JP3381835B2 - Electronic gas meter - Google Patents

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an electronic gas metering device for metering gas consumption, and more particularly to an electronic gas meter which is equipped with various functions used for gas supply and is configured to operate using a battery as a power source. Type gas metering device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an electronic gas meter of this type is generally called a microcomputer gas meter, and a microcomputer (μCO) which operates according to a predetermined program to realize various functions used for gas supply.
M) is built in. As various functions, in addition to important functions for security, there are functions for convenience of consumers and functions for rationalization of LP gas distributors. These functions are
It is set based on the combustion equipment to be used, the usage pattern of gas, and the like, and is defined by the setting data stored in the RAM, which is a readable / writable memory of the μCOM.

The setting data is stored in the RAM in the initialization process of μCOM by a reset operation performed by mounting a battery as a power source on the microcomputer gas meter at the time of shipment. In the initialization process, RA
In addition to the initial value of the gas usage amount, the setting data for setting various functions suitable for the standard household, that is, the standard setting data is stored in M, and thereafter it is continuously backed up by the battery power source.

As described above, the initialization process causes RA
The initial value stored in M is sequentially updated according to the amount of gas used by the gas metering operation after installation of the gas meter, and the content is displayed on the display or transmitted to the remote management center by the automatic meter reading operation. Will be done.

On the other hand, the standard setting data is that when a gas meter is installed in a household other than the standard household, the combustion of each household is caused by the setting work at the time of installation or by the learning performed during a certain period after the installation. It is set again according to the condition of the gas and gas usage.

The battery built into the microcomputer gas meter is
In addition to backing up the setting data in RAM,
It is also used as a power supply for an electronic device including μCOM in a microcomputer gas meter, but this is also for the purpose of eliminating the need for electrical work such as wiring of power supply lines when a commercial power supply is used.

By the way, as a conventional microcomputer gas meter, a so-called membrane gas meter having a membrane metering portion for measuring a gas flowing into a gas inlet and flowing out from a gas outlet is generally used. This membrane gas meter reciprocates the diaphragm by switching the switching valve each time a constant flow rate flows and allowing gas to flow alternately into the room partitioned by the diaphragm and discharging the gas in the room already filled with gas. Then, the measurement display unit including a counter is driven in association with the reciprocating movement of the diaphragm.

The membrane gas meter further integrates the gas flow rate based on the flow rate signal generated by the flow rate signal generating means, monitors the gas flow rate based on the flow rate signal, and detects an abnormality in the gas flow. Based on this abnormality detection, the shutoff valve is operated to shut off the gas supply path, the gas flow rate accumulated during automatic meter reading is sent to the remote management center as the gas usage amount, and the shutoff valve is operated to operate the gas supply path. It also has various functions such as receiving a signal to shut off the signal from the outside.

The above-mentioned conventional membrane-type gas meter that operates using a battery as a power source issues an alarm when the battery voltage drops below the alarm level, but when the battery voltage drops below the alarm level, Generally, it is time to replace the gas meter, so the gas meter itself is replaced with a new one.

However, when the gas meter is replaced, the initial integration value and standard setting data are stored in the new gas meter by the initialization process. Further, without replacing the gas meter, if the battery voltage drop alarm is followed, When the old battery is taken out and replaced with a new battery, the setting data etc. in the RAM are cleared, the initialization process is performed by the reset operation after the battery is installed, and the initial integrated value and standard setting data are stored. Become so. In either case, the data regarding the amount of gas used before that is lost and it is necessary to reset the setting data. Although the setting data is troublesome, it can be dealt with by performing the setting operation or learning and resetting the setting, but the data regarding the gas usage amount is irreversible.

In addition, the membrane gas meter in which the metering operation involves the mechanical operation as described above has a problem in terms of durability due to wear of the mechanical operation portion in addition to the large structure. Therefore, the gas flow rate is measured by using, for example, ultrasonic waves, the gas flow rate is obtained by the product of this gas flow rate and the cross-sectional area of the gas supply path, and this gas flow rate is integrated to measure the gas usage amount. However, gas meters that are fully electronic and have a long life have been studied.

[0012]

In the case of the above-mentioned completely electronic gas meter, there is no measurement display section consisting of a counter driven in conjunction with the reciprocating movement of the diaphragm, and the data on the gas usage amount is not available. If it is lost, the amount of gas used from the last meter reading to the time when the data is lost cannot be known at all. Further, in the case of a completely electronic gas meter, it is not always time to replace the gas meter itself when the battery voltage drops due to a longer life, so it is necessary to replace the battery.

Therefore, in the development of a new electronic gas meter for measuring the gas usage based on the measurement of the gas flow rate, when the battery voltage drop is warned, the gas meter is not replaced and the battery is replaced. It is desirable to prevent loss of data on gas usage, even if it is dealt with by replacement. In addition, it is required to be able to deal with the problem only by replacing the battery, without the need for complicated setting data resetting. Further, in the case of a gas meter incorporating a microcomputer that operates by a program, the operation of the microcomputer may be stopped due to a runaway and the metering operation may not be possible. When this happens, the microcomputer will be restarted by a reset, but if the initialization process is performed by this restart, the data related to the amount of gas used before that will be lost and standard data will be set as the setting data. It becomes necessary to re-set the setting data as the general setting data is stored.

Therefore, in view of the above-mentioned conventional problems, the present invention operates by using a battery as a power source and measures the gas usage based on the measurement of the gas flow velocity. An object of the present invention is to provide an electronic gas metering device that can be handled by replacing it with a battery.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic gas metering device constructed so that it can be reused as it is without requiring troublesome resetting of setting data even if the battery is replaced.

Further, the present invention is an electronic device constructed so that even if a stopped operation is started, the previous data is not lost and the operation can be restarted without troublesome data resetting. An object is to provide a gas metering device.

[0017]

The invention according to claim 1 made to solve the above-mentioned problems is, as shown in the basic configuration diagram of FIG. 1, a battery 15i and a flow velocity of a gas flow flowing in a gas supply passage. Has a flow rate measuring means 15a111 for measuring the gas flow rate based on the flow rate measured by the flow rate measuring means, and operates by using the battery as a power source. A metering display unit 15a11 for displaying the measured gas usage amount, and a data storage unit which stores the data concerning the gas usage amount measured by the measurement display unit in a writable and readable manner, and stores the stored data as a backup power source for the battery. With a storage means 15a3 and a non-volatile storage means 15 for storing data in a readable and writable manner and holding the stored data without a backup power source. If, by operating the battery as a power source,
Writing / reading means 15a for writing the data stored in the storage means with backup to the non-volatile storage means, reading the written data from the non-volatile storage means, and writing to the storage means with backup.
And the data to be read by the writing / reading means.
Data is not written in the non-volatile storage means,
Write predetermined data to the backup storage means
The burn them consists in Electronic gas metering device according to claim.

