WO2000079500A1 - Systeme et procede de surveillance de compteur a distance - Google Patents

Systeme et procede de surveillance de compteur a distance Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2000079500A1
WO2000079500A1 PCT/US2000/016871 US0016871W WO0079500A1 WO 2000079500 A1 WO2000079500 A1 WO 2000079500A1 US 0016871 W US0016871 W US 0016871W WO 0079500 A1 WO0079500 A1 WO 0079500A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
monitoring unit
meter
remote monitoring
central computer
signal
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2000/016871
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English (en)
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WO2000079500A9 (fr
Inventor
George Peters
Original Assignee
Telenetics Corporation
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Telenetics Corporation filed Critical Telenetics Corporation
Publication of WO2000079500A1 publication Critical patent/WO2000079500A1/fr
Publication of WO2000079500A9 publication Critical patent/WO2000079500A9/fr

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01D—MEASURING NOT SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR A SPECIFIC VARIABLE; ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEASURING TWO OR MORE VARIABLES NOT COVERED IN A SINGLE OTHER SUBCLASS; TARIFF METERING APPARATUS; MEASURING OR TESTING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G01D4/00—Tariff metering apparatus
    • G01D4/002—Remote reading of utility meters
    • G01D4/004—Remote reading of utility meters to a fixed location
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
    • G08C25/00—Arrangements for preventing or correcting errors; Monitoring arrangements
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
    • Y02B90/00—Enabling technologies or technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02B90/20—Smart grids as enabling technology in buildings sector
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y04—INFORMATION OR COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES HAVING AN IMPACT ON OTHER TECHNOLOGY AREAS
    • Y04S—SYSTEMS INTEGRATING TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO POWER NETWORK OPERATION, COMMUNICATION OR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES FOR IMPROVING THE ELECTRICAL POWER GENERATION, TRANSMISSION, DISTRIBUTION, MANAGEMENT OR USAGE, i.e. SMART GRIDS
    • Y04S20/00—Management or operation of end-user stationary applications or the last stages of power distribution; Controlling, monitoring or operating thereof
    • Y04S20/30—Smart metering, e.g. specially adapted for remote reading

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a remote monitoring system. Specifically, the present invention relates to a remote meter monitoring system and methods of use thereof. Description of the Related Art
  • Utility companies such as electric, water, and gas companies, currently send field personnel to read utility meters associated with residential, industrial or commercial buildings. Field personnel record the meter readings, and other company personnel compile and organize this data. For service disruptions, it may be difficult for utility companies to detect and isolate the source of the disruption. It may be difficult to distinguish a disruption in the service from a malfunction in the meter. It may also take considerable time to restore service to the customers.
  • a 'mechanical' utility meter typically does not use a power supply.
  • an 'electronic' or solid-state utility meter often has a power supply and a microcontroller.
  • Electronic or solid-state meters are often designed to be low-powered devices, i.e., the electronic meters are designed to consume small amounts of power. Some electronic meters have an active mode and an idle mode. In idle mode, the microcontroller reduces its level of power consumption.
  • the present invention relates to a remote utility meter monitoring system and methods of use thereof.
  • the remote utility meter monitoring system comprises a central or host computer (host) and one or more remote meter monitoring units (RMU), which may each monitor one or more electronic or solid state utility meters.
  • the RMUs communicate with the host via a communication network.
  • the remote meter monitoring system provides several general advantages.
  • the system reduces operating costs. For example, the system reduces the costs associated with hiring and training personnel to read data from remote meters in the field. The system also reduces the costs associated with hiring and training office personnel to compile and process the meter data. The system also minimizes the interference with customers associated with routine meter-reading visits.
  • the system allows more frequent customer consumption reads, such as daily, hourly or quarter-hourly reads, compared to monthly or quarterly reads by field personnel.
  • the system also reduces human error and improves billing accuracy.
  • the system gathers vast amounts of data, such as peak values and peak times, from a large geographical area virtually simultaneously.
  • the system allows utility companies to quickly and efficiently construct one or more load profiles for single customers, groups of customers and/or geographical areas of various sizes. Load profiles allow utility companies to control load-sharing, which reduces the need for utility companies to build additional power plants due to increased power demand. Gathering data quickly and managing consumption is particularly important for serving heavy usage customers.
  • the system pin-points malfunctioning meters or stations without guessing their location. The system improves customer service by reducing the time it takes to detect a disruption and to restore service.
  • the remote meter monitoring system may provide several specific advantages or features.
  • the RMU is configured to detect and report (to the host) a number of events associated with the RMU and a plurality of electronic meters coupled to the RMU. These events may include a power outage of an electronic meter, a power restoration of a meter, a meter disconnection from the RMU, a meter malfunction or tampering such as vandalism, a power outage of a particular service area associated with a meter, a power outage within the RMU, a power restoration within the RMU, and other meter alarms and events.
  • the RMU has a modem and a modem sharing unit which provides communication between a plurality of electronic meters and the host. Each electronic meter may be located at a substantial distance from the RMU.
  • the RMU has its own wireless transceiver, which allows the RMU to communicate with the host via a wireless communication channel.
  • the RMU has its own power supply and rechargeable back-up battery.
  • the rechargeable back-up battery enables the RMU to report the power failure or restoration of an electronic meter or the power failure of the RMU when the RMU's main power supply has failed.
  • the RMU has an intelligent line-sharing unit, which shares a customer's telephone line without interrupting the customer's incoming, outgoing or ongoing calls.
  • the line-sharing unit gives priority to any call originated by the customer.
  • the customer is unaware of the line-sharing, i.e., the communication between the RMU and the host is transparent to customer.
  • the RMU when the RMU detects an event associated with the meters or the RMU itself, the RMU automatically dials a pre-stored telephone number to report the event to the host. If an event is associated with a meter, the RMU may report the serial number or a pre-stored, pre determined identification number of that meter to the host. In addition, the RMU may report the event itself. If an event is associated with the RMU, the RMU may report the serial number or an identification number of the RMU to the host and the event itself.
