JP2002098564A - Water meter system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a water meter system using an electronic water meter to enable service provisions such as various water rates accounting system, effective watersaving measures, health care of water users, etc. SOLUTION: This water meter system 1 is provided with a tap water users- side system 3 installed in tap water arrangements 2, and a control center-side system 5 connected to each system 3 via Internet 4. The tap water users-side system 3 is equipped with both an electronic water meter 7 and an electronic counter 9, an utensil identifying section 33 in this electronic counter 9 identifies tap water utensils in use based on the values of water consumption and service hours detected by the water meter 7. On the basis of such identification results, a rates calculating section 50 calculates each utility rate per utensil.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method of using a water meter which can detect a use state at a place where tap water is used and can construct various billing systems and the like based on tap water usage time and flow rate detected by a water meter. And a water meter system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As a water meter, an electronic water meter is known, and a rotating state of an impeller rotating according to a flow rate installed in a measuring section connected to a water pipe is detected in a non-contact state.
Based on this, the flow rate, the usage time, and the like are calculated by an electronic unit with a built-in microcomputer, and the calculation result is displayed on a liquid crystal display.

[0003] In general, the detection result of the electronic water meter is transmitted in the form of a message to an electronic counter installed at a distant position, and various types of information are supplied to the electronic counter based on the detection results supplied from the water meter. Calculation and display of the integrated value are performed. Further, the detection result of the water meter, the integrated value of the electronic counter, and the like are transmitted to the management center terminal via the communication line via the electronic counter and the transmission device, and the management center terminal in which the management center terminal is located. , Monitoring of tap water use conditions at each tap water use location, calculation of a water charge, and the like are performed.

[0004]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to propose a method of using a water meter that can more accurately grasp the state of use of tap water at a place where tap water is used by using such a water meter system. Is to do.

Another object of the present invention is to propose a method of using a water meter that can employ various water billing systems based on the result of detection of a tap water use state at a tap water use location.

A further object of the present invention is to use a water meter that can take measures to conserve water or detect a human abnormality or the like at a place where tap water is used, based on the result of detection of the state of use of tap water at the place where tap water is used. The idea is to propose a method.

[0007] In addition, another object of the present invention is to propose a water meter system for detecting a state of use of tap water by the above-described method of using a water meter.

[0008]

In order to solve the above problems, a method of using a water meter according to the present invention is as follows: a water meter attached to a water pipe for supplying tap water to a place where tap water is used; Detecting the flow rate pattern of tap water in the place; based on the flow rate pattern, the tap water use equipment actually used is selected from the plurality of tap water use tools installed in the tap water use place. It is characterized by speculation.

When the equipment to be used can be specified, the presence or absence of water leakage can be determined based on the tap water usage equipment and the detected usage flow rate pattern.

When it is determined that a water leak has occurred, it is desirable to close the water pipe.

[0011] Further, the plurality of tap water-using instruments may include:
Depending on the need, at least a first group with a high need,
It is classified as a second group having a low necessity, and when the identified tap water use equipment belongs to the second group, it passes through the water pipe under certain conditions. What is necessary is just to reduce the flow supplied. For example, in the case of a drought condition on the tap water supply side, it is effective to save water by reducing the flow rate of tap water supplied for planting, turf and the like, which is less necessary for daily life.

Next, based on the identification result of the tap water-using device, the amount of tap water used for each tap water-using device is integrated, and a water charge can be calculated for each tap water-using device.

Further, if a tap water use pattern of a specific tap water use device used by a person at the tap water use location is determined, the tap water use pattern, the tap water use time and the tap water use by the tap meter are determined. Based on the flow rate
It is possible to determine whether or not an abnormality has occurred in a person at the tap water use location.

Here, the specific tap water-using equipment is a flush toilet, a bath or the like.

Next, the usage status of a specific tap water use device used by a person at the tap water use location is determined, and if the tap water use device has not been used for a predetermined period or more, the tap water use location is determined. It can be determined that an abnormality has occurred in the person at.

In the present invention, when detecting the use flow rate pattern, a water pressure pattern indicating a water pressure level of tap water is also detected, and the water pressure pattern is installed at the tap water use location based on the water pressure pattern and the use flow rate pattern. It is preferable to identify the tap water use equipment actually used from the plurality of tap water use equipments. Since the usage flow rate pattern varies depending on the water pressure level, the tap water use equipment actually used can be accurately identified by taking the water pressure pattern into consideration.

On the other hand, the method of using the water meter according to the present invention is to detect a flow rate pattern of tap water at the place where tap water is used by a water meter attached to a tap pipe for supplying tap water to the place where tap water is used; Based on the used flow rate pattern, at least an integrated value of the usage amount by time zone or the usage amount by flow rate is obtained; and the tap water usage fee is calculated based on the integrated value.