In the electronic gas metering device according to the first aspect, the metering display means 15a11 operates by using the battery 15i as a power source, and the flow rate measuring means 15a1 included in the metering display means.
11 measures the flow velocity of the gas flow flowing in the gas supply path, obtains the gas flow rate based on the measured flow velocity, integrates the obtained gas flow rates to measure the gas usage amount, and measures the measured gas usage amount. indicate. Storage means with backup 15a3 for holding the stored data as a backup power source using a battery
Stores the data regarding the gas usage amount measured by the measurement display means in a writable and readable manner. Nonvolatile storage means 1 for holding stored data without backup power source
5n stores data in a readable and writable manner. The writing / reading means 15a12 operates by using the battery as a power source to write the data stored in the backup storage means to the non-volatile storage means and read the written data from the non-volatile storage means and write it to the backup storage means.

As described above, the writing / reading means 15a operating with the battery as the power source is used for the data held in the backup storage means with the battery as the backup power source.
12 writes the stored data in the non-volatile storage means 15n without the backup power source and reads the written data from the non-volatile storage means and writes the data in the backup-equipped storage means. Even if the data regarding the gas usage amount stored in the backup storage means disappears and disappears, it relates to the gas usage amount in the non-volatile storage means written by the writing / reading means while operating with the battery as a power source. The data continues to be held, and the held data regarding the amount of gas used is read by the writing / reading means and written again in the storage means with backup. In addition, the data to be read is written in the nonvolatile storage means.
When not written, the writing / reading means does not write data.
Is written in the backup storage means,
Backup except when data is in volatile storage
Performs initialization processing to write specified data to the attached storage means
Be done.

Claim 2 which was made in order to solve the above-mentioned topic
According to the invention, in the electronic gas metering device according to claim 1, the writing / reading unit stores the data on the date and time of writing together with the data stored in the storage unit with backup. It exists in the electronic gas metering device characterized by writing in.

In the electronic gas metering device according to the second aspect, since the writing / reading means writes the data regarding the date and time of writing in the non-volatile storage means together with the data stored in the storage means with backup. By referring to the date and time data, it is possible to know what time the data regarding the gas usage amount stored in the non-volatile storage means is.

Claim 3 which was made in order to solve the above-mentioned topic
The described invention is the electronic gas metering device according to any one of claims 1 and 2, further comprising a functional means 15a13 which operates using the battery as a power source and executes various functions, and wherein the backup storage means is provided. An electronic gas metering device, wherein setting data for setting a function of the functional means is stored in a writable and readable manner in accordance with a combustor consuming gas supplied through the gas supply passage or a mode of using the gas. Exist in.

In the electronic gas metering apparatus according to the third aspect of the present invention, the backup storage means stores the setting data for setting the function of the function means 15a13 for executing various functions in a writable and readable manner. Since the writing / reading means writes the data in the nonvolatile storage means together with the data on the usage amount, the setting data is not lost even if the battery as the backup power source is used up, and the gas supplied through the gas supply path is consumed. It is not necessary to reset the setting data according to the type of combustor or gas used.

A fourth aspect of the present invention has been made to solve the above problems.
The described invention is the electronic gas metering device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the flow velocity measuring means is provided in the gas supply passage so as to be separated in the flow direction, and operates with the battery as a power source. , The ultrasonic signal propagation time between the pair of transducers 14a and 14b receiving the ultrasonic signal transmitted from one side on the other side, and the gas flowing through the gas supply path based on the measured ultrasonic signal propagation time The ultrasonic storage type flow velocity measuring unit 14 for measuring the flow velocity of the flow, the backup storage unit obtains the gas flow rate based on the flow velocity measured by the flow velocity measuring unit in the measurement display unit, and calculates the obtained gas flow rate. The present invention resides in an electronic gas metering device characterized in that data relating to a coefficient for integrating and measuring a gas usage amount is further written and readably stored.

According to another aspect of the electronic gas measuring apparatus of the present invention, the backup storage means obtains the gas flow rate based on the flow rate measured by the flow rate measuring means in the measurement display means, and integrates the obtained gas flow rate. Since the data regarding the coefficient for measuring the gas usage amount is stored in a writable and readable manner, and the data regarding the gas usage amount is written into the nonvolatile storage means by the writing and reading means, the battery serving as the backup power source Even if there is no data, the coefficient data is not lost, the ultrasonic signal propagation time between the pair of transducers 14a and 14b is measured, and the gas flowing through the gas supply path is measured based on the measured ultrasonic signal propagation time. The gas flow rate is measured by the flow velocity measurement means including the ultrasonic type flow velocity measurement means 14 for measuring the flow velocity of the flow. Because, it never functions to meter the gas consumption is impaired by integrating them.

A fifth aspect of the present invention has been made to solve the above problems.
In the electronic gas metering device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, the invention described above does not hinder the operation of the means for monitoring the voltage of the battery and using the battery as a power source, but it is set in advance. A battery voltage detecting means 15m for detecting that the voltage has dropped below a certain value is further provided, and the writing / reading means stores the voltage in the backup-equipped storage means at regular intervals after the voltage drop is detected by the battery voltage detecting means. Existing data is written into the non-volatile storage means.

In the electronic gas metering device according to the fifth aspect, the battery voltage detecting means 15m monitors the voltage of the battery,
Although the voltage of the battery does not hinder the operation of the means using this as a power source, it detects that the voltage has dropped below a predetermined value, and the writing / reading means detects the voltage drop by the battery voltage detecting means. After the detection, the data stored in the backup storage means is written into the non-volatile storage means at regular time intervals, so that until the battery voltage in the non-volatile storage means becomes unable to operate the means. Or, the data until just before the battery is replaced is retained.

Claim 6 which was made in order to solve the above-mentioned topic
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the electronic gas metering device according to the fifth aspect, the battery voltage detecting means monitors the voltage of the battery, and the voltage of the battery is necessary for the operation of the means using the battery as a power source. The writing / reading means detects that the voltage has been restored, and the write / read means reads the written data from the non-volatile storage means and writes the data in the backup storage means when the battery voltage detection means detects the voltage restoration. It exists in the electronic gas metering device.

In the electronic gas metering device according to the sixth aspect, the battery voltage detecting means monitors the voltage of the battery,
It is designed to detect that the voltage of the battery has returned to the voltage required for the operation of the means using the battery as a power source, and the writing / reading means writes the voltage when the battery voltage detecting means detects the voltage recovery. Since the data is read from the non-volatile storage means and written into the storage means with backup, when the battery is replaced and the power source is restored and the means starts operating, the writing / reading means causes the non-volatile storage means to write to the non-volatile storage means. The operation can be restarted based on the latest data written in the read-out backup storage means.