  • the RMU waits a predetermined time period, such as thirty seconds or two minutes, before reporting an event to the host. If the event, such as a power outage or power restoration, has not changed at the end of the time period, then the RMU reports the event to the host. If the event has changed, e.g., a recovery, at the end of the time period, then the RMU does not report the event to the host. Alternatively, in another embodiment, if the event changes anytime during the time period, then the time period is reset.
  • a predetermined time period such as thirty seconds or two minutes
  • One advantage of the predetermined time period is that a condition of a meter, such as a power outage, detected in a time sample (e.g., one second) may be disregarded by the RMU if the condition changes at some point before the end of the predetermined time period (e.g., two minutes). For example, a meter may temporarily lose power or function improperly and then regain power or function properly before the end of the predetermined time period. The ability to disregard false or momentary conditions improves the reliability of the RMU.
  • the RMU reports power outages, malfunctions and disconnections to a communication device, such as a pager, a wireless phone, a fax machine, etc., instead of or in addition to the host.
  • the RMU continuously tests the meters coupled to the RMU for power outage or power restoration by strobing or stepping through each port associated with a meter in sequence at a relatively high frequency. In one configuration, the RMU scans one port for a predetermined time sample and then scans the next port for the same time sample.
  • the RMU and/or the meter reports events prior to a power outage, such as a voltage sag or a current spike, to the host. If the power outage has not yet occurred, these events may allow the host to alert utility company personnel to investigate the event and thereby prevent the power outage. For example, if a tree falls on a power line, a meter near the tree may indicate a voltage sag or leakage. After the RMU reports the voltage sag or leakage to the host, the host may alert utility company personnel to remove the tree. If the power outage already occurred, the host may use the reported events prior to the power outage to try to determine the reason why the power outage occurred.
  • a power outage such as a voltage sag or a current spike
  • the RMU waits a first predetermined time period, such as 5 seconds, for an acknowledgement signal from the host after the RMU sends a report or alarm message. If the RMU does not receive an acknowledgement character, the RMU resends the report or alarm message. In one embodiment, after a predetermined number of failed attempts, the RMU retries after a second predetermined time period, such as two minutes.
  • the RMU is configured to receive and respond to requests for information from the host.
  • the requested information may include the meter serial/identification numbers, the identification number of the RMU and the current alarm status of each meter and the RMU.
  • the host may send commands to the RMU, such as a command to store, change or verify a dial-out phone number.
  • the central computer may also send commands to the meters, such as a command to change the frequency of the meter readings.
  • the RMU has a connector for loading or downloading information from a laptop or other portable device.
  • the loaded or downloaded information may include a dial-out phone number, a back-up dial out phone number, serial numbers of meters, an ID number of the RMU, and configuration parameters for an internal modem.
  • the RMU can differentiate an electronic meter with a power outage from an electronic meter which is in an idle mode. In a large number of electronic meters, when the meter is not transmitting or receiving data, the meter does not generate an active signal to indicate whether the meter is in idle mode or whether the meter has lost its power or malfunctioned.
  • the RMU has a detector which is configured to detect a low-level noise signal or footprint generated by the meter when the meter is in idle mode. This is particularly advantageous where the RMU is monitoring a plurality of meters, and one meter loses power or has a component which malfunctions.
  • the RMU can advantageously differentiate power outage from idle mode for one or more meters which are located at an extended distance from the RMU.
  • the detector is disabled when at least one of the meters is transmitting data to the host (through the remote monitoring unit) or receiving data from the host (through the remote monitoring unit). Alternatively, in another embodiment, the detector continues to scan the other meters which are not currently transmitting or receiving data.
  • the system comprises a central computer, at least one remote meter monitoring unit and at least one electronic meter, which is coupled to the remote monitoring unit.
  • the remote monitoring unit is configured to communicate with the central computer over a communication network.
  • the remote monitoring is configured to detect a noise signal or footprint generated by the meter when the meter is functioning properly and the meter is properly coupled to the remote monitoring unit.
  • the remote monitoring unit sends a signal to the central computer when the detector detects a change in the noise signal from the meter.
  • the remote monitoring unit is coupled to an electronic meter.
  • the remote monitoring unit communicates with a central computer via a communication network.
  • the remote monitoring unit is configured to detect a noise signal or footprint generated by the electronic meter when the meter is functioning properly and the meter is properly coupled to the remote monitoring unit. If the remote monitoring unit detects a change in the noise signal, the remote monitoring unit sends a signal to the central computer. The signal may notify the central computer that the meter has lost power, restored power, malfunctioned or been disconnected from the remote monitoring unit.
  • Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of remotely monitoring an electronic meter.
  • the method comprises scanning a line, which is coupled to an electronic meter.
  • the method further comprises detecting a noise signal or footprint, which is generated by the meter when the meter is functioning properly, and the meter is properly coupled to a remote monitoring unit.
  • the method further comprises sending a signal to a host computer if a change in the noise signal is detected.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a remote meter monitoring system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 illustrates one embodiment of a meter within the remote meter monitoring system of Figure 1.
  • Figure 3 illustrates another embodiment of a meter within the remote meter monitoring system of Figure 1.
  • Figure 4 illustrates one embodiment of a remote monitoring unit within the remote meter monitoring system of Figure 1.
  • Figure 5 illustrates another embodiment of a remote monitoring unit within the remote meter monitoring system of Figure 1.
  • Figure 6 illustrates another embodiment of a remote monitoring unit within the remote meter monitoring system of Figure 1.
  • Figure 7 illustrates another embodiment of a remote monitoring unit within the remote meter monitoring system of Figure 1.
  • Figure 8 illustrates one embodiment of a detector within a remote monitoring unit within the remote meter monitoring system of Figure 1.
  • Figure 9 illustrates one embodiment of a method of detecting and reporting a noise signal or footprint from a plurality of meters.
  • Figure 10 is a circuit diagram of one embodiment of the remote monitoring unit within the remote meter monitoring system of Figure 1.