Next, the present invention relates to a water meter system using the above-described method of using a water meter. That is, the present invention includes a water meter attached to a water pipe that supplies tap water to a tap water use location, and a water meter system that calculates the use time and use flow rate of tap water at the tap water use location using the water meter. At:
A use flow rate pattern storage unit that stores and retains a use flow rate pattern for each hour at the tap water use location; and a use tool that stores and retains information on a plurality of tap water use tools installed at the tap water use location. An information storage unit; usage time and usage flow rate detected by the water meter;
Based on the used flow rate pattern and the used appliance information, a used appliance identification for identifying a tap water actual appliance that is actually being used from among a plurality of tap water appliances installed at the tap water use location. And a part.

Here, it is desirable to have a water leakage discriminating section for discriminating the presence or absence of water leakage based on the identified tap water use equipment and the detected use time and flow rate of tap water.

[0020] Further, there is provided a control valve capable of opening and closing the water pipe, and a valve control section for driving the control valve to close the water pipe when it is determined that water leakage has occurred. It is desirable.

Further, there is provided a flow control valve for controlling the flow rate of the water pipe, and a valve control unit for driving and controlling the flow control valve. According to the degree of necessity, at least the first group having a high degree of necessity and the second group having a low degree of necessity are stored and retained in a state of being classified, and the inferred tap water use appliance is the aforementioned When belonging to the second group, the valve control unit drives the flow control valve under certain conditions,
It is desirable to reduce the flow supplied through the water pipe. Here, the certain condition is, for example, a case where the tap water supply side is in a drought state.

Next, based on the identification result of the tap water-using equipment, an integrating unit for each of the tap water-using apparatuses, which accumulates the amount of tap water usage per tap water-using equipment, and a unit price of the tap water usage fee of each tap water-using equipment are stored. It is desirable to have a charge storage unit that has been used, and a charge calculation unit that calculates a water charge for each tap water use appliance based on the integrated value by the use appliance-specific integration unit and the storage content of the charge storage unit.

A tap water use pattern storage unit that stores and retains a tap water use pattern of a specific tap water use device used by a human at the tap water use place; the tap water use pattern; It is desirable to have an abnormality determination unit that determines whether an abnormality has occurred in a person at the tap water usage location based on the usage time and flow rate of tap water detected by the meter. Examples of the specific tap water use equipment include a flush toilet, a bath, and the like.

Alternatively, based on the detection results of the used appliance identification unit and the water meter, if a specific tap water appliance used by a human at the tap water location is not used for a predetermined period or more, It is also possible to adopt a configuration having an abnormality determination unit that determines that an abnormality has occurred in a person at the tap water use location.

In the present invention, there is further provided a water pressure detecting means for detecting a water pressure level of the tap water in the water mail, and a water pressure pattern storing section for storing a water pressure pattern obtained by the water pressure detecting means. The used tool identification unit is based on the used time and used flow rate detected by the water meter, the used flow pattern, the used tool information, and the water pressure pattern, and based on the water pressure pattern, a plurality of tap water installed in the tap water use place. It is preferable to configure so that the tap water use device actually used is estimated from the use devices. With this configuration, even if the usage flow rate pattern fluctuates depending on the water pressure level, it is possible to accurately identify the tap water use equipment actually used.

Next, the present invention comprises a water meter attached to a water pipe for supplying tap water to a tap water use place, and calculates the use time and flow rate of tap water at the tap water use place using the water meter. Water meter system: based on detected usage time and usage flow rate,
At least an integrating unit for calculating an integrated value of the usage amount by the time zone or the usage amount by the flow rate zone; a fee storage unit in which the usage fee by the time zone and the usage fee by the flow zone are stored; And a charge calculating unit for calculating a tap water usage charge based on the stored contents of the above.

In the water meter system having the above configuration,
Further, an electronic counter for displaying the result of the estimation by the in-use device inferring unit, the result in the water leak determining unit, the charge calculating unit, the abnormality determining unit, and the integrating unit may be provided.

[0028] Further, the management center terminal and the results of the inference by the in-use device inferring unit, the results of the water leakage determining unit, the charge calculating unit, the abnormality determining unit, and the integrating unit are transmitted to the managing center terminal via a communication line. And a transmitting unit that performs the processing.

Further, the management center terminal and the identification result by the used appliance identification unit, the water leakage determination unit, the charge calculation unit,
An electronic counter that displays the results in the abnormality determination unit and the integration unit, and the inference result in the in-use device inference unit, the water leakage determination unit, the charge calculation unit, the result in the abnormality determination unit, and the integration unit through the communication line. A transmission unit for transmitting to the electronic counter, a system configuration for transmitting, via the electronic counter, an estimation result, a detection result, and a determination result of each unit to the management center terminal via a communication line. It can also be.

Here, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which the electronic counter incorporates the above-described components.

