatively, the guide may be integrally formed with the casing 3. The distal end 11 of the tube 7 is closed so that no path exists between the outside and the inside of the casing 3. The end 11 of the tube 7 is made from a clear plastics material or glass, and may be moulded or otherwise shaped so as to form a lens to focus the light entering or leaving the optical fibre 10.
It is advantageous that the optical fibre 10 may be easily inserted into the guide 5 but should not pull out easily. To achieve this, the edges of the hole 13 in the casing 3 are bevelled, so that the diameter of the hole 13 at the inner surface 15 of the casing 3 is smaller than the diameter of the hole 13 at the outer surface 17 of the casing 3, as shown in Figure 3. The bevel is such that the diameter of the hole 13 at the inner surface 15 of the casing 3 is also smaller than the diameter of the bore of the tubular guide 5. Part of the casing 3 therefore projects into the hole 13 and acts to grip the optical fibre as it is pushed into the guide 5. The direction of the slope of the bevel means that it is relatively easy to push the optical fibre 10 into the guide 5, but much more difficult to pull the optical fibre 10 back out the other way.
The retaining means may comprise any suitable retaining means for retaining the end of the optical fibre in position with respect to the relevant transceiver. The retaining means mat comprise a flexible gripping edge to retain the optical fibre or may comprise another device (for example, an arrangement similar to a household appliance plug).
The optical fibre 10 may have an outer covering, for example a (plastic) sheath to protect the optical fibre from scratches or dents. Alternatively, the optical fibre 10 may be encased within trunking or similar extending between the meter 2 and the communication means 6.
The second end of the optical fibre 10, is aligned with and in communication with a second transceiver 26 provided in the communication means 6. This second transceiver 26 is typically an opto-electronic transceiver and sends signals from the communication means 6 along the optical fibre 10, and receives signals from the optical fibre 10 and transmits them to the communication means 6. The communication means 6 is used to transmit data from the meter 2 to the remote host 8 via a network 26 or other wireless means and to process control signals from the remote host 8, which are subsequently used to control the meter 2. Data and control signals may be transmitted using any of a number of well- known technologies. These include sending data via telephone lines or mobile networks, using radio frequency systems or by satellite communication.
The communication means 6 is powered using a low voltage power supply 28. In one embodiment the communication means 6 is installed in an electricity meter. The communication means 6 is then powered by a low voltage connection inside the electricity meter, isolated from any mains voltage circuits. This has the advantage that the communication means 6 is powered by an existing supply, and in addition, the communication means 6 may also be set up to communicate with the electricity meter. In general, the communication means 6 should be situated away from the gas meter 2 so that there is sufficient distance between any electrical systems used in the communication means 6 and the gas supply.
The communication means comprises a plastic guide/lens holder, a printed circuit board comprising electrical components. Wires extend from the communication unit to a low voltage power supply which may reside in an electricity meter.
Using this system, meter readings may be collected automatically at set periods or meter readings may be collected on-demand. In an on-demand system, a request is sent by the remote host 8 for a current meter reading. This request is sent via a suitable network to the communication means 6. The communication means 6 processes the request and an appropriate demand signal is sent along the optical fibre 10 by the second transceiver 26. The demand signal is received by the first transceiver 24 and processed by the meter interface 4. The sensors 18 obtain the current meter reading and this data is sent back to the communication means 6 via the optical fibre 10. The meter reading data is then transmitted to the remote host 8 via the network 26. The present invention provides an intrinsically safe system of remotely communicating with a utility meter and, in particular, with a gas (or water) meter.
In a further embodiment of the present invention, the smart metering system includes a first optical fibre or first bundle of optical fibres for transmitting a signal from the meter to the communication means and a second optical fibre or a second bundle of optical fibres for transmitting a signal from the communication means to the meter. This provides an extra intrinsically safe communication method. This system may, therefore, include a first transmitter and a first separate receiver in the meter and a second transmitter and a second receiver in the communication means.

Claims

1. A metering system comprising a utility meter, communication means for communicating with a remote host and an optical fibre; wherein the optical fibre is arranged in use to transmit signals including a utility meter reading from the utility meter to the communication means, and wherein the communication means is arranged, in use, to be located spaced apart from the utility meter.
2. A metering system according to Claim 1 in which the optical fibre is arranged, in use, to transmit and receive signals.
3. A metering system according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 in which the meter comprises an internal power source to power a transmitter in the meter.
4. A metering system according to Claim 3 in which the system comprises an external power source to power the communication means.
5. A metering system according to any preceding claim in which the meter comprises a gas meter.
6. A metering system according to any preceding claim in which the meter includes a meter interface for processing signals between the utility meter and the optical fibre.
7. A metering system according to any preceding claim in which the meter interface comprises a transceiver.
8. A metering system according to Claim 7 in which the meter interface comprises a first transceiver which is arranged, in use, to transmit optical signals along the optical fibre to the communication means, and to receive optical signals from the optical fibre from the communication means.
9. A metering system according to Claim 7 or Claim 8 in which the meter interface comprises sensors for detecting the status of the utility meter, and control circuitry for controlling functions of the utility meter.
10. A metering system according to any preceding claim in which the communication means comprises a transceiver.
11. A metering system according to Claim 10 in which the communication means includes a second transceiver which is arranged, in use, to transmit optical signals along the optical fibre to the utility meter, and is arranged, in use, to receive optical signals from the optical fibre from the utility meter.
12. A metering system accord ing to any preceding claim in wh ich the communication means communicates with the remote host via telephone lines, power lines, radio frequency networks, wi-fi, mobile data networks or by satellite communication.
13. A metering system according to any preced ing claim in wh ich the communication means is located in an electricity meter.
14. A metering system according to any preceding claim in which the meter comprises a cover.
15. A metering system according to Claim 14 in which the cover comprises a guide for receiving a first end of the optical fibre such that, in use, the optical fibre is held in a fixed position with respect to the first transceiver.
16. A metering system according to Claim 15 in which the guide comprises a lens for focussing the light transmitted and/or received by the optical fibre.
17. A method of remotely monitoring a utility meter wherein the method comprises the steps of transmitting optical signals from the utility meter to a communication means via an optical fibre and transmitting signals from the communication means to a remote host and wherein the communication means is located spaced apart from the utility meter.
18. A method of remotely monitoring a utility meter comprising receiving optical signals at the utility meter from the communication means.
19. A method of remotely monitoring a utility meter according to Claim 18 in which the method also includes receiving a signal from the host and transmitting signals from the communication means to the meter via the optical fibre.
20. A metering system substantially as herein described with reference to, and as show in, any of the accompanying drawings.
21. A method of remotely monitoring a utility meter substantially as herein described with reference to, and as show in, any of the accompanying drawings.
EP20100719039 2009-04-01 2010-03-30 Improvements In and Relating to Utility Meters Withdrawn EP2414790A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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GB0905653A GB2471260A (en) 2009-04-01 2009-04-01 Remote monitoring of utility meters
PCT/GB2010/050544 WO2010112916A1 (en) 2009-04-01 2010-03-30 Improvements In and Relating to Utility Meters

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GB0917467D0 (en) 2009-11-18
WO2010112916A1 (en) 2010-10-07
GB2471260A (en) 2010-12-29
WO2010112917A1 (en) 2010-10-07
GB2469155A (en) 2010-10-06
EP2414881A1 (en) 2012-02-08

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