Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080204271 | Method And Data Processing System For Collecting Usage Data Of An On-Demand Service - A method of collecting usage data of an on-demand service provided to a subscriber is disclosed. The method comprises provisioning of a first manageable resource in order to provide the on-demand service to the subscriber, the first manageable resource being associated with at least a first underlying resource, the first underlying resource comprising a first collector for collecting first usage data of the first underlying resource while the on-demand service is provided. Further, a first metering component is instantiated for the first manageable resource and the first metering component is instructed to initiate the retrieval of the first usage data from the first collector prior to the termination of the first metering component and the de-provisioning of the first manageable resource. Additionally, the retrieved first usage data is stored for further evaluation. | 08-28-2008 |
20080204272 | Utility Meter With Virtual Shut-Off Function - An electronic electric meter for use in a networked automatic meter reading environment. The meter includes a meter microcontroller, a measurement microcontroller, a communication microcontroller and spread spectrum processor, and a plurality of other communication interface modules for communicating commodity utilization and power quality data to a utility. The meter measures electricity usage and monitors power quality parameters for transmission to the utility over a spread spectrum local area network (LAN) to a remotely located gateway node. The gateway node transmits this data to the utility over a commercially available fixed wide area network (WAN). The meter also provides direct communication to the utility over a commercially available network interface that plugs into the meter's backplane or bus system, bypassing the local area network communication link and gateway node. | 08-28-2008 |
20080224890 | REMOTE MODULE FOR UTILITY METERS - The present invention relates to a remote display module (RDM) for display a resource consumption value synchronized with a resource consumption value indicated by a meter metering resource consumption. The RDM is configured with one or more inputs that are electrically associated with the pulse output for a utility meter. The RDM tracks continuous values and associated customer-values. Customers-values may be reset by a customer allowing the customer to easily track resource consumption. | 09-18-2008 |
20080224891 | Commodity Monitoring Network - An electronic electric meter for use in a networked automatic meter reading environment. The meter includes a meter microcontroller, a measurement microcontroller, a communication microcontroller and spread spectrum processor, and a plurality of other communication interface modules for communicating commodity utilization and power quality data to a utility. The meter measures electricity usage and monitors power quality parameters for transmission to the utility over a spread spectrum local area network (LAN) to a remotely located gateway node. The gateway node transmits this data to the utility over a commercially available fixed wide area network (WAN). The meter also provides direct communication to the utility over a commercially available network interface that plugs into the meter's backplane or bus system, bypassing the local area network communication link and gateway node. | 09-18-2008 |
20080238711 | AUTOMATED METER READER DIRECT MOUNT ENDPOINT MODULE - An automated meter reader module can be operably connected to an existing utility meter to provide an endpoint for use in an automated meter reader system. The automated meter reader module can utilize an index attachment drive mechanism to electronically and mechanically monitor consumption of a utility such as water, gas, or electricity. The index attachment of the existing utility meter is attached so that it does not physically impede reception or transmission of radio frequency communications by a patch antenna integrated into a printed circuit board located inside the automated meter reader module. A gasket around the edge of the housing sealingly interfaces with the existing utility meter and a multi-faced cover that allows the registered dials located on the index attached to be viewed from a plurality of vantage points. | 10-02-2008 |
20080238712 | Remote display chain for mutiple user interface applications - A multi-master serial bus that connects multiple utility monitoring devices with multiple remote electronic display units. The display units include an I | 10-02-2008 |
20080238713 | Electronic meter having user-interface and central processing functionality on a single printed circuit board - A digital electrical power and energy meter integrates a primary processing module and a user interface module onto a single printed circuit board to reduce overall meter size, assembly time, and cost. | 10-02-2008 |
20080238714 | Utility Network Communications Using Meter Identifiers - An electronic electric meter for use in a networked automatic meter reading environment. The meter includes a meter microcontroller, a measurement microcontroller, a communication microcontroller and spread spectrum processor, and a plurality of other communication interface modules for communicating commodity utilization and power quality data to a utility. The meter measures electricity usage and monitors power quality parameters for transmission to the utility over a spread spectrum local area network (LAN) to a remotely located gateway node. The gateway node transmits this data to the utility over a commercially available fixed wide area network (WAN). The meter also provides direct communication to the utility over a commercially available network interface that plugs into the meter's backplane or bus system, bypassing the local area network communication link and gateway node. | 10-02-2008 |
20080246627 | MARINE TELEMETRY AND TWO WAY COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - A marine telemetry system can comprise a central processing unit (CPU) with data processing and storage capacity. The system can further comprise sensors and/or other electronic accessories such as radars, fish finders, weather stations, etc. The system can be operated by a touch-screen display. The system can perform the measuring, indication, recording and/or integration of values from the many quantities that are possible to measure by such sensors and other electronic accessories comprising part of the system. The system can have the capacity of transmitting, receiving and communicating at a distance through broadband internet accessed via various access points. In this way the user can also gain access to the World Wide Web and use its many references and information to enhance the onboard boating experience. | 10-09-2008 |
20080246628 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONNECTING ELECTRICAL DEVICES USING FIBER OPTIC SERIAL COMMUNICATION - A system and method for communicating between serially connected electrical devices of a network is provided. The network includes a series of electrical devices, and fiber optic connectors between electrical devices of the series of electrical devices forming a closed communication ring in which output of each electrical device is communicatively connected to input of a subsequent electrical device of the series of electrical devices. | 10-09-2008 |
20080266133 | Method and Arrangement for Communicating with a Meter Peripheral Using a Meter Optical Port - A utility meter adapted to communicate with a device external to the utility meter comprises a meter housing, a first port, a second port and a processor. The first port is adapted to receive signals transmitted from outside the meter housing. The second port is connected to a communications module associated with the meter. The communications module is adapted to communicate with the device external to the utility meter. A processor is connected to the first port and the second port. The processor is configured to pass signals received at the first port to the communications module through the second port. | 10-30-2008 |
20080272933 | MOBILE UTILITY DATA COLLECTION SYSTEM - Methods and systems described herein allow collection of utility system endpoint data (e.g., meter data sent by utility meters configured for automatic meter reading) via a mobile utility data collection system that includes both a remote communication portion (e.g., radio device) and an external computer portion (e.g., handheld computer with meter reading application installed). | 11-06-2008 |
20080278344 | Method and arrangement for registering and evaluating energy consumption - Registering energy consumption in part of a building, an item of state information of at least one energy load being acquired, the state information being transmitted to a control center, and the state information, a state duration and a specific statement of the consumption of the energy load being used to determine and evaluate the energy consumption in the control center. It is possible to dispense with separate energy consumption measuring units as a result of the energy consumption being registered by multiplying the switched-on duration by a specific statement of the energy consumption (that is to say power) of the energy load. | 11-13-2008 |
20080284614 | Modular power monitoring system - A power monitoring system for monitoring characteristics of power transmitted through one or more power lines comprises a meter base and multiple option modules. The meter base includes a processor and associated circuitry for processing signals derived from sensors coupled to said power lines and producing output signals representing selected characteristics of the power transmitted through the power lines, and a housing containing the processor and the associated circuitry and having a first surface adapted to be mounted on a DIN rail, and a second surface containing multiple connectors for receiving multiple modules and electrically connecting the modules to the processor and the associated circuitry. Each of the multiple option modules includes a housing having a first surface containing a connector that is complementary with the multiple connectors in the second surface of the meter base so that any of the option modules can be plugged into any of the multiple connectors in the second surface of the meter base, and circuitry within the housing of the option module for interconnecting with the processor and the associated circuitry in the meter base. The first surface of the meter base housing may be adapted for optional mounting on the DIN rail or a flat panel, and contains a connector for mating with a complementary connector on the opposite side of the flat panel through a hole in the flat panel. | 11-20-2008 |
20080316050 | UTILITY PIT METER AMR DEVICE WITH MULTIPLE MOUNTING PROVISIONS - An automatic meter reading (AMR) system device is adapted to be mounted in a utility meter pit. The device includes a housing constructed to at least partially enclose at least one portion of an AMR system device. The housing is integrally formed with at least two different mounting members selected from among: a rod mounting member that includes a port sized and shaped to receive a rod to facilitate mounting of the device in the pit, a wall mounting member that includes a wall-mount provision that facilitates mounting of the device to a wall of the pit, a tie mounting member constructed to receive at least one tie fastener that facilitates mounting of the device to a structure in the pit, and a lid mounting portion constructed to facilitate mounting of the device to a lid of the pit. | 12-25-2008 |
20080316051 | MUTLTIPLE MODE AMR SYSTEM FOR WATER METERS - The disclosed inventions include and apparatus and method for providing a universal Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) system. Such system may be configured to work in a plurality of modes including a walk-bay, drive-by and fixed network mode. The system configured to provide functionally-self-healing features where the system continues to function after certain hardware failures occur. | 12-25-2008 |
20090009359 | Method of Monitoring Commodity Consumption - A method and a system for monitoring the quantity of the commodity consumed by a consumer comprises receiving during a preset reporting period window an output value that is security protected from the consumer, extracting a consumption value and a time stamp value from the output value, the extracted values being associated with the quantity, and generating an invoice for the consumer for the quantity of the commodity consumed. | 01-08-2009 |
20090045976 | UTILITY NETWORK AND REVENUE ASSURANCE - A system and method for detecting anomalies in the measurement and distribution of utilities is disclosed. Utility metering data obtained at a utility meter is received through a communications network. A utility consumption associated with an entity is then measured based on the utility metering data. The utility consumption can then be monitored for anomalies based on entity profile characteristics associated with the entity. The utility analytics system and method can be applied to the electrical utility industry, but also applicable to gas and water distribution, and other utilities. | 02-19-2009 |
20090058676 | Automated meter reading, billing and payment processing system - The present invention includes an automatic commodity or services billing and metering system that when installed does not damage any existing meters or gauges, will fit virtually all known meters and gauges, and has incorporated into the system programmable reading ability to allow reading and accumulation of data by unit, hourly, daily, weekly, monthly or any other form of counting required by the customer. The meters are read by various means, one method is by counting and or sensing radiation increases and decreases of radiation emitting from a meter hand or gauge passing a sensor to generate a count. The read data is then sent via the Internet through the telephone line, by satellite, or by cellular phone connection to an offsite central billing and payment processing center where the rate payer and the utility or customer will have various forms of programmable access to its consumption data. | 03-05-2009 |
20090066537 | Remote module for utility meters - The present invention relates to a remote display module (RDM) for display a resource consumption value synchronized with a resource consumption value indicated by a meter metering resource consumption. The RDM is configured with one or more inputs that are electrically associated with the pulse output for a utility meter. The RDM tracks continuous values and associated customer-values. Customers-values may be reset by a customer allowing the customer to easily track resource consumption. | 03-12-2009 |
20090079584 | Method and system of reading utility meter data over a network - A utility meter may be read by sending a request to read the meter from a meter reading application, which may be located on a utility server or on an access point to a network, to a communications module associated with the utility meter. The communications module initiates a session with the utility meter, makes requests for data from the associated utility meter, receives the responses to requests for data from the utility meter, and terminates the session after receiving all the requested data from the meter. It then formats the responses with the data received from the utility meter, and transmits the formatted response to the meter reading application. | 03-26-2009 |
20090102680 | MULTIFUNCTION DATA PORT PROVIDING AN INTERFACE BETWEEN A DIGITAL NETWORK AND ELECTRONICS IN RESIDENTIAL OR COMMERCIAL STRUCTURES - A multifunction data port is located in or attached to the utility meter or the meter box. The installation or removal of the data port requires opening the meter seal. The data port interface can provide broad band access to a digital network and the Internet. It can provide the utility customer with a secure computer terminal for commerce and telecommunications. It can provide the electric utility load management and time of use metering of electrical power. | 04-23-2009 |
20090109055 | Method and system for acquiring features of measurement systems - A method including establishing a communication link between one or more measurement equipment installations and a provider of optional features, utilizing circuitry within the measurement equipment installation to allow the measurement equipment installation to exchange information with the provider of optional features and determining optional feature use criteria, the optional feature use criteria including at least an interval during which one or more optional features are enabled on the one or more measurement equipment installations. | 04-30-2009 |
20090109056 | INTEGRATED METROLOGY SYSTEMS AND INFORMATION AND CONTROL APPARATUS FOR INTERACTION WITH INTEGRATED METROLOGY SYSTEMS - A system is disposed at a location of a utility commodity subscriber for informing the subscriber of and controlling utility commodity usage. The system includes utility meters, an information and control apparatus, and a first and second data communication link. The meters measure usage and generate usage signals. The information and control apparatus includes a microprocessor, a memory, a clock, and a user interface. The first data communication link is between the utility meters and the information and control apparatus, and the second data communication link is between the information and control apparatus and one or more central locations. The second communication link also provides rate information to the information and control apparatus and utility commodity usage data to the one or more central locations. The microprocessor computes an accumulated cost of utility commodity for a predetermined period of time. Information related to the accumulated cost is output to the subscriber. | 04-30-2009 |
20090115626 | Electronic meter for networked meter reading - An automatic meter reading (AMR) data communication network for relaying meter commodity information includes a commodity provider node, a gateway node configured to communicate with the commodity provider node, and meter nodes configured to measure commodity characteristic data and communicate with the gateway node and with other meter nodes. A source node of the meter nodes generates a data packet that includes meter commodity information to be relayed to the commodity provider node, and when a first meter node of the meter nodes receives the source data packet, the first meter node relays the source data packet to a second node. The second node can include another meter node, a repeater node, the gateway node, or the commodity provider node. In an embodiment, the first meter node determines whether the data packet specifies a relay path for relaying the source data packet to the commodity provider node. | 05-07-2009 |
20090140880 | Endpoint Event Processing System - An endpoint processor includes a processor block, a timer block, a memory block, and analog-to-digital converter. The timer block is arranged to provide a time based signal to the processor block. The memory block cooperates with the processor block. The analog-to-digital converter is arranged to provide an interface between an analog signal and the processor block. The analog signal includes encoded data from a power signal. The processor block is arranged to control a sampling rate that is associated with the analog-to-digital converter such that the analog signal is down-converted as an under-sampled signal. The processor block is arranged to extract the encoded data from the down-converted signal by executing a digital signal processing algorithm that is stored in the memory block. The digital signal processing algorithm is arranged to reject fundamental and harmonic frequencies that are associated with a power-line frequency that is associated with the power signal. | 06-04-2009 |
20090146838 | Communication System for Data Acquisition from Remote Devices Applicable for AMR - The present invention discloses a communication system and method for data acquisition and distribution from and to remote devices, applicable for Automatic Meter Reading (AMR), based on ad-hoc mesh networking and mobile relays. | 06-11-2009 |
20090146839 | AUTOMATED METER READING SYSTEM AND METHOD THEREOF - An automated meter reading system and method include a plurality of communication nodes forming ad-hoc mesh network. The plurality of communication nodes collect utility usage data from utility meters. A controller station communicates with the ad-hoc mesh network, which dynamically routes the utility usage data to the controller station. A central monitoring station communicates with the controller station. The central monitoring station receives and processes the utility usage data from the controller station for the efficient and accurate billing and other accounting and management operations. | 06-11-2009 |
20090153356 | System and method for collecting information from utility meters - A method of communicating between a collector meter and back haul device is disclosed. The method provides the collector meter, the collector meter has a local communications means for communicating to a plurality of utility metering devices, the collector meter also has having a short haul communications means. The method further provides the back haul device. The back haul device having the short haul communication means and a wireless telephonic communication means. The method communicates information between the collector meter and the back haul device using the short haul communication means. The method further sends data from the back haul device to a utility receiving center using the wireless telephonic means. | 06-18-2009 |
20090153357 | GAS METER HAVING ULTRA-SENSITIVE MAGNETIC MATERIAL RETROFITTED ONTO METER DIAL AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING METER RETROFIT - Device, structure and method for retrofitting a utility meter such as a gas meter with a retrofit module or for new installations to conventional meters so that it can be read remotely and so that retrofit may be accomplished simply by unskilled workers and without damage or alteration of meter. The method for retrofitting a meter of the type having shaft driven dial with dial index pointer and index cover involves removing the meter index cover to access the meter index dial pointer; attaching a magnet to the pointer so that it is carried in orbit around the pointer shaft to which the pointer is attached; and mounting a sensor to the meter adapted to sense the passage of the pointer-mounted magnet and to detect the orbit of index pointer; the attaching of the magnet and the mounting of the sensor being performed without removing the meter dial index assembly. | 06-18-2009 |
20090189778 | METER READING SYSTEM - A meter reading system is provided for use in reading the water, electricity or gas meters, in which a data logger and a meter are installed at user end. When desiring to obtain the readings of a meter at user end, a mobile meter reader sends a control signal via a communication method to the data logger and at the same time obtains the readout of user-end meter connected to the data logger. The meter reading system improves the situation of wrong recording of readout and saves the cost of labor in conventional manual meter reading. | 07-30-2009 |
20090201171 | SMALL IN-HOME UTILITY SERVICES DISPLAY DEVICE - A display device useful in displaying information transmitted by a utility to its customer location via a utility communication network has a generally planar body defining a face area less than about 25 square inches, a circuit board, an unlicensed band radio frequency communications receiver, a power source (such as a battery), a display screen and an attachment component (such as a magnet). | 08-13-2009 |
20090207042 | WIRELESS REMOTE METER READING APPARATUS AND DRIVING METHOD THEREOF - A wireless remote meter reading apparatus and driving method thereof are used to reduce the cost of detecting the amount of energy consumption and to enhance the detection efficiency, so as to facilitate the detection of the energy consumption amount of tap water, gas, electricity, calorie or the like. Each of a set of short-range wireless networks includes meter reading units. Regenerative repeating units and a data centralizing unit configure a cell unit. A base station controller collects meter-reading data from the short-range wireless networks configured by the cell unit via a base station. A meter reading server supplies a control signal to the meter reading units, the regenerative repeating units and the data centralizing unit using a long-range network, such as GSM, GPRS, CDMA, SMSC via a mobile switch or an internet network. The meter reading server is supplied with the meter reading data via the long-range network. | 08-20-2009 |
20090212971 | TRANSMITTING UTILITY USAGE DATA VIA A NETWORK INTERFACE DEVICE - Tools and techniques for transmitting utility usage data. In some cases, the tools receive utility usage data provided by a utility meter and transmit that data for reception by a utility provider. In particular cases, the utility usage data may be received at a network interface device. The network interface device might, in some instances, include a broadband modem, such as a digital subscriber line modem, which can be used to transmit the utility usage data to the utility provider. | 08-27-2009 |
20090243877 | DUAL MODE MULTI-NETWORK AMR SYSTEM ENDPOINT AND RELATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Automatic meter reading system and devices providing for dual mode mesh network and non-mesh network endpoint communication. The system includes a plurality of endpoint devices communicatively coupled to at least one data collection device. At least one endpoint device is configurable to operate in a first mode or a second mode. At least one endpoint is adapted to independently determine whether to operate in the first mode or the second mode. In the first mode the endpoint operates according to a hub-and-spoke communication mode in which it communicates information intended for a data collection infrastructure device directly to at least one dedicated data collection infrastructure device. In the second mode the endpoint operates according to a mesh communications mode in which it communicates information intended for a data collection infrastructure device via a non-dedicated data collection infrastructure device. At least some of the endpoint devices are capable of switching between a mesh-network mode and a non-mesh network mode. | 10-01-2009 |
20090251332 | MONITORING SYSTEM - A monitoring arrangement for use in an underground excavation includes an elongate support unit between walls in the excavation. A load-responsive sensing arrangement can be included and can be placed on the elongate support unit. A control system monitors the sensing arrangement and an alarm can be activated. | 10-08-2009 |
20090256719 | Utility monitoring system - A system for monitoring consumption of a utility by a building unit is provided. The system includes a sensor disposed externally yet proximal to a meter for recording consumption of the utility and having an indicator which indicates an event whenever a predefined quantity of the utility is consumed by the building unit. The sensor is configured for detecting each event and is connected to a controller having a controller, the controller being situated within the building unit. The controller is programmable with the predetermined event quantity as well as tariff information for the event and counts each event detected by the sensor. Based on the events counted, the tariff information, and the predefined event quantity, the controller generates consumption information, including approximate consumption totals of the utility consumed and costs therefor. The consumption information is selectively displayed on a display unit connected to the controller. | 10-15-2009 |
20090267792 | Customer supported automatic meter reading method - A method is described in which an automatic metering reading (AMR) method is implemented in the utility distribution system. The AMR method comprises a mesh network in which selected customers of the utility company support the network by providing collocated internet access points via the customer's existing internet connections; thus providing AMR data “backhaul”, thereby minimizing the need for the utility to build and deploy all the access points needed to populate the mesh infrastructure network. This customer access point for which the customer is remunerated, in whole or in part by the utility, allows the utility to develop and implement all the network elements to meet the utility AMR needs at a much lower cost. The customer-supported method can allow the utility to efficiently and effectively service its metering needs via the global communications network without a major investment in hardware, software and personnel. | 10-29-2009 |
20090278706 | Method and system for remote updates of meters for metering the consumption of electricity, water or gas - In a method and system of remote metering the consumption of utilities like electricity, water or gas, each of a plurality of remote meters (RM) measures a consumption and reports the measured-consumption to a concentrator (C). The concentrator (C) communicates with a plurality of remote meters (RM) in order to collect consumption data and perform tasks related to the administration of its associated remote meters (RM). Each remote meter (RM) has a host controller (MCM) and a program memory storing programs for execution by the host controller (MCM). In order to update some or all of the application programs running on the host controller (MCM) of the remote meters (RM), the concentrator (C) transmits program data to the remote meters (RM), and the remote meters (RM) receive the program data and update at least a portion of the program stored in the program memory in accordance with the received program data. | 11-12-2009 |