Next, the inference result, the detection result, and the determination result in each section may be supplied to the management center terminal using the Internet.

In addition, the inference results, detection results,
Also, a system configuration including an Internet server that operates a browsing site that allows browsing the determination results via the Internet may be employed.

Further, the system can be configured such that the setting of the fee and the pattern can be changed from an Internet connection terminal such as a personal computer having an Internet communication function via the Internet.

Similarly, it is possible to adopt a system configuration in which the charge and pattern settings can be changed from the electronic counter or the management center terminal.

[0035]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of an electronic water meter system to which the present invention is applied will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment] The electronic water meter system according to the present embodiment has a function of calculating and integrating a general flow rate and operating time of tap water, and a function of a tap water use device at a tap water use place. It has an identification (guess) function, various water charge calculation functions, a water saving function at the time of drought, and a health management function for detecting a human abnormality at a place where tap water is used.

FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of such an electronic water meter system.
Means a plurality of tap water use places 2 (2 (1), 2 (2), 2
(3)..., For example, a tap water use system 3 provided in a general house, a company, a factory, and the like, and a management center that centrally manages each tap water use system 3 via the Internet 4. Side system 5.

The tap water use side system 3 is attached to a tap water pipe 6 laid at the tap water use location 2, an electronic water meter 7 attached to the tap water pipe 6, and a tap pipe part upstream of the tap. A flow control valve 8 is provided. Further, an electronic counter 9 is provided at a position distant from the water meter 7, and the electronic counter 9 and the water meter 7 are connected to the communication line 1.
0.

The electronic counter 9 controls the flow control valve 8 and is connected to a transmission device 12 via a communication line 11, and the transmission device 12 is connected to the management center side system 5 via the Internet 4. To the tap water use location 2 (1), for example, a bath A, a flush toilet B, a normal tap faucet C, and the like are connected as tap water use equipment.

On the other hand, the management center side system 5 stores and holds a management center terminal 15 composed of various peripheral devices such as a personal computer and an input / output device, and a state of use of tap water at each tap water use place 2. Database 16 and an Internet server 17 that manages various information browsing sites on the Internet.

The browsing site can be accessed from an Internet terminal 19 such as a personal computer having an Internet communication function.

Next, FIG. 2 shows a water meter 7 in the tap water use side system 3 installed in the tap water use place 2.
3 is a functional block diagram of the electronic counter 9. FIG. Referring to this drawing, the electronic water meter 7 includes an impeller 21 arranged in a measuring chamber formed in the water pipe 6, and the impeller 21 rotates according to the amount of water in the water pipe 6. When the impeller 21 rotates, a rotating magnetic field is generated by a permanent magnet 22 attached to the impeller 21. The rotating magnetic field is detected by a magnetic detecting element 23 such as a magnetoresistive element. The rotation state is detected, and based on the detected rotation state, the integrating circuit 25 calculates the tap water usage flow rate, usage time, and the like. The calculated tap water use flow rate information and tap water use time information are supplied from the data output circuit 26 to the electronic counter 9 via the communication line 10.

In the electronic water meter system 1 of the present embodiment,
An electronic counter 9 for identifying (inferring) a tap water use device at a tap water use place, various water charge calculation functions, a water saving function at the time of drought, and health management for detecting a human abnormality at the tap water use place. And functions.

(Identification Function of Tap Water Use Equipment) First, the identification function of tap water use equipment will be described. The electronic counter 9 of the present example includes a use flow rate pattern storage unit 31, a use appliance information storage unit 32 storing information on the use appliances A, B, and C installed in the tap water use place 2, and a use appliance identification unit. 33. The following analysis pattern can be considered as a used tool identification method in the used tool identification unit 33.

(1) When the usage flow rate and usage time are known: Tap water-using appliances such as baths, flush toilets, and automatic washing machines
Use flow rate and use time for one use are clear. Therefore, it is possible to identify which device is used, not only when these devices are used alone, but also when a plurality of devices are used simultaneously.
That is, if the usage flow rate pattern including the usage flow rate and the usage time of each appliance is stored and held in the usage flow rate pattern storage unit 31 for each appliance, the appliance to be used is determined based on the tap water usage information from the water meter 7. Can be identified.

For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the use flow rate pattern in the case of using a flush toilet is almost the same every time. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 5, even in the case of using a bath, a constant flow rate is used for a certain time, so that the pattern becomes almost the same every time. Therefore, if these flow rate patterns are stored and held in a form associated with the appliance, the appliance to be used can be identified based on the detected usage flow rate.

(2) Like a manual faucet, the used flow rate,
When the usage time is not clear In the case of a manual faucet (for cooking, car washing, etc.), the usage flow rate and usage time are optional. As one of the analysis methods in this case, there is a method using a graph theory, for example, a method using a neural network.