Claim 7 which was made in order to solve the above-mentioned topic
According to the described invention, in the electronic gas metering device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the writing and reading means reads the data stored in the non-volatile storage means in response to receiving a signal from the outside. The electronic gas metering device is characterized in that the data is written in the storage means with backup.

In the electronic gas metering device according to the seventh aspect, the writing and reading means starts its operation in response to receiving a signal from the outside and reads the data stored in the non-volatile storage means. Since the data is written in the storage means with backup, only by inputting a signal from the outside when the operation is stopped due to some reason such as a runaway, the write / read means reads from the non-volatile storage means and writes it in the storage means with backup. However, the operation can be restarted based on the latest data.

Claim 8 which is made in order to solve the above-mentioned topic
According to the invention described in claim 5, in the electronic gas metering device according to claim 5, a communication means 1 for transmitting and receiving a signal to and from the outside.
5f, wherein the writing / reading means reads the data stored in the non-volatile storage means in response to detection of a rising or falling edge of a signal received from the outside through the communication means, and adds the backup. The present invention resides in an electronic gas metering device characterized by writing in a storage means.

In the electronic gas metering device according to the eighth aspect, the writing / reading means is provided with the rising or falling edge of the signal received from the outside through the communication means 15f for transmitting / receiving the signal to / from the outside. In response to the detection, the data stored in the non-volatile storage means is read out and written in the storage means with backup. Therefore, when the operation stopped for some reason such as a runaway is restarted, the external data is transmitted through the communication means 15. By inputting a signal for communication from, the operation can be restarted by the latest data held in the nonvolatile storage means.

Claim 9 which was made in order to solve the above-mentioned topic
The described invention is the electronic gas metering device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the writing / reading means stores the data stored in the backup-equipped storage means at regular intervals at the non-volatile storage. An electronic gas metering device characterized by writing to the means.

In the electronic gas metering apparatus according to the ninth aspect, since the writing / reading means writes the data stored in the backup-equipped storage means to the non-volatile storage means at regular intervals, the nonvolatile storage means is nonvolatile. The latest data stored in the backup storage means is always held in the sex storage means.

Claim 1 which was made in order to solve the above-mentioned topic
The invention according to claim 0 is the electronic gas metering device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein when the data to be read is not written in the non-volatile storage means by the writing / reading means, the backup is provided. The present invention resides in an electronic gas metering device characterized by writing predetermined data in a storage means.

[0037]

[0038]

[0039]

[0040]

[0041]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The electronic gas meter, which is the electronic gas metering device in this embodiment, is configured to be applied to the LP gas supply equipment as shown in FIG. In the figure, an electronic gas meter denoted by reference numeral 1 reduces the high-pressure LP gas contained in an LP gas container 2 to a supply pressure by a pressure regulator 3 and supplies it to a combustor such as a gas bath pot 4 or a stove 5. It is installed in the pipe 6 in the gas supply path for measuring the amount of gas consumed in the combustor. In addition,
Reference numeral 7 is a shutoff valve provided in a pipe leading to the gas stove 5 and the like.

The electronic gas meter 1, as shown in FIG.
A shutoff valve 11 provided in a gas passage (not shown) connected to a pipe of a gas supply passage (not shown) to shut off the gas supply by closing the valve, a seismoscope 12 for detecting a seismic intensity of a predetermined value or more, and a pressure in the gas passage. It has a pressure sensor 13 for sensing, an ultrasonic flow velocity sensor 14 for generating a flow velocity signal that changes according to the flow velocity of the gas flow flowing through the gas passage, and a controller 15 as a control unit.

The controller 15 is a microcomputer (μCO) which operates according to a predetermined program.
M) 15a. The microcomputer 15a is
As is well known, a central processing unit (CPU) 15a that performs various processes and controls according to a predetermined program.
1. A ROM 15a2, which is a read-only memory that stores programs and the like for the CPU, and a RAM 15a3, which is a readable / writable memory that stores various data and has an area required for CPU processing work, are built-in. .

The controller 15 also drives the shutoff valve 11 in response to the shutoff valve 11, the seismic sensor 12, the pressure sensor 13, and the flow velocity sensor 14, and the shutoff valve 11 according to the shutoff signal output from the μCOM 15a. Shut-off valve drive circuit 15c for outputting a drive signal via the connector 15b
And an interface circuit 15d for inputting the signals from the seismoscope 12 and the pressure sensor 13 input via the connector 15b to the μCOM 15a, and the interface circuit 1
ΜCOM15 via 5d and connector 15b respectively
a and CP of μCOM 15a connected to the flow velocity sensor 14
It has a sensor circuit 15e which transmits a drive signal for driving the flow velocity sensor 14 under the control of U15a1 and receives a signal generated by the flow velocity sensor 14 by this driving.

The controller 15 further includes a terminal block 15f having various terminals to which various external devices outside the electronic gas meter 1 are connected, and μ via the terminal block 15f.
It has an interface circuit 15g for exchanging signals between the COM 15a and an external device. In particular,
The controller 15 is provided with, for example, an in-home display panel 21 for providing various displays related to the gas meter, an in-home operating device 22 for performing various remote operations with respect to the gas meter, and an inside of the house via the terminal block 15f. Gas alarm device 23 that detects a gas of an alarm level or higher and issues an alarm, and a CO second gas alarm device that detects a CO gas of an alarm level or higher and issues an alarm in addition to the function similar to that of the gas alarm device 23 Alarm device 24, automatic switching regulator that automatically switches between multiple LP gas containers 25, automatic switching regulator that outputs a signal according to the switching operation of the pressure regulator, and management of gas distributors via public lines such as telephone lines A network control unit (NCU) 26 for controlling communication with the center is connected. The setting terminal 26 'can be connected to the communication terminal 15f1 to which the NCU 26 is connected by removing the NCU 26, and the signal is transmitted / received to / from the outside via the communication terminal 15f1.

The controller 15 is also provided with μCOM.
A liquid crystal display (LCD) 15h connected to 15a for displaying various information such as an integrated value of gas usage and an alarm, and a lithium battery 15i for supplying operating power to each unit in the controller 15 and an interface circuit 15
A container exchange switch 15j that is connected to the μCOM 15a via d and is operated when the LP gas container is exchanged, a shutoff valve open switch 15k that is turned on when the shutoff valve 11 that is closed is opened, and the voltage of the battery 15i. Is detected to detect that the voltage of the battery has dropped below a certain value that does not hinder the operation of the controller 15 or the like, and that the voltage of the battery 15i has returned to the voltage required for the operation of the controller 15 or the like. Battery voltage detection circuit 15m and E ² P which is an electrically writable and readable nonvolatile storage means capable of holding stored contents without a backup power supply
It has a ROM 15n.