20090309754 | WIRELESS CURRENT TRANSFORMER - The present disclosure describes a system for monitoring energy data having at least one wireless current transformer, a metering circuit configured to receive an analog signal from the current transformer and to calculate energy data, a wireless transmitter unit in circuit with the metering circuit which is configured to transmit the energy data, and a receiver unit having a receiver, a processor in circuit with the receiver and configured to collect the energy data; and a display connected to the processor and configured to display the energy data. A method and apparatus for monitoring energy data is also presented. | 12-17-2009 |
20090309755 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOTELY MONITORING AND CONTROLLING A WATER METER - A meter that monitors usage of a water distribution system by a client is provided. The meter includes a wireless communications system operable to communicatively couple the meter to a wireless network to provide two-way communication between the meter and the wireless network; a calibration system operable to calibrate the meter, wherein the calibration system may calibrate the meter in response to an instruction received via the wireless network; and a power system operable to maintain a sufficient level of power for the meter to allow substantially real-time communication between the meter and the wireless network. | 12-17-2009 |
20090309756 | Techniques For Limiting Demand From An electricity Meter With An Installed Relay - An electricity meter capable of performing a method for limiting an electricity load in communication with the electricity meter is disclosed. The electricity meter includes at least one load control and the electricity meter has one or more predetermined time-of-use tiers. Each of the one or more predetermined time-of-use tiers has a corresponding time-of-use demand threshold. The method comprises determining a present time-of-use tier; determining a present time-of-use demand for the electricity load in the present time-of-use tier; comparing the present time-of-use demand to the time-of-use demand threshold corresponding to the present time-of-use tier; and setting the at least one load control to a de-energize mode when a de-energize condition is satisfied. The de-energize condition may include sub-conditions such as the present time-of-use demand exceeding the time-of-use demand threshold corresponding to the present time-of-use tier. | 12-17-2009 |
20090322555 | Tip Meter - A tip meter for providing real time customer satisfaction information to a server is provided. The tip meter displays a tip percentage identified by the customer. During the course of the service experience, the tip percentage is adjusted up or down depending on the customer's real time satisfaction. If the customer decreases the tip percentage, the service staff can attempt to improve service during the rest of the encounter and thereby increase the tip. The tip meter also calculates the total bill, including a particular tip amount for the customer and includes a light to notify staff when service is needed. | 12-31-2009 |
20090322556 | TRANSMISSION OF UTILITY DATA - Certain embodiments are directed at methods and systems for transmitting utility usage data using a public switched telephone network (“PSTN”). The methods and systems may include collecting utility usage data pertaining to a customer premises with a utility meter at the customer premises. The utility usage data may be transmitted automatically from the utility meter to an access point of a public broadband network. The utility usage data may be received at the access point. A digital subscriber line (“DSL”) modem in communication with the access point may modulate the utility usage data at the access point. The utility usage data may be transmitted securely through the public switched telephone network to an Internet point of presence. The utility usage data may be received at the Internet point of presence. The utility usage data may be transmitted from the Internet point of presence to a utility provider via the Internet. | 12-31-2009 |
20100007521 | RF METER READING SYSTEM - The automatic meter reading (AMR) systems and methods of the present invention facilitate meter reading utilizing one-way and two-way communication with utility meter endpoint devices while at the same time providing an operating regime that conserves energy for long battery life and utilizes the available airwaves for AMR communications efficiently. Embodiments of the invention are applicable in AMR systems employing handheld and/or vehicle-based mobile readers, fixed readers, and combinations thereof. Moreover, embodiments of the invention facilitate smooth transition from mobile AMR systems to fixed systems, and provide for automatic AMR system performance monitoring and automatic adaptability to maintain or improve performance. | 01-14-2010 |
20100007522 | Programming of a Demand Triggered Service Disconnect Device from a Threshold in Amps - A first embodiment is an arrangement, such as a meter programming device, that includes a memory, a user interface, a communication interface, and a processing circuit. The user interface arrangement is configured to receive user input. The communication interface is configured to communicate with a corresponding communication interface on a utility meter. The processing circuit is configured by software stored in the memory to: receive a user input at the user interface identifying a disconnect threshold as a measure of current; generate a disconnect threshold value as a function of the user input and a service voltage; and provide the disconnect threshold value to the utility meter via the communication interface. | 01-14-2010 |
20100013666 | UNIVERSAL RECONFIGURABLE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THE REMOTE READING OF COUNTERS OR EQUIPMENT COMPRISING VISUAL INDICATORS | 01-21-2010 |
20100026515 | Utility Metering System With Compact And Robust Antenna For Subsurface Installation - A pit transmitter assembly ( | 02-04-2010 |
20100039288 | Wireless Telemetry Circuit Structure for Measuring Temperature in High Temperature Environments - A circuit affixed to a moving part of an engine for sensing and processing the temperature of the part. The circuit generates a signal representative of the temperature sensed by a thermocouple ( | 02-18-2010 |
20100045479 | REMOTE COMMUNICATIONS FEEDBACK FOR UTILITY METER - A utility meter comprises a measurement circuit configured to measure consumption, a remote communications port, a local communications port, and a meter communications indicator. The meter communications indicator is configured to provide an indication that the meter is communicating with a remote device external to the meter over the remote communications port. The meter communications indicator is also configured to provide an indication that the meter is communicating with a local device external to the meter over the local communications port. The indication that communications are occurring over the local communications port is different from the indication that communications are occurring over the remote communications port. In at least one embodiment, the communications indicator is configured to provide an indication that communications are occurring simultaneously over the remote communications port and the local communications port. | 02-25-2010 |
20100052942 | COMMUNICATION DEVICE - A communication device is disclosed for communicating telemetry data relating to a fluid, which is passed through a group of concatenated containers such as pipes, tanks and the like in a process installation, to a data processing device. The communication device includes a measuring sensor which can be spatially separated from the data processing device, the measuring sensor having a transponder and a converter for converting a physical variable of the fluid into an electrical variable. The measuring sensor can communicate with a reading device assigned to the data processing device, the measuring sensor being concomitantly loosely guided in the fluid. | 03-04-2010 |
20100073191 | Wireless Data Programmer For Electronic Utility Registers And Meters - A handheld, key-operated programmer device ( | 03-25-2010 |
20100073192 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING AUTOMATED METER MANAGEMENT LAYER INTELLIGENCE TO A POWER LINE COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM - A system and method are provided to enable automated broadband AMR, optionally in real time. The system may include an Automated Meter Management Server and an Automated Meter Reading Converter, wherein the Automated Meter Management Server utilizes data generated by a Poller Converter and a Name Server, to enable automated data collaboration between Automated Meter Reading meters and a Power Line Communications System. | 03-25-2010 |
20100085211 | SELF-POWERED IN-PIPE FLUID METER AND PIPING NETWORK COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF SUCH FLUID METERS - A self-powered in-pipe fluid meter to be mounted inside of a pipe carrying a fluid therein. The fluid meter comprises at least one sensing unit capable of measuring one or more parameters of the fluid inside of the pipe; a telemetric data transmission unit capable of telemetrically transmitting data including a measured fluid parameter to a host terminal and/or another fluid meter; and at least one fluid-driven power source unit capable of generating power from the fluid flow within the pipe and supplying power to the sensing unit and/or the transmission unit. | 04-08-2010 |
20100102987 | Power Line Communication Device having Virtual Local Area Network Functionality - A power line based communication system includes a power line termination module, a plurality of power line gateways, and a plurality of power line nodes. The power line termination module manages data for local area networks within the power line based communication system. The plurality of power line gateways is arranged in sets of power line gateways, wherein each set of power line gateways constitutes a local area network. Each of the plurality of power line nodes is operably coupled to the power line termination module via a high-speed communication path. In addition, each power line node is operably coupled to set of power line gateways, i.e., to a local area network, via power lines of a local transformer. Each of the power line nodes receives data for its respective LAN from the power line termination module and provides the data to the power line gateways of its LAN via the power lines of the local transformer. Virtual local area networks are enabled between the power line termination module and the power line gateways. | 04-29-2010 |
20100109907 | System, Device and Method for Communicating over Power Lines - A system, method and device for communicating over a power line are provided. In one embodiment, the system includes a first device configured to communicate via broadband communications having a bandwidth greater than one megahertz, and a second device having a first port and a second port. The second port may be configured to communicate with the first device via broadband communications and the first port configured to communicate over one or more power lines with one or more remote devices via one or more of a plurality of frequency bands, and wherein each of the plurality of frequency bands has a bandwidth that is less than five hundred kilohertz. The second device may select one of the plurality of frequency bands and one of a plurality of modulations schemes based on channel conditions and/or operational parameters. The second device may be configured to transmit and receive data in a multitude of the plurality of frequency band concurrently. | 05-06-2010 |
20100117856 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF HIGH VOLUME IMPORT, VALIDATION AND ESTIMATION OF METER DATA - A meter data management system includes one or more application servers configured to receive, validate and estimate received meter data. The one or more application servers may include various memory/media elements for storing raw and transformed meter data as well as software in the form of computer-executable instructions, which are executed by a processor to implement a variety of functions, including establishing a mapping between the plurality of external devices and a plurality of preconfigured processing workbins (e.g., collections of meter channels in the same time zones), transforming the received meter data into a plurality of data files identified by timing parameter and workbin, validating data provided in each data file, estimating missing or invalid data, and automatically writing validated (and optionally estimated) data as import files to a database server. Such clean data files are then imported to one or more dedicated databases installed on the database server. | 05-13-2010 |
20100117857 | Telemetry services: serving the utility companies using the home FTTP network environment - A system and method for collecting utility consumption telemetry data from a customer served by a plurality of utility companies, and providing a consumption report for the customer to each of the plurality of utility companies serving the customer. The system includes a utility server that is adapted for receiving the utility consumption telemetry data from the utility customer. The utility server is disposed at a network service provider that serves the customer with bundled network services. Utility consumption telemetry data is stored in a database and consumption reports for the customer may be generated for each of the plurality of utility companies serving the customer. | 05-13-2010 |
20100127889 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR VIRTUAL ENERGY MANAGEMENT DISPLAY - A method and system of virtual energy management display involves periodically receiving via a mesh local area network electronic data representing energy management-related information by a RF communication-enabled memory storage device coupled to an electronic display device within a home area network. Electronic data representing telemetry information is likewise periodically received by the RF communication-enabled memory storage device from at least one RF communication-enabled energy management-related device within the home area network. The electronic data is converted to a common format by an application running at least in part on the memory storage device and displayed on a screen associated with the display device. | 05-27-2010 |
20100127890 | SPHERICAL SENSOR AND DATA COLLECTION VEHICLES - An inexpensive unmanned mobile sensor and data collection rolling rover (“rollver) for exploring remote, inaccessible locations, such as deep craters and canyons, includes a hollow enclosure having a flexible wall that is expandable into the shape of a sphere, an apparatus for selectably expanding the wall of the enclosure, a sensor and instrumentation payload disposed within the enclosure and coupled to an inner surface of the wall of the enclosure, and a power supply for powering the payload at its destination. The rollver is adapted to roll to a target destination at least partially in response to at least one of an initial impetus imparted to the vehicle and gravitational forces acting thereon, and due to its relatively low cost, can be simultaneously deployed and used in an area of interest in relatively large numbers. | 05-27-2010 |
20100141474 | ELECTRONIC ELECTRIC METER FOR NETWORKED METER READING - An electronic electric meter for use in a networked automatic meter reading environment. The electric meter retrofits into existing meter sockets and is available for new meter installations for both single phase and three phase electric power connections. The meter utilizes an all electronic design including a meter microcontroller, a measurement microcontroller, a communication microcontroller and spread spectrum processor, and a plurality of other communication interface modules for communicating commodity utilization and power quality data to a utility. The electric meter utilizes a modular design which allows the interface modules to be changed depending upon the desired communication network interface. The meter measures electricity usage and monitors power quality parameters for transmission to the utility over a two-way 900 MHz spread spectrum local area network (LAN) to a remotely located gateway node. The gateway node transmits this data to the utility over a commercially available fixed wide area network (WAN). The meter also provides direct communication to the utility over a commercially available network interface that plugs into the meter's backplane or bus system bypassing the local area network communication link and gateway node. | 06-10-2010 |
20100156664 | Apparatus and Methods for Multi-Channel Electric Metering - In one aspect, the invention comprises a device for measuring electricity usage, comprising: means for remote disconnection via power line communication; means for detection of electricity theft; means for tamper detection; and means for reverse voltage detection. In another aspect, the invention comprises an apparatus for multi-channel metering of electricity, comprising: (a) a meter head operable to measure electricity usage for a plurality of electricity consumer lines; (b) a transponder operable to transmit data received from the meter head via power line communication to a remotely located computer, and to transmit data received via power line communication from the remotely located computer to the meter head; and (c) a load control module operable to actuate connection and disconnection of each of a plurality of relays, each relay of the plurality of relays corresponding to one of the plurality of electricity consumer lines. | 06-24-2010 |
20100156665 | System, Method and Apparatus for Advanced Utility Control, Monitoring and Conservation - The present application is directed to a system and method of providing flexible real-time two-way energy control and monitoring between utility providers and consumers. Consumer friendly nodes permit communication of targeted information and control, while permitting the utility provider to remotely communicate and control in a real-time environment. Data collection of and accessibility by a community of utility consumers provides social feedback through comparative usage statistics. | 06-24-2010 |
20100164749 | Automatic Registration of Meters to a Centralized Data System - A system and methods for automatically configuring a monitoring device that is attachable to a network coupled to a data collection system. The network has associated network parameters. The monitoring device is coupled to an energy distribution system. The monitoring device measures a characteristic of energy supplied by the energy distribution system and stores data representative of the measured characteristics. A first network communications link is automatically established between the monitoring device and the network, and a host server is contacted to identify network parameters including an address of the data collection system. A second network communications link is automatically established between the monitoring device and the data collection system based on the address of the data collection system. Nameplate and configuration information associated with the monitoring device is communicated from the monitoring device over the network to the data collection system. The registration of the monitoring device in the data collection system is acknowledged based on acceptance of the nameplate information and the configuration information by the data collection system. | 07-01-2010 |
20100164750 | Adapter for meter - An adapter is interposed between a standard resource meter and its socket, to provide RF-capabilities. Communications between meter and adapter are effected by optical technology. The adapter has emergency battery back-up capabilities. | 07-01-2010 |
20100176966 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS OF SIMULTANEOUSLY COMMUNICATING UTILITY DATA AND VOICE DATA - A method for communicating utility data includes receiving a voice signal and a data signal via a utility network, combining the voice signal and the data signal to form a communication signal, and transmitting the communication signal to a plurality of utility asset controllers and handheld devices via the utility network. | 07-15-2010 |
20100176967 | COLLECTING UTILITY DATA INFORMATION AND CONDUCTING RECONFIGURATIONS, SUCH AS DEMAND RESETS, IN A UTILITY METERING SYSTEM - In a data collection system having a utility data collector configured for remotely collecting utility data, a system includes one or more endpoints. Each endpoint has a utility meter, memory for storing at least utility consumption data from the utility meter, and a radio for transmitting a communication message to the utility data collector. The radio establishes a communication link between the endpoint and the utility data collector, and provides consumption data when a wireless communication channel quality test determines an adequacy of communications from the endpoint and the utility data collector (e.g. using RSSI). The utility meter sets a hold-off timer or other validity check and only performs subsequently received reset requests or other reconfigurations if the timer has expired or the validity check is valid. Other features are also disclosed. | 07-15-2010 |
20100176968 | Power Line Communication Apparatus and Method of Using the Same - The present invention provides a communication device for use with a power line communication system. One embodiment of the present invention forms a communication device that comprises a first wireless modem, a controller, a second modem, and a sensor module. The controller operates the sensor module to take power line parameter measurements such as measurements of the voltage and/or current, which may be wirelessly transmitted to a remote device by the first modem. In addition, the controller may compare the measurements with thresholds and transmit notifications if a measurement is beyond a threshold. Data may be received from one or more user devices, such as utility meters or computers, by the second modem and wirelessly transmitted upstream by the first modem. | 07-15-2010 |
20100182162 | Sealed Transmitter Assembly For Subsurface Utility Installations - An assembly ( | 07-22-2010 |
20100188254 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVING RECEPTION OF DATA IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION ENVIRONMENTS - Generally described, the disclosed subject matter is directed to improving the reception of data in wireless communication environments. In accordance with one embodiment, a method is provided for improving the reception of meter data in an AMR system. In particular, the method includes obtaining a sample of data indicative of channel quality for each transmission channel in the operational frequency band of the endpoint device. Then, the data is analyzed and a determination is made as to whether the reception of data by the collection system can be improved. If the reception of data by the collection system can be improved, a command is generated for reprogramming the endpoint device. In one embodiment, the command includes channel reprogramming data for reprogramming the endpoint device. | 07-29-2010 |
20100188255 | RELATIVE TIME SYSTEM - A system, method and device are provided for obtaining, from each endpoint device, meter reading data where the meter reading data are recorded and managed based on a relative time clock in each endpoint device. The relative time clock may be a simple inexpensive clock that tracks minutes and triggers recording of meter reading data for a particular hour at the end of that hour. In that embodiment, a collection system sends an endpoint device a request that includes a requested time that is converted into a relative time so that the endpoint device can understand the request. Since each recorded interval is generated based on a relative time maintained by the clock in the endpoint device rather than an absolute (real) time, the endpoint device does not need to maintain accurate date/time or to read meter reading data from the utility meter based on a real date/time. | 07-29-2010 |
20100188256 | REQUESTED TIME ADJUSTMENT FOR ACCURATE DATA EXCHANGE - A system, method and device are provided for reducing consumption calculation errors caused due to time drift in an endpoint device. In one embodiment, the endpoint device transmits consumption data in response to a request for consumption data. The request generally includes a time period of the consumption data. The endpoint device adjusts the set of intervals based on the extent of the difference between the collection system time and the endpoint device time to obtain the most accurate intervals. The process for adjusting intervals can be implemented independently from time synchronization between the endpoint and collection systems. Further, the process for adjusting intervals does not result in updating the meter reading data that have been already logged and stored in the endpoint device. | 07-29-2010 |
20100188257 | IN-HOME DISPLAY - Generally described, the disclosed subject matter is directed to providing enhanced features regarding the consumption of utility services. In accordance with one embodiment, a method is provided for obtaining a specified time interval of consumption data using the two-way communication ability of a utility meter. Specifically, the method includes capturing network traffic originating from the utility meter that contains consumption data. Then, processing is performed to identify any intervals of consumption data that were not successfully collected. If an interval of consumption data was not successfully collected when transmitted at a scheduled time, the method generates and sends a request to the utility meter to obtain the omitted interval. | 07-29-2010 |
20100188258 | TIME-DIVIDED COMMUNICATIONS IN A METERING SYSTEM - A method, system, and related apparatus for performing time-divided communications in a metering environment are disclosed. In one embodiment, an endpoint (e.g., ERT) is provided that implements a method for communicating messages with a remote device. Generally, the method includes causing the endpoint to transmit a standard meter reading message within a predefined frequency band. Then, after waiting a predetermined amount of time, a receiver on the endpoint is activated to listen for a message transmitted by the remote device. While the receiver on the endpoint is activated, the endpoint may receive a command from the remote device without being required to transmit an additional standard meter reading message. | 07-29-2010 |
20100188259 | FILTERING OF METER READING DATA - Packet formats and associated metering infrastructure for filtering meter reading data that is being transmitted by utility meters are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method suitable for being implemented in a metering environment is provided that filters meter reading data being received by multiple collectors. Specifically, the method includes ranking the relative ability of the plurality of collectors to capture transmissions from the same utility meter. Based on the relative ranking, at least one collector from the plurality of collectors is identified that will be configured to disregard transmissions that originate from the utility meter. Then, the method provides the collector with a read list for differentiating between transmissions containing meter reading data that will be forwarded to a utility service provider from transmissions that originate from the utility meter. | 07-29-2010 |
20100188260 | ENDPOINT CLASSIFICATION AND COMMAND PROCESSING - Packet formats and related infrastructure for improved messaging and processing of commands in an AMR system are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for identifying the features of an endpoint based on data encoded in a standard meter reading is provided. In this regard, the method includes receiving a standard meter reading having an endpoint type and subtype classification, wherein the subtype classification corresponds to a feature of the endpoint that may be re-configured. Once received, the standard metering reading is decoded. Then, the method identifies the classification of the endpoint with regard to type and subtype and determines whether the endpoint is capable of implementing a particular command. | 07-29-2010 |
20100188261 | GAS APPLIANCE MONITORING APPARATUS - The apparatus includes a flow rate measurement unit | 07-29-2010 |
20100188262 | ENERGY CONSUMPTION MEASUREMENT - A system for measuring energy consumption comprises a plurality of devices (DEi) of which at least a subset comprises a communication unit (CUi) for supplying operating status information (OSi) indicating an actual operating status with respect to an actual energy consumption of the associated one of the plurality of devices (DEi). A meter (EM) measures a total energy consumption (TEC) of the plurality of devices (DEi). A controller (CO) calculates an individual energy consumption (IEC) of a particular one of the plurality of devices (DEi) from a change of the total energy consumption (TEC) occurring at a change of the operating status of the particular one of the plurality of devices (DEi). | 07-29-2010 |