In this case, various tap water-using instruments (faucet,
For baths, flush toilets, etc.), measure the amount and time of water used as the main input factors, and create a data file (teacher data) using the used tools as output factors.
A neural network is created for the created teacher data, an error is calculated while changing (learning) the parameters of the neural network, and the parameter having the least error is applied to the neural network as a learning result.
By applying the actual amount of tap water used and the usage time to the neural network to which the learning result has been applied as input factors, the equipment being used is output as an output factor, and thereby the used equipment can be estimated (identified).

The use of the neural network enables comprehensive specification of the equipment to be used, including the case (1).

(3) In the case of appliances characterized by changes in flow rate and use time period Each appliance using tap water has characteristics in each use flow rate pattern. That is, the rising characteristics of the flow rate at the start of use, the falling characteristics of the flow rate at the stop of use, and the characteristics of the intermediate portion between the rising and the falling are different for each used appliance. Therefore, even if each device is used at the same time, the device to be used can be specified based on these characteristic factors.

For example, when a human turns a faucet by hand,
As shown by the solid line in FIG. 3, there is a limit to the speed at which the faucet is turned, and the flow rate does not rise sharply, and the rising curve becomes stepped. On the other hand, in the case of an automatic opening such as a washing machine, as shown by a dotted line in FIG.
The rise becomes steep.

Further, in the case of a flush toilet, as shown in FIG. 4, the flow rate increases rapidly, but the flow rate decreases gradually. Furthermore, in the case of a bath, FIG.
As shown in (1), the rise and fall are both steep, and the flow rate is almost constant in the middle of the rise and fall.

In this example, the flow rate pattern at the tap water usage location 2 is obtained based on the flow rate and the usage time calculated by the water meter 7, and the obtained flow rate pattern is stored in the flow rate pattern storage unit 31. By performing an operation such as comparison with the flow rate pattern for each use, the used tool information storage unit 3
The tap water use equipment actually used is identified from the tap water use instruments installed at the tap water use place 2 held in the tap water use apparatus 2.

(Water Rate Calculation Function) Next, the water rate calculation function of the electronic counter 9 of this embodiment will be described. The electronic counter 9 of this example includes a flow rate integrating unit 34. The flow rate integrating unit 34 integrates the amount of tap water used for each tap water use appliance based on the identification result of the tap water use appliance used. An appliance-based integrating unit 35 and a time-zone-based usage integrating unit 36 that integrates tap water usage by time zone, for example, nighttime usage.
And a flow rate use amount accumulating unit 37 for integrating the amount of tap water used for each flow rate band, for example, the excess flow rate when the flow rate exceeds a certain flow rate.

Further, there is provided a charge storage unit 40 for storing a tap water usage charge, and the charge storage unit 40 stores a use water charge unit price for each tap water usage appliance. 41, a time zone usage fee storage unit 42 storing hourly tap water usage unit prices, and a flow zone usage fee storage unit 43 storing tap water usage unit prices for each flow zone. .

Further, a charge calculating section 50 is provided. In the charge calculating section 50, the integrated value in the integrating section 34 and
Based on the tap water consumption unit price stored in the charge storage unit 40, a fee for each appliance used, a fee for each time zone, and a fee for each flow zone are calculated, and these are summed up, and each tap water usage location 2 is calculated.
Calculate the tap water usage fee in.

In calculating the fee for each appliance to be used, for example, it is expected that the sale of the appliance will be promoted if the tap water usage fee for the new tap water usage device is set low. it can. In addition, if the tap water usage rate at midnight when tap water usage is low is reduced, an effect of suppressing fluctuations in tap water usage per day can be expected. Furthermore, if a large amount of tap water usage fee is set for the excess flow rate, a water saving effect can be expected, for example, during a drought in summer.

FIG. 6 shows a method of charging a tap water usage fee that can be expected to save water. In the figure, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents flow velocity. When using a large amount of water, it is possible to use a bath, wash a car, or sprinkle water. Of these, baths are more necessary than others,
Reduce the usage fee for tap water and increase the usage fee for other watering and car washing.

In the figure, when water for car washing is used for a time b at a flow rate a, water for bath is used for a time e at a flow rate d, and water is sprayed for a time h at a flow rate g, Usage amount c (= a × b) and usage fee i (=
g × h), the unit price is set high, and for the bath usage fee c (= d × e), the unit price is set low. Furthermore, the unit price may be reduced only when the bath water usage fee is only once a day. As described above, whether or not the bath is used can be determined based on the flow rate and time, or the usage amount, and can also be determined based on the rising and falling patterns of the flow rate. With such a fee structure, a water saving effect can be expected.

FIG. 7 also shows a method of charging a tap water usage fee that is advantageous for saving water. In the illustrated example, the cooling tower fee is increased based on the outside air temperature for the purpose of saving water. That is, when the outside air temperature is low, the unit price of the water charge is set high, and the unit price is set so as to decrease as the outside air temperature increases. In this case, it is necessary to add a temperature sensor.