  • Figure 11 is a circuit diagram of one embodiment of a power supply associated with the remote monitoring unit of Figure 10.
  • the present invention relates to a remote meter monitoring system and methods of use thereof.
  • the system is described with an electric or power utility system.
  • the system may be configured to monitor other electronic devices, such as gas meters or water meters.
  • the system is particularly suited to monitor a plurality of electronic devices.
  • the system is also particularly suited to monitor a plurality of electronic devices that are at a substantial distance from each other or at a substantial distance from a remote monitoring unit which is coupled to the plurality of electronic devices.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a remote meter monitoring system 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
  • the system 100 comprises a first electronic meter 102, a second electronic meter 104, a third electronic meter 106, a remote meter monitoring unit (RMU) 164, a communication network 110 and a central or host computing system ('host') 112.
  • the system 100 may be associated with a customer communication device 114 and another communication device 116.
  • the first meter 102 is coupled to a power line associated with a first customer 140.
  • the second meter 104 is coupled to a power line associated with a second customer 142.
  • the third meter 106 is coupled to a power line associated with a third customer 144.
  • the first meter 102 is coupled to the RMU 164 via a first cable or line 166.
  • the second meter 104 is coupled to the RMU 164 via a second line 168.
  • the third meter 106 is coupled to the RMU 164 via a third line 170.
  • the RMU 164 may be configured to operate with any number of meters. In one embodiment, the
  • RMU 164 has eight ports for eight separate meters to be coupled to the RMU 164. In another embodiment, the RMU 164 has 32 ports for 32 separate meters to be coupled to the RMU 164. An expansion unit or a connector (not shown) may be used to increase the number of meters 102-106 coupled to the RMU 164. The Lines Between the Meters and the RMU
  • first, second and third lines 166-170 may comprise one or more different types of data lines.
  • one or more lines 166-170 are standard RS-232 digital data lines. In another embodiment, one or more lines 166-170 are standard RS-485 data lines. In another embodiment, one or more lines 166-170 comprise a current loop. In another embodiment, one or more lines 166-170 are non-standard lines. The lines 166-170 transfer signals between the meters 102- 106 and the RMU 164.
  • a preferred embodiment of the RMU 164 is configured such that the meters 102-106 can be located at an extended distance from the RMU, such as 50 feet, 200 feet, 500 feet or farther.
  • the first, second and third lines 166-170 may be 500 feet or longer.
  • the meters 102-106 may be associated with stores in a strip mall.
  • the meters 102-106 may be associated with an apartment complex, an industrial park, a business center, etc.
  • the distance between the meters 102-106 and the RMU 164 may depend on the size of the stores, apartments, apartment buildings, industrial buildings, offices, etc.
  • variable distance of the lines 166-170 may also allow a single RMU 164 to service a number of meters
  • the distance between two meters 102, 104 may be 1000 feet.
  • One RMU 164 may be able to service both meters with lines of 500 feet or more to each meter.
  • the variable distance of the lines 166-170 allows the RMU 164 to be placed at a location which may advantageously minimize the risk of tampering or harmful conditions
  • the customer communication device 114 may be a standard telephone line coupled to a computer, modem, fax machine, or any electronic device for voice transmissions, facsimile or Internet access.
  • the Communication Network may be a standard telephone line coupled to a computer, modem, fax machine, or any electronic device for voice transmissions, facsimile or Internet access.
  • the communication network 110 may comprise a standard public switching telephone network
  • the wireless communication network may be a public or private network.
  • the wireless communication network may use, for example, code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA) or frequency division multiple access (FDMA).
  • CDMA code division multiple access
  • TDMA time division multiple access
  • FDMA frequency division multiple access
  • the host 112 comprises at least one microprocessor and software for managing meter readings, alarm conditions and other data transmitted by the meters 102-106.
  • Figure 2 illustrates one embodiment of a meter 102 within the remote meter monitoring system 100 of Figure 1.
  • the meter 102 comprises a non-volatile memory 146, a microcontroller 148, a power supply 156 and an isolator 158.
  • the microcontroller 148 is coupled to the memory 146, the power supply 156 and the isolator 158.
  • the isolator 158 is coupled to the line 166, which couples the meter 102 to the RMU 164.
  • the power supply 156 and/or the microcontroller 148 are loosely, capacitively coupled to the isolator 158 and the line 166.
  • the meters 102-106 are electronic AlphaMeters manufactured by ABB.
  • the microcontroller 148 reads the amount of power consumed (usage) or current drawn by the customer 140 at all times or at predetermined times during a day.
  • the predetermined times may be 15 minutes apart, 15 seconds apart or 15 milliseconds apart.
  • the predetermined time period is stored in the memory 146.
  • the meter 102 reads the AC power at a peak in a cycle. In one configuration, the power is measured in kilowatts.
  • the microcontroller 148 records some or all of the power consumption readings in the memory 146.
  • the microcontroller 148 may also store the peak consumption level(s), the time(s) of peak consumption, any disruption or distortion to the power line, over-heating of a nearby transformer, etc. in the memory 146.
  • the microcontroller 148 at predetermined times transfers data stored in the memory 146 to the RMU 164, which transmits the data to the host 112 ( Figure 1 ).
  • the data rate of transfer from the meter 102 to the RMU 164 may be 14400, 9600, 4800, 2400 or 1200 bits per second, asynchronous.
  • the amount of data stored in the memory 146 and the frequency of the meter reads may depend on the size of the memory 146 and the configured frequency of reporting data to the host 112. After the data is reported to the host 1 12, portions of the memory 146 may be erased, and new data may be stored in the memory 146.
  • the meter 102 of Figure 2 is configured to receive data and commands from the host 112.
  • One command from the host 112 to the meter 102 may be a request to transfer data from the meter 102 to the host 112.
  • Another command from the host 112 may be to change the frequency of reading and storing the customer's power consumption.
  • Another command may be to change the frequency of sending data (reports) stored in the memory 146 to the host 112.