20100201541 | SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING UTILITY MONITORING - The present invention relates to a means for monitoring the utility usage in a building with individual units but serviced by a single utility company meter. The individual units receive a pulse flow meter which is hard wired to a central unit and then sent to the internet for reading and then splitting the utility bill into prorated utility bills based on actual usage rather than size of the individual unit as a percentage of the whole unit. | 08-12-2010 |
20100214122 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A SYSTEM (amended - In a and method for operating a system, including a drive that is connectable to a supply-voltage source, especially an AC-voltage source, with the aid of an apparatus, in particular a control unit, via electric lines installed in the system, information is transmittable between the control unit and the drive, using the lines. | 08-26-2010 |
20100214123 | WIRELESS BROADBAND COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK FOR A UTILITY - A communications network ( | 08-26-2010 |
20100219982 | DEVICE FOR BIDIRECTIONAL REMOTE WATER-METER READING BY MEANS OF RADIO, FOR INVOICING IN A ACCORDANCE WITH CONSUMPTION TIME BANDS - The present invention relates to a remote water-meter reading device ( | 09-02-2010 |
20100231413 | Process, device and system for mapping transformers to meters and locating non-technical line losses - A process, device and system for mapping usage data from a plurality of utility usage nodes, such as electricity usage meters, to one or more utility distribution nodes, such as a transformer, in which utility usage data collected at a collection device from the plurality of utility usage nodes at predetermined intervals is received, and utility distribution data collected at the collection device from the utility distribution node at the predetermined intervals is likewise received. Aggregate usage data from one or more of the plurality of utility usage nodes is compared to distribution data from the utility distribution node during one or more of the same predetermined intervals to determine, using a computer, which of the plurality of utility usage nodes is connected to the utility distribution node | 09-16-2010 |
20100253538 | SMART METER COVER WITH INTEGRAL UNTETHERED ANTENNA ELEMENTS FOR AMI COMMUNICATIONS - Method and apparatus for mounting and locating untethered embedded antenna elements in the dielectric cover of electric utility meters configured for but not limited to wireless remote one way or two way radio communications for automated metering applications such as remote meter reading, remote connect/disconnect, home area networking, meter equipment firmware downloads, load management or locations based services. A multiplicity of untethered integral antenna elements and topologies may be located within a replacement dielectric cover for a direct-connect cable free or cable connection to a radio or microwave modem. Also described is a method and apparatus for retro-fitting the antenna elements on the inner face of an existing utility meter dielectric cover. | 10-07-2010 |
20100265095 | ENDPOINT CLASSIFICATION AND COMMAND PROCESSING - Packet formats and related infrastructure for improved messaging and processing of commands in an AMR system are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for identifying the features of an endpoint based on data encoded in a standard meter reading is provided. In this regard, the method includes receiving a standard meter reading having an endpoint type and subtype classification, wherein the subtype classification corresponds to a feature of the endpoint that may be re-configured. Once received, the standard metering reading is decoded. Then, the method identifies the classification of the endpoint with regard to type and subtype and determines whether the endpoint is capable of implementing a particular command. | 10-21-2010 |
20100265096 | ENDPOINT CLASSIFICATION AND COMMAND PROCESSING - Packet formats and related infrastructure for improved messaging and processing of commands in an AMR system are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method for identifying the features of an endpoint based on data encoded in a standard meter reading is provided. In this regard, the method includes receiving a standard meter reading having an endpoint type and subtype classification, wherein the subtype classification corresponds to a feature of the endpoint that may be re-configured. Once received, the standard metering reading is decoded. Then, the method identifies the classification of the endpoint with regard to type and subtype and determines whether the endpoint is capable of implementing a particular command. | 10-21-2010 |
20100271234 | FLOW CONSUMPTION MODULAR METER - The invention relates to a flow consumption modular meter. It comprises a base module providing the connection between flow distribution lines and a subscriber supply, equipped with a metering connection interface and a metering module equipped with an interface for connecting to the base module via the metering connection interface. Electrical components of a permanent nature are installed in the base module and electronic components of a changeable nature are installed in the metering module. Application to flow meters, particularly electricity meters. | 10-28-2010 |
20100302061 | Meter Register and Remote Meter Reader Utilizing a Stepper Motor - A meter for flowing material, e.g., water, has a meter register having an electronic display, e.g., an LED or LCD display, and a mechanical read-out display driven by a stepper motor to record units of water that flowed through the meter. In the event of an electrical power failure, the LED or LCD readout values are lost, however, the mechanical read-out values remain. Further, signals are transmitted to a microprocessor of a meter register to change the rotation of the stepper motor so that the meter register can be used with different types of meters. Still further, a meter generator co-acting with a meter register forwards an electrical pulse signal after a quantity of material or utility passes through a water meter to a microprocessor of a remote reader. The remote reader includes an odometer coupled to a stepper motor. | 12-02-2010 |
20100302062 | Method and System for Providing a Network Protocol for Utility Services - A method and system for providing a network protocol for utility services are disclosed are disclosed. In one embodiment, a computer-implemented method comprises discovering a utility network, wherein a constant powered meter sends network discovery messages to find the utility network. Neighboring meters are discovered, wherein the constant powered meter sends hello messages periodically. The constant powered meter is registered with the utility network. Further, the battery powered meter finds and associates itself with a constant powered meter. The constant powered meter also registers its associate battery powered meter with the utility network. The constant powered meter sends a node registration message to the gateway of the utility network. The constant powered meter can sense outage problems with the gateway and the neighbors of its network, and search and migrate to an alternate network | 12-02-2010 |
20100309021 | REAL TIME CLOCK DISTRIBUTION AND RECOVERY - The present technology relates to protocols relative to utility meters associated with an open operational framework. More particularly, the present subject matter relates to protocol subject matter for advanced metering infrastructure, adaptable to various international standards, while economically supporting a 2-way mesh network solution in a wireless environment, such as for operating in a residential electricity meter field. The present subject matter supports meters within an ANSI standard C12.22/C12.19 system while economically supporting a 2-way mesh network solution in a wireless environment, such as for operating in a residential electricity meter field, all to permit cell-based adaptive insertion of C12.22 meters within an open framework. Cell isolation is provided through quasi-orthogonal sequences in a frequency hopping network. Additional features relate to apparatus and methodology subject matters relating to real time clock distribution and recovery. | 12-09-2010 |
20100315263 | CONVERTING AC POWERED UTILITY METER TO SOLAR POWERED METER - A solar powered meter reading device (MRD) includes a metering circuit configured to measure consumption of a resource. A transceiver is operatively connected to the metering circuit and is configured and arranged to transmit and receive radio signals. A power arrangement is electrically connected to supply electrical power to at least one of the metering circuit and the transceiver. The power arrangement includes a photovoltaic array and a battery electrically connected to the photovoltaic array and to at least one of the metering circuit and the transceiver. | 12-16-2010 |
20100321205 | AMR Transmitter And Method Using Multiple Radio Messages - The invention provides a method and several types of devices for converting meter reading signals into data messages including a first message ( | 12-23-2010 |
20100328097 | UTILITY DATA OVER BROADBAND INFRASTRUCTURE - A method for reading a utility meter utilizing broadband infrastructure is provided. The method may include transmitting utility usage data from a plurality of customer premises to a remote enclosure, coupled with a utility pole, using a power line communications infrastructure. The utility usage data may be received at the remote enclosure. The remote enclosure may include a digital subscriber line (“DSL”) modem for modulating the utility usage data. The modulated utility usage data may be transmitted over a public broadband network infrastructure to a utility provider. | 12-30-2010 |
20110006911 | PLANAR DIPOLE ANTENNA - A planar dipole antenna is described. The antenna may include a ground element, a feed point, a matching element, and first and second radiating elements disposed on a substrate, and a feed point. The ground element may have a substantially rectangular shape and the feed point may be arranged adjacent to the ground element. The matching element may be connected to the feed point and may include a central bar connected to a first and second arm. The first and second arms may be substantially symmetrically disposed on the substrate in respect to the central bar. The first and second radiating elements may have substantially trapezoidal shapes and may be extend from the first and second arms of the matching element, respectively. The first and second radiating elements may be substantially symmetrically disposed on the substrate in respect to the central bar of the matching element. | 01-13-2011 |
20110043374 | COMMUNICATION METHODS AND DEVICES - In one arrangements there is provided a communications method ( | 02-24-2011 |
20110050455 | ALARM REPORTING THROUGH UTILITY METER READING INFRASTRUCTURE - A system is provided that includes a utility meter of a utility company that measures consumption of a utility within a space occupied by a user, a wireless fault detector associated with the utility located within the space and a wireless transmitter of the utility meter that receives a fault message from the fault detector, confirms consumption of the utility within the space and transmits a fault message that identifies the space to the utility company. | 03-03-2011 |
20110050456 | VERSATILE RADIO PACKETING FOR AUTOMATIC METER READING SYSTEMS - An automatic meter reading (AMR) system utilizes versatile radio packets that are recognizable by AMR system receivers capable of receiving conventional interval data message (IDM) radio packets. A versatile radio packet includes a packet preamble portion, a packet body portion, and a packet validation portion. The packet preamble portion has a frame synchronization bit sequence that is recognizable by existing or conventional encoder-receiver-transmitter (ERT)-compatible AMR system receivers, such as a bit sequence equal to 0x16A3. The packet preamble portion also has a packet type identifier field and a packet length field. The packet body portion includes at least an endpoint serial number field and a message, where at least the message has a variable length. Optionally, the message includes a message type identifier field and a message value field that can have a plurality of sub-fields. The AMR system may use message type identifiers optionally present in the versatile radio packets to filter, or discriminate between, certain message types at the reader level. Versatile radio packets can enable endpoints and other devices in the AMR system to transmit a variety of new information to existing AMR infrastructure without having to conduct a significant infrastructure overhaul of the AMR system. | 03-03-2011 |
20110057811 | PROJECTED INSTRUMENT DISPLAYS FOR FIELD MOUNTED PROCESS INSTRUMENTS - An industrial process transmitter includes a first process sensor, transmitter circuitry, a housing and an image projector. The first process sensor measures a process variable of an industrial process and generates a sensor signal. The transmitter circuitry is connected to the first process sensor and is configured to operate functions of the process transmitter. The housing includes a window and an image projector. The image projector is connected to the transmitter circuitry and is configured to project an image of information relating to functions of the process transmitter onto the window in the housing. | 03-10-2011 |
20110063124 | PIT MOUNT INTERFACE DEVICE - A pit mount interface device includes a body having a head and an elongate stem extending from a bottom surface of the head. The elongate stem is sized and configured to be received in and extend through a hole formed in a cover of a pit. A nut defines a central aperture that is sized and configured to receive the elongate stem of the body. A passive radiator is disposed within the body and configured receive a radio frequency (RF) signal transmitted by an automatic meter reading (AMR) device located below the cover through inductive coupling and to radiate the RF signal from a position located above the cover of the pit. | 03-17-2011 |
20110063125 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR REMOTE METERING THE CONSUMPTION OF ELECTRICITY, WATER OR GAS - The method and devices for remote metering the consumption, of utilities according to the present invention provide the possibility to retrieve a specific amount of data, i.e. consumption data and/or additional data, from remote meters of a remote metering system. The retrieved data provide a data profile in a given time interval than the entire buffer, for example indicative of the consumption characteristics over time at the location of a remote meter or, in the case of a distribution network for electric energy, indicative of a ratio of active and reactive energy consumption at the location of a remote meter over time. | 03-17-2011 |
20110063126 | COMMUNICATIONS HUB FOR RESOURCE CONSUMPTION MANAGEMENT - The subject disclosure provides a communications architecture for managing/relaying utility information, such as energy, water or gas information. In one aspect, the system includes a hub having a first communications interface for receiving consumption data of a predetermined energy load and a second communications interface for communicating with a metering device. The second communications interface is configured to transmit the consumption data to the metering device and to receive control signals from the metering device where the consumption data is communicated using a first protocol and wherein the control signals are communicated using a second protocol. | 03-17-2011 |
20110068947 | MOBILE METER READING FOR LOCATING STOLEN UTILITY METERS - A method, collection device, and automatic meter reading (AMR) system for locating stolen utility meters use a set of identifiers, such as transponder serial numbers, to build a route of utility meters that have been reported as having been stolen. When each mobile collection device's daily routes are prepared, the route of stolen utility meters is added to the other routes for which the mobile collection device is ordinarily tasked with collecting meter read data. As the mobile collection device traverses its daily routes, it collects meter read data for the stolen utility meters along with the meter read data for its other routes. The route of stolen utility meters is unloaded from the mobile collection device along with the other daily routes when the read process is finished. The route of stolen utility meters may contain information that may assist the utility company in locating the stolen utility meters. | 03-24-2011 |
20110074599 | IN HOME DISPLAY UPDATABLE VIA UTILITY ENDPOINT - Disclosed are an in home display apparatus and methodology for displaying utility consumption and other related information to a consumer. The display device monitors transmissions from a utility consumption endpoint on a meter for user readable display. Messages relevant to the consumer may be sent to the endpoint to be relayed along with bubbled-up data from the endpoint on the meter to the in home display device. Flags related to certain of the messages may be set by the endpoint and cleared by the in home display device as a mechanism for acknowledging receipt of messages. Network readers see that set flags have been cleared and thus confirm message delivery to the network. | 03-31-2011 |
20110074600 | UTILITY REMOTE DISCONNECT FROM A METER READING SYSTEM - Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for providing remote gas disconnection by way of a meter reading system. In accordance with the present subject matter, a gas metering device is provided with a remotely controllable valve, and a handheld or mobile device (normally employed to collect data such as normal meter readings generally associated with utility consumption) is configured to transmit disconnect instructions to a selected gas metering device as a meter reader proceeds along a route. In an alternative embodiment, disconnect instructions may be sent directly to a remotely operable valve equipped metering device by way of a fixed network meter reading system. | 03-31-2011 |
20110074601 | UTILITY METER WITH FLOW RATE SENSITIVITY SHUT OFF - Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for providing gas disconnection by way of a self-monitoring metrology device. In accordance with the present subject matter, a gas metering device is provided with a controllable valve previously generally operated remotely to respond to disconnect instruction from handheld, mobile, or fixed network devices or systems. In accordance with present technology, such previously supplied valve opening functionality is employed to provide a safety-related self-monitoring metrology device configured to evaluate gas flow through such device and to initiate a valve opening request upon determination of the existence of a gas flow rate exceeding a predetermined threshold. In alternate embodiments, a valve opening request may be initiated if the difference in gas flow rates as between an input sensor and an output sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold. | 03-31-2011 |
20110074602 | GAS SHUT-OFF VALVE WITH FEEDBACK - Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for providing a feedback mechanism to a system operator that provides a positive indication of the position of a valve which controls gas flow to a consumer. Rotation of a stepper motor controlling a valve mechanism is optically monitored and a feedback signal is sent to the system operator indicating positive operation of the valve only when a selected number of rotations of the stepper motor is reported. The stepper motor may be operated in different modes, each associated with different nominal current consumption levels. In a higher current consumption mode, such as a torque-oriented mode, the stepper motor may be stepped a few additional steps after valve closure to ensure seating of the valve. | 03-31-2011 |
20110095903 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR UTILITY USAGE MONITORING - An approach is provided for monitoring utility usage and generating notifications. A platform collects utility data from a utility meter of a subscriber and determines whether the utility data satisfies a usage threshold. The platform generates a notification based on the determination and presents the notification. | 04-28-2011 |
20110109472 | RESOURCE MONITORING ON A MOBILE DEVICE - A first set of data reflects usage of a resource based on readings from a metering device located at a first user's premises. A second set of data reflects usage of the resource at multiple other user premises. Comparison and usage indicators are generated based one the first and second sets of data. A comparison indicator is generated based on the first set of data and the second set of data. A usage indicator is generated based on the first set of data. The usage indicator reflects the usage of the resource at the first user's premises over a period of time and the comparison indicator reflects the same usage relative to the usage at the multiple user premises over the same period of time. The comparison indicator and the usage indicator are sent to a mobile device that displays the indicators. | 05-12-2011 |
20110115641 | Three-phase multifunction verifier - Multifunctional meter measures voltage, current, demand, factor, power consumption also water, natural gas, fuel and other items. The design has a 16 bit micro-programmed processing unit, and manages interaction with different hardware components and realizes the functions of communication, data registry and operation control. Composed of a modular form and includes capacities for network connection and inclusion as a module within multi-point measurement systems. The modular components are: three-phase measurement machine, interface and peripherals for LCD screen, high precision clock in real time, external non-volatile memory bank (flash), energy failure detector to backup vital information for the meter, interface and peripherals for navigation buttons, interface and peripherals for RGB leds indicators of events and status, UART communications interface, RS 485 communication bus, ANSI C12 protocol optical communication interface, communications interface to external modules like Ethernet, GPRS, Wi Fi or compatibles, digital inputs for the interface of Sensory converters to pulses. | 05-19-2011 |
20110115642 | UTILITY NETWORK INTERFACE DEVICE CONFIGURED TO DETECT AND REPORT ABNORMAL OPERATING CONDITION - A utility network interface device is provided for operation with a utility network. The utility network interface device includes a detector configured to produce a state signal upon occurrence of a prescribed state that interferes with the ability of a utility meter, with which the utility network interface device is associated, to measure consumption of a commodity and/or report consumption of the commodity. The utility network interface device also includes a control unit configured to detect a tampering with the utility meter in accordance with the state signal produced by the detector. The control unit automatically controls a notification unit to output, external to the utility meter, notification of the tampering detected by the control unit, in response to the detection of the tampering. Also provided are a utility network including the utility network interface device, a method of operating a utility network interface device, and a computer-readable recording medium having a computer program recorded thereon for operating a utility network interface device. | 05-19-2011 |
20110121989 | REMOTE SENSING SYSTEM - An imaging system ( | 05-26-2011 |
20110140908 | WIRELESS SENSOR HAVING MULTIPLE POSSIBLE ANTENNA MOUNTING LOCATIONS - A wireless valve-position monitor includes a housing having a plurality of possible antenna module mounting ports. A position sensor is within the housing that interfaces to a movable portion of a process-control valve for providing a position detection signal that reflects a position of the process-control valve. A wireless transceiver system including a transceiver coupled to an antenna module is coupled to the position sensor for transmitting a wireless signal that communicates the position of the process-control valve. The antenna module is mounted to one of the plurality of possible mounting ports on the housing. | 06-16-2011 |
20110140909 | Apparatus And Method For Establishing Communication From Remote Sites In A Fixed Meter Reading Network - A method and apparatus is disclosed for adjusting a transmission power level of a transceiver ( | 06-16-2011 |
20110140910 | Mobile Network Back-Up for Fixed Meter Reading Networks - A method and apparatus is disclosed for providing a metering site transceiver ( | 06-16-2011 |
20110140911 | RELIABLE, LONG-HAUL DATA COMMUNICATIONS OVER POWER LINES FOR METER READING AND OTHER COMMUNICATIONS SERVICES - A system, method and computer program product provides for power line communications (PLC) over electric power lines includes a device mountable near an electrical distribution transformer (DT) to provide a high speed interface and communicates with one or multiple access devices, which provide low speed interfaces for analog signals or digital signals over RS 232, RS 485, optical, wireless and Ethernet. The device transmits data to/from these access devices over the electric lines to other repeaters over one or more wires of an electrical line or over multiple lines, and serves to strengthen and improve signal quality. Upon detecting a wire or line is having problems carrying data, the data is sent over other wires, and upon power line failures, wireless backup to mobile/GSM and WiMax networks is utilized. The device permits utilities and others to read electric meters, monitor the power quality of the distribution grid and detect power losses/failures/outages, and permits telecom service providers and others to provide a communications link to cell phone towers, WiFi Access Points and enable broadband Internet and telephony in rural, remote or sparely populated areas. | 06-16-2011 |
20110140912 | METHOD FOR PROVIDING VISUALIZATION OF A DATA AGE - Medical monitor readings ( | 06-16-2011 |
20110169658 | DEVICE FOR DETERMINING COMMUNICATIONS PARAMETERS AND METHOD OF OPERATION - A device and method for determining communications parameters such as signal strength is provided. The device includes a plurality of meters, each having an associated transceiver configured to receive a different communications protocol. Communications signals are received by a communications module and transmitted to the plurality of meters. The plurality of meters provide an indication of a signal parameter, such as signal strength for example, to allow the operator to decide which communications protocol the end device should use. | 07-14-2011 |
20110169659 | AMR METER TO ZIGBEE COMMUNICATIONS BRIDGE - A communications bridge facilitates communication between an automatic meter reading (AMR) meter and a home area network (HAN) that uses the ZigBee smart energy (SE) protocol. The communications bridge includes a variety of components, including an AMR receiver, a microcontroller, and a ZigBee radio. The AMR receiver reads AMR data, which is not compatible with the ZigBee SE protocol, from the AMR meter. The microcontroller parses the received AMR data and translates it into corresponding ZigBee data. This ZigBee data is transmitted to other devices on the HAN via the ZigBee radio. The translated AMR meter data can then be presented to a consumer in real-time, enabling the consumer to better understand and manage his or her energy usage. | 07-14-2011 |
20110175749 | PLANAR DISTRIBUTED ELEMENT ANTENNA ISOLATION BOARD - An antenna isolation circuit, meter reading device, and method of manufacturing an antenna isolation circuit are disclosed herein. A multilayer planar structure antenna isolation circuit uses distributed elements to provide high voltage isolation and RF coupling functions. The distributed elements may be implemented, for example, as multilayer distributed capacitors. In other embodiments, the distributed elements may be implemented as a distributed transformer. | 07-21-2011 |
20110181437 | DATA REDUCTION IN A MULTI-NODE SYSTEM - An advanced metering infrastructure comprises intermediate nodes. The intermediate nodes receive data from child nodes and relay a subset of the data that is not according to an expected value. The expected value may be determined based on a forecasting function computed based on past data. The expected value may be a spatial shape in an n-dimension space. A data not within the spatial shape may be considered not in accordance with the expected value. In some case, the spatial shape is defined by a centroid and a radius. The spatial shape may shift over time based on a consumption profile, such as low consumption at noon, and high consumption at evening. The consumption profiles may be determined in a learning phase, as well as shifting of spatial shapes of each group over time. | 07-28-2011 |
20110181438 | METER DEVICE WITH SUPPORTING COMMUNICATIONS - A meter device having supporting communications. The meter device may monitor a plurality of determinants. The determinants may be stored and displayed at the meter device. The meter device may support various communication protocols, such as dual communication protocols for simultaneous transmission via RS-485 and the Ethernet. The meter device may have a housing with a pair or more of communication ports. The device may have a data bus connector. The device may have a communication bus that can connect directly to a Java application control engine. Also, the device may have a din rail housing. | 07-28-2011 |