As described above, when the outside air temperature is low, if the water usage fee of the cooling tower is increased, the cooler will be used only when necessary when the outside air temperature is high, so that a water saving effect can be expected.

(Water saving function at the time of drought, etc.) Next, the electronic counter 9 of the present embodiment is provided with a water leak determining unit 60, and the used equipment, the detected usage time and usage flow rate of tap water, and the like. Is used to determine the presence or absence of water leakage. Regarding the presence or absence of water leakage, it can be determined that water leakage has occurred when the minimum flow rate of detected tap water is constant or when the rate of increase is constant. Further, the amount of water leakage can be obtained as a value obtained by subtracting the amount of water used by the used equipment from the total amount of water used during a certain period based on the determination result of the used equipment. Alternatively, it can be obtained as a value obtained by multiplying the minimum flow rate determined to be water leakage by time.

When a water leak state is detected, the water leak determination unit 60 notifies the valve control unit 61 of the detection. Valve control unit 6
When receiving the notification, 1 outputs a control signal to the flow control valve 8 to shut off the flow control valve 8. At the same time, an emergency message indicating that the water leak has been detected and the valve has been shut down is transmitted to the transmission device 12 via the communication unit 70.
The transmission device 12 transmits the emergency notification to the management center terminal 15 via the Internet 4.

In this example, the used appliance information storage unit 32
, A plurality of tap water use appliances are classified and stored at least in a first group having a high necessity and a second group having a low necessity in accordance with the necessity. For example, watering equipment for turf or the like is classified into the second group because the necessity of living is low. When the tap water supply source side is in a drought state or the like, or when there is a shortage of water and it is necessary to save water, the valve control unit 61 is configured to set a condition to that effect. In a state where such conditions are set, if the identified used device belongs to the second group, the valve control unit 61 sets the flow control valve 8 to a predetermined amount to save water. Only restrict and reduce the flow rate. As a result, the flow rate used by the sprinkler or the like can be reduced, and the water saving effect can be improved.

(Health Management Function) Next, the electronic counter 9 stores a tap water use pattern storage unit that stores and holds a tap water use pattern of a specific tap water use device used by a human at the tap water use place 2. 80 and an abnormality discriminating unit 81 for detecting an abnormality of a human at the place where tap water is used based on the contents of the storage unit and the actual use pattern of tap water.

For example, the tap water use pattern of the flush toilet is stored and stored, and if the use of the flush toilet is not detected at least once in one day, the person at the place where the tap water is used has an abnormality. As an occurrence, the abnormality determining unit 81 generates an emergency notification signal. The emergency notification signal is transmitted to the management center terminal 15 via the communication unit 70 and the transmission device 12.

As described above, the health condition of the elderly can be grasped at the place where tap water is used, for example, at the home of an elderly person living alone, based on the state of use of tap water, and prompt action can be taken when an abnormality occurs.

(Management Center Side System) Next, the management center side system 5 of the water meter system 1 of this embodiment is provided with the Internet server 17 and operates a browsing site on the Internet as described above. . As to this browsing site, only those to which an access right has been given in advance can be accessed. For example,
An access right is previously given to a person living in the tap water use place 2. When a person living in the tap water use place 2 accesses the pertinent browsing site and enters a pre-assigned password, the user can view the tap water charge, tap water use status, etc. in the tap water use place. Can be. Therefore, it is convenient because these can be confirmed from the Internet terminal 19 without being restricted by time and place.

In this embodiment, the charge and the pattern can be set and changed from the input unit 90 attached to the electronic counter 9. That is, the setting, change, and update of the contents of the usage flow rate pattern storage unit 31, the usage pattern storage unit 80, the used appliance information storage unit 32, and the fee storage unit 40 are possible. Further, these can be set, changed, and updated from the management center terminal 15 via the Internet.

[Second Embodiment] With reference to FIGS. 8, 9 and 10, an example in which the identification function of the water supply equipment is improved will be described.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the flow rate detector of the water meter used in this example. FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of a water meter and an electronic counter in the tap water use side system of the present example. FIGS. 10A and 10B are explanatory diagrams for explaining the principle of identifying the use of the flush toilet as the tap water appliance with higher accuracy in this example. Note that this example is basically the same as the first example and differs only in the configuration relating to the identification function of the tap water use device. Therefore, portions having common functions are denoted by the same reference numerals. The description is omitted for illustration.

The electronic water meter 7 shown in FIG. 8 has a meter case 72 and an electronic unit 73 attached thereto.
And an annular fixing member 74 for fixing the electronic unit 73 to the meter case 2.