  • Another command may be to report the serial number of the meter 102, which is stored in the memory 146, to the host 112.
  • the power supply 156 of the meter 102 supplies power to the microcontroller 148.
  • the power supply 156 is a switching power supply, which converts alternating current (AC) from the power source shown in Figure 2 to direct current (DC).
  • the isolator 158 isolates the line 166 from power surges, such as a power surge that results from lightning striking a power line associated with the customer 140.
  • the isolator 158 is an opto-isolator.
  • the isolator 158 is a transformer isolator. Idle Mode And Noise
  • the meter 102 is in an idle mode when the meter 102 is not transmitting data (e.g., meter readings) or receiving data (e.g., a command from the host 112 to change the frequency of meter readings) from the RMU 164.
  • the phrase 'idle mode' refers broadly to a stand-by mode, a sleep mode or a dormant mode.
  • the meter 102 may read power consumption levels and store power readings or other data while the meter is in idle mode. In idle mode, a meter's power consumption and microprocessor activity are typically reduced.
  • the meter 102 In idle mode, the meter 102 does not generate an active signal to the RMU 164 to indicate whether the meter 102 is in idle mode or whether the meter has lost power, malfunctioned or been disconnected.
  • the meter 102 When the meter 102 is in idle mode and functioning properly with power, the meter 102 generates or radiates a passive, low-level noise signal (also referred to herein as a noise footprint or signature ).
  • the power supply 156 such as a switching power supply, generates the low-level noise.
  • the microcontroller 148 or a component of the microprocessor 148 such as an internal clock or an oscillator, generates the low-level noise. In one embodiment, the clock keeps the microprocessor 148 in idle mode.
  • both the power supply 156 and the microcontroller 148 generate the low-level noise.
  • the low-level noise is electromagnetic interference (EMI).
  • EMI electromagnetic interference
  • the low-level noise may be in millivolts or microvolts.
  • the isolator 158 is not configured to block this low-level noise from leaking either directly or indirectly onto the line 166. Thus, at least some of the low-level noise leaks onto the line 166 and into the RMU 164.
  • the meter 102 generates the low-level noise in both idle mode and non-idle mode. When the meter 102 loses its power or some component within the meter 102 is not operating properly, the meter 102 ceases to generate the same low-level noise when the meter 102 has power and the meter components are operating properly. Likewise, if the meter 102 is disconnected from the line 166, then the noise ceases to leak onto the line 166 to the RMU 164.
  • Figure 3 illustrates another embodiment of a meter 102' within the remote meter monitoring system 100 of Figure 1.
  • the meter 102 comprises a memory 146, a microcontroller 148, a modem 150 and a power supply 156.
  • the structure and function of the meter 102' in Figure 3 is substantially similar to the structure and the function of the meter 102 shown in Figure 2, except the meter 102" in Figure 3 further comprises a modem 150.
  • FIG 4 illustrates one embodiment of a RMU 108 within the remote meter monitoring system 100 of Figure 1.
  • the RMU 108 comprises a wireless transceiver 128, a line-sharing unit 123, a multiplexer 129, a detector 130, a power supply 120 and a back-up battery 136.
  • the meters 102', 104', 106' comprise internal modems similar to the meter 102' shown in Figure 3.
  • the line-sharing unit 123 is coupled to the first, second and third meters 102', 104', 106', the detector 130 and the wireless transceiver 128.
  • the detector 130 is also coupled to the wireless transceiver 128.
  • the power supply 120 is coupled to an external power source and the back-up battery 136.
  • the power supply 120 and the back-up battery 136 are coupled to the wireless transceiver 128, the multiplexer 129, the detector 130 and the line- sharing unit 123.
  • the multiplexer 129 is coupled to the meters 102', 104', 106' and the detector 130.
  • the RMU 108 may further comprise an omni-directio ⁇ al, wireless transceiver antenna (not shown), which is coupled to the wireless transceiver 128.
  • the line-sharing unit 123 includes the detector and a multiplexer.
  • the wireless transceiver 128 is a Motorola S5690B transceiver with a data interface module.
  • the battery 136 is a rechargeable, lead-acid battery.
  • the power supply 120 is a wide input voltage range, 90-277 VAC isolated, switching power supply. Specifically, the power supply 120 receives about 90 to about 277 VAC at about 50 to about 60 Hz from a power source and outputs about 13.2 volt DC at full load. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the power supply 120 is a 1 10-220 VAC power supply. The power supply 120 may charge the back-up battery 136.
  • the RMU 108 of Figure 4 is configured to operate with meters 102'- 106' with their own modems, such as the meter 102' shown in Figure 3.
  • the line-sharing unit 123 advantageously allows multiple meters 102'- 106' to communicate with the host 112 one at a time by using the same wireless transceiver 128.
  • the line-sharing unit 123 comprises a multiplexer.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates another embodiment of a RMU 160 within the remote meter monitoring system 100 of Figure 1.
  • the RMU 160 comprises a modem 124, a modem-sharing unit 126, a line-sharing unit 122, a multiplexer 129, a detector 130, a power supply 120 and a back-up battery 136.
  • the modem 124 comprises a microprocessor 1 18, a memory 132 and other components typically associated with a modem which converts data for transmission via a public switching telephone network 110.
  • the microprocessor 1 18 includes a timer 138, and the memory 132 stores firmware 134.
  • the first, second and third meters 102-106 are coupled to lines 166-170 respectively, which are coupled to the modem-sharing unit 126 and the multiplexer 129.
  • the modem-sharing unit 126 is coupled to the modem 124, which is coupled to the line-sharing unit 122 and the detector 130.
  • the line-sharing unit 122 is coupled to a customer telephone line 114 and the PSTN 110 with RJ-11 connectors.
  • the power supply 120 is coupled to an external power source and the back-up battery 136.
  • the power supply 120 and the back-up battery 136 are coupled to the line-sharing unit 122, the modem 124, the multiplexer 129, the detector 130 and the modem-sharing unit 126.