The CPU 15a1 of the μCOM 15a performs a process in accordance with a predetermined program and constitutes a gas metering display means together with the ultrasonic type flow velocity sensor 14, the sensor circuit 15e and the LCD 15h. μCOM15a C
In addition to the above functions, the PU 15a1 performs processing according to a predetermined program to cut off the total flow rate, increase the flow rate, shut down the operating time, shut off the leak while confirming the return safety, shut off the gas leak alarm, and shut down the seismic sensor. Acts as a functional means to execute a number of functions such as flow rate type minute leak warning, pressure type minute leak warning, adjustment pressure abnormality warning, blockage pressure abnormality warning, pressure drop cutoff, fire registration, test cutoff, automatic meter reading, residual quantity management, etc. However, various setting data for executing these functions are stored in a predetermined area in the RAM 15a3.

Specifically, the setting data is shown in FIG.
RA in the form of meter control codes 1 to 3 having the configuration shown in (c)
It is stored in a predetermined area in M15a3. Each code consists of 7 bytes (4 bits / byte), a total of 21 pieces of data, and K0 to K0 in order from the code 1 side in the figure.
The data name of K20 is attached.

For example, K0 of the meter control code 1 can stop a specific function by setting a specific value here, and k1 shuts off the shutoff valve by continuous use of the gas according to the value set here. It is used to define a range in which the time is automatically set by learning. K8 indicates the progress of learning by the value set here, and the value is automatically updated as the learning progresses. Further, K7 of the meter control code 2 is used to specify the in-home operating device by the value set here. In any case, standard setting data is set in the meter control codes 1 to 3 at the time of shipment, but the setting is reset by a setting device or updated according to the progress of learning depending on the situation. Therefore, if these setting data are lost, the gas meter, which also works as a safety device, does not function normally, which is a safety problem.

When the standard household is not a standard household, it is necessary to change the standard setting data, for example, as a function of partially stopping the function and resetting the contents, and a function of total flow cutoff and increase flow cutoff. Partial stop and setting to increase the lower limit of the flow cutoff setting range, Partial stop of the operating time cutoff function to fix the cutoff value of a specific flow rate segment to a fixed value, There are items that extend the usage time indefinitely and items that stop the alarm disconnection detection function for specific households. Items that stop the function include items that stop the functions of the minute pressure leak warning, the adjustment pressure abnormality warning, and the closing pressure abnormality warning. Finally, to newly select the function, the item to register the igniter registration and register the igniter flow rate corresponding to the flow rate type micro leak warning function, the shutoff valve remote opening and closing function to select the home controller There are items such as setting the H line switching of the home display.

First, the gas metering display means will be described. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5, for example, the flow velocity sensor 14 is a pair of gas flow sensors 16 disposed in the gas passage 16 in the gas meter 1 so as to be separated from each other in the flow direction. Oscillators 14a and 14b. The sensor circuit 15e, under the control of the μCOM 15a, transmits a signal that drives one of the transducers 14a and 14b to generate an ultrasonic wave and a transmitting circuit 15e1 that receives the ultrasonic wave generated by one transducer and the other. The signal generated by the oscillator of FIG. 2 is received via the high-pass filter (HPF) 15e4, and the received signal is amplified, for example, and the μCOM15
a receiving circuit 15e2 for sending to a, and μCOM15
Under the control of a, it has a switching circuit 15e3 that alternately switches the oscillator that supplies the signal from the transmission circuit 15e1 and the oscillator that supplies the signal to the reception circuit 15e2.

The principle of gas metering by the gas metering display means having the above-described structure will be described below. Now, the switching circuit 15e3 is under the control of the CPU of the μCOM 15a, and the transmission circuit 15e
It is assumed that the output signal No. 1 is supplied to the oscillator 14a and the signal generated by the oscillator 14b is supplied to the receiving circuit 15e2. In such a state, μCOM15a
CPU outputs a trigger signal and sends it to the transmitting circuit 15e.
Apply to 1. The transmission circuit 15e1 to which the trigger signal is applied generates a burst signal and transmits the burst signal to the vibrator 14a.
To generate an ultrasonic signal in the vibrator 14a. The ultrasonic signal generated by the vibrator 14a propagates in the gas flow and is received by the vibrator 14b. The transducer 14b having received the ultrasonic signal generates a signal corresponding to the received ultrasonic signal, and transmits the signal via the receiving circuit 15e2 to the μCOM 15a.
Supply to the CPU. The CPU of the μCOM 15a measures the time from the output of the trigger signal to the reception of the signal from the reception circuit 15e2, and the flow velocity of the gas flow is obtained from the measured time as follows.

Now, assuming that the propagation velocity of sound in the stationary gas is c and the flow velocity of the gas flow is v, the propagation velocity of ultrasonic waves in the forward direction of the gas flow is (c + v). Assuming that the distance between the oscillators 14a and 14b is L, the time T for the ultrasonic waves emitted by the oscillator 14a to reach the oscillator 14b is T = L / (c + v) (1) = L / T-c (2), and when L is known, the flow velocity v can be obtained by measuring T.

When the flow velocity v is obtained, the flow rate Q is Q = KSv (3), where S is the cross-sectional area of the gas passage 16 and K is the correction coefficient, and the instantaneous flow rate is obtained.

Therefore, every time the flow rate Q is obtained, the integrated gas supply amount, that is, the gas use amount can be obtained by multiplying the value obtained by multiplying the flow rate Q by the elapsed time from the previously obtained time. The required gas usage is RA
It is stored in a predetermined area in M15a3. In order to obtain the gas usage amount more accurately, the flow rate Q may be obtained by measuring the flow velocity in a short cycle when the flow rate Q is large and in a long cycle when the flow rate Q is small.

In the above equation (2) for obtaining the flow velocity v, the sound propagation velocity v is included as a constant. However, since the sound propagation velocity v changes with temperature, this value at room temperature is used. If a fixed value is used, an error will occur in the measurement of the flow velocity when the gas temperature is different from room temperature, so it is necessary to separately measure the temperature factor and correct the correction coefficient K. In this regard, in the configuration of FIG. 5, the switching circuit 15e3 has the μCOM15
By switching under the control of a CPU (not shown) in a, the output signal of the transmission circuit 15e1 is supplied to the oscillator 14b, and the signal generated by the oscillator 14a is received.
e2 is supplied. Therefore, in such a state, the arrival time of the ultrasonic wave in the direction opposite to the gas flow can be measured.