20110193718 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND INTEGRATED CIRCUIT CHIP FOR WIRELESS MULTI-NETWORK METER READING - A wireless monitoring system comprises a remote asset about which data is to be collected and a wireless data-transfer device connected to the remote asset. The wireless device includes a radiofrequency transceiver and a chip having a memory for storing a plurality of subscriber identifiers corresponding to different wireless networks and for further storing logic that constitutes network selection rules for selecting one of the wireless networks to use for transmission of the data. In a GSM/UMTS implementation of this technology, the subscriber identifier is the IMSI and the chip is a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) chip or card. By using multiple IMSI's, the wireless data-transfer device connected to the remote asset may switch seamlessly between wireless networks. A new IMSI (for a new network) may be provisioned over the air to enable the device to communicate over a new network for which it did not previously have an IMSI. | 08-11-2011 |
20110193719 | DISCOVERY PHASE IN A FREQUENCY HOPPING NETWORK - The present technology relates to protocols relative to utility meters associated with an open operational framework. More particularly, the present subject matter relates to protocol subject matter for advanced metering infrastructure, adaptable to various international standards, while economically supporting a 2-way mesh network solution in a wireless environment, such as for operating in a residential electricity meter field. The present subject matter supports meters within an ANSI standard C12.22/C12.19 system while economically supporting a 2-way mesh network solution in a wireless environment, such as for operating in a residential electricity meter field, all to permit cell-based adaptive insertion of C12.22 meters within an open framework. Particular present features relate to operation at the node level of a Discovery Phase in a frequency hopping network. | 08-11-2011 |
20110210862 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COLLECTING AND DISPLAYING CONSUMPTION DATA FROM A METER READING SYSTEM - A method and an apparatus for collecting and displaying real-time utility consumption data and an estimate of utility costs from various utility metering modules upon request by the consumer within the comfort of their own home or business. According to one aspect of the invention, a utility display module is in communication with a utility end point device that monitors and displays consumption of a utility (water, gas, and/or electricity). The source of the data received by the module may be generated by utility meter transmitters that are attached to the various utility delivery end points or meters. In a related embodiment, a repeater may be used with a battery powered energy display module to make the module transportable. | 09-01-2011 |
20110215944 | PROCESS VARIABLE TRANSMITTER WITH DISPLAY - A process variable transmitter for use in measuring a process variable of an industrial process includes a display. The transmitter comprises a housing, a process variable sensor configured to sense the process variable of the industrial process, transmitter circuitry coupled to the process variable sensor configured to provide a transmitter output and a connection member in the housing configured to couple to the transmitter circuitry. A first rotatable connector on the connection member includes a plurality of first conductors. A module includes a second rotatable connector having a plurality of second conductors. The plurality of first and second conductors are configured to electrically connect together. | 09-08-2011 |
20110215945 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING RESOURCES IN A WATER UTILITY NETWORK - A computerized method for monitoring a water utility network, the water utility network comprising a network of pipes for delivering water to consumers and a plurality of meters positioned within the pipes across the water distribution network. The method includes receiving meter data representing parameters measured by the meters, such as flow, pressure, chlorine level, pH and turbidity of the water being distributed through the pipes. The method also includes receiving secondary data from sources external to the meters and representing conditions affecting consumption of water in a region serviced by the water utility network such as weather and holidays. The meter and secondary data is analyzed using statistical techniques to identify water network events including leakage events and other events regarding quantity and quality of water flowing through the pipes and operation of the water network. The events are reported to users via a user interface. | 09-08-2011 |
20110227755 | METERING AND MEASURING POINT SYSTEM FOR MEASURING AND METERING ELECTRICAL ENERGY AND METHOD - The invention relates to a metering and measuring point system for measuring and metering the electrical energy drawn off a connection device or fed in the connection device by a consumption and/or generation unit at a fixed geographical point, comprising (a) an identifiable stationary connection device as well as (b) an identifiable mobile or non-stationary functional unit, the latter comprising respective devices for (b1) detecting the identifier of the connection device, (b2) metering and measuring the electrical energy drawn off and/or fed in the recognized connection device, (b3) storing the determined metering and measuring data and the determined identifier of the respective connection device being used and (b4) reading out the stored data. | 09-22-2011 |
20110254696 | METER RIGHT SIZING - The present subject matter relates to apparatus and methodologies for determining an appropriate size for a consumption measurement meter to be installed for a particular application, and/or for validating the appropriateness of a previously installed meter. A remotely controllable endpoint is associated with a consumption measure meter, which may be a water meter. Upon remote command to begin a measurement period, the endpoint will store data representing different levels of consumption during different time intervals over a period of time. The time intervals, length of time for recording data, and start time for recording data, may be remotely selected. Analysis of collected data with reference to known characteristics of available consumption measuring meters permits selection and/or validation of an appropriately sized meter for a particular application. | 10-20-2011 |
20110254697 | Utility Monitoring - Novel tools and techniques that can allow utility customers, utility providers, and/or other parties to more effectively monitor utility usage at a customer premises utilizing utility monitoring devices, systems, and methods. A utility monitoring device might provide real time (or non-real time) data regarding utility usage for one or more different types of utilities, such as natural gas, electricity, and/or water, to name but a few examples. In some cases, a utility monitoring device can receive and/or process usage data directly from a utility meter (and/or might be incorporated within a utility meter). In other cases, such a device can receive and/or process data from smart appliances, smart power distribution devices, etc. Utility monitoring devices in accordance with various embodiments can send and/or receive using a variety of techniques and/or media, including without limitation via a broadband network, via a wireless network, and/or the like. | 10-20-2011 |
20110260884 | METHOD FOR COLLECTING DATA AND SYSTEM FOR ACCOMPLISHING THE SAME - A method for collecting data is disclosed herein. The method involves selecting, via a processor associated with a telematics service center, a mobile vehicle to collect data from a sensor configured to wirelessly communicate with one or more selected vehicles and, via a telematics unit disposed in the selected mobile vehicle, receiving data collected by the sensor. The method further involves, via the telematics unit, transmitting the data from the telematics unit to a data aggregator and reporting the data from the data aggregator to a facility. Also disclosed herein is a system for accomplishing the same. | 10-27-2011 |
20110273305 | SECURE COLLECTOR DIAGNOSTIC PORTAL ACTIVATION - Disclosed are methodology and apparatus for providing communications with an Automatic Meter Reading/Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMR/AMI) collector device. The collector is provided with a WiFi radio that is enabled for operation from an AMR/AMI head end and turned on in response to a transmission coming from a physical device via the AMR/AMI RF LAN. A user device is granted access to the collector data only upon validation by the collector of multiple credentials that are separately presented to the collector. The credentials come from the physical device in the form of device type and device identification, and from the user device in the form of a valid security certificate and username/password combination. | 11-10-2011 |
20110273306 | REMOTE METERING DEVICE - The invention relates in particular to an integrated device for the adaptation of fluid metering devices, comprising an attachment means for attachment to the meter, a pulse generating means for generating electrical pulses at a rate dependent on the volume of fluid used, means for counting and storing the number of pulses generated during a particular time period, and communication means for communicating the stored pulse readings. Ideally these elements are integrated into a single housing, attachable to a meter by simply plugging thereto, without the need for any programming. | 11-10-2011 |
20110273307 | Systems and Methods for Auto-Configuration of a Generic Data Device on a Wireless Network - Systems and methods are provided for the automatic configuration of digital utility meters. One embodiment provides for pre-producing digital devices, the digital devices comprising integrated module components, configured for communication with a data management system via a wireless network and further configured for monitoring capability, producing a list file associated with the digital devices and including identities for each integrated module component, activating a digital devices using the wireless network, and distributing deployment information to the digital device from at least one configuration server via the wireless network, including customer data for configuring the digital device and for registering the digital device with a transaction management system. | 11-10-2011 |
20110273308 | Systems and Methods for Auto-Configuration of a Generic Data Device on a Wireless Network - Systems and methods are provided for the automatic configuration of digital utility meters. One embodiment provides for pre-producing digital devices, the digital devices comprising integrated module components, configured for communication with a data management system via a wireless network and further configured for monitoring capability, producing a list file associated with the digital devices and including identities for each integrated module component, activating a digital devices using the wireless network, and distributing deployment information to the digital device from at least one configuration server via the wireless network, including customer data for configuring the digital device and for registering the digital device with a transaction management system. | 11-10-2011 |
20110279286 | ENERGY-RELATED INFORMATION DISPLAY APPARATUS AND METHOD THEREOF - Disclosed is an energy-related information display apparatus included in each energy consumption place, which displays energy price information that a central server transmits according to a time zone, harmonizing with a floating energy rate system. When not receiving energy price information from a central server, a predicted energy price is provided. The prediction of the energy price can be reasonably performed on the basis of energy price information that was received from the central server in the past. The predicted energy price is transmitted to a user's mobile terminal as well as displayed on a display module so that the user can immediately identify it. Accordingly, the present disclosure can help user make a decision related with energy usage and properly meet a situation that energy price is not normally proved. | 11-17-2011 |
20110285543 | COMMODITY METER - A commodity meter. The meter includes a power/meter circuit board, a communication circuit board, and an antenna. The power/meter circuit board is configured to electrically sense a plurality of parameters of electricity flowing through terminals of the meter. The communication circuit board is configured to transmit one or more commodity parameters received from the power/meter circuit board. The antenna is coupled to the communications circuit board and positioned within the meter. | 11-24-2011 |
20110291856 | FREQUENCY SHIFT COMPENSATION, SUCH AS FOR USE IN A WIRELESS UTILITY METER READING ENVIRONMENT - Methods and apparatus for computing the carrier frequency of a transmitter using frequency modulated digital data to compensate for frequency shifting of the transmitter and the receiver local oscillators and for bandwidth adjustment of the receiver's filter. In particular, methods and apparatus are disclosed for binary systems transmitting “1” and “0” data using decoded or undecoded received signals. | 12-01-2011 |
20110298634 | Apparatus And Method For Priority Addressing And Message Handling In A Fixed Meter Reading Network - A method and apparatus is disclosed for prioritizing the processing of messages sent between site transceivers ( | 12-08-2011 |
20110316716 | LOW POWER WIRELESS PARKING METER AND PARKING METER NETWORK - A parking meter and parking meter network is described as well as a method of operating the parking meter and parking meter network. The parking meter network includes a gateway that transmits a first beacon message that is received at the parking meter. The parking meter synchronizes an internal timer based on the receiving of the first beacon message, and then goes to sleep for a period of time. The gateway transmits a second beacon message and the parking meter wakes up at the expiration of the sleep period using the synchronized internal time and receives the second beacon message. | 12-29-2011 |
20120019395 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR NETWORK-BASED GRID MANAGEMENT - An apparatus for providing automatic metering capabilities to a resource grid is provided. The apparatus includes a plurality of existing automatic meter reading (AMR) meters and a plurality of interface devices. Each of the plurality of existing automatic meter reading (AMR) meters is coupled to a resource consumption point, the each is configured to periodically broadcast respective meter readings. Each of the plurality of interface devices is coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of existing AMR meters, and each of the plurality of interface devices is configured to receive one or more of the respective meter readings, and is configured to provide the one or more of the respective meter readings over an existing communications infrastructure. | 01-26-2012 |
20120019396 | RELATIVE TIME SYSTEM - A system, method and device are provided for obtaining, from each endpoint device, meter reading data where the meter reading data are recorded and managed based on a relative time clock in each endpoint device. The relative time clock may be a simple inexpensive clock that tracks minutes and triggers recording of meter reading data for a particular hour at the end of that hour. In that embodiment, a collection system sends an endpoint device a request that includes a requested time that is converted into a relative time so that the endpoint device can understand the request. Since each recorded interval is generated based on a relative time maintained by the clock in the endpoint device rather than an absolute (real) time, the endpoint device does not need to maintain accurate date/time or to read meter reading data from the utility meter based on a real date/time. | 01-26-2012 |
20120026004 | ENERGY MANAGER-WATER LEAK DETECTION - Methods and systems are disclosed for monitoring water leaks within a home. A home network with various devices monitors these devices with a controller. Information is received from a water flow meter via a transceiver for tracking a total water flow amount through pipelines in the home. By comparing information collected to a predetermined threshold, a leak is determined as present or not within each pipeline. Upon the detection of a leak in the home, a home owner is notified of the condition so that action is taken expeditiously. A shut off valve can be triggered remotely when a request is received from the user, which closes the water pipeline to prevent water damage. | 02-02-2012 |
20120026005 | AUTOMATIC METER READING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR UNDERGROUND DISTRIBUTION LINE USING WIRED/WIRELESS COMMUNICATION - Disclosed herein is an automatic meter reading system for an underground distribution line using wired/wireless communication. The system includes at least one Data Concentration Unit (DCU), at least one Wireless Gathering Unit (WGU), and at least one wireless communication modem. The DCU is installed in a ground transformer, and sends meter reading data to an underground high-voltage distribution line (DL) using a Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) power line communication repeating method. The WGU is installed on a ground rising pipe or at a multi-consumer lead-in wire, and sets up a higher wireless mesh network and a lower wireless mesh network. The wireless communication modem sets up the lower wireless mesh network along with the WGU and the wireless communication modems, gathers the meter reading data, stores the gathered meter reading data, and transfers the stored meter reading data to the DCU through the WGU. | 02-02-2012 |
20120026006 | METER HAVING A COMMUNICATION INTERFACE FOR RECEIVING AND INTERFACING WITH A COMMUNICATION DEVICE - A meter is provided having a communication interface for receiving and interfacing with a communication device for transmitting measurement and other data to a central computer station via the communication device. The meter includes a measurement module for obtaining measurement data and a processor having a memory for storing application software for communicating the measurement and other data to the communication interface. The data are then provided to the communication device via the communication interface. The communication device is preferably a plug-and-play PCMCIA-type card or other type of memory card having a processor and a connection port for connecting to a port adaptor of the communication interface for receiving the data via the connection port-port adaptor connection. The communication device further includes communication circuitry for communicating the received data to the central computer station via one or more communications networks according to a communications protocol pre-programmed within the processor. | 02-02-2012 |
20120026007 | Utility Meter and Method of Operation - Utility meter for monitoring, recording and communicating commodity consumption data at a customer site, comprising: a meter unit ( | 02-02-2012 |
20120044086 | System and method for displaying input data on a remote display device - A system comprising multiple devices that are operable when servicing a device-under service is described. A DAQ device is operable to generate input data from input signals received from the device-under-service and to transmit the input data to a display device via a wireless network. The DAQ device comprises multiple buffers to store the input data. One of the buffers stores two frames of the input data, which can be live input data or historical input data. At any one time, a display at the display device visually presents one frame of input data for each respective input channel of the DAQ device. At any one time, a display at the DAQ device visually presents a half-frame of input data for each respective input channel of the DAQ device. Another buffer at the DAQ device can store more than two frames of input data including historical input data. | 02-23-2012 |
20120044087 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPROVING RECEPTION OF DATA IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION ENVIRONMENTS - Generally described, the disclosed subject matter is directed to improving the reception of data in wireless communication environments. In accordance with one embodiment, a method is provided for improving the reception of meter data in an AMR system. In particular, the method includes obtaining a sample of data indicative of channel quality for each transmission channel in the operational frequency band of the endpoint device. Then, the data is analyzed and a determination is made as to whether the reception of data by the collection system can be improved. If the reception of data by the collection system can be improved, a command is generated for reprogramming the endpoint device. In one embodiment, the command includes channel reprogramming data for reprogramming the endpoint device. | 02-23-2012 |
20120056753 | METER AND COMMUNICATION RELAY METHOD - A meter receives a new communication frame from a power line, and determines whether the new communication frame is used to read power consumption of the meter. If the new communication frame is used to read power consumption of the meter, the meter generates a response frame of the new communication frame, and broadcasts the response frame to the concentrator via the power line to report the power consumption of the meter. If the new communication frame is not used to read power consumption of the meter, the meter broadcasts the new communication frame to the at least one other meter and the concentrator via the power line. | 03-08-2012 |
20120068854 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROGRAMMING AND MONITORING ENERGY USE AND COST - The present invention can provide a method, apparatus, and system for providing energy usage information to a user. One embodiment displays, on a display interface of a display device, a virtual analog clock and receives energy usage data for a metered environment. A graphical representation of a first level of the energy usage data is displayed on the face of the virtual analog clock, with the graphical representation including at least one display element. | 03-22-2012 |
20120068855 | MEDICAL TELEMETRY SYSTEM AND MEDICAL TELEMETER - A medical telemetry system includes: a medical telemeter including: a measuring portion which measures a biological signal of a patient as biological signal data; a communicating portion which wirelessly transmits the biological signal data; and a connection information storing portion which stores connection information; and a receiver including: a non-contact communicating portion which executes first non-contact communication to read the connection information in a non-contact manner; a storage portion which stores the connection information read by the non-contact communicating portion; and a receiving portion which starts reception of the biological signal data transmitted by the communicating portion, when the connection information is stored in the storage portion. | 03-22-2012 |
20120068856 | REMOTE IDENTIFICATION DEVICE ASSOCIATED WITH A VEHICLE INCLUDING MEANS FOR REMOTELY COMMUNICATING WITH THE ASSOCIATED VEHICLE - The invention relates to a device ( | 03-22-2012 |
20120086581 | WATER MONITORING SYSTEM - A water monitoring system includes a plurality of remotely-located nodes for measuring water characteristics, and transmitting measured data to a central gateway device over at least one local RF connection. The gateway is operative to transmit cumulative data received from the plurality of nodes over a single cellular or satellite connection to a central processing system. | 04-12-2012 |
20120105249 | Method and Distributed System for Detecting and Managing Data from a Plurality of Measuring Devices - A method for acquiring and managing data from a plurality of measuring instruments includes acquiring data from at least one measuring instrument disposed in each of at least one measurement station. The data is provided to a server computing unit. The data is processed in the server computing unit with at least one microserver so as to provide client-compatible data. The client-compatible data is accessed in the server computing unit of the at least one measurement station through a communication network in at least one client station. The accessed client-compatible data is further processed in the at least one client station with at least one client computing unit. | 05-03-2012 |
20120119922 | System and Method for Monitoring, Controlling, and Displaying Utility Information - A system and method for monitoring, controlling, and displaying utility information is provided. A collar communicatively connected to the utility meter monitors power usage and provides usage data, power quality data, and other data to the utility and the customer. The system provides for pre-pay power, and the collar relay can automatically connect or disconnect power to a customer as required. The system provides intelligent remote control of utility meters via wireless or other communications means. A display unit communicatively coupled to the collar displays customer utility usage data. In one embodiment, the system allows reconnect after disconnect upon receiving a confirmation to restore power from a customer input device at the customer premises. | 05-17-2012 |
20120126994 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A CONNECTION OF A METER TO A POWER LINE - The disclosure relates to a meter for monitoring usage of power provided by a power transmission system to a site. The meter comprises: a communication module to generate communications carried over the system; a request manager module to process messages received from a head end of the system; a meter module connected to a power feed of the system; a connection manager module to evaluate readings and data and to generate connection signals for the meter in view of the readings; and a relay having a first position where the power is connected to the site and a second position where the power is disconnected, the relay being controlled by the connection signals. The connection manager module generates a first signal for the relay to disconnect the power when an over-voltage condition or an over-current condition on the system has been detected. | 05-24-2012 |
20120146808 | System and Method for Multi-Rate Concurrent Waveform Capture and Storage for Power Quality Metering - Systems and methods are provided for use in an IED that perform high resolution waveform capture to generate multi-rate waveform data in real-time. In one embodiment, high-resolution sampled data is dynamically pre-ordered into separate high resolution and low resolution data streams for presentation and storage. This pre-ordering of data is optimized so as to minimize the amount of data manipulation required to prepare the sampled data for eventual presentation and storage in the IED. Pre-ordering of data facilitates minimum performance impact so that continuous real-time data capture can be achieved. | 06-14-2012 |
20120154170 | Dosimetry System, Methods, and Components - Dosimeters with wireless communications capability, upon actuation, communicate with a cell phone or other data capture and relay device (DCRD) with an application that allows communication with the dosimeters. The cell phone or other DCRD is a single device or part of an ad hoc network. The cell phone or other DCRD, once it receives raw data from a dosimeter, relays the data to a central station using mobile telephone or Wi-Fi or other communications networks. The data is processed at the central station, and available over the Internet or cell phone. | 06-21-2012 |
20120154171 | Smartgrid Energy-Usage-Data Storage and Presentation Systems, Devices, Protocol, and Processes Including an Announcement Protocol - This disclosure relates to systems, devices, protocols, and processes for retrieving, accessing, and presenting information of energy usage using a distributed storage process and distributed logical services to provide a user with real-time energy usage information and visualization. | 06-21-2012 |
20120154172 | REMOTE OPERATION AND MONITORING OF MEASUREMENT SYSTEMS AND REMOTE MEASUREMENT DATA PROCESSING - The present application is directed to systems and methods for operating a measurement system. Various embodiments may comprise a measurement device and a receiving device remote from the measurement device. The measurement device may acquire data corresponding to one or more measurements, convert any analog portion of the data into a digital transmission signal, and transmit the signal. The receiving device may receive the signal, convert the signal into digital data, and display the digital data. | 06-21-2012 |
20120161978 | WIRELESS FIELD DEVICE, DEVICE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, AND DEVICE MANAGEMENT METHOD - A wireless field device may include a first communication unit that performs wireless communication via a wireless network, a storage unit that stores setting information including at least one of device information specifying the wireless field device, communication setting information for implementing wireless communication via the wireless network, and device setting information prescribing an operation of the wireless field device, and a change control unit that performs control not to enable a change of the setting information when prohibition information representing prohibition of the change of the setting information is received by the first communication unit. | 06-28-2012 |