  • the multiplexer 129 is coupled to the detector 130.
  • the modem-sharing unit 126 has an interface unit which receives data from the meters 102-106.
  • the modem-sharing unit 126 has a multiplexer and a plurality of RJ-11 modular jack connectors.
  • the modem-sharing unit 126 advantageously allows multiple meters 102-106 to communicate with the host 112 one at a time by using the same modem 124.
  • the modem-sharing unit 126 may convert data from the meters 102-106 to a data stream, multiplex the data, and otherwise prepare the data to be received by the modem 124.
  • the modem- sharing unit 126 may also transmit data and commands from the host 112 to each meter 102-106.
  • the modem 124 is preferably an integrated, high-speed, AT command set compatible, V.32bis modem which allows speeds of about 1200 to about 14,400 bits per second (bps).
  • the modem is manufactured by Tele ⁇ etics in Lake Forest, CA.
  • some of the components of the modem 124, such as the microprocessor 118 and the memory 132, are based on a 14400 bps modem microchip set manufactured by Rockwell (now known as Conexant) in California.
  • additional components and/or additional firmware are added to the microchip set manufactured by Rockwell to accomplish the functions as described herein.
  • the memory 134 stores the serial numbers or predetermined identification numbers of the meters 102-106 that are coupled to the RMU 164 and an identification number of the RMU 164.
  • the memory 134 also stores a dial-out number to reach the host 112.
  • the firmware 134 is stored in the memory 132 and executed by the microprocessor 118.
  • the firmware 134 preferably performs standard operations of a modem, such as converting serial data to audio signals, as well as other operations as described herein.
  • each meter 102-106 may initiate a data transfer to the host 112.
  • the RMU 160 may initiate a communication to the host 112.
  • the host 112 may initiate a data request or command to the RMU 160 and/or the meters 102-106.
  • the host 112 When the host 112 has a command to send to one or more meters 102 106, the host 112 embeds the ID number of the desired meters in the command. In one embodiment, the mode -sharing unit 126 of the RMU 160 passes the command to all of the meters 102-106 and each meter determines whether the command was addressed to that particular meter. Only the meters which were addressed by the host 112 respond to the command from the host 112.
  • the line-sharing unit 122 is based on a relay-switching line-sharing board (0050 or 0050-1156-000) made by Telenetics.
  • the functions of the line-sharing unit 122 described below are controlled by the firmware 134 and the microprocessor 118.
  • the line-sharing unit 122 acts as an interface between the customer line 114, the modem 124 and the PSTN 110.
  • the line-sharing unit 122 transmits data between the modem 124 within the RMU 160 and the host 112 by using the customer telephone line 114 when the customer telephone line 114 is not being used by the customer.
  • the line-sharing unit 122 preferably does not interrupt a customer's outgoing or ongoing calls. In other words, the line-sharing unit 122 gives priority to any call originated by the customer.
  • the customer is advantageously unaware of the communication between the RMU 160 and the host 112.
  • the line-sharing unit 122 is configured to detect whether the customer's telephone line 114 is on-hook or off-hook. If the line 114 is off-hook, i.e., the customer is using the line 114, the line-sharing unit 122 blocks any communication between the host 112 and the modem 124. If the line 114 is on hook, the line-sharing unit 122 allows the host 112 and the modem 124 to communicate with each other. If the line 114 is off hook when the host 112 initiates a call, the host 112 will receive a busy signal and try again after a predetermined time period.
  • the modem 124 will try to communicate with the host 112 again after a predetermined time period.
  • the line-sharing unit 122 may send a signal to the modem 124 which informs the modem 124 when the line 114 is once again on-hook.
  • the modem 124 then initiates a call. If communication between the host 112 and the modem 124 is in progress, and the line 1 14 becomes off- hook (i.e., the customer picks up the phone), the line-sharing unit 122 interrupts and ceases communication between the host 112 and the modem 124.
  • the customer may start and complete a call. After the line 114 returns to on-hook, either the host 112 or the modem 124 may try to re-establish communication by initiating another call.
  • the line-sharing unit 122 responds to a programmable security code or password from the host 112 to access the modem 124.
  • the line-sharing unit 122 when the line-sharing unit 122 receives a call from the network 110, the line-sharing unit 122 is configured to detect a predetermined dual-tone multi-frequency (DTMF) sequence, such as a two-digit sequence like '*' and '7.' If the line-sharing unit 122 does not detect the predetermined DTMF sequence within a predetermined time period, such as five seconds, the line-sharing unit 122 transfers the call to the customer telephone line 114.
  • the line-sharing unit 122 has a ring generator which generates a ring to alert the customer of an incoming call. If the line-sharing unit 122 detects the predetermined DTMF sequence, then the line-sharing unit 122 directs the call to the modem 124.
  • DTMF dual-tone multi-frequency
  • FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of a RMU 162 within the remote meter monitoring system 100 of Figure 1.
  • the RMU 162 comprises a wireless transceiver 128, a modem 124, a mode -sharing unit 126, a multiplexer 129, a detector 130, a power supply 120 and a back-up battery 136.
  • the modem 124 comprises a microprocessor 118, a memory 132 and other components typically associated with a modem which converts data for transmission via a wireless network 110.
  • the microprocessor 118 includes a timer 138, and the memory 132 stores firmware 134.
  • the first, second and third meters 102-106 are coupled to lines 166-170 respectively, which are coupled to the modem-sharing unit 126 and the multiplexer 129.
  • the modem-sharing unit 126 is coupled to the modem 124, which is coupled to the wireless transceiver 128 and the detector 130.
  • the power supply 120 is coupled to an external power source and the back-up battery 136.
  • the power supply 120 and the back-up battery 136 are coupled to the wireless transceiver 128, the modem 124, the multiplexer 129, the detector 130 and the modem-sharing unit 126.
  • the RMU 162 in Figure 6 may further comprise an omni-directional, wireless transceiver antenna (not shown), which is coupled to the wireless transceiver 128.