Assuming that the arrival time in the forward direction, that is, the ultrasonic signal propagation time is T1, and the arrival time in the reverse direction, that is, the ultrasonic signal propagation time is T2, T1 = L / (c + v) (4) T2 = L / (Cv) (5), and from equations (4) and (5), v = L / 2 (1 / T1-1 / T2) (6). When L is known, T1 and T2 are The flow velocity v can be obtained by measuring. In addition,
From equations (4) and (5), c = L / 2 (1 / T1 + 1 / T
2) is obtained, the temperature is obtained from this c, and the flow rate equation,
The value of the coefficient K depending on the temperature in Q = KSv can be corrected by the temperature, and the coefficient K corrected by this temperature is stored in a predetermined area in the RAM 15a3 and updated when the temperature of the gas changes. It is like this.

Further, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the information is inputted by using the pair of transducers for transmitting and receiving the ultrasonic signal, but the ultrasonic signal propagation between the pair of transducers 14a, 14b is performed. To measure the flow velocity based on the velocity and to correct the temperature of the coefficient K when calculating the flow rate based on the measured flow velocity, use a vibrator that is in communication with the gas supply path but has no gas flow. You can also This oscillator is
It is arranged toward a wall surface that is a certain distance away, and the time when the ultrasonic waves emitted toward the wall are reflected and returned by the wall surface is measured, and the relationship table between the time and the temperature stored in the RAM 15a3 is referred to. The temperature is determined, and the determined temperature is used to determine the coefficient K by referring to a relationship table between the temperature and the coefficient K prepared in advance in a predetermined area in the RAM 15a3.

Next, the writing and reading means 15a12 which writes the data stored in the RAM 15a3 to the E ² PROM 15n, which is a non-volatile storage means, reads the written data from the E ² PROM 15n and writes it in the original area in the RAM 15a3. The operation of the CPU 15a1 that functions as a battery voltage detection circuit 15 will be described before that.
A description will be given with reference to the configuration diagram of FIG. 6 showing a specific example of m and the graph of FIG. 7 showing the state of the power supply voltage changing from the battery mounting to the battery voltage reduction.

The battery voltage detection circuit 15m monitors the voltage of the battery 15i, and the voltage of the battery 15i is used as a power source to operate the ultrasonic type flow velocity sensor 14, μCOM 15a, interface circuits 15d and 15g, sensor circuit 15e, and the like. Is a certain value or more that does not hinder the operation of
A battery voltage drop detection circuit 15m1 that detects that the voltage drops below a predetermined constant value Vth1 (FIG. 7), and a predetermined constant value Vth2 (Fig. 7) after the battery voltage once decreases to the extent that it hinders operation. 7) A battery voltage rise detection circuit 15m2 for detecting that the voltage rises above and has returned to the voltage necessary for the operation of the means using the battery as a power source, and the battery voltage drop detection means 15m1 and the battery voltage rise detection circuit 15m2 are provided. Are both input to the input port of the μCOM 15a. In particular, the output of the battery voltage rise detection circuit 15m2 is applied to the reset input port R of the CPU 15a1 in the μCOM 15a. The battery voltage increase detection circuit 15m2 is shipped from the battery 15i
Even when the gas meter 1 is attached to the gas meter 1, a signal is generated at the output and is applied to the reset input port R.

When the signal from the battery voltage drop detection circuit 15m1 is input to the input port, the CPU 15a1 in the μCOM 15a relates to the set data and the amount of gas used which are written and stored in a predetermined area in the RAM 15a3 at regular intervals. The data and the data relating to the coefficient are read out, written in a predetermined area in the E ² PROM 15n, respectively, and the LCD 15h is caused to display a warning that the battery voltage has dropped. Further, at the time of this writing, date and time data generated by a calendar and a clock (not shown) incorporated in the μCOM 15a are stored together.

The CPU 15a1 in the μCOM 15a also has a battery voltage rise detection circuit 15 at the reset input port R.
When the signal from m2 is input, the operation starts, and first, E ²
The data in the PROM 15n is read to check the existence of stored data, but no data is present in the E ² PROM 15n at the time of shipment. If the data does not exist in the E ² PROM 15n, the initialization process is performed, and the standard setting data, the initial value of the gas usage amount, the coefficient K at room temperature, and the like are written in predetermined areas in the RAM 15a3. On the other hand, when the data exists in the E ² PROM 15n, the initialization process is not performed, the data existing in the E ² PROM 15n is read, and the read data is discriminated to determine the setting data and the gas usage amount. The data and the data related to the coefficient are written and stored in predetermined areas in the RAM 15a3.

CPU of μCOM 15a outlined above
Details of the operation of 15a1 will be described below with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 8 and 9 showing the processing performed by the CPU 15a1. The CPU 15a1 starts its operation by inputting a signal to the reset input port R, reads the data in the E ² PROM 15n in the first step S01, and determines whether or not there is stored data in the data read in the following step S02. To determine. When the determination in step S02 is NO, it is determined that the product is shipped, standard setting data is set in the next step S03, data relating to the initial value of the gas usage amount is set in the subsequent step S04, and in the subsequent step S05. After writing the data relating to the coefficient at room temperature into the predetermined areas in the RAM 15a3, the process proceeds to step S09.

On the other hand, if the determination in step S02 is YES and there is stored data in the E ² PROM 15n, the process proceeds to step S06, where the setting data is
In the next step S07, the data regarding the amount of gas used is read out, and in the following step S08, the data regarding the coefficient is read out, respectively written and stored in a predetermined area in the RAM 15a3, and then the process proceeds to step S09.

In step S09, the drop flag F indicating that the battery voltage has dropped below the predetermined value Vth1 is set to 1
Or not. NO in step S09
When, that is, when the battery voltage has not dropped to the predetermined value Vth1 or less, the routine proceeds to step S10, and it is determined whether or not the battery voltage has dropped to the predetermined value Vth1 or less.
When the determination in step S10 is NO, that is, when the battery voltage has not dropped below the predetermined value Vth1, the process proceeds to step S21 in the flowchart of FIG. In contrast,
When the determination in step S10 is YES, that is, when the battery voltage has dropped to the predetermined value Vth1 or less, the process proceeds to step S11, and a drop warning is output to the LCD 15h to warn that the battery voltage has dropped to the predetermined value or less. After setting the decrease flag F to 1 in step S12 of FIG.
The process proceeds to step S21 of the flowchart.