The meter case 72 is provided with a flow passage 721 for measuring the flow rate having a substantially circular cross section, and an impeller 722 for measuring the flow is rotatable around a rotating shaft 723 orthogonal to the flowing water direction. It is arranged in the state of. The impeller 722 rotates according to the amount of water flowing from the inlet 724 to the outlet 725 of the water passage 721. An electronic unit housing cylindrical portion 726 extends in a direction perpendicular to the flowing water direction from a portion of the meter case 72 in which the impeller 722 is disposed.

The electronic unit 73 has a cylindrical unit case 731 comprising a case body 75 and a case lid 76.
And the electronic circuit unit 732 and the liquid crystal display 7 built therein.
35 and the like. The electronic circuit unit 732 includes a magnetic sensor 733.
It is arranged on the bottom surface of the unit case 731, and faces a pair of permanent magnets 734, 734 built in the tip of the impeller 722 via the bottom plate portion 751 of the unit case 731. The permanent magnets 734, 7 together with the impeller 722
34 rotates to generate a rotating magnetic field, and the rotating magnetic field is detected by the magnetic sensor 733.

In the present embodiment, a disc-shaped bottom plate portion 751 whose central portion protrudes upward in the case body 75 is provided.
Among them, a water pressure detector 55 (water pressure detection means) composed of a pressure sensor is attached to a flat portion formed on the side of a portion protruding at the center, and this water pressure detector 55 flows into the water meter 1. Detect the pressure of incoming tap water. Note that, as the water pressure detector 55, a strain sensor indicated by a dotted line 55 'may be used.

In the tap water use side system using the water meter 7 configured as described above, the change of the tap water pressure detected by the water pressure detector 55 is, as shown in FIG.
After being converted into a digital signal by the converter 27, it is output from the data output circuit 26 to the electronic counter 9.

In the electronic counter 9, as described in the first embodiment, the usage flow rate storage unit 31 and the usage information storing the information on the appliances A, B, and C installed in the tap water usage location 2 are stored. An appliance information storage unit 32, a used appliance identification unit 33, and the like are configured. In this example, the electronic counter 9 includes a hydraulic pressure pattern storage unit 33 that stores the detection result of the hydraulic pressure detector 55 as a hydraulic pressure pattern.

The other structure of the electronic counter 9 and the basic operation of the electronic counter 9 are the same as those described in the first embodiment.
For example, when a flush toilet is used under a certain water pressure, FIG.
The use flow rate pattern shown in FIG. 1A is obtained every time, and the tap water use equipment actually used can be identified based on the use flow rate pattern. However, when the water pressure is reduced at the time when the use flow rate is detected, the use flow rate pattern is more time-axis compared to the use flow rate pattern shown in FIG. 10 (a) as shown in FIG. 10 (b). The pattern is extended and the flow level is reduced, and it becomes impossible to accurately identify which device has been used.

In the present embodiment, however, the water pressure detector 55 is disposed on the water meter 7 side while the electronic counter 9
Has a water pressure pattern storage unit 33 that stores a temporal change of the water pressure level detected by the water pressure detector 55 as a water pressure pattern.
When identifying an appliance to be used based on the usage flow rate pattern stored in the usage flow rate pattern storage unit 31, taking into account the water pressure pattern stored in the hydraulic pressure pattern storage unit 33, a correction corresponding to the level of the water pressure level is performed. Applied to the usage flow pattern to identify the equipment used.

For example, in the usage flow rate pattern, for example, taking into account the water pressure in the rising period T1 of the flow rate, the period T2 in which the flow rate is substantially constant, and the water pressure in the falling period T3 of the flow rate, the correction corresponding to the level is used. Applied to the pattern to identify the equipment used. More specifically, if the water pressure is low when using a flush toilet, FIG.
A flow rate pattern as shown in (b) is obtained. In this case, the time axis is set in each of the rising period T1, the period T2 in which the flow is substantially constant, and the falling period T3 of the flow. The compression and the correction of raising the flow level are performed to correct the usage flow pattern shown in FIG. 10B to the usage flow pattern shown in FIG. 10A, and based on the corrected usage flow pattern, Identify the equipment used for Therefore, the used tool identification unit 33 can accurately identify the used tool that is actually used even if there is a change in the water pressure.

(Other Embodiments) In the above example, the identification section of the equipment to be used, the storage section of the fee, and the like are arranged in the electronic counter 9.
It is also possible to arrange on the side of. The transmission device 12
It is also possible to build it in.

[0082]

As described above, in the present invention, the tap water use equipment at the tap water use location is identified by using the electronic water meter. Therefore, various water billing systems can be adopted based on the identification result. Also, effective water saving measures can be taken at the time of water leakage, drought, and the like. Further, health management such as whether or not an abnormality has occurred in a person at a place where tap water is used can be performed.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic system configuration diagram of a water meter system according to a first embodiment to which the present invention is applied.