20120169510 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING SECURITY SERVICES UTILIZING A SMART UTILITY METER - Systems, methods, and apparatus for providing security services utilizing a smart utility meter are provided. A utility meter may include at least one local network interface, at least one transceiver, and at least one processor. The at least one local network interface may be configured to receive security monitoring data from one or more security devices. The at least one transceiver may be configured to communicate, to at least one of a user device or a security monitoring center via a wide area network, one or more messages associated with the received security monitoring data. The at least one processor may be configured to generate, based at least in part upon the received security monitoring data, the one or more messages and direct the at least one transceiver to output the one or more messages. | 07-05-2012 |
20120169511 | Multi-Mode Display - A networked display has multiple modes of operation. In the first operating mode, the display receives and shows information related to charging an electric vehicle. In a second mode of operation, the display receives and shows information related to home energy usage. Other operating modes may also be supported. | 07-05-2012 |
20120176252 | Apparatus and Method for Determining Load of Energy Consuming Appliances Within a Premises - Disclosed herein are exemplary embodiments of apparatus and methods for determining load of energy consuming appliances within a premises. An exemplary embodiment includes a thermostat operable for displaying information relating to energy consumption associated with an energy consuming load in a premise. In this exemplary embodiment, the thermostat includes a display device and a processor. The processor is configured to receive a signal including energy consumption information. The processor is further configured to control the display device to display a graph indicating an estimated cost of energy consumed for days within a given month. | 07-12-2012 |
20120176253 | DATA COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL IN AN AUTOMATIC METER READING SYSTEM - Automatic meter reading (AMR) systems and methods in which readers communicate with endpoints interfaced to utility meters. In operation, the reader and the endpoint communicate with one another via radio frequency (RF) communication according to a communication protocol. Aspects of the invention are directed to packetization, command and control, and messaging arrangements. | 07-12-2012 |
20120182156 | BATTERY-POWERED FUEL DATA COLLECTION UNIT - A battery-powered fueling data collection unit for use with a meter and a register associated with a fuel transfer apparatus and for use with a system for managing fueling transactions of a fleet operator using fuel transfer apparatuses at multiple locations includes a fueling data interface module for receiving fueling information from the fueling meter and/or register and an internal battery power source. A processor is provided for monitoring the power level in the battery and for detecting if the power level in the battery drops below a threshold amount. Also, a communications module is provided for wirelessly forwarding an alert to a remote computer to alert the remote computer that the battery power is low. | 07-19-2012 |
20120182157 | Process, Device and System For Volt/VAR Optimization - Embodiments of the invention propose volt/VAR optimization that may be time synchronized and automated based on actions invoked at a control system utilizing a smart grid solution that incorporates metering end points which are capable of reporting to a utility the information that is needed by the utility or to another system for making real time decisions on events that may occur at the distribution level. Embodiments of the invention incorporate large numbers of end points (e.g., smart meters) which a utility can use to determine how any event or events it may invoke at the grid level affect its compliance at the end user level. | 07-19-2012 |
20120188092 | SYSTEM FOR COMMUNICATING INFORMATION FROM AN ARRAY OF SENSORS - A system for communicating information from an array of sensors is disclosed. The system comprises a sensor array that includes a plurality of sensors, wherein each sensor senses a physical property of a material that is in communication with the sensor. The system further comprises signal processing circuitry associated with each sensor that integrates the output of the sensor over time and compares the integrated output to a threshold. The system further comprises a communication network coupled to the signal processing circuitry that outputs information indicating that the integrated output corresponding to a given sensor has reached the threshold. | 07-26-2012 |
20120188093 | TEST MODE SUPPORT FOR METERING ACCURACY TESTS - A metering device may be configured to communicate with other devices on a plurality of metering communication networks. To enable such communications across various networks, the metering communication device may use an active utility identifier corresponding to the metering network in which it is actively communicating. The active utility identifier may be changed to a valid utility identifier corresponding to another metering network and which may be associated with the metering communication device itself. The metering communication device may use the changed active utility identifier to communicate with other devices on the other metering network having the valid utility identifier. For example, the metering communication device may change the active utility identifier to enable communication a test network from a production network, a production network to a test network, or a first test network to a second test network. | 07-26-2012 |
20120188094 | FITNESS FACILITY EQUIPMENT USAGE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD - An electronic method of obtaining exercise equipment information. The method including using a first control server associated with a first fitness facility to gather first usage information from a first fitness equipment unit, sending the first usage information from the control server to an accumulated data storage unit, and using the first control server associated with the first fitness facility to gather second usage information from a second fitness equipment unit. The method further including sending the second usage information from the control server to the accumulated data storage unit, and sending the first usage information from the accumulated data storage unit information to a requester. | 07-26-2012 |
20120200424 | SMART METER EVALUATION DEVICE AND SMART METER EVALUATION METHOD - [Task] To provide a smart meter evaluation device and a smart meter evaluation method capable of evaluating the operating state of a smart meter. | 08-09-2012 |
20120206270 | MANHOLE COVER TYPE SENSOR NODE APPARATUS - A manhole cover type sensor node apparatus combined with a manhole cover includes a first antenna located on one side of the manhole cover, a second antenna located on the other side of the manhole cover, and a node combined with the manhole cover and configured to control transmission and reception of data through the first antenna and the second antenna. The node controls reception of flow rate data from a flowmeter supporting radio communication through the first antenna and transmission of the flow rate data to a flow rate data collecting device through the second antenna. | 08-16-2012 |
20120206271 | OXYGEN TANK MONITORING - Apparatus for remote inspection of oxygen containers includes an electronic circuit in communication between each container (or at various locations along a pipeline) and a remote central station. The electronic circuit is adapted to issue a signal to the remote central station that includes information about predetermined internal and/or external conditions such as the level of oxygen stored in the tank, a pressure condition of material stored in the tank, a lack of presence of the tank in an installed position, or the presence of an obstruction restricting access to the tank. | 08-16-2012 |
20120206272 | DEVICE FOR DETECTING A BLOCKAGE OF A MECHANICAL FLUID METER, AND METER FEATURING BLOCKAGE DETECTION - The invention relates to a mechanical fluid meter, for liquid or gas, comprising an electronic device (E) that has means for metering, and generally also displaying, consumption, said fluid meter including: at least one fluid temperature sensor ( | 08-16-2012 |
20120206273 | NETWORK SYSTEM AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE SAME - Provided is a network system including an advanced metering infrastructure, an energy management system, a computer, and a diagnostic program. The advanced metering infrastructure interactively communicates with a power supply source and measures energy from the power supply source. The energy management system is connected to the advanced metering infrastructure to communicate with it and controls an operation of an electric product based on operation information of the electric product or energy information from the power supply source. The computer is connected to the electric product or energy management system to communicate with the electric product or energy management system. The diagnostic program is performed by the energy management system or computer and diagnoses a trouble of the electric product. An electric product having a trouble is remotely diagnosed to provide a quick countermeasure, thereby detecting the cause of the trouble without a service engineer and improving a user's convenience. | 08-16-2012 |
20120212352 | BUILDING SYSTEM WITH REDUCED WIRING REQUIREMENTS AND APPARATUS FOR USE THEREIN - An apparatus for use in a building automation system includes a plurality of microelectromechanical sensors disposed on a single substrate, a non-volatile memory, a communication device, and a processing device. The non-volatile memory stores configuration information corresponding to a first functionality of the apparatus. The communication device is operable to communicate sensor values to an external device. The processing device is operably coupled to each of the plurality of microelectromechanical sensors to receive measurement information therefrom. The processing device operable to provide the sensor values to the communication circuit. The sensor values provided by the processing device correspond to a select subset of less than all of the plurality of microelectromechanical sensors, the select subset based on the configuration information stored in the non-volatile memory. | 08-23-2012 |
20120218120 | METER PROCESSING COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - Systems for supporting communication between networks are disclosed. In one embodiment of the invention, a meter processing communication system includes: a utility meter; and a central processor integrated with the utility meter, the central processor including a single communications stack, the single communications stack and central processor being configured to process communications between a plurality of different networks. | 08-30-2012 |
20120218121 | HUMIDITY TELEMETRY IN PROCESSING OF MATERIALS - A method of monitoring the humidity of material being subjected to processing step using it humidity monitoring transducer, and transmitting humidity data from the monitoring transducer by wireless telemetry to a receiver external to the mass of material. If the material is a mass of material, the transducer can be embedded within the material. The method is particularly useful in the case of a material in a closed environment, such as packaging or if the material is in motion during the processing step, for example, when the mass of material is subjected to multiple pharmaceutical processing steps and/or plural dosage forms. The processing step can be, for example, pre-formulation, mixing, granulation, a coating step, in which a coating material is sprayed onto pharmaceutical dosage forms while the dosage forms are being tumbled. | 08-30-2012 |
20120223840 | SMART GRID OVER POWER LINE COMMUNICATION NETWORK - A smart-grid communication system including a plurality of receptacles and a power management gateway in electrical communication with each of the plurality of receptacles is presented. Each of the power modules of the plurality of receptacles provides power usage information to the power management gateway. Also, the power usage information is transmitted via a first communication means to the power management gateway and the power management gateway transmits the information via a second communication means to one or more external communications sources. | 09-06-2012 |
20120223841 | DATA COLLECTION SYSTEM FOR ELECTRONIC PARKING METERS - There is disclosed a single space parking meter that includes a low powered radio for communicating with a mobile access point. There is also provided a parking meter management system comprising a single space parking meter and a mobile access point. The mobile access point comprises a coin collection cart, and a mobile data collection terminal including a wireless radio for communicating with the wireless radio of the single space parking meter. Also disclosed is a method of managing single space parking meters comprising the steps of collecting and storing meter information in a single space parking meter, receiving at a main electronics board of the single space parking meter a transmit signal, and transmitting the meter information to a mobile access point using a low powered radio of the single space parking meter. | 09-06-2012 |
20120229295 | MONITORING SYSTEM FOR AN ELECTRICAL DEVICE - Systems and solutions for monitoring an electrical device are disclosed. In one embodiment, a monitoring system for an electrical device includes: a utility meter communicatively connected to the electrical device; and at least one computing device disposed within the utility meter, the at least one computing device adapted to monitor the electrical device by performing actions comprising: obtaining operational data about the electrical device; comparing the operational data about the electrical device with predefined operational criteria for the electrical device; determining a health status for the electrical device based upon the comparison of the operational data about the electrical device and the predefined operational criteria for the electrical device; and providing to the utility meter a health status indicator, the health status indicator including an operational status of the electrical device. | 09-13-2012 |
20120229296 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUSES FOR REDUCING NETWORK CONGESTION IN A SMART UTILITY METER SYSTEM - Systems, methods, and apparatuses for reducing network congestion in a smart utility meter system are provided. The systems, methods, and apparatuses may include providing, for a utility meter, a first communications interface for communicating with a first network; providing, for the utility meter, a second communications interface for communicating with a second network different from the first network; receiving or generating, by the utility meter, information having a destination; selecting either the first communications interface or the second communications interface; and delivering the information to the destination via the selected communications interface. | 09-13-2012 |
20120229297 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUSES FOR DETERMINING POWER USAGE WITH A METER - Systems, methods, and apparatuses may be provided for determining power usage within a meter. The systems, methods, and apparatuses may include providing, for a utility meter, at least one communications interface for communicating with a home area network (HAN); receiving or transmitting, via the at least one communications interface of the utility meter, information having a source or destination associated with the home area network (HAN); determining, by the utility meter, that the information is attributable to activity chargeable to a customer associated with the home area network (HAN); and updating, by the utility meter, a customer usage amount based upon the determination that the information is attributable to the activity chargeable to the customer. | 09-13-2012 |
20120229298 | HOME OCCUPANCY DETECTION SWITCHES - Disclosed are methodologies for enabling energy conservation in a home. Occupancy by an entity of the home may be detected and used by a utility meter associated with the home to control and/or adjust operation of energy consuming devices based, at least in part, on the occupancy state of the home. Occupancy detection is based on signals received from devices generally associated with those entities that may from time to time occupy the home. In selected embodiments, detection of a Bluetooth or RFID device associated with a home occupant including items such as key chains, work ID cards, Bluetooth enable equipment such as cell phones and audio equipment or infrared signals from presence detectors may be used to provide indications of home occupancy. | 09-13-2012 |
20120229299 | METHODS FOR LOW POWER COMMUNICATION IN AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - The present invention is directed to an implantable medical device and a method for power management for power efficient use of RF telemetry during, for example, conditions where long periods of continuous monitoring of the device and the patient is desired such as during MRI procedures. A protocol module adapted to, at receipt of a low power protocol indication, activate and use a low power protocol for communication between the device and external units. The protocol module is capable of switching between different communication protocols including a low power communication protocol and a default RF communication protocol depending on, for example, whether continuous long-term monitoring of the patient is performed. During the low power communication protocol, the protocol module is adapted to select parts of stored electrophysical and/or hemodynamical signal waveforms for telemetric transmission and to create communication packages having a predetermined length using the selected parts of the electrophysiological and/or hemodynamical signal waveform. Further, a transmitter is instructed to transmit the communication packages at predetermined transmission intervals and the telemetry module is instructed to power down the transmitter or set the transmitter in a lowest possible activation state during intermediate periods between the transmission intervals. | 09-13-2012 |
20120235831 | POSITION DETECTION SYSTEM AND POSITION DETECTION SENSOR - A position detection sensor which includes a first atomic oscillator and a sensor-side transmitter, and outputs a sensor output signal, a base station apparatus which includes a base station-side receiver, which wirelessly receives the sensor output signal, and a second atomic oscillator, a comparator which compares the phase of an output signal from the first atomic oscillator and the phase of an output signal from the second atomic oscillator, and outputs a phase comparison signal, a storage which stores a defined value of the phase comparison signal, and a displacement detector which detects displacement of the position detection sensor by comparing the phase comparison signal and the defined value are included. | 09-20-2012 |
20120242498 | USER ACKNOWLEDGEMENT DEVICE IN ELECTRONIC UTILITY METER - An electronic utility meter including a metering circuit; a switch operatively coupled to the metering circuit for switching the metering circuit between different states; a cover enclosing the metering circuit and switch; a sensor enclosed within the cover coupled to the switch, the sensor configured to change a state of the switch in response to a user interaction with the cover. | 09-27-2012 |
20120242499 | NETWORK INTERFACE CONTROLLER FOR A UTILITY METER - Systems and devices are disclosed for enabling communication by and between meters and networks are disclosed. In one embodiment, a device includes: a network interface controller configured to be directly coupled to a meter socket and provide a communication path between a utility meter and at least one network, the network interface controller including: a computing device; and at least one communications interface coupled to the computing device, the at least one communications interface configured to be physically located within a meter socket housing. | 09-27-2012 |
20120242500 | DISPLAY DEVICE, ENERGY DISPLAY METHOD AND COMPUTER PROGRAM - A display device includes: an image display section which displays an image on a screen on the basis of an image signal; and an execution section which executes an application which is acquired from a network on the basis of a user's instruction. When the image display section displays an image, the application which is executed by the execution section acquires, through the network, information related to energy that is used in a predetermined range, and displays the information on the screen. | 09-27-2012 |
20120242501 | HEALTH MONITORING APPLIANCE - A heart monitoring system for a person includes one or more wireless nodes; and a wearable appliance in communication with the one or more wireless nodes, the appliance monitoring vital signs. | 09-27-2012 |
20120249339 | UTILITY METER DISPLAY SYSTEM - Utility meter display systems are disclosed. In one embodiment, a utility meter display system includes: a bistable display configured to be disposed upon a utility meter; and a computing device communicatively connected to the bistable display and the utility meter, the computing device configured to obtain utility service metrology data from the utility meter and transmit the utility service metrology data to the bistable display. | 10-04-2012 |
20120256760 | Remote Weather Sensing For Harvesting Conditions - Systems and methods for remote query of weather conditions at an agricultural machine use an onboard telemetry unit as a gateway for communication with the machine. The telemetry unit can be coupled to both the machine's electrical system at the machine, and a machine's controller area network (CAN). A user can call up the machine's telemetry unit using a cell phone or personal computer to retrieve weather data such as temperature, humidity and rainfall from a weather station coupled to the machine. A system can provide an alert when a desired predetermined condition is present at a machine, for example an alert that a harvesting or baling condition is present. The system can also enable an operator or fleet manager to check the state of various devices or apparatus at a machine, enabling remote diagnostics via the onboard telemetry unit. | 10-11-2012 |
20120256761 | WIRELESS TELEMETRY ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY FOR MEASURING STRAIN IN HIGH-TEMPERATURE ENVIRONMENTS - In a telemetry system for use in an engine, a circuit structure ( | 10-11-2012 |
20120262303 | REMOTE DATA MONITORING AND COLLECTION SYSTEM WITH MULTI-TIERED ANALYSIS - A system collects and stores data from a source at a high resolution and/or a high data rate (“more detailed data”) and sends a low-resolution and/or downsampled version of the data (“less detailed data”) to a remote server via a wireless network. The server automatically analyzes the less detailed data to detect an anomaly, such as an arrhythmia, earthquake or failure of a structural member. A two-tiered analysis scheme is used, where the first tier is less specific than the second tier. If the first tier analysis detects or suspects the anomaly, the server signals the data collector to send more detailed data that corresponds to a time period associated with the anomaly. The more specific second tier analyses the more detailed data to verify the anomaly. The server may also store the received data and make it available to a user, such as via a graphical or tabular display. | 10-18-2012 |
20120268289 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR MONITORING A GRID CONTROL SYSTEM - A detection device for monitoring at least one message transmitted between components included within a grid control system is provided. The detection device includes a memory device configured to store a rationality database that includes at least one rule, and a processor coupled to the memory device and configured to receive the at least one message and to compare the at least one message with the at least one rule to determine a rationality of the at least one message. | 10-25-2012 |
20120268290 | TECHNOLOGY AND DEVICE FOR PRECISELY MEASURING TEMPERATURE OF CABLE JOINT ON THE BASIS OF RADIO FREQUENCY TECHNIQUE - The invention provides a method and a device for on-line measuring the inner temperature of a cable joint, the device includes a built-in temperature measurer and an outside receiver. The built-in temperature measurer measures the temperature of the cable joint or a core wire surface by means of direct contact measuring method, and transmits the data to the outside receiver through an insulating layer by means of the radio frequency identification technique. At the same time, the outside receiver supplies power energy to the built-in temperature measurer by means of the radio frequency signal, so it resolves the problem of supplying power to the built-in temperature measurer. The device of the invention has the advantage of accurately measuring temperature, small volume, superior applicability and so on. | 10-25-2012 |
20120274478 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CAPTURING ENERGY FROM A METER READING DEVICE - Electronic circuits in a register associated with a commodity usage meter capture energy from a meter reading device when the device is coupled to the register (e.g., either electrically or inductively coupled) for the purpose of reading metered quantity data from the register. Electrical charge obtained from the reading device may be stored in a high-capacity storage capacitor. When the capacitor is sufficiently charged, it provides power to at least part of the register circuits, such as a controller, for at least the duration of the communication session with the reading device. In some embodiments, the capacitor may additionally supply sufficient power to operate the register until a subsequent reading device coupling. | 11-01-2012 |
20120274479 | POWER MONITORING APPARATUS OF STANDBY POWER SAVING TYPE, ELECTRIC LOAD DEVICE, AND POWER MONITORING METHOD - Provided are a power monitoring apparatus of standby power saving type, an electric load device, and a power monitoring method. The power monitoring apparatus of standby power saving type includes: a power metering module measuring a power consumption situation of an electric load device, transmitting a measured result to a communication module, and switching off when a standby mode of the electric load device is held for more than a preset time or the electric load device is off; the communication module being supplied with power upon the switching-on, transmitting a power consumption value received from the power metering module to exterior, being supplied with standby power upon the switching-off to wait for receiving a call signal, and switching on a switch upon reception of the call signal; and a charging module starting charging upon the switching-on, and supplying standby power to the communication module upon the switching-off. | 11-01-2012 |
20120274480 | USAGE METERING BASED UPON HARDWARE AGING - Techniques are generally disclosed for using an operating entity, including a method, apparatus, and/or system to control usage of the operating entity. In various embodiments, an in-use signal generator may be configured to generate at least one in-use signal, with the at least one in-use signal having a signal duration representative of at least one usage episode of the operating entity. An aging circuit may be coupled to the in-use signal generator and configured to output at least one age-affected signal in response to the at least one in-use signal. A metering module may be coupled to the aging circuit and, in response to the at least one age-affected signal, and configured to measure a signal characteristic of the at least one age-affected signal and translate the signal characteristic into a generated quantity of accumulative usage of the aging circuit. | 11-01-2012 |
20120280828 | RFID-BASED ELECTRICITY METERING SYSTEM - Embodiments of the present invention provide a radio frequency identification (RFID) based electricity metering system enabled to meter energy consumption of individual devices. Specifically, embodiments of this invention provide a set (a least one) of RFID sensor units, each RFID sensor unit comprising: an inductor affixed to the power line of an electronic device configured to produce an induced current using the power line of the electronic device through inductive coupling; a programmable gain amplifier (PGA) coupled to the inductor configured to provide gain or attenuation control on the induced current so that the induced current is properly scaled; an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to convert the amplitude of the induced current to a digital value representing the energy consumption of the electronic device; a central processing unit (CPU) coupled to the ADC configured to receive the digital value from the ADC; a memory unit configured to store the digital value from the CPU; an antenna coupled to the CPU configured to transmit the digital value within a frequency band; and an RFID reader configured to receive the digital value transmitted by the RFID sensor unit. | 11-08-2012 |