  • the multiplexer 129 is coupled to the detector 130.
  • FIG 6 the structures and functions of the wireless transceiver 128, the modem 124, the modem-sharing unit 126, the power supply 120 and the back-up battery 136 are substantially similar to the structures and functions described above.
  • Figure 7 RMU Embodiment Figure 7 illustrates another embodiment of a RMU 164 within the remote meter monitoring system 100 of
  • the RMU 164 comprises a wireless transceiver 128, a modem 124, a modem-sharing unit 126, a line-sharing unit 122, a detector 130, a multiplexer 129, a power supply 120 and a back-up battery 136.
  • the modem 124 comprises a microprocessor 118, a memory 132 and other components which convert data for transmission via a communication network 110, such as a wireless network or a PSTN.
  • the microprocessor 118 includes a timer 138, and the memory 132 stores firmware 134.
  • the first, second and third meters 102-106 are coupled to lines 166-170 respectively, which are coupled to the modem-sharing unit 126 and the multiplexer 129.
  • the multiplexer 129 is coupled to the modem 124 and the detector 130, which is also coupled to the modem 124.
  • the modem-sharing unit 126 is coupled to the modem 124, which is coupled to the wireless transceiver 128 and the line-sharing unit.
  • the power supply 120 is coupled to an external power source and the back-up battery 136.
  • the power supply 120 and the back-up battery 136 are coupled to the wireless transceiver 128, the modem 124, the line-sharing unit 122, the modem-sharing unit 126, the multiplexer 129 and the detector 130.
  • the RMU 164 in Figure 7 may further comprise an omni-directional, wireless transceiver antenna (not shown), which is coupled to the wireless transceiver 128.
  • the structures and functions of the wireless transceiver 128, the modem 124, the modem-sharing unit 126, the line-sharing unit 122, the power supply 120 and the back-up battery 136 are substantially similar to the structures and functions described above.
  • the RMU 164 of Figure 7 is configured to operate with meters with their own modems, such as the meter 102' shown in Figure 3, or meters without their own modems, such as the meter 102 shown in Figure 2.
  • the RMU 164 of Figure 7 may share a customer telephone line, such as the customer telephone line 114 described above with reference to Figure 5, or use a wireless transceiver, such as the wireless transceiver 128 described above with reference to Figure 4.
  • the microprocessor 118 uses the multiplexer 129 to select one of the lines 166-170 at a time to be scanned by the detector 130.
  • Noise Detector Figure 8 illustrates one embodiment of a detector 130 that may be incorporated in the RMUs 108, 160, 162,
  • the detector 130 comprises a filter 172, an amplifier 174, a rectifier/filter 180, a comparator 176 and a reference value or pattern 178.
  • the reference value or pattern 178 is stored in a memory, such as the memory 132 in Figure 7.
  • the filter 172 is a bandpass filter.
  • the filter 172 comprises an inductor and a capacitor.
  • the filter 172 is coupled to the amplifier 174, which is coupled to the rectifier 180.
  • the rectifier 180 is coupled to the comparator 176, which is coupled to a microprocessor, such as the microprocessor 118 in Figure 7.
  • the RMU 164 provides a drive current along lines 166-170 to read signals, such as data or low- level noise, from the meters 102-106.
  • the multiplexer 129 selects one of the lines 166-170 to be scanned by the detector 130, one at a time. For example, the multiplexer 129 may select the first line 166 upon start-up of the detector 130. In one embodiment, the multiplexer 129 only selects a line associated with meter which is not transmitting or receiving data to or from the host 112.
  • the filter 172 of the detector 130 filters a low-level noise footprint or signal generated by the meter 102 when the meter 102 has power, as described above with reference to Figures 2-3.
  • the filter 172 passes the low-level noise to the amplifier 174.
  • a spectrum analyzer is used to determine the characteristics (e.g., bandwidth) of one or more low-level noise signals generated by the meter 102 when the meter 102 has power. Different types of meters may have different noise signals with different characteristics.
  • the filter 172 may be configured to filter at least one of the low-level noise signals.
  • the characteristics e.g., bandwidth
  • the frequency bandwidth of the low-level noise filtered by the filter 172 and passed to the amplifier 174 is about 1-2 megahertz (MHz). In other configurations, other frequency bandwidths may be used.
  • a single filter 172 is user-configurable to filter different bandwidths from different types of meters.
  • one or more filters are selected during manufacture to filter low-level noise within a particular bandwidth for a particular type of meter 172.
  • the detector 130 comprises another component in addition to or instead of the filter 172 to detect the low-level noise signal on the line 166.
  • the noise from sources other than the meter 102 does not significantly affect the low-level noise signal from the meter 102, which is passed by the filter 172 to the amplifier 174.
  • the frequency of the low-level noise signal is substantially higher than the frequency of the noise from sources other than the meter 102.
  • the low-level noise signal from the meter 102 is about 1-2 MHz.
  • the noise from sources other than the meter 102 is about 100 kilohertz (KHz).
  • the amplifier 174 receives and amplifies the filtered low-level noise from the filter 172.
  • the amplifier 174 then passes the amplified noise to rectifier/filter 180, which rectifies the noise signal.
  • the rectifier 180 transfers the amplified, rectified, filtered noise signal to the comparator 176.
  • the comparator 176 compares the amplified, rectified noise signal with a predetermined value, such as a reference voltage value or pattern 178.
  • the comparator 176 determines whether the amplified, rectified noise is lower, higher or substantially matches the predetermined value or pattern 178.
  • the comparator 176 is configured such that if the amplified, rectified noise is lower than the predetermined value or pattern 178, the comparator 176 sends a signal to the microprocessor 118. In another embodiment, the comparator 176 is configured such that if the amplified, rectified noise is higher than the predetermined value or pattern 178, the comparator 176 sends a signal to the microprocessor 118. In another embodiment, the comparator 176 is configured such that if the amplified, rectified noise matches than the predetermined value or pattern 178, the comparator 176 sends a signal to the microprocessor 118.