FIG. 2 is a schematic functional block diagram of a water meter and an electronic counter in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a graph showing an example of a flow rate pattern when a faucet is used.

FIG. 4 is a graph showing an example of a flow rate pattern when a flush toilet is used.

FIG. 5 is a graph showing an example of a flow rate pattern when a bath is used.

FIG. 6 is a graph for explaining an example of setting a water charge according to a used appliance.

FIG. 7 is a graph showing another example of water charge setting.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view showing a configuration example of a water meter used in a water meter system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a schematic functional block diagram of a water meter and an electronic counter in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a graph illustrating that a flow pattern when a flush toilet is used changes with a change in water pressure.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Water meter system 2 Tap water use place 3 Tap water use side system 4 Internet 5 Management center side system 6 Water pipe 7 Electronic water meter 8 Flow control valve 9 Electronic counter 10, 11 Communication line 12 Transmission device 15 Management center terminal 16 Database 17 Internet server 19 Internet terminal 30 Water pressure pattern storage unit 31 Used flow pattern storage unit 32 Used appliance information storage unit 33 Used appliance identification unit 34 Accumulation unit 35 Accumulation unit by appliance used 36 Integration unit by time zone 37 Integration unit by flow zone 40 Charge storage unit 41 Charge storage unit by equipment used 42 Charge storage unit by time zone 43 Charge storage unit by flow zone 50 Charge calculation unit 55 Water pressure detector 60 Leakage determination unit 61 Ben control unit 70 Communication unit 80 Usage pattern of specific equipment Storage unit 90 Input unit 100 Display unit

Continuation of the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat II (reference) G06F 17/60 110 G06F 17/60 110 G08C 19/00 301 G08C 19/00 301A F term (reference) 2F030 CA01 CB02 CC02 CE02 CE09 CE22 CE25 CE27 CE32 CF05 CF08 2F031 AE07 AF04 AF10 2F073 AA07 AB01 BB20 BC01 CC03 CC07 CC14 DD03 EF09 FG01 FG02 GG01 GG04 GG09 5B049 BB00 CC00

Claims (30)