20120280829 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS FOR FACILITATING UTILITY METER COMMUNICATION - Systems, methods, and apparatus for facilitating utility meter communication are provided. One or more communications to be transmitted by a utility meter may be identified by the utility meter. A cost associated with the transmission of the one or more communications may be determined by the utility meter, and a determination may be made as to whether the cost satisfies one or more cost parameters if it is determined that the cost satisfies the one or more cost parameters, the one or more communications may be transmitted by the utility meter. If however, it is determined that the cost does not satisfy the one or more cost parameters, the one or more communications may be stored by the utility meter for subsequent transmission. | 11-08-2012 |
20120280830 | Method and Apparatus for Reducing Battery Passivation in a Meter-Reading Module - The teachings herein disclose a method and apparatus for preventing excessive battery passivation in an electronic meter-reading module. The module operates in a low-power state most of the time. The low-power state is interrupted at defined transmit times, wherein the module temporarily turns on or otherwise activates an included communication transmitter, for the transmission of data to a remote node reachable through a wireless communication network. Because of its low current draw during the times between data transmissions, the module's battery is vulnerable to passivation layer buildup. Advantageously, however, the module is configured to perform dummy activations of its transmitter at times other than the defined transmit times, e.g., in the intervals between data transmissions. These dummy activations are not for data transmission, but rather are temporary activations of the relatively high-power transmitter, for reducing passivation layer buildup on the battery in advance of a next data transmission. | 11-08-2012 |
20120280831 | CALCULATION OF AUXILIARY VALUE BASED ON METER DATA FROM NON-SMART ELECTRONIC UTILITY METER - A system, including a meter data support system on a computer device configured to: receive raw meter data from a plurality of non-smart electronic utility meters that are each restricted to one way outbound communication, calculate an auxiliary value for each non-smart electronic utility meter using the raw meter data from each respective non-smart electronic utility meter, and provide access to the auxiliary value to at least one of a user and a customer. | 11-08-2012 |
20120280832 | Smart Meter Emulation - Pulses, including electrical waveforms, emitted light, and light reflected by a moving mechanical device, that are emitted by a standard utility meter may be received. A device may be controlled to vary its usage of the utility and that may be used to determine a usage per pulse. The usage per pulse information may be used to convert a pulse rate from a meter to emulate the pulse rate from another meter. Information about the other meter and/or services offered by the other meter may be provided to allow for emulation of the other meter. | 11-08-2012 |
20120280833 | Smart Meter Emulation - Pulses, including electrical waveforms, emitted light, and light reflected by a moving mechanical device, that are emitted by a standard utility meter may be received. A device may be controlled to vary its usage of the utility and that may be used to determine a usage per pulse. The usage per pulse information may be used to convert a pulse rate from a meter to emulate the pulse rate from another meter. Information about the other meter and/or services offered by the other meter may be provided to allow for emulation of the other meter. | 11-08-2012 |
20120280834 | REMOTE MONITORING SYSTEM - A temperature monitoring service in which remote monitoring units are distributed to customers who then set up monitoring as desired at their facilities. The devices may be registered through a web site using the Internet. Monitoring information may be communicated using a publicly available, wireless network, such as a cellular telephone network. The service may be provided with a system, including a server, which can deliver high levels of monitoring functionality. The server may support streaming monitoring information to a customer for analysis or sending a command activating a device connected to a remote unit. Remote units associated with the same location may be in a pool, comprising one active unit and one or more spare units, in which the server automatically identifies the active unit. The server may support analyzing monitoring information according to an expected cycle pattern of a ventilation system at the monitored facility. | 11-08-2012 |
20120286968 | ELECTRONIC PARKING METER WITH VEHICLE SENSOR - An electronic single space parking meter associated with a parking space is provided. The meter includes a support pole and an electronic meter mechanism coupled to and supported from the support pole. The electronic meter mechanism includes a processor. The meter includes a vehicle sensor communicably coupled to the processor of the electronic meter mechanism. The vehicle sensor is configured to detect a vehicle located within the parking space. The vehicle sensor is coupled to and supported by the support pole at a position above the ground and below the electronic meter mechanism. | 11-15-2012 |
20120286969 | REMOTE MONITORING SYSTEM - A temperature monitoring service in which remote monitoring units are distributed to customers who then set up monitoring as desired at their facilities. The devices may be registered through a web site using the Internet. Monitoring information may be communicated using a publicly available, wireless network, such as a cellular telephone network. The service may be provided with a system, including a server, which can deliver high levels of monitoring functionality. The server may support streaming monitoring information to a customer for analysis or sending a command activating a device connected to a remote unit. Remote units associated with the same location may be in a pool, comprising one active unit and one or more spare units, in which the server automatically identifies the active unit. The server may support analyzing monitoring information according to an expected cycle pattern of a ventilation system at the monitored facility. | 11-15-2012 |
20120293338 | SAMPLE STORAGE AND MONITORING SYSTEM - A method of maintaining a thermal history ( | 11-22-2012 |
20120293339 | ELECTRONIC HOUSING INTENDED TO BE FIXED UNDER A COVER OF A MANHOLE - The invention concerns an electronic housing ( | 11-22-2012 |
20120299744 | HEAD-END SYSTEM FOR ADVANCED METERING INFRASTRUCTURE NETWORK - A head-end system for an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) network includes a processor. The processor is configured for receiving event signals from AMI meters. The event signals are indicative of events occurring at customer locations. The processor determines whether to transmit a command signal to a corresponding AMI meter in response to receiving an event signal from the corresponding AMI meter. The command signal is configured to instruct the corresponding AMI meter to perform at least one task in response to the at least one event. The processor transmits the command signal to the corresponding AMI meter in response to determining to transmit the command signal. | 11-29-2012 |
20120299745 | Utility Meter with Temperature Based Actuation of a Remote Disconnect Switch - The present application provides a utility meter. The utility meter may include a processor with a predetermined temperature range, a remote disconnect switch in communication with the processor, and a temperature sensor in communication with the processor. The processor opens the remote disconnect switch when the temperature sensor senses a temperature that exceeds the predetermined temperature range. | 11-29-2012 |
20120299746 | DISPLAY OF UTILITY DATA - A system for a display of utility data from an electronic utility meter on a monitor is provided. The system includes a decoupling transformer for decoupling a power line carrier (PLC) signal into a power signal and a communication signal; a filter for removing an excess signal from the communication signal; and a computing device for: generating the display of utility data, and sending a display of utility data signal to the monitor. | 11-29-2012 |
20120299747 | REMOTE CONDITION MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method of monitoring wind turbines in remote locations, the steps comprising: attaching a first portable condition monitoring (CM) module to a first wind turbine; attaching a second portable CM module to a second wind turbine; carrying out unmanned monitoring the first wind turbine and the second wind turbine based on wireless transmissions from the first CM module and the second CM module; removing the first portable CM module after a predetermined amount of time has passed; and removing the second portable CM module after the first portable CM module has been removed. | 11-29-2012 |
20120306661 | Apparatus for Smart Home Network - A smart home network comprises a plurality of appliances, each of which comprises a unique radio frequency identification tag. The smart home network further comprises a plurality of power outlets, each of which has a unique ID. The power outlets of the smart home network are capable of detecting the RFID tag and measuring the operational parameters of the appliances. The power outlets are further coupled to a central controller. The central controller receives operational parameters of the appliances from the power outlets, constructs a real time model of the smart home and forwards analytical results to a display terminal. | 12-06-2012 |
20120319862 | WIRELESS SENSOR READER - A wireless sensor reader is provided to interface with a wireless sensor. The wireless sensor reader transmits an excitation pulse to cause the wireless sensor to generate a ring signal. The wireless sensor reader receives and amplifies the ring signal and sends the signal to a phase-locked loop. A voltage-controlled oscillator in the phase-locked loop locks onto the ring signal frequency and generates a count signal at a frequency related to the ring signal frequency. The voltage-controlled oscillator is placed into a hold mode where the control voltage is maintained constant to allow the count signal frequency to be determined. The reader uses an ambient reading or other information to select a subset of the possible ring signal frequencies, and tunes or adjusts its circuits and algorithms to focus on that subset. | 12-20-2012 |
20120319863 | Apparatus for Detecting Chemical Substances - An olfactory system ( | 12-20-2012 |
20120319864 | BODILY FLUID COMPONENT MEASUREMENT SYSTEM - In a bodily fluid component measurement system, the convenience for a subject is improved by achieving reductions in size and weight of a device which is always attached at the position where a sensor is indwelled. A bodily fluid component measurement system includes a sensor unit which is indwelled in the skin of a subject to measure a predetermined bodily fluid component, and a transmission unit which is detachably attached to the subject, and transmits, to a display unit, a measurement signal obtained by the sensor unit. The sensor unit is activated upon receiving power supplied by an electromagnetic wave generated by the transmission unit to measure the bodily fluid component and transmit the measurement signal to the transmission unit. | 12-20-2012 |
20120326883 | DISTRIBUTED METER DATA MANAGEMENT - In a distributed meter data management (MDM) system of a smart grid, a network computing device, such as a network router deployed in the field, may receive data from one or more utility meters, sensors, control devices, or other utility data collection devices that are communicatively coupled to the network computing device. The network computing device may process the data received from the utility data collection devices to generate processed data usable by a consumer. The network computing device may also send data to and/or receive data from a centralized control system, MDM system, and/or smart grid analytic applications at a utility central office. The network computing device may then provide the processed data directly to the consumer, with or without first sending the data to a centralized MDM system of the utility. | 12-27-2012 |
20120326884 | ALARMING BASED ON RESOURCE CONSUMPTION DATA - Consumption data of utility resources such as gas and water may be used to detect conditions that, left unchecked, may lead to a natural gas explosion, flood, or other event. A data collection device may be configured to monitor consumption of a resource through a utility meter at a location in substantially real time. The data collection device may detect abnormal consumption of the resource at the location, and transmit an alert indicating the abnormal consumption of the resource to a remote computing device. The data collection device may additionally initiate a mitigating action to prevent an event based on the abnormal resource consumption. | 12-27-2012 |
20120326885 | REMOTELY READABLE VALVE POSITION INDICATORS - Remotely readable valve position indicators and related methods are described. An example apparatus in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure includes a valve body, a valve stem and a fluid flow control apparatus coupled to the valve stem. The fluid flow control apparatus is longitudinally displaceable between a first position and a second position to control fluid flow through a flow aperture of the valve body. The apparatus also includes a valve position indicator including an identifier device coupled to the valve stem. In the first position, the wireless identifier device associated with a first value indicative of the first position of the fluid flow control apparatus. In the second position, the wireless identifier device associated with a second value indicative of the second position of the fluid flow control apparatus. | 12-27-2012 |
20130002447 | Methods and Systems For Virtual Energy Management Display - A method and system of virtual energy management display involves periodically receiving via a mesh local area network electronic data representing energy management-related information by a RF communication-enabled memory storage device coupled to an electronic display device within a home area network. Electronic data representing telemetry information is likewise periodically received by the RF communication-enabled memory storage device from at least one RF communication-enabled energy management-related device within the home area network. The electronic data is converted to a common format by an application running at least in part on the memory storage device and displayed on a screen associated with the display device. | 01-03-2013 |
20130009787 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USE IN COMMUNICATING WITH UTILITY DEVICES - Systems and methods for use in communicating with utility devices. A utility meter receives one or more messages from one or more utility devices. Each message corresponds to a communication protocol of a plurality of communication protocols. The utility meter selects a communication protocol based on at least one message of the received messages. The utility meter communicates with at least a portion of the utility devices using the selected communication protocol. | 01-10-2013 |
20130009788 | Utility Electric Meter Web Server - A meter (M) installed by a utility at a customer site to measure the usage of a commodity supplied by the utility to the customer comprises an enclosure (E) in which is installed measuring apparatus (A) for measuring the amount of usage of the commodity by the customer at any one time. A web server (S) provides information obtained from the measuring apparatus and the utility to the customer. A wireless connection (C) between the web server and a customer device (D) allows the information and utility provided information to be displayed to the customer as well as enabling the device to obtain information from the meter so to determine when, and for how long, the device can be most cost efficiently operated. | 01-10-2013 |
20130015982 | DATA COLLECTION METHOD AND DATA COLLECTION SYSTEMAANM Matsumoto; JunichiAACI Toyota-shi Aichi-kenAACO JPAAGP Matsumoto; Junichi Toyota-shi Aichi-ken JPAANM Kurimoto; YasuhideAACI Kasugai-shi Aichi-kenAACO JPAAGP Kurimoto; Yasuhide Kasugai-shi Aichi-ken JPAANM Tojima; KazuoAACI Toyota-shi Aichi-kenAACO JPAAGP Tojima; Kazuo Toyota-shi Aichi-ken JPAANM Kiuchi; YoshitakaAACI Kariya-shi Aichi-kenAACO JPAAGP Kiuchi; Yoshitaka Kariya-shi Aichi-ken JP - A data collection system that collects information indicating a status of a battery mounted on a vehicle from the vehicle after shipment from a factory, includes a battery information collection server that is configured to periodically receive information of the battery and identification information, with which it is possible to identify the vehicle, that are transmitted wirelessly from a computer that is mounted on the vehicle and is configured to acquire and store the information of the battery mounted on the vehicle. The data collection system may further include a battery information analysis section that is configured to display a result of associating the information of the battery received by the battery information collection server with each vehicle using the identification information. | 01-17-2013 |
20130021168 | WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER ELECTRIC VEHICLE SUPPLY EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION AND VALIDATION TOOL - A transmit pad inspection device includes a magnetic coupling device, which includes an inductive circuit that is configured to magnetically couple to a primary circuit of a charging device in a transmit pad through an alternating current (AC) magnetic field. The inductive circuit functions as a secondary circuit for a set of magnetically coupled coils. The magnetic coupling device further includes a rectification circuit, and includes a controllable load bank or is configured to be connected to an external controllable load back. The transmit pad inspection device is configured to determine the efficiency of power transfer under various coupling conditions. In addition, the transmit pad inspection device can be configured to measure residual magnetic field and the frequency of the input current, and to determine whether the charging device has been installed properly. | 01-24-2013 |
20130021169 | PATIENT MONITORING OVER HETEROGENEOUS NETWORKS - A patient monitor includes least one monitoring device which collects patient data about a patient. A packet generator generates data packets from the patient data collected from the patient. A communication unit transmits the data packets over an Internet protocol (IP) network. The communication unit includes a first transmitter for transmitting the data packets using a first wireless network and a second transmitter for transmitting the data packets using a second wireless network. | 01-24-2013 |
20130027217 | Systems, Methods, and Apparatus for Automatically Configuring a Utility Meter - Certain embodiments of the invention may include systems, methods, and apparatus for automatically configuring a utility meter. According to an example embodiment of the invention, a method is provided for automatically configuring a utility meter. The method can include transmitting formatted data from a utility meter to a remote server. The formatted data includes one or more of: a ready signal, a meter identifier, a location identifier, installed options identifier, firmware version identifier, or configuration table information. The method also includes receiving configuration data from the remote server in response to the transmitted formatted data; and automatically configuring the utility meter with at least a portion of the received configuration data. | 01-31-2013 |
20130027218 | Low Power Vehicle Detection - A parking meter detects an object in proximity, based on a change in a proximity measurement at the meter, activates a directional sensor in response to detecting the object, receives sensor data at a meter processor from the directional sensor, wherein the received sensor data indicates a predetermined direction to the detected object relative to the meter. The parking meter determines a presence of the object, or lack thereof, in the predetermined direction based on the sensor data, and upon a positive determination of the presence of the object, stores an indication of the presence of the object along with a time of the positive determination. | 01-31-2013 |
20130038465 | REMOTE METERING DEVICE - The invention relates in particular to an integrated device for the adaptation of fluid metering devices, comprising an attachment means for attachment to the meter, a pulse generating means for generating electrical pulses at a rate dependent on the volume of fluid used, means for counting and storing the number of pulses generated during a particular time period, and communication means for communicating the stored pulse readings. Ideally these elements are integrated into a single housing, attachable to a meter by simply plugging thereto, without the need for any programming. | 02-14-2013 |
20130038466 | APPARATUS FOR VISULLY AND REMOTLLY DETERMINING THE ANGULLAR POSITION OF THE RELATIVE ROTATION OF PARTS - A visually and remotely readable apparatus is provided which comprises a plurality of sensing units, a control unit and a flexible printed cable (FPC) to connect two units for exchanging information therebetween. A preferable structure of the sensing unit includes a fixed part secured to the body of the apparatus and two oppositely positioned rotatable parts, where two rotatable parts mounted on a common shaft with the fixed part arranged therebetween forming two angular position sensors. Each sensor is based on the capacitive coupling between two working surfaces of the rotatable part and the respective working surfaces of the fixed part with the electrodes are secured thereto. Two working surfaces of one part are confronted with two respective working surfaces of another part forming two working surface pair. Each sensor has two working surface pairs, one working surface pair is sensing pair for sensing angular position; another is coupling pair for coupling sensing signals. A plurality of transmitting electrodes are secured to the working surface of the sensing pair of the fixed part; a receiving electrode is secured to the working surface of the sensing pair of the rotatable part; an output electrodes is secured to the working surface of the coupling pair of the fixed part; a coupling electrode connected to the receiving electrode is secured to the working surface of the coupling pair of the rotatable part. To each of the plurality of the transmitting electrodes is applied a respective one of polyphase squarewave voltages. The capacitive coupling between the electrodes of the sensing pair is dependent on the relative positions of two rotatable part, and the output signal voltages on the output electrode which coupled from the coupling electrode represents the angular position of the rotatable part. In the first embodiment provided for the sensors, the shape of working surfaces is in a conical frustum; the second embodiment, the shape of working surfaces is a cylinder; the third embodiment, the shape of working surfaces is a disc; the fourth embodiment, with a cylinder-shaped working surface and a disk-shaped working surface, is a combination of the second and the third embodiments provided as an example of the application of the embodiments. A circuit of the control unit is provided for processing data, generating control signals for the sensors. By using radio frequency identification (RFID) technique to exchange information with the reader station outside of the apparatus and power the system are also disclosed in the invention. | 02-14-2013 |
20130038467 | METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING SMART METERS IN A SMART GRID - A method for providing an identification of individual smart meters among a plurality of smart meters communicably coupled in a networked grid area based on a unique identification number stored in the memory of the smart meter is provided. The method includes calculating a first value corresponding to the unique identification number, receiving a query message including a second value corresponding to the unique identification number of one of the plurality of smart meters and determining if the first value matches the second value. The method further includes sending a response message including the unique identification number if the first value matches the second value. The method may further include assigning logical identification numbers to each of the smart meters. | 02-14-2013 |
20130038468 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MODIFYING POWER USAGE - Systems and methods for providing energy management utilize wireless wide-area network broadcast signals and a decentralized receiver architecture to allow customers to make informed choices with regard to energy consumption and load shedding for particular appliances. A receiver assembly embedded within an appliance receives a broadcast signal, e.g., an FM subcarrier signal, including tariff data and other electrical grid data. A processor coupled with the receiver controls the appliance in accordance with the received data and in accordance with user-defined preferences. In some embodiments, a transceiver assembly is embedded in one or more appliances in a household. Each transceiver is configured to receive broadcast signals regarding grid data, and to communicate with other appliances and/or a usage meter over a wireless personal area network. Meter data from one of more households may be aggregated and uplinked back to the energy provider or other entities. | 02-14-2013 |
20130049984 | WIRELESS MONITORING SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH PRESSURE SAFETY DEVICES - Wireless monitoring systems for use with pressure safety devices are described. An example wireless monitoring system includes a field device and a wireless transceiver coupled to the field device to receive a signal generated by the field device. The wireless transceiver has a self-contained power module. A wireless interface is communicatively coupled to the wireless transceiver without an interposing intrinsically safe barrier panel. The wireless interface wirelessly receives the signal from the wireless transceiver. | 02-28-2013 |
20130057413 | Integrated Metrology Systems and Information and Control Apparatus For Interaction With Integrated Metrology System - A system is disposed at a location of a utility commodity subscriber for informing the subscriber of and controlling utility commodity usage. The system includes utility meters, an information and control apparatus, and a first and second data communication link. The meters measure usage and generate usage signals. The information and control apparatus includes a microprocessor, a memory, a clock, and a user interface. The first data communication link is between the utility meters and the information and control apparatus, and the second data communication link is between the information and control apparatus and one or more central locations. The second communication link also provides rate information to the information and control apparatus and utility commodity usage data to the one or more central locations. The microprocessor computes an accumulated cost of utility commodity for a predetermined period of time. Information related to the accumulated cost is output to the subscriber. | 03-07-2013 |
20130063278 | UTILITY NETWORK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A computer-implemented method and system of providing utility service network information for a utility service network. The method includes obtaining utility service network information from a plurality of external sources, integrally combining the utility service network information obtained from each of the plurality of external sources into and displaying the utility service network information in real-time in a global positioning map to a user via a graphical user interface, selecting, via the user, specific utility service network information of the utility service network information, to be displayed, and automatically reconfiguring the system or manually reconfiguring the utility service network via the user, as needed based on the specific utility service network information selected. | 03-14-2013 |
20130063279 | SENSOR BASED LOGISTICS SYSTEM - Systems, methods, and computer program products are provided for accessing information regarding one or more shipments. There is provided a computer-implemented method for accessing information regarding one or more shipments. The method includes receiving sensor information associated with the one or more shipments at a tracking center. The method also includes analyzing rules associated with a party to determine whether the party is authorized to access the received sensor information. The method further includes restricting the party from accessing the received sensor information based on the analyzed rules. | 03-14-2013 |