When the determination in step S09 is YES, that is, when the lowering flag F is 1, the process proceeds to step S13 and it is determined whether or not the timer has timed out. When the determination in step S13 is YES, for example, when the value of the timer counter is the maximum value or the minimum value, the process proceeds to step S14, the setting data stored in the predetermined area in the RAM 15a3, the data regarding the gas usage amount, and The data relating to the coefficient is read out, written in a predetermined area in the E ² PROM 15n and stored, and then the process proceeds to step S15 to start a timer for measuring a fixed time of, for example, 1 hour, and then to step S21 of the flowchart of FIG. move on. When the determination in step S13 is NO, steps S14 and S15 are skipped and the process proceeds to step S21 in the flowchart of FIG. The timer has a maximum value or a minimum value when the count value of the timer counter formed in a predetermined area in the RAM 15a3, which is incremented or decremented from 0 to a predetermined value at a constant time, becomes the maximum value or the minimum value, and the time is over. It will be.

In step S21, the RAM 15a
It is determined whether or not the ΔT timer formed in the predetermined area 3 has timed out, and if this determination is YES,
The process proceeds to the next step S22 to perform the flow rate detection process.

In this flow rate detection processing, the CPU 15a1 transmits a signal for generating an ultrasonic wave to the transmission circuit 15e1,
Prior to this, the switching circuit 15e3 is switched to switch the oscillator 1
One of 4a and 14b is driven by a signal from the transmission circuit 15e1 to act as a vibrator that generates ultrasonic waves,
The other receives the ultrasonic wave generated by one of the vibrators, generates a signal, and operates as a vibrator which supplies the signal to the reception circuit 15e2, and this is alternately performed. And the CPU 15a
In No. 1, the time from the output of a signal for generating an ultrasonic wave to a vibrator to the reception of an ultrasonic wave is measured in both directions, the flow velocity is measured from this time, and the gas flow rate Q is obtained based on this measured flow velocity.

Next, the process proceeds to step S23 and step S
It is determined whether or not the gas flow rate Q obtained in 22 is 0 or more and less than Q ₁ , and if the determination in step S23 is NO, the process proceeds to step S24 and the gas flow rate Q is Q ₁ or more and Q or more.
It is determined whether or not it is less than ₂ , and when the determination in step S24 is NO, the same determinations are sequentially performed, and finally, in step S25, it is determined whether or not it is Q _n-1 or more and less than Q _n. If NO in step S25, the process proceeds to step S26 to start the ΔT timer.

When the determination in step S23 is YES, the process proceeds to step S23a, where ΔT timer time is Δ
After setting T ₁ , the process proceeds to step S26 to start the ΔT timer. Further, the determination in step S24 is YE.
If S, the process proceeds to step S24a, where ΔT ₂ is set as the ΔT timer time, and then the process proceeds to step S26, where ΔT
Start the T timer. Further, when the determination in step S25 is YES, the process proceeds to step S25a to set ΔT _n as the ΔT timer time, and then proceeds to step S26 to start the ΔT timer.

The steps S23, S23a, S24,
S24a, S25, and S25a are for shortening the cycle for measuring the flow velocity according to the magnitude of the flow rate, and the relationship between the flow rate and the cycle is as shown in FIG.

After the ΔT timer is started in step S26, the process proceeds to step S27 and the above step S
Gas metering processing for metering the amount of gas used is performed based on the gas flow rate detected at 22. After that, the process proceeds to step S28, and a process for automatically setting a use time for shutting off the shutoff valve 11 when the gas is continuously used is performed. Subsequently, the process proceeds to step S29, and processing for obtaining and setting the flow rate value for setting the flow rate value for performing the total flow rate cutoff and the increase flow rate cutoff is performed. Next, the process proceeds to step S30, and the above steps S28 and S
After performing the process of shutting off the shutoff valve 11 when the usage time and the gas flow rate set in 29 are reached, the process returns to step S1.

As described above, the stored data is stored in the battery 1
RAM 15a3 holding 5i as a backup power source
Stores the data related to the amount of gas used for writing and reading, and the E ² PROM 15n that holds the stored data without a backup power source stores the data for reading and writing, and the CPU 15a1 writes the data stored in the RAM 15a3 to The written data is E ²
Since the data is read from the PROM 15n and written in the RAM 15a3, even if the battery 15i as a backup power source is lost and the data regarding the gas usage amount stored in the RAM 15a3 is lost, the battery 15i is operated as a power source. The data on the gas usage amount in the E ² PROM 15n written by the CPU 15a1 is continuously held, and the held data on the gas usage amount is read out by the CPU 15a1 and written to the RAM 15a3 again, which disturbs the gas metering operation. It will never come.

Based on the date and time data generated by the calendar clock, the CPU 15a1 stores the data regarding the written date and time E ² together with the data stored in the RAM 15a3.
Since it is written in the PROM 15n, by referring to the data regarding this date and time, it is possible to know what time the data regarding the gas usage amount held in the E ² PROM 15n is, until just before the gas metering operation is stopped. It can be used to settle gas usage fees.

The RAM 15a3 stores, in a freely writable and writable manner, setting data for setting the functions of the CPU 15a1 for executing various functions, and the CPU 15a1 stores the E ² PROM1 together with the data regarding the gas usage amount.
Since the data is written in 5n, the setting data is not lost even if the battery 15i which is the backup power supply is used up, and the combustor that consumes the gas supplied through the gas supply path or the mode of using the gas is used. There is no need to reset the setting data.

The RAM 15a3 stores a gas flow rate on the basis of the flow velocity measured by the CPU 15a1, and stores the data related to the coefficient for integrating the gas flow rate thus obtained to measure the gas usage amount in a freely writable manner. CPU15a1 with data on gas usage
Since the data is written in the E ² PROM 15n, the data concerning the coefficient is not lost even if the battery 15i which is the backup power supply disappears, and the ultrasonic signal propagation time between the pair of transducers 14a and 14b is measured. , The function of measuring the flow velocity of the gas flow flowing in the gas supply path based on the measured ultrasonic signal propagation time, obtaining the gas flow rate by this flow velocity measurement, and integrating this to measure the gas usage amount is impaired. Therefore, it is possible to measure gas with relatively high accuracy.

The battery voltage detection circuit 15m monitors the voltage of the battery 15i and detects that the voltage of the battery 15i has dropped to a predetermined value or less, although it does not hinder the operation of each unit using the battery 15i as a power source. And CPU15a
1 the voltage drop detection after by the battery voltage detecting circuit, the data stored in RAM15a3 every predetermined time E ² PR
Since it is designed to write to OM15n, E ² PR
The OM 15n holds data until just before the battery voltage becomes unable to operate each unit or just before the battery 15i is replaced, and can be used for settlement of the gas usage fee.

The battery voltage detection circuit 15m monitors the voltage of the battery 15i and detects that the voltage of the battery 15i has returned to a voltage necessary for the operation of each unit using the battery 15i as a power source. Battery voltage detection circuit 15
When the voltage recovery by m is detected, the written data is changed to E ² P
Since it is designed to read from the ROM 15n and write to the RAM 15a3, when the battery 15i is replaced and the power source is restored and each unit starts operating, the CPU 15a1 operates based on the latest data read from the E ² PROM 15n and written to the RAM 15a3. Can be restarted without having to do troublesome work.

In the above-described embodiment, the battery voltage rise detection circuit 15m2 included in the battery voltage detection circuit 15m.
Although the reset operation of the CPU 15a1 is performed by the detection of the voltage increase by, the battery replacement is not performed when the CPU 15a1 is stopped by the runaway. Therefore, the detection of the voltage increase by the battery voltage increase detection circuit 15m2 detects the CPU 15a1. The reset operation cannot be performed. In such a case, the reset operation can be started by externally inputting a signal from the NCU 26 connected to the communication terminal of the terminal block 15f or a setting device connected instead of the NCU 26.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 11, the communication start detecting circuit 15p1 formed by, for example, a differentiating circuit.
Is connected to the communication terminal of the terminal block 15f. The output of the communication start detection circuit 15p1 is normally at the L level, but generates a positive spike-like pulse in response to a change in the voltage of the communication line rising from the L level to the H level due to the start of communication. The output of the communication start detection circuit 15p1 is inverted by the inverter 15p2 and then input to the reset input port of the CPU 15a1 via the OR circuit 15p3. Further, a watchdog timer circuit 15p4 is connected to the clock output ck of the CPU 15a1. The output of the watchdog timer circuit 15p4 is held at the H level when the clock pulse is input to the input at a constant cycle, but when the clock pulse is not input, the output falls from the H level to the L level. Work like.

Therefore, the reset input port R of the CPU 15a1 is kept at the H level while the CPU 15a1 is operating and outputting a clock pulse, or except when the communication start detecting circuit 15p1 detects the start of communication. There is. However, when the CPU 15a1 runs out of control and no clock pulse is generated, one input of the OR circuit 15p3 becomes L level. Therefore, in such a state,
The communication start detection circuit 15p1 detects the start of communication and generates a spike-shaped pulse.
When inverted by p2 and applied to one input of the OR circuit 15p3, the reset input port R of the CPU 15a1 starts to rise from L level to H level, and accordingly the CPU 15a1 performs the reset operation. That is,
The watchdog timer circuit 15p4 includes the CPU 15a1.
Acts as a means to detect that the operation of
Only when the CPU 15a1 is stopped, the CPU 15a1 can be reset by external communication.

The pulse inverted by the inverter 15p2 is also applied to the watchdog timer circuit 15p4 and is also used for resetting it. This is because when the CPU 15a1 starts to operate and outputs a clock pulse, the output of the watchdog timer circuit 15p4 normally rises from the L level to the H level, but when the watchdog timer 15p4 runs out of control, this rising operation is performed. Is not performed. The diode D is for suppressing the generation of a negative pulse generated in response to the fall of the communication line from H level to L level.

By this reset operation, the CPU 15a1
Reads the data stored in the E ² PROM 15n and writes it in the RAM 15a3. Therefore, if a signal is input from the outside after replacing the battery 15i, the CP
RA read from E ² PROM 15n by U15a1
The operation can be restarted based on the latest data written in M15a3.

That is, by the operation as described above,
Since the reset operation of the CPU 15a1 is performed, when the operation of the CPU 15a1 is stopped due to a runaway program or the like in a state where the battery 15i is not low enough to stop the operation of the CPU 15a1,
When normal communication is performed from the outside or conscious communication is performed, the reset operation is automatically performed and the stopped operation of the CPU 15a1 is restarted.

In the above-described embodiment, the data stored in the RAM 15a3 is written to the E ² PROM 15n at regular intervals after the battery voltage drops, but even before the battery voltage drops, the data is stored for a fixed time. RA for each
The data stored in M15a3 is stored in the E ² PROM 15n.
You may write in. In this case, since the latest data stored in the RAM 15a3 is always held in the E ² PROM 15n without determining the battery voltage, the battery 15i is artificially removed and suddenly the power supply is stopped. Also, the data in the E ² PROM 15n is read by the CPU 15a1 and is again stored in the RAM.
It is written in 15a3 and becomes available, so that it does not interfere with the gas metering operation.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the CPU 1
When the normal communication is performed from the outside or the communication is intentionally performed when the 5a1 is stopped due to a runaway, the reset operation is automatically performed and stopped.
The operation of U15a1 is restarted, but this may be used instead of the one that performs the reset operation in response to the detection of the battery voltage rise. In this case, the reset operation requires external communication, but the battery voltage rise detection circuit can be omitted. That is, when the CPU 15a1 stops operating due to, for example, a decrease in the battery voltage, when the start of communication is detected after the battery is replaced, the reset operation is performed using the new battery as a power source.

Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, RA
The storage means with backup consisting of M15a3 is made to store data relating to gas usage, setting data, and data relating to coefficients, these data are appropriately written in the non-volatile storage means, and the written data is read out to the storage means with backup again. Although it is written, the data regarding the gas usage amount, the setting data, and the data regarding the coefficient are stored, and these data are directly written and written in the nonvolatile storage means without writing them in the backup storage means. The data may be read.

[0088]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, even if the battery as the backup power source is used up and the data regarding the gas usage amount stored in the backup storage means is lost, the nonvolatile property is maintained. Since the data regarding the gas usage amount in the storage means continues to be held, and the held data regarding the gas usage amount is read out and written in the storage means with backup again, based on the measurement of the gas flow rate using the battery as a power source. Even if the amount of gas used is measured, when the battery voltage drops, it can be dealt with by replacing with a new battery. Also, backup power
A non-volatile storage means that retains stored data without a source
While writing the data about the usage amount,
Since it is reading the data, it operates with the battery as a power source,
It measures the amount of gas used based on the measurement of gas flow velocity.
The data on gas usage is not lost.
And replace the low battery voltage with a new battery.
You can

According to the second aspect of the invention, since the data stored in the backup storage means and the data regarding the date and time of writing are written together in the non-volatile storage means, refer to the data regarding this date and time. By doing so, it is possible to know what time the data regarding the gas usage amount held in the non-volatile storage means is, and it is possible to normally perform the task of billing the gas usage fee up to this date and time.

Further, according to the invention of claim 3, even if the battery as the backup power source is used up, the setting data is not lost, and the combustor or gas that consumes the gas supplied through the gas supply path is used. Since it is not necessary to reset the setting data according to the mode, the battery can be reused without changing the setting data even if the battery is replaced.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, even if the battery serving as the backup power source is used up, the coefficient data is not lost, and the ultrasonic signal propagation time between the pair of transducers is measured, and the measurement is performed. The flow velocity of the gas flow flowing in the gas supply path is measured based on the ultrasonic signal propagation time, the gas flow rate is obtained by this flow velocity measurement, and the function of integrating this to measure the gas usage amount is not impaired, It is possible to measure gas with the same accuracy before and after battery replacement.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, since the data is stored in the non-volatile memory until just before the battery cannot operate at the battery voltage or just before the battery is replaced, the operation performed after the battery is replaced. Is the same as before battery replacement.

According to the invention described in claim 6, when the battery is replaced, the power source is restored and the operation is started, the operation is restarted based on the latest data read from the non-volatile storage means and written in the storage means with backup. Therefore, the operation before the battery replacement can be returned to the troublesome work.

According to the seventh aspect of the invention, when the operation is stopped due to some reason such as a runaway, the operation is started in response to receiving a signal from the outside, and the writing / reading means reads out from the non-volatile storage means. The operation can be restarted based on the latest data written in the backup storage means, and the data at the time of starting the operation can be transmitted to the outside.

According to the invention described in claim 8, when resuming the operation stopped for some reason such as runaway, a special means is provided by inputting the signal used for normal communication from the outside. Instead, the operation can be restarted by the latest data held in the nonvolatile storage means.

According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, since the latest data stored in the backup storage means is always held in the non-volatile storage means, the operation may be suddenly stopped by removing the battery. Can always secure necessary data.

[0097]

[0098]

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a basic configuration of an electronic gas metering device according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing gas supply equipment to which an electronic gas metering device according to the present invention is applied.

FIG. 3 is a circuit configuration diagram showing an embodiment of an electronic gas metering device according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a specific configuration example of a meter control code.

5 is a diagram showing a specific configuration example of an ultrasonic flow velocity sensor in FIG.

6 is a diagram showing a specific configuration example of the battery voltage detection circuit in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a graph showing how the battery voltage changes.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a part of processing performed by a CPU in μCOM of FIG.

9 is a flowchart showing another portion of the processing performed by the CPU in μCOM of FIG.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing how the flow velocity measurement cycle is changed according to the flow rate.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating another configuration example for resetting the CPU.

[Explanation of symbols]

14 Ultrasonic Flow Velocity Measuring Means (Ultrasonic Velocity Sensor) 14a, 14b Pair of Transducers 15a11 Gas Metering Display Means (CPU) 15a111 Flow Velocity Measuring Means (CPU, Vibrators) 15a12 Write / Read Means (CPU) 15a13 Function Means (CPU) 15a3 Storage means with backup (RA
M) 15f1 communication means (communication terminal) 15i battery 15m battery voltage detection means (battery voltage detection circuit) 15n non-volatile storage means (E ² PROM)

Continuation of front page (56) Reference JP-A-2-190715 (JP, A) JP-A-7-159218 (JP, A) JP-A-7-49249 (JP, A) JP-A-9-133560 (JP , A) (58) Fields investigated (Int.Cl. ⁷ , DB name) G01F 1/00-9/02

Claims (9)

(57) [Claims] 1. A battery and flow velocity measuring means for measuring the flow velocity of a gas flow flowing through a gas supply path, are operated by using the battery as a power source, and measure the gas flow rate based on the flow velocity measured by the flow velocity measuring means. Obtained, the gas flow rate obtained is integrated to measure the amount of gas used,
A metering display unit for displaying the measured gas usage amount, and a memory with backup for storing the data concerning the gas usage amount measured by the measurement display unit in a writable and readable manner and for holding the stored data as the backup power source. Means, non-volatile storage means for reading and writing data and storing the stored data without a backup power source; and the non-volatile storage means for operating the battery as a power source to store the data stored in the backup storage means. is written to the means, and a write and read means for writing to the backed memory means reads out the written data from said nonvolatile memory means, said writing reading means, data to be read is the non
When the data is not written in the memory, the backup
An electronic gas metering device characterized in that predetermined data is written in a storage means with a built-in battery . 2. The writing / reading means writes the data regarding the date and time of writing in the non-volatile storage means together with the data stored in the storage means with backup. Electronic gas meter. 3. A functional unit that operates using the battery as a power source and executes various functions, and the storage unit with backup uses a combustor or gas that consumes the gas supplied through the gas supply passage. 3. The electronic gas metering device according to claim 1, wherein setting data for setting the function of the function means is stored in a writable and readable manner according to the form. 4. A pair of vibrators, wherein the flow velocity measuring means is provided in a gas supply path so as to be separated from each other in a flow direction, operates by using the battery as a power source, and receives an ultrasonic signal transmitted from one side by the other side. Measuring ultrasonic signal propagation time between, consisting of ultrasonic flow velocity measuring means for measuring the flow velocity of the gas flow flowing in the gas supply path based on the measured ultrasonic signal propagation time, the backup storage means, A gas flow rate is calculated on the basis of the flow rate measured by the flow rate measuring means in the measurement display means, and the obtained gas flow rate is integrated and data relating to a coefficient for measuring the gas usage amount is further stored in a writable and readable manner. Claim 1 characterized in that
An electronic gas metering device according to any one of 3 to 3. 5. Battery voltage detection for monitoring the voltage of the battery and detecting that the voltage of the battery has dropped to a predetermined value or less, although it does not hinder the operation of the means using the battery as a power source. The writing / reading means further writes the data stored in the backup storage means to the non-volatile storage means at regular time intervals after the voltage drop detection by the battery voltage detection means. The electronic gas metering device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. 6. The battery voltage detecting means monitors the voltage of the battery, detects that the voltage of the battery has returned to a voltage necessary for the operation of the means using the battery as a power source, and writes the voltage. The electronic gas metering device according to claim 5, wherein the reading means reads the written data from the non-volatile storage means and writes the backup data into the backup storage means when the battery voltage detection means detects a voltage recovery. . 7. The writing / reading means reads data stored in the nonvolatile storage means and writes the data in the backup storage means in response to receiving a signal from the outside. Item 1. An electronic gas meter according to any one of items 1 to 6. 8. A communication unit for transmitting / receiving a signal to / from the outside is further provided, and the writing / reading unit is responsive to detection of a rising or falling edge of a signal received from the outside through the communication unit. 7. The electronic gas metering device according to claim 1, wherein the data stored in said non-volatile storage means is read and written into said storage means with backup. 9. The read / write means writes the data stored in the backup storage means into the non-volatile storage means at regular time intervals.
The electronic gas metering device according to any one of 4 above.