  • the comparator 176 determines whether the meter 102 has power, is functioning properly and is connected to the line 166 based on the amplified, rectified signal from the rectifier/filter 180. The comparator 176 then sends a signal to the microprocessor 118.
  • the comparator 176 sends a binary, one-bit signal to the microprocessor 118. For example, in one configuration, the comparator 176 sends a '1 ' when the detected noise matches the predetermined value or a '0' when the detected noise signal does not match the predetermined value. In one embodiment, the '1 ' bit signifies a meter has power, is functioning properly and is connected to the line 166, and the '0' bit signifies a meter has lost power, is not functioning properly or is not connected to the line 166.
  • the comparator 176 sends a two-bit value to the microprocessor 118.
  • the comparator 176 may send the following signals to the microprocessor 118: '00' - the noise matches the predetermined value, which indicates the meter has power, is functioning properly and is properly connected;
  • the noise does not match the predetermined value, which indicates the meter is losing power or is malfunctioning;
  • the detector 130 scans the line 166 for a predetermined time sample. The detector 130 looks for the low-level noise within this sample. In one configuration, the sample is one second in duration.
  • the detector 130 detects events prior to a power outage, such as a voltage sag or a current spike, to the host.
  • the comparator 176 may compare the noise to a number of different predetermined reference values. Each reference value may have an assigned event. If a detected noise signal substantially matches one of the reference values, then the comparator 176 informs the microprocessor which event occurred.
  • the detector 130 when the detector 130 detects a change in the noise value from a meter 102, the detector notifies the microprocessor 118.
  • the microprocessor 118 then sends a signal or message to the host 1 12 by using the modem 124 and the line-sharing unit 122 or the wireless transceiver 128.
  • the format of the RMU 164 reports to the host is in DTMF.
  • the format of RMU 164 reports is in ASCII text messages.
  • the RMU 164 sends reports to another communication device 116 ( Figure 1 ), such as a pager, a wireless phone, a fax machine, etc. instead of or in addition to the host 112.
  • the microprocessor 118 may report power restorations to the host 112. In other words, where a noise signal or footprint is detected from a meter 102 which previously did not generate a noise signal, then the microprocessor 118 may report that the meter
  • the RMU 164 may send a report to the host 112 which indicates a power outage within the RMU 164 itself.
  • the RMU 164 may be relying on the back-up battery 136 ( Figure 7) for power.
  • Figure 9 illustrates one embodiment of a method of detecting and reporting a noise signal or footprint from a plurality of meters. The method of Figure 9 is described with reference to Figures 7 and 8, but the method of Figure 9 may be performed by any of the RMU embodiments shown in Figures 4-6. For the RMU embodiment shown in Figure
  • the specific process and decision blocks of Figure 9 described below may be performed by the multiplexer 129, the detector 130, the modem-sharing unit 126, the microprocessor 118, the firmware 134, other components within the modem 124, the line-sharing unit 122, the wireless transceiver 128, and/or any combination thereof.
  • the detector 130 of Figures 7 and 8 is powered on and enabled.
  • the detector 130 scans the first meter 102 for a noise signal within a sample time period, such as one second.
  • the detector 130 determines whether a noise signal is present and whether the noise signal matches (or is above or below, depending on the configuration) the predetermined reference value 178 or pattern ( Figure 8).
  • the microprocessor 1 18 determines if a timer (with a predetermined time period) associated with the meter 102 has been set in a decision block 212.
  • the timer may be the timer 138 within the microprocessor 1 18 ( Figure 7) or a timer (not shown) within the detector 130. If the timer has not been set, then the microprocessor 118 sets the timer in a process block 216. In a process block 206, the microprocessor 118 uses the multiplexer 129 to select the next line 168, and the detector 130 scans the next meter 104 for a noise signal within a sample period.
  • the microprocessor 118 determines whether the timer has expired in a decision block 214. If the timer has not expired, then the microprocessor 118 uses the multiplexer 129 to select the next line 168, and the detector 130 scans the next meter 104 for a noise signal within a sample period in a process block 206. If the timer has expired, then the microprocessor 118 reports the ID number of the meter 102 with the missing noise signal to the host 112 in a process block 208. Thus, the microprocessor 118 sends a report to the host 112 if a noise signal is still missing from the meter 102 after the predetermined time period of the timer has expired.
  • a meter may temporarily lose power or function improperly and then regain power or function properly before the end of the predetermined time period.
  • the predetermined time period of the timer is about two minutes.
  • one or more timers are used to track the start and expiration of predetermined time periods for a plurality of meters 102-106 coupled to the RMU 164.
  • a decision block 210 the microprocessor 118 determines whether the report succeeded. If the report succeeded, the host 112 sends an acknowledgement signal to the RMU 164. If the report did not succeed, the microprocessor 118 sends the report again in process block 208. In one embodiment, the microprocessor 118 waits a predetermined time period between decision block 210 and the process block 208 before attempting to report the same ID number of a meter 102 with a missing noise signal to the host 112. In one configuration, the predetermined time period is 5 seconds.
  • the microprocessor 1 18 uses the multiplexer 129 to select the next line 168, and the detector 130 scans the next meter 104 for a noise signal within a sample period in a process block 206.
  • the microprocessor 118 determines whether the noise was previously missing for the meter 102. In one embodiment, the microprocessor 118 compares two flags: a current status flag and a history status flag for the meter 102. If the noise signal was previously missing, then the microprocessor 118 sets a timer associated with the meter 102. The timer in process block 226 may have the same predetermined time period as the timer in process block 216.
  • the two timers may have different time periods.
  • the microprocessor 1 18 resets the timer in block 216 if the timer in block 226 is started. In other words, the same timer is used in blocks 216 and 226. Thus, if the timer is already running, then the timer is reset by the microprocessor 1 18 in either blocks 216 or 226.
  • Each meter preferably has its own associated timer.