[Claims] A water flow meter attached to a water pipe for supplying tap water to a tap water use location obtains a flow rate pattern of tap water at the location where the tap water is used. A method of using a water meter, comprising identifying a tap water use device actually used from a plurality of tap water use devices installed at a place. 2. The method of using a water meter according to claim 1, wherein the presence or absence of water leakage is determined based on the identified tap water use appliance and the detected tap water use flow rate pattern. 3. The method for using a water meter according to claim 2, wherein the water pipe is closed when it is determined that water leakage has occurred. 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of tap water use appliances are classified into at least a first group having a high necessity and a second group having a low necessity according to the necessity. In addition, when the identified tap water use equipment belongs to the second group, the flow rate supplied through the water pipe is reduced under certain conditions. How to use a water meter. 5. The method for using a water meter according to claim 4, wherein the certain condition includes a drought condition on a tap water supply side. 6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the amount of tap water used for each tap water appliance is integrated based on the identification result of the tap water appliance, and a water charge is calculated for each tap water appliance. How to use a water meter. 7. The method according to claim 1, wherein a tap water use pattern of a specific tap water use device used by a human at the tap water use location is obtained, and the tap water use pattern and the tap water detected by the water meter are determined. A method of using a water meter, comprising: determining whether or not an abnormality has occurred in a person at a location where tap water is used, based on the usage flow pattern. 8. The method for using a water meter according to claim 7, wherein the specific tap water use equipment includes a flush toilet and a bath. 9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the use status of a specific tap water use device used by a human at the tap water use location is determined, and if the tap water use device has not been used for a predetermined period or more, A method of using a water meter, wherein it is determined that an abnormality has occurred in a person at a place where tap water is used. 10. The method according to claim 1, wherein when detecting the use flow rate pattern, a water pressure pattern indicating a water pressure level of tap water is also detected, and based on the water pressure pattern and the use flow rate pattern. , From a plurality of tap water use equipment installed in the tap water use location,
A method of using a water meter, characterized by identifying a tap water device actually used. 11. A service meter attached to a tap pipe for supplying tap water to a tap water use location detects a use time and a use flow rate of the tap water at the tap water use location, and detects the detected use time and use flow rate. A method of using a water meter, comprising: calculating at least an integrated value of a usage amount by time zone or a usage amount by flow rate, and calculating a tap water usage fee based on the integrated value. 12. A water meter system comprising a water meter attached to a water pipe for supplying tap water to a tap water use location, wherein the water meter calculates a use time and a use flow rate of the tap water at the tap water use location. A use flow pattern storage unit that stores and retains a use flow pattern of tap water at the tap water use location; and a use that stores and retains information on a plurality of tap water use appliances installed at the tap water use location. Appliance information storage unit, the usage time and usage flow rate detected by the water meter, the usage flow pattern, and, based on the usage information, a plurality of tap water use appliances installed in the tap water use location A water meter, characterized in that it has a used appliance identification unit for estimating the actually used tap water appliance from the inside. system. 13. The apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising: a water leakage determining unit configured to determine the presence or absence of water leakage based on the identified tap water use device and the detected use time and flow amount of the tap water. A water meter system characterized by the following. 14. The control valve according to claim 13, further comprising: a control valve capable of opening and closing the water pipe, and a valve control unit for driving the control valve to close the water pipe when it is determined that water leakage has occurred. And a water meter system comprising: 15. The apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising: a flow control valve for controlling a flow rate of the water pipe, and a valve control unit for driving and controlling the flow control valve. The tap water use equipment is stored and stored in a state where the tap water use equipment is classified into at least a first group having a high necessity and a second group having a low necessity according to the degree of necessity. When the appliance belongs to the second group, the valve control unit drives the flow control valve under a certain condition to reduce the flow supplied through the water pipe. Water meter system characterized by doing. 16. The water meter system according to claim 15, wherein the certain condition includes a drought condition on a tap water supply side. 17. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein an integrating unit for each appliance for integrating tap water based on the identification result of the appliance for tap water, and a tap water use unit for each appliance for tap water use. A charge storage unit that stores a charge unit price; and a charge calculation unit that calculates a water charge for each tap water use appliance based on the integrated value of the integration unit for each appliance used and the content stored in the fee storage unit. A water meter system, characterized in that: 18. The tap water use pattern storing unit according to claim 12, wherein a tap water use pattern storage unit that stores and retains a tap water use pattern of a specific tap water use instrument used by a human at the tap water use location. And, based on tap water usage time and flow rate detected by the water meter,
A water meter system comprising: an abnormality determining unit that determines whether or not an abnormality has occurred in a person at the place where tap water is used. 19. The water meter system according to claim 18, wherein the specific tap water use equipment includes a flush toilet and a bath. 20. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein a specific tap water use device used by a person at the tap water use location is not used for a predetermined period or more based on the detection results of the use device identification unit and the water meter. A water meter system comprising an abnormality determining unit for determining that an abnormality has occurred in a person at the tap water use location. 21. A water pressure detecting means for detecting a water pressure level of tap water in said water mail, and a water pressure pattern storage for storing a water pressure pattern obtained by said water pressure detecting means. Having a unit, the use appliance identification unit, the use time and use flow rate detected by the water meter, the use flow pattern,
Based on the used appliance information, and the water pressure pattern,
A water meter system characterized by estimating an actually used tap water appliance from a plurality of tap water appliances installed at the tap water use location. 22. A water meter system comprising a water meter attached to a water pipe for supplying tap water to a tap water use location, wherein the water meter calculates the use time and flow rate of the tap water at the tap water use location. , Based on the detected usage time and usage flow rate, an integration unit that calculates at least the integrated value of the usage amount by time zone or the usage rate by flow zone, and the fee that stores the usage fee by time zone and the usage fee by flow zone A water meter system, comprising: a storage unit; and a charge calculation unit that calculates a tap water usage charge based on the integrated value and the storage content of the charge storage unit. 23. The display device according to claim 12, wherein an identification result of the used device identification unit, a result of the water leakage determination unit, a charge calculation unit, an abnormality determination unit, and an integration unit are displayed. A water meter system having an electronic counter. 24. The information processing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein:
A water meter system comprising: a transmission unit that transmits the results of the water leakage determination unit, the charge calculation unit, the abnormality determination unit, and the integration unit to the management center terminal via a communication line. 25. The management center terminal according to any one of claims 12 to 22, wherein:
An electronic counter that displays the results of the water leakage determination unit, the charge calculation unit, the abnormality determination unit, and the integration unit; and the identification result of the used device identification unit, the water leakage determination unit, the charge calculation unit, the abnormality determination unit, and the integration unit. And a transmission unit for transmitting the result in the electronic counter to the electronic counter via a communication line, and the identification result, the detection result, and the determination result in each unit are transmitted via the communication line via the electronic counter. A water meter system transmitted to the management center terminal. 26. The water meter system according to claim 25, wherein the electronic counter includes the identification unit, the determination unit, and the storage unit. 27. The water meter system according to claim 24, wherein the management center terminal is supplied with a result of identification and a result of determination in each section via the Internet. 28. The water meter system according to claim 27, further comprising an Internet server that operates a browsing site through which the identification result and the determination result of each unit can be browsed via the Internet. 29. The method according to claim 24 or 25, wherein, from the Internet connection terminal, via the Internet,
The water meter system wherein the setting of the fee and the pattern can be changed. 30. The water meter system according to claim 24, wherein the charge and pattern settings can be changed from the electronic counter or the management center terminal.