20130069796 | ROOM ELECTRICAL USAGE MEASUREMENT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND BUILDING ENVIRONMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS - A system and method for gathering room electrical usage measurement data and transmitting it to a network location. The system comprises a plurality of magnetic field current sensors for sensing AC current traveling through a wire of an AC power cable associated with the electrical system of a room in a building. Each magnetic field current sensor produces an analog electrical measurement which is converted to digital measurement data for transporting over a network. At least one network is used to transport the measurement data produced by the pluralities of sensors to an external receiving device. The network can be wired (for example a multiple access electrical bus) or wireless. Additional sensors, for example temperature sensors, can also be accommodated. | 03-21-2013 |
20130076528 | HEALTH MONITORING SYSTEM UTILIZING SERVICE CONSUMPTION DATA - Systems for using metered services for health care monitoring are disclosed. In one embodiment, a health monitoring system for a service location includes: a utility meter communicatively connected to the service location; and at least one computing device communicatively connected to the utility meter, the at least one computing device adapted to monitor a health condition of an animal located at the service location by performing actions comprising: obtaining service consumption data about the service location from the utility meter; comparing the service consumption data with a pattern of service consumption for the service location; and determining a health condition of the animal based upon the comparison of the service consumption data with the pattern of service consumption for the service location. | 03-28-2013 |
20130076529 | Collection and Analysis of Vital Signs - A system is disclosed having a storage, a communications module for interacting with a medical measurement device, an analysis controller, and a test module that allows for the testing and evaluating of decision-support algorithms. A method for testing decision-support algorithms is disclosed having the steps of receiving into storage of a ruggedized, compact computer at least one decision-support algorithm; detecting with a communications module the initiation of a vital-sign monitoring session; receiving and storing vital-sign information into storage by the communications module; pushing the stored vital-sign information by an analysis controller to a test module running the stored at least one decision-support algorithm; and providing at least one output from the decision-support algorithm to at least one of a database and a display. | 03-28-2013 |
20130076530 | Portable device environmental monitoring apparatus and method - An independent internal monitoring system for the environmental conditions to which a portable electronic device is subjected including non-volatile memory and short term power loss protection. | 03-28-2013 |
20130076531 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROCESSING AND TRANSMITTING SENSOR DATA - Systems and methods for processing, transmitting and displaying data received from an analyte sensor, such as a glucose sensor, are provided. The data can be displayed on a hand-held display device having a display such as a key fob device including a user interface, such as an LCD and one or more buttons that allows a user to view data, and a physical connector, such as USB port. | 03-28-2013 |
20130076532 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROCESSING AND TRANSMITTING SENSOR DATA - Systems and methods for processing, transmitting and displaying data received from an analyte sensor, such as a glucose sensor, are provided. The data can be displayed on a hand-held display device having a display such as a key fob device including a user interface, such as an LCD and one or more buttons that allows a user to view data, and a physical connector, such as USB port. | 03-28-2013 |
20130076533 | DATA PROCESSOR FOR ONLINE BIOMETRIC MONITORING - A biometric meter data processor including a modem, a file system including a data file, a touchscreen for presenting to a user, a biometric monitor, driver circuitry for enabling the biometric monitor to measure a biometric of a user wherein the biometric monitor is unable to measure the biometric of the user when it is not connected to a connector, coupled with the modem. | 03-28-2013 |
20130076534 | Process, Device and System For Mapping Transformers to Meters and Locating Non-Technical Line Losses - A process, device and system for mapping usage data from a plurality of utility usage nodes, such as electricity usage meters, to one or more utility distribution nodes, such as a transformer, in which utility usage data collected at a collection device from the plurality of utility usage nodes at predetermined intervals is received, and utility distribution data collected at the collection device from the utility distribution node at the predetermined intervals is likewise received. Aggregate usage data from one or more of the plurality of utility usage nodes is compared to distribution data from the utility distribution node during one or more of the same predetermined intervals to determine, using a computer, which of the plurality of utility usage nodes is connected to the utility distribution node | 03-28-2013 |
20130076535 | MODULAR PATIENT COMMUNICATOR FOR USE IN LIFE CRITICAL NETWORK - A modular patient communicator provides for communications with a patient implantable medical device (PIMD) and connectivity with a central authority (CA) via an unsecured network. Medical firmware and a radio facilitate wireless interrogation of the PIMD and acquisition of PIMD data. A universal communications port facilitates mechanical and signal connectivity with one or a multiplicity of disparate detachable modules, some of which provide the communicator with an external communications facility and have disparate communication protocols. The communicator is devoid of an external communications facility other than the radio and universal communications port. Life critical network software is executed in cooperation with an attached module to cause the communicator to transmit a request to a network access facility for a connection to the unsecured network, authenticate the communicator to the CA, and facilitate secured communication between the communicator and CA upon successful communicator authentication. | 03-28-2013 |
20130076536 | PNEUMATIC FENDER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A pneumatic fender management system that establishes a correspondence between a pneumatic fender in which an identification tag recording first identification information is embedded and a pressure sensor detecting a pneumatic pressure of the pneumatic fender and transmitting a detected value. The pressure sensor includes a sensor part detecting a pneumatic pressure of the pneumatic fender, a transmission part transmitting a signal from the senor part; a reader part reading the information in the identification tag, and a control part having a memory part recording second identification information. The control part compares the first identification information read by the reader part with the second identification information in the memory part, and if the compared information is identical, causes the transmission part to transmit the pneumatic pressure information detected by the sensor part, and if the compared information is different, stops the sensor part and/or the transmission part. | 03-28-2013 |
20130082847 | Telemeter System, Vending Machine, and Method for Terminal Device - A telemeter system in which information that has an effect on a state of communication between a terminal device and a central device can be readily and accurately reported from the terminal device to the central device. When a central device transmits a request signal for prescribed measurement result information to a terminal device, a terminal control component of the terminal device extracts the measurement result information from a measurement component, and transmits the measurement result information to the central device. When a communication component of the central device receives the measurement result information, a center control component stores the received measurement result information in a storage component. The state of communication between the terminal device and the central device is reported to an administrator as necessary. | 04-04-2013 |
20130082848 | MONITORING MODULE, SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method for operating a monitoring module in a monitoring system. A monitoring module is configured with means for detecting impulse signals from sensors of the monitoring module and from other monitoring modules of the monitoring system, and with one or more groups of functions. A function defines a relation between an impulse signal detected by a monitoring module and a monitoring response of the monitoring module, and each group of functions corresponds with one level of hierarchy of monitoring modules of the monitoring system. One or more impulse signals from a sensor of the monitoring module and/or from another monitoring module of the monitoring system are detected; and a prevailing set of functions in a group of functions is determined. One or more monitoring responses are then determined with the prevailing set of functions. | 04-04-2013 |
20130088365 | RF Telemetry Transmission Between An Active Implantable Medical Device And A Remote External Receiver - Optimized RF telemetry transmission between an active implantable medical device and a remote external receiver in which the information to be transmitted are grouped by class (TYPE 0, TYPE 1, . . . , TYPE n) according to a criticality index (IC) defining a priority rank as between the different information classes to be transmitted. A plurality of modulation schemes and of data rates characterize different transmission configurations, each with a reliability index inversely related to the probability of failure of transmission in a noisy environment. The criticality indexes of the highest priorities are assigned to the transmission configurations with the higher reliability indexes. On an information transmission request, an RF telemetry transmission configuration is selected ( | 04-11-2013 |
20130088366 | Fixed Network for an Automatic Utility Meter Reading System - A fixed network for automatically reading a utility meter system has been developed. The network includes multiple meter interface units (MIUs) that each collect data from a designated utility meter. The collected data is transmitted to a primary data collector. The network includes multiple data collectors and each MIU identifies its own primary data collector based on signal quality between the collector and the MIU. The network includes a central host computer that is used to receive the collected data from the primary data collectors. | 04-11-2013 |
20130088367 | Fixed Network for an Automatic Utility Meter Reading System - A fixed network for automatically reading a utility meter system has been developed. The network includes multiple meter interface units (MIUs) that each collect data from a designated utility meter. The collected data is transmitted to a primary data collector. The network includes multiple data collectors and each MIU identifies its own primary data collector based on signal quality between the collector and the MIU. The network includes a central host computer that is used to receive the collected data from the primary data collectors. | 04-11-2013 |
20130088368 | Fixed Network for an Automatic Utility Meter Reading System - A fixed network for automatically reading a utility meter system has been developed. The network includes multiple meter interface units (MIUs) that each collect data from a designated utility meter. The collected data is transmitted to a primary data collector. The network includes multiple data collectors and each MIU identifies its own primary data collector based on signal quality between the collector and the MIU. The network includes a central host computer that is used to receive the collected data from the primary data collectors. | 04-11-2013 |
20130093601 | METHOD, SYSTEM AND DEVICE OF MULTICAST FUNCTIONALITY IN AN ENERGY PORTAL - Described herein are embodiments of methods, systems and devices of providing multicast functionality through an energy portal such as a meter, which reduces bandwidth required for communication between the energy portal and a server. In accordance with one aspect, a method is provided of providing multicast functionality through an energy portal, which reduces bandwidth required for communication between the energy portal and a server. In one embodiment, the method includes: receiving, over a first network, a single message, wherein the single message includes at least one device characteristic; determining, using a processor, one or more devices associated with the at least one device characteristic, wherein each of the one or more devices are connected to a second network; and transmitting the single message over the second network to each of the one or more devices associated with the at least one device characteristic, wherein the single message is transmitted individually to each of the one or more devices associated with the at least one device characteristic such that the single message is transmitted as many times as there are devices associated with the at least one device characteristic. | 04-18-2013 |
20130093602 | OUTPATIENT MONITORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Described are computer-based methods and apparatuses, including computer program products, for outpatient monitoring. In some examples, the outpatient monitoring technology includes a system for remote monitoring and consultations of patients' state associated with automated interpretation of vital signs signals. In other examples, the outpatient monitoring technology includes a system for remote monitoring of patients' state associated with analysis of full-disclosure vital signs digital signals with reduced bit data or channel data. In some examples, the outpatient monitoring technology includes a system for remote monitoring of patients' state associated with ongoing automated analysis and transmission of full-disclosure vital signs digital signals and automatically generated signals' interpretation results and manually marked patient symptoms. | 04-18-2013 |
20130099938 | SOFTWARE-DEFINED COMMUNICATION UNIT - The presently disclosed subject matter relates to communications units. In some uses thereof, such communications units may be respectively associated with utility meters for use in an advanced metering system infrastructure. Present communications units have a medium-agnostic front end module and associated transmitting and receiving functionalities that are programmable to provide simultaneous reception and transmission using multiple protocols over different media and to change to a single protocol functionality upon reception of a valid signal on one of the monitored transmissions. The communications unit may be field programmable for known and previously undefined transmission protocols to provide a future proof device. | 04-25-2013 |
20130099939 | INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD AND USER EQUIPMENT - An apparatus and method for processing an information processing request in a mobile device. In one embodiment, the method includes: receiving an information processing request message; collecting at least one type of environmental state information associated with the mobile device if the information processing request message is not processed by the mobile device within a predetermined time; generating prompt information according to the collected environmental state information, wherein the prompting information is used to prompt a user to process the unprocessed information processing request message. Therefore, a user can timely perceive the information processing request message that has been received but not processed by the mobile device in time, thus effectively increasing the usability of the mobile device. | 04-25-2013 |
20130106616 | METER DATA COLLECTION | 05-02-2013 |
20130113630 | TEMPERATURE COMPENSATED FREQUENCY ADJUSTMENT IN A METER READING ENDPOINT - The presently disclosed subject matter is directed to methods and apparatus enabling production of a stable output from a phase locked loop (PLL) circuit. A crystal controlled oscillator provides a reference signal to the PLL circuit. Temperature variations associated with the crystal cause variations in the operating frequency of the crystal that result in variations of the PLL output frequency. The presently disclosed subject matter compensates for such variations in frequency output by modifying an operation of the PLL circuit based on the temperature variations so that the output frequency remains stable even with temperature induced variations in the reference signal. | 05-09-2013 |
20130113631 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING POWER THROUGH THE FLOW OF WATER - A remote water meter monitoring system is provided. A mesh network-type transceiver unit is coupled to a water meter housing having a water counting mechanism inside to transmit water consumption information as well as other sensor information, such as backflow detection, water pressure, and water metrics (e.g., residual chlorine and temperature) to a central server system via a bridge device and a corresponding mesh network. Mechanical energy from the water flowing through the water meter housing is converted to electrical energy via an energy conversion unit. An electrically powered shut off valve is remote addressable via the transceiver unit. | 05-09-2013 |
20130113632 | Health Management Devices and Methods - Methods and devices and systems including a data collection module for receiving and storing analyte data over a predetermined time period from a subject, a user interface unit coupled to the data collection module for providing one or more indication related to the analyte data, a control unit coupled to the data collection module and the user interface unit to control, at least in part the operation of the data collection module and the user interface unit, a communication module coupled to the control unit for communicating one or more signals associated with the analyte data to a remote location, where the user interface unit is configured to operate in a prospective analysis mode including substantially real time output of the analyte level received by the data collection module, and a retrospective analysis mode including limited output of information to the subject during the predetermined time period, and further where the communication module is configured to communicate with the remote location after the analyte data is received and stored in the data collection module over the predetermined time period, are provided. | 05-09-2013 |
20130120156 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOTELY CONTROLLING AN ADVANCED METERING INFRASTRUCTURE - A computer-implemented method for remotely controlling an AMI is disclosed. The method includes receiving at an AMI controller module, meter event data from a remote command and control module; generating, at a third module, rules for the management, implementation and compliance documentation of connect/disconnect orders; processing, at the third module, the meter event data based on those rules to aggregate, batch, filter, or prioritize execution of individual connect/disconnect orders; communicating the connect/disconnect execution orders and policy compliance verification information to the AMI controller module; and, at the AMI controller module, executing connect/disconnect operations via the command and control module. | 05-16-2013 |
20130127633 | POLICY-BASED DATA MANAGEMENT AND IMAGING CHIPPING - The technology described herein includes a system and/or a method for policy-based data management. The method includes receiving, by a sensor platform device, sensor data from one or more sensors; selecting, by the sensor platform device, one or more screening policies from a plurality of screening policies based on one or more mission parameters and a platform type associated with the sensor platform device; generating, by the sensor platform device, a data set from the sensor data based on the selected one or more screening policies; and transmitting, by the sensor platform device, the data set to one or more computing devices. | 05-23-2013 |
20130127634 | CROWD ACTIVITY AND AMBIENT CONDITION MEASUREMENT AND REPORTING SYSTEM - The present invention relates to a system for measuring ambient conditions in venues using a number of real-time signals, including sound, temperature, light, motion, water usage, vibration, infrared signal and others. Ambient signal data is transmitted to a cloud-based application that stores the signal levels in a database and presents the information in a visual format for use by venues and by consumers. The system can, among other things, provide an overall measure of crowd activity in a venue. | 05-23-2013 |
20130127635 | Glucose Measurement Device And Methods Using RFID - A glucose monitoring system, includes a glucose sensor strip or package of strips. The strip includes a substrate and a glucose monitoring circuit that has electrodes and a bodily fluid application portion of selected chemical composition. An antenna is integrated with the glucose sensor strip. An RFID sensor chip is coupled with the glucose sensor strip and the antenna. The chip has a memory containing digitally-encoded data representing calibration and/or expiration date information for the strip. | 05-23-2013 |
20130135115 | Exercise Usage Monitoring System - The disclosed embodiments relate to real time monitoring of usage of multiple pieces of exercise equipment and providing exercise based metric data based thereon to devices for aggregation, display or other processing thereof. In particular, the disclosed embodiments facilitate collection of exercise based metric data from various pieces of exercise equipment, such as stationary bikes, treadmills, and the like, in real time, i.e. as the equipment is utilized by an exercising user, combine the collected data in a form suitable for use by various interested devices and broadcast or otherwise disseminate the combined data to the various devices wherein the various devices may access the broadcasted combined data to access the usage metric data from any one or more of the pieces of exercise equipment from which it was collected for subsequent aggregation, display and/or further processing. | 05-30-2013 |
20130135116 | METHOD FOR PROCESSING DATA IN A DOMESTIC APPLIANCE, DOMESTIC APPLIANCE AND SYSTEM HAVING A DOMESTIC APPLIANCE AND AT LEAST ONE EXTERNAL UNIT - In a method for processing data from a domestic appliance, appliance data from the domestic appliance is determined and at least part of the determined appliance data is incorporated in a user profile. At least part of the user profile is useable for information purposes through display on a display unit or transmission to an external unit. | 05-30-2013 |
20130147634 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING A PLURALITY OF WORKSITES - Embodiments provide methods for monitoring a plurality of worksites at a facility, the methods including transporting a central monitoring station package to the facility, seating a transport container, stationing worksite monitoring equipment packages at the worksites, connecting communication links from the worksite monitoring equipment packages to central monitoring station equipment, transmitting remote transmissions from worksite monitoring equipment packages to central monitoring station equipment, displaying worksite monitoring information for a monitoring technician, and responding when remote monitoring information received from a worksite meets a response threshold criteria. | 06-13-2013 |
20130147635 | UTILITY MONITORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USE - Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide methods, systems, and devices for monitoring one or more utilities consumed within a monitored area. At least certain disclosed methods include detecting an amount of a first utility consumed by a load associated with a device. An amount of a second utility consumed by a load associated with the device is detected. The identity of the device is determined based on the amount of the first and second utility consumed. In further disclosed methods, a utility monitoring method is disclosed that includes measuring an amount of a utility consumed by a first device at a first time and an amount of a utility consumed by a second device at a second time. The identity of the first device is determined based on the measured consumption of the first and second devices at the first and second time. In certain implementations, the electricity meter uses an effective variance analysis of the conductance waveform on an electrical circuit to identify specific appliances. | 06-13-2013 |
20130147636 | MULTI-FERROIC STRUCTURAL HEALTH MONITORING SYSTEMS - A structural health monitoring system for multiple layer structures includes a plurality of strain-sensitive magnetic particles dispersed within a bonding area between at least two individual layers, at least one multiferroic sensor dispersed on a surface of the multiple layer structure, proximate to an area of the structure to be monitored, the at least one multiferroic sensor capable of monitoring strains experienced by the strain-sensitive magnetic particles, and analyzing changes in the strains experienced by said strain-sensitive magnetic particles that may indicate damage or degradation in the structure, and a controller configured for periodic interrogation of the at least one multiferroic sensor. | 06-13-2013 |
20130154848 | METER CAPABLE OF HAVING COMMUNICATION SECURITY AND DATA TRANSMITTING/RECEIVING SYSTEM USING THE SAME - Disclosed is a meter capable of having communication security and a data transmitting/receiving system using the same, the system being such that a the server generates a public key and a private key corresponding to the public key, and transmits the public key to a meter, and the meter comprises a communication unit receiving the public key from a first communication unit, a frame generating unit encoding the data frame using the public key, and a controller controlling the communication unit to allow transmitting the encoded data frame. | 06-20-2013 |
20130154849 | PRIVACY PROTECTION FOR SMART METERING DATA - Metering of a physical characteristic is described, in which a stochastic approach is taken. A random signal is generated on the basis of a metering signal, with a view to maximising a statistical distance between the two. The random signal and the metering signal are mixed together to obscure characteristics of the metering signal which could otherwise divulge private information to third parties. | 06-20-2013 |
20130154850 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATED POWER METER INFRASTRUCTURE - A system for extending the Smart Meter's range to connect to Home Area Networks for energy monitoring and demand response in a variety of locations. The system has a data concentrator with a wireless communicating module configured to transmit and receive information at one or more first frequencies ranging up to 2.4 GHz, and a power-line module configured to transmit and receive information at one or more frequencies ranging from about 100 to 30 MHz. The data concentrator receives power information from one or more Smart Meters and convert the wireless signal to a power-line carrier signal over the existing all three phases of the AC wiring. The system also includes a wireless and power-line carrier bridge that converts the power-line carrier signal back to a wireless signal to connect to various Home Area Network (HAN) devices such as programmable communicating thermostats (PCTs), smart appliances and in-home displays (IHDs). | 06-20-2013 |
20130154851 | WIRELESS PATIENT COMMUNICATOR EMPLOYING SECURITY INFORMATION MANAGEMENT - A patient communicator for communicating with a patient implantable medical device (PIMD) and facilitating communications with a remote server via a wireless network. The communicator has a housing configured for portability, and an identity module to store subscriber identification data. A processor is coupled to the identity module and is configured to prevent data exchange with the PIMD unless the identity module is authorized for use. Memory coupled to the processor stores wireless radio firmware and medical firmware. A first radio is configured to effect communications with the PIMD in accordance with execution of the medical firmware by the processor. A second radio is configured to effect communications via a channel of the wireless network with a remote server in accordance with execution of the wireless radio firmware by the processor. The processor is generally configured to use subscriber identification data to facilitate authentication by and of the remote server. | 06-20-2013 |
20130162441 | CELL ROUTER FAILURE DETECTION IN A MESH NETWORK - The presently disclosed subject matter is directed to methodologies, apparatuses, and systems for providing cell router (relay) failure detection in a mesh network. Individual cell relays heading up cells within a mesh network transmit synchronization signals including as a portion thereof a counter value. Nodes with the cells monitor the counter value and search for a new connection to a central facility if the counter value fails to update within a predetermined value. | 06-27-2013 |