  • the microprocessor 220 determines whether the timer associated with the meter 102 has been set in a decision block 220. In decision block 220, if the timer has not been set, then the microprocessor 118 uses the multiplexer 129 to select the next line 168, and the detector 130 scans the next meter 104 for a noise signal within a sample period in a process block 206. In decision block 220, if the timer has been set, then the microprocessor 118 determines whether the timer has expired in a decision block 222. If the timer has not expired, then the microprocessor 118 uses the multiplexer 129 to select the next line 168, and the detector 130 scans the next meter 104 for a noise signal within a sample period in a process block 206.
  • the microprocessor 118 reports the ID number of the meter 102 with the restored noise signal to the host 112 in a process block 224.
  • the microprocessor 118 determines whether the report succeeded. If the report succeeded, the host 112 sends an acknowledgement signal to the RMU 164. If the report did not succeed, the microprocessor 118 sends the report again in process block 224. In one embodiment, the microprocessor 118 waits a predetermined time period between decision block 228 and the process block 224 before attempting to report the same ID number of a meter 102 with a missing noise signal to the host 112. In one configuration, the predetermined time period is 5 seconds. In a process block 206, the microprocessor 118 uses the multiplexer 129 to select the next line 168, and the detector 130 scans the next meter 104 for a noise signal within a sample period.
  • the detector 130 and the microprocessor 118 continue to scan for noise signals from the meters 102-106, and the microcontroller 1 18 continues to determine whether timers have started or expired. In one embodiment, the detector 130 continues to scan the meters 102-106 sequentially without stopping while the microprocessor 118 determines if a timer for a particular meter has started or expired. In one embodiment, the detector 130 is disabled when at least one of the meters 102-106 is transmitting data to the host 112 (through the RMU 164) or receiving data from the host 112 (through the RMU 164). Alternatively, in another embodiment, the detector 130 continues to scan the other meters which are not currently transmitting or receiving data.
  • the microprocessor 118 examines the number of no-noise samples for a particular meter 102 within the predetermined time period. If the number of no-noise samples for a particular meter 102 within the predetermined time period is greater than a predetermined integer, then the microprocessor 1 18 reports the ID number of the particular meter to the host 112. If the number of no-noise samples for a particular meter 102 within the predetermined time period is less than the integer, then the microprocessor 118 resets the timer. For example, if the number of no-noise samples for a particular meter 102 within the predetermined time period is greater than 5, then the microprocessor 118 reports the ID number of the particular meter to the host 112.
  • the RMU 164 periodically sends a test signal (in addition to the drive current) to the meter 102 and waits for the meter 102 to send a response signal back to the RMU 164.
  • a test signal in addition to the drive current
  • the test signal from the RMU 164 will probably 'wake up' the microcontroller 148 within the meter 102 ( Figure 2) from idle mode to respond to the test signal from the RMU 164 This may put a drain on the power supply 156 if the meter is battery-operated, particularly if the RMU 164 sends frequent test signals to the meter 102.
  • Figure 10 is a circuit diagram of one embodiment of the remote monitoring unit within the remote meter monitoring system 100 of Figure 1.
  • Figure 11 is a circuit diagram of one embodiment of a power supply associated with the remote monitoring unit of Figure 10.
  • the components in each RMU 108, 160, 162, 164 described herein with reference to Figures 4-7 may have some overlapping or additional parts, firmware functions, and/or features.
  • an alternative embodiment of the RMU 164 in Figure 7 has a separate microcontroller which is located external to the modem 124.

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un dispositif de surveillance à distance couplé à un compteur électronique (140, 142, 144). Le dispositif de surveillance à distance communique avec un ordinateur central (112) au moyen d'un réseau de télécommunications (110, 152). Le dispositif de surveillance à distance est configuré pour détecter un signal de bruit ou une empreinte produite par le compteur électronique lorsque le compteur fonctionne correctement et qu'il est bien couplé au dispositif de surveillance à distance. Si le dispositif de surveillance à distance détecte un changement dans le signal de bruit, il envoie un signal à l'ordinateur central. Ce signal peut avertir l'ordinateur central lorsque le compteur a perdu, ou récupéré son alimentation, lorsqu'il fonctionne mal ou qu'il a été déconnecté du dispositif de surveillance à distance.
PCT/US2000/016871 1999-06-21 2000-06-19 Systeme et procede de surveillance de compteur a distance WO2000079500A1 (fr)

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US60/140,194 1999-06-21
US58898300A 2000-06-07 2000-06-07
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US8660565B2 (en) 2005-10-21 2014-02-25 Handicare Accessibility Limited Wireless fault monitoring system
US8990536B2 (en) 2011-06-01 2015-03-24 Schneider Electric It Corporation Systems and methods for journaling and executing device control instructions
US9952103B2 (en) 2011-12-22 2018-04-24 Schneider Electric It Corporation Analysis of effect of transient events on temperature in a data center
US11076507B2 (en) 2007-05-15 2021-07-27 Schneider Electric It Corporation Methods and systems for managing facility power and cooling

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US8224953B2 (en) 1999-10-27 2012-07-17 American Power Conversion Corporation Method and apparatus for replay of historical data
US8966044B2 (en) 2001-01-26 2015-02-24 Schneider Electric It Corporation Methods for displaying physical network topology and environmental status by location, organization, or responsible party
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US9166870B2 (en) 2004-12-13 2015-10-20 Schneider Electric It Corporation Remote monitoring system
US8660565B2 (en) 2005-10-21 2014-02-25 Handicare Accessibility Limited Wireless fault monitoring system
US11076507B2 (en) 2007-05-15 2021-07-27 Schneider Electric It Corporation Methods and systems for managing facility power and cooling
US11503744B2 (en) 2007-05-15 2022-11-15 Schneider Electric It Corporation Methods and systems for managing facility power and cooling
US8990536B2 (en) 2011-06-01 2015-03-24 Schneider Electric It Corporation Systems and methods for journaling and executing device control instructions
US9952103B2 (en) 2011-12-22 2018-04-24 Schneider Electric It Corporation Analysis of effect of transient events on temperature in a data center

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