Apparatus and method for reading utility meters
June 14, 2014. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.Patent References 3754250 3806904 3914757 Remote automatic reading system Utility meter reading system Data transmitting apparatus Self-powered system for measuring and storing consumption of utility meter Single transmission line interrogated multiple channel data acquisition system Data collection apparatus Remote meter reading apparatus InventorAssigneeApplicationNo. 259723 filed on 06/14/1994US Classes:340/870.02, With meter reading324/103R, Demand, excess, maximum or minimum (e.g., separate meters for positive and negative power, peak voltmeter)324/142, Watts340/10.32, Group call340/10.34, Power up340/870.18, Using a particular modulation (e.g., phase, frequency, or amplitude)340/870.31, Inductive transmitter702/62Including communication meansExaminersPrimary: Mullen, ThomasAssistant: Wu, David W. Attorney, Agent or FirmForeign Patent References
International ClassG08B 023/08AbstractAn electronic meter reader having a transmitter and antenna for inductively transmitting alternating current power in any selected one of a plurality of frequencies. The reader further includes a receiver for inductively receiving meter reading data from the meter being read represented by a load modulation of the transmitted frequency. A bandpass filter limits the bandwidth of the modulation frequency. The power transmitted by the transmitter may also be used by the meter to generate and transmit data representative of the meter reading back to the reader. A second receiver is also provided for inductively receiving reading data from the meter in the form of a modulated frequency generated by the meter. The reader includes a microprocessor and program which control the generation of a plurality of interrogation signal formats, and which decode a plurality of received data formats.Other References
Field of SearchInterrogator-responderWith meter reading Having plural transmitters Using a particular modulation (e.g., phase, frequency, or amplitude) Inductive transmitter With particular receiver (e.g., ratiometer) Plural ranges, scales or registration rates Transformer (e.g., split core admits conductor carrying unknown current) Watts Demand, excess, maximum or minimum (e.g., separate meters for positive and negative power, peak voltmeter) Modulation by absorption, shielding, or reflecting | |