20130162442 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING DATA USING A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION CHANNEL - A first apparatus receives, from a second apparatus, a signal including information on first time-periods each associated with an occupancy rate, using a wireless channel. The first time-periods each indicate a time-period during which data are scheduled to be collected by the second apparatus, and the occupancy rate indicates a ratio of a duration-time during which data are actually collected by the second apparatus using the wireless channel, to the each first time-period. The first apparatus, based on the occupancy rate and the received power of the first signal, calculates interference values each indicating a degree of interference caused by a radio wave from the second apparatus during the each first time-period, and acquires, based on the calculated interference values, second time-periods during which data are scheduled to be collected by the first apparatus, and collects data from a node apparatus during the third time-periods using the wireless channel. | 06-27-2013 |
20130176141 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CHANGING OPERATIONAL PARAMETERS OF A UTILITY METER - A system and method that allow customers to provide acknowledgement to a utility provider for closing a utility meter. One embodiment features an authorization code disposed on the utility meter such that when a customer sends the authorization code to the utility provider as acknowledgement, the utility provider, having received the authorization code, sends a signal to the utility meter that closes the utility meter. | 07-11-2013 |
20130176142 | DATA-CAPABLE STRAPBAND - A data-capable strapband is described, including techniques for monitoring co-participation in an activity using a data-capable strapband. Data associated with each co-participant's participation in the physical activity may be gathered, processed, analyzed, monitored and compared by each co-participant using data-capable strapbands. Additional devices, such as mobile communications devices, mobile computing devices, computers, laptop computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and the like, along with any available accompanying software applications, may be used in conjunction with the data-capable strapbands to further analyze the data that is gathered and presented via, for example, a server configured to provide a social networking service. | 07-11-2013 |
20130181845 | AMI NETWORK WITH WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT HOTSPOT ACCESS - Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for providing communications functionality between a utility central facility and a field worker. A WiFi Hotpoint is associated with a cell relay in an Advanced Metering System (AMS). Field workers using WiFi enabled communications devices may securely receive information including work orders from the utility central facility via the WiFi connection, thereby reducing or eliminating need for the worker to visit the utility central facility. | 07-18-2013 |
20130181846 | METER APPARATUS, METERING NETWORK, AND METERING METHOD THEREOF - A meter apparatus, a metering network, and a metering method thereof are provided. The meter apparatus includes a pulse generator, an optical sensor, a spinning disc, and a magnetic sensor. The pulse generator is configured to generate a number of pulses proportional to an amount of a consumed resource. The optical sensor is configured to detect the number of pulses to generate a first signal, and transmit the first signal to a meter reader. The spinning disc is configured to produce an amount of rotation proportional to the amount of the consumed resource. The magnetic sensor is configured to detect the amount of the rotation to generate a second signal, and transmit the second signal to the meter reader. | 07-18-2013 |
20130187788 | UTILITY MONITORING DEVICE, SYSTEM AND METHOD - A monitoring device, system and method are provided for in-home/on-premises monitoring of usage of utilities, such as electricity and other services. The monitoring device receives information from a smart meter, and displays usage through a display, illuminating an area using a colour indicative of the current cost of consumption, and varying the illuminated area at a rate indicative of a rate of consumption or other metric, the varying of the illuminated area simulating movement in the display. The display provides a consumer with “at a glance” visual information on current usage. Optionally a digital display screen provides detailed alphanumeric and graphical information, through a number of selectable display modes. One or more devices may be networked, and interface directly or indirectly with a transceiver of a smart metering system, or a retrofit transceiver for a conventional meter. Monitoring of other utilities and services may alternatively or additionally be provided. | 07-25-2013 |
20130187789 | WEARABLE DEVICE ASSEMBLY HAVING ANTENNA - A wrist-worn device monitors movements of a user. A sensor assembly of the wrist-worn device is configured to detect movement of the user and generate sensor data based on the movement detected. A controller connected to the sensor assembly obtains movement data based on the sensor data. An antenna connected to the controller is configured to operate at a desired frequency when a wrist of the user is received by the device such that the movement data is wirelessly transmittable from the wrist-worn device to an electronic device. The antenna may exhibit a different design and configuration depending on the size of the wrist-worn device. | 07-25-2013 |
20130201030 | RF BASED METER DATA COLLECTION - Disclosed are apparatus and system as well as associated and/or corresponding methodology for exchanging utility consumption data and control information between a consumption measurement device and a utility management system. The presently disclosed subject matter provides for employing a WiFi enable transceiver incorporated as a part of a cable company device such as a set top box. The WiFi transceiver is configured to receive consumption information from a consumer's utility meter (electricity, gas, water) and to transmit the received information to the utility provider by way of the cable company's communications infrastructure. Control signal may also be sent from the utility company to the consumption measurement device by way of the cable company's communications infrastructure. | 08-08-2013 |
20130201031 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COMMUNICATION WITH A SMART POWER METER OVER OPTICAL FIBER - A system and method for facilitating smart power meter monitoring are provided. The system for facilitating smart power meter monitoring includes a standards-based frame detector, a CDR, at least one | 08-08-2013 |
20130201032 | VACUUM INSULATION PANEL QUALITY CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR USING SAME - A system and method for implementing quality control for a panel is described. For example, the panel may be configured as a vacuum insulation panel having sensors arranged within the panel and/or on a surface thereof. A radio frequency identification unit may be in operable communication with the sensor and may transmit panel information to an external radio frequency identification receiver. A data collation element in operable communication with the radio frequency identification receiver may be configured to receive and analyze aggregated panel performance data received from the radio frequency identification receiver. | 08-08-2013 |
20130201033 | SENSOR SYSTEMS WIRELESSLY UTILIZING POWER INFRASTRUCTURES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods for a low-power sensor node and network. A low-power sensor node including a battery, a microcontroller, a sensor module, and a transmitter is used to sense an environmental condition and transmit the information back to a base station via a preexisting power line infrastructure such as power lines of a house or apartment building. | 08-08-2013 |
20130207815 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REMOTE UTILITY METERING AND METER MONITORING - A remote water meter monitoring system is provided. A mesh network-type transceiver unit is coupled to a water meter housing having a water counting mechanism inside to transmit water consumption information as well as other sensor information, such as backflow detection, water pressure, and water metrics (e.g., residual chlorine and temperature) to a central server system via a bridge device and a corresponding mesh network. Mechanical energy from the water flowing through the water meter housing is converted to electrical energy via an energy conversion unit. An electrically powered shut off valve is remote addressable via the transceiver unit. | 08-15-2013 |
20130214935 | INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR HOME APPLIANCE - The present invention relates to information management systems for a home appliance, and more particularly, to an information management system for embodying communication between a home appliance and a wireless terminal and between the home appliance and an external service business operator server possible for providing information a user requires quickly and remote management of the home appliance. | 08-22-2013 |
20130222150 | ELECTRICAL GATEWAY AND COMMUNICATION METHOD OF ELECTRICAL GATEWAY - An electrical gateway and a communication method of the electrical gateway are disclosed. The electrical gateway includes: an uplink communication module, a downlink communication module and a control unit; the uplink communication module is configured to communicate with an uplink network element; the downlink communication module is configured to communicate with a terminal device; and the control unit, connecting the uplink communication module and the downlink communication module, is configured to, when it is determined that downlink data sent by the uplink network element is obtaining terminal device information, transmit the terminal device information to the uplink communication module if the terminal device information is stored in the electrical gateway, and transmit the obtaining the terminal device information to the downlink communication module if the terminal device information is not stored in the electrical gateway. Therefore, data communication is achieved. | 08-29-2013 |
20130222151 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR OPERATING A LOGICAL SENSOR NETWORK - Methods and systems for operating a sensor network comprising a plurality of nodes and at least one resource, where a resource can be a sensing device (e.g., a camera or microphone) or other peripheral devices (e.g., a storage or recording system). In at least one embodiment of the present invention, at least one node in a network determines at least one resource available to it and the type of the resource or its capabilities. Based on the type or capabilities of the resource, the node associates with one or more logical node names and acquires instructions for performing at least one function. | 08-29-2013 |
20130222152 | TELEMETRY DOUBLE BUFFERING AND OVERSAMPLING FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A method of operating an implantable medical device (IMD) includes demodulating a data signal incoming to the IMD, serially storing demodulated data received in the data signal in a first serial buffer register, transferring the received demodulated data to a parallel buffer register from the first serial buffer register, wherein the parallel buffer register operates according to a clock signal having a lower frequency than a clock signal used to operate a serial buffer register, switching the serial storing of demodulated data to a second serial buffer register during the transferring of the received demodulated data to the parallel buffer register, and alternating the serial storing of the received data between the first and second serial buffer registers. | 08-29-2013 |
20130222153 | WIRELESS SENSOR READER - A wireless sensor reader is provided to interface with a wireless sensor. The wireless sensor reader transmits an excitation pulse to cause the wireless sensor to generate a ring signal. The wireless sensor reader receives and amplifies the ring signal and sends the signal to a phase-locked loop. A voltage-controlled oscillator in the phase-locked loop locks onto the ring signal frequency and generates a count signal at a frequency related to the ring signal frequency. The voltage-controlled oscillator is placed into a hold mode where the control voltage is maintained constant to allow the count signal frequency to be determined. | 08-29-2013 |
20130229287 | TRANSCEIVER UNIT IN A MEASUREMENT SYSTEM - A measurement system may comprise a sensor wire and a transceiver unit. The sensor wire may comprise an insertable portion configured to be inserted in a blood vessel of a patient's body and a sensor disposed within the insertable portion at a distal end of the sensor wire. The sensor is configured to measure a parameter when inserted inside the patient. The transceiver unit may comprise: a housing adapted to be connected to a proximal end of the sensor wire; and a first communication module within the housing adapted to wirelessly communicate by a communication signal with an external second communication module in order to transfer information to the external second communication module. | 09-05-2013 |
20130229288 | SERVER-SIDE INITIATED COMMUNICATION WITH ANALYTE METER-SIDE COMPLETED DATA TRANSFER - System and methods are provided to ameliorate a shortcoming identified by applicants for analyte meter in wireless communication to a server. | 09-05-2013 |
20130234861 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE ADAPTED FOR RADIO FREQUENCY TELEMETRY WITH FREQUENCY HOPPING - An implantable medical device has a broadband RF receiver operating within an RF band and having stored information of a characteristic receiver frequency representing the RF within the RF band at which the broadband RF receiver has sufficient receiver sensitivity. The stored information is retrieved in response to a message from an external communication device and is included in a response generated by the implantable medical device and transmitted to the communication device. The information enables the communication device to select its transmission frequency at a subsequent transmission instance to the relevant implantable medical device. The chances of successful reception at the subsequent transmission instance are thereby increased. | 09-12-2013 |
20130241743 | iKT Universal Electronic Monitoring Device and Method of Use for Smart Cooking - A universal iKT electronic monitoring device, system and method of use, to receive data from a variety of types of sensors (e.g. measuring weight, temperature) housed within apparatuses (e.g. a kitchen appliances, utensils) that are electronically compatible with the monitoring device. The monitoring device then wirelessly transmits the sensor data to a User's mobile device (i.e. a smartphone) to be analyzed and stored. The User's mobile device also comprises software to assist in using the apparatus, such as listing recipes, or transmitting commands to the device to turn off an apparatus (e.g. oven). One iKT device is compatible for use with a multitude of electronic apparatuses, such as mixing bowls to measure the weight of cooking ingredients, spatulas and oven mats to measure food temperature, cups to measure liquid volumes, and oven controls to turn off/on or reduce the temperature. | 09-19-2013 |
20130241744 | MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system for monitoring an area is provided. The system comprises a plurality of stationary sensors that can sense events and comprise a wireless output signal broadcast capability for transmitting output signals from the stationary sensors by a wireless communication protocol. The system further comprises gateway units connected to a wired backbone network and configured to transmit information relating to the output signals of the stationary sensors by a wired communication protocol, and a base station connected to the wired backbone network configured to receive the information transmitted by the gateway units on the wired communication protocol and to time-stamp the events signaled by the stationary sensors. The monitored area comprises sub-areas, and a group of stationary sensors are assigned to each of the sub-areas and to a gateway unit for directly receiving the output signals from the group of stationary sensors. | 09-19-2013 |
20130241745 | ELECTRODYNAMIC FIELD STRENGTH TRIGGERING SYSTEM - Systems and methods for automatically triggering wireless power and data exchange between an external reader and an implanted sensor. The implanted sensor may measure the strength of an electrodynamic field received wirelessly from the reader and convey field strength data based on the measured strength of the received electrodynamic field to the reader. If the field strength data indicates that the strength of an electrodynamic field received by the sensor is sufficient for the implanted sensor to perform an analyte measurement, the reader may convey an analyte measurement command to the sensor, which may execute the analyte measurement command and convey measurement information back to the reader. The systems and methods may trigger the analyte measurement as the reader transiently passes within sufficient range/proximity to the implant (or vice versa). | 09-19-2013 |
20130241746 | A/B/C PHASE DETERMINATION AND SYNCHROPHASOR MEASUREMENT USING COMMON ELECTRIC SMART METERS AND WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS - Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) tend to be specialized and expensive—relegated to only key points in power distribution networks, and are generally reliant on GPS technology. The present disclosure details how any smart meter—using wireless communication—can perform sub-microsecond-grade synchrophasor measurements. Other aspects concern smart meter-based determination of A, B or C phase of the tri-phase power network. This can involve count-stamp enabling message packets sent to and/or from a smart meter, and then associating such count-stamps to local measurements of power phase by a metrology unit. Once a network of such enabled smart meters and other devices is formed, sub-microsecond metropolitan-wide and entire region-wide synchronizing time standard can calibrate local measurements of power phase, where simple A, B and C phase determination is one low hanging fruit application of such. Low cost aggregate monitoring of metropolitan-wide synchrophasors promises a next chapter of importance for that relatively recent art. | 09-19-2013 |
20130249706 | ELECTRIC SERVICE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING ELECTRIC SERVICE - An electric service system includes an electric meter and an electric service platform. The electric meter can be used for obtaining the electric record of the client terminal. The electric service platform is connected to the electric meter and the server terminal so as to receive and analyze the electric record from the electric meter to obtain an electric information, and then offer the server terminal at least one of the electric record and the electric information. The server terminal provides the service via the electric service system according to the electric record or the electric information. Accordingly, the electric service system enables the server terminal to provide customized service for the client terminal according to the electric information of the client terminal. | 09-26-2013 |
20130249707 | SERVICE METHOD OF GAS APPLIANCES - A service method of gas appliances includes: Detecting the gas appliances at the client ends to generate detecting signals. Transmitting the detecting signals to a service end. Identifying which client end the detecting signals come from. Examining the detecting signals to find whether the gas appliance has an abnormal condition; and informing the client end when the abnormal condition is found. After all, the service end may monitor the gas appliances at the client end, and inform the client for repair when the gas appliance has detected an abnormal signal or has damaged parts. | 09-26-2013 |
20130249708 | Athletic Performance User Interface - Athletic data may be recorded and displayed using a computing device such as a mobile communication device during performance of physical activity. In some examples, the device may provide options for defining and recording athletic activity performed by the user. Such options may include various content item selection and rendering controls. Additionally or alternatively, route selection and controls may be provided through the device. Recorded activity data may further be transmitted to a remote site through a network. | 09-26-2013 |
20130257630 | TIME DIVERSIFIED PACKET PROTOCOL - A method of reporting information from a meter interface unit to a receiving device in which a data packet is transferred from the meter interface unit containing meter readings, which are associated with an indicator of the elapsed time since the reading was taken. The receiving device compares this elapsed time value with the actual elapsed time, based upon the internal clock of the receiving device, in order to determine any inaccuracies in the clock of the meter interface unit. In another embodiment, the data packet includes at least two nonsequential meter readings, separated by a multiplicity of reading intervals, on a rolling basis, such that data will not be lost as a result of a temporary obstruction that interferes with the transmission or receipt of meter readings. | 10-03-2013 |
20130265172 | Analyte Meter Including an RFID Reader - A glucose monitoring system, includes a glucose sensor strip or package of strips. The strip includes a substrate and a glucose monitoring circuit that has electrodes and a bodily fluid application portion of selected chemical composition. An antenna is integrated with the glucose sensor strip. A RFID sensor chip is coupled with the glucose sensor strip and the antenna. The chip has a memory containing digitally-encoded data representing calibration and/or expiration date information for the strip. | 10-10-2013 |
20130271289 | ANOMALY DETECTION USING USAGE DATA FOR METERING SYSTEM - A method, system and computer program product for detecting anomalies in a metering system. In one embodiment, data representing usage of a defined commodity are collected from meters, and the data collected over a given time period are analyzed to identify any of the meters showing at least one defined type of anomalous usage pattern. For each of the meters showing an anomalous usage patterns, an anomaly score is determined for the usage pattern shown, and the anomaly scores are used to rank the meters. In one embodiment, the collected data are analyzed to identify any of the meters showing one or more of a group of types of anomalous patterns including meter-no-reading, meter-by-pass, and meter-silting patterns. Embodiments of the invention utilize time series techniques and data analysis on meter reading data. Further, embodiments of the invention require no additional installation of equipment or sensors. | 10-17-2013 |
20130278434 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RECEIVING TELEMETRY DATA FROM AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A system and method for receiving telemetry data from implantable medical devices such as cardiac pacemakers with improved noise immunity is disclosed. Ambient noise levels and signal strength are monitored and used to adaptively adjust the detection sensitivity of the receiver. Filtering of the received signal is performed to remove both broadband and narrowband noise. Removal of narrowband noise is accomplished with notch filters that are dynamically adjusted in accordance with a detected noise spectrum. | 10-24-2013 |
20130285833 | TAMPER DETECTION FOR PULSE-PRODUCING DEVICE - Systems and methods for detecting tampering with a pulse-producing component of an electrical device are disclosed. An example electrical device includes a pulse-producing circuit and a tamper detection circuit. The pulse-producing circuit is configured for generating at least one pulse. The pulse-producing circuit includes a pulse interface via which the at least one pulse is communicated from the pulse-producing circuit. The tamper detection circuit is electrically connected to the pulse interface. The tamper detection circuit can be connected between a pulse-counting device and the pulse interface. The tamper detection circuit is configured for communicating the pulse to the pulse-counting device via at least one electrical path in the absence of a tampering condition. The tamper detection circuit is also configured for simulating damage to the pulse interface by modifying the at least one electrical path in response to the presence of the tampering condition. | 10-31-2013 |
20130285834 | Instantaneous Telemetry from the Utility Revenue Meter by use of the Pulse Outputs or Optical Reader - The invention comprises a method for obtaining accurate, instantaneous electric consumption data for telemetry purposes from the consumer's utility revenue meter. Heretofore, methods for obtaining high frequency telemetry have been limited to specialized devices which are not based on the utility revenue meter, or are unable to meet the temporal requirements of instantaneous telemetry. The invented method specifically uses external outputs of the utility revenue meter, the pulse outputs or optical reader, acquires and transmits high frequency telemetry in less than 30 seconds inclusive down to 1 second. | 10-31-2013 |
20130285835 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DATA MANAGEMENT IN ADVANCED METERING INFRASTRUCTURE NETWORK - A method for transmitting, storing and managing data by compressing data packets to be transmitted and received over an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) network with low-capacity memory and low-transfer rate. A number of transmission packets may be reduced using at least one of a bitmap interval algorithm that assigns a bitmap value to each interval, thereby reducing a number of request packets, a repeated-bitmap interval algorithm that represents sequential data values as bitmap values by toggling a bit value between 0 and 1 in each data value when a change occurs in the sequential data values, and a run-length encoding algorithm that compresses data by encoding run length of sequential identical data. | 10-31-2013 |
20130285836 | System using wearable device with unique user ID and telemetry system - A system for using telemetry data based on a user habit information includes one or more sensors coupled to a wearable device that has a unique user ID, and acquires user information selected from of at least one of, a user's activities, behaviors and habit information. The wearable device includes ID circuitry that includes ID storage, a communication system which reads and transmits the unique ID from the ID storage, a power source and a pathway system to route signals through the circuitry. The telemetry system communicates with the one or more sensors. The telemetry system includes a database of user ID's. Telemetry data is analyzed using the telemetry system based on at least one of, user's activities, behaviors and habit information. Personalized information about the user is created. | 10-31-2013 |
20130285837 | MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE AND COMMUNICATION METHOD - A mobile communication device and a communication method that enable remote monitoring of those who use electrical home appliances by collecting data from the electrical home appliances are provided without complicating the system configuration. The mobile communication device ( | 10-31-2013 |
20130293388 | CELLULAR TANK MONITORING TECHNOLOGY - A system, apparatus and method for monitoring the status and use of an LP fuel tank using cellular communication technology. The system includes a sensor unit communicatively connected to a storage tank, the sensor unit measuring the level of fluid in the storage tank and transmitting fluid level data externally via a cellular data communication link, a remote host unit disposed remotely from the storage tank, the host unit receiving fluid level data from the sensor unit via the cellular data communication link, and a base unit disposed in the vicinity of the storage tank by a user, the base unit receiving fluid level data from the sensor unit via the cellular data communication link or via an RF link. | 11-07-2013 |
20130293389 | GAS MONITORING SYSTEM USING A RANDOM PHASE MULTIPLE ACCESS SYSTEM - Methods, systems, and apparatuses, including computer programs encoded on computer-readable media, are configured for receiving monitor data from a gas meter. A data stream is created based upon the monitor data. The data stream is spread with a common pseudo-noise (PN) code that is used by a plurality of nodes in communication with an access point. The spread data stream is transmitted at a first time based on a slot start time and a first randomly selected timing offset. The spread data stream is transmitted while at least a portion of a second spread data stream is transmitted at a second time based on the slot start time and a second randomly selected timing offset. The second spread data stream is spread with the common PN code. | 11-07-2013 |
20130293390 | SYSTEM AND METHOD TO ENFORCE UTILITY METER SECURITY - The present invention relates to a system, and method for enforcing utility usage and metering functions by a utility meter associated with a utility consumer end user, connected to a remote utility management center by a communication network. The present invention proposes a utility meter for controlling and metering a least one utility consumption. | 11-07-2013 |
20130300575 | COOPERATIVE PROCESSING WITH MOBILE MONITORING DEVICE AND COMPUTER SYSTEM - An arrangement includes a mobile device which may include circuitry to receive ECG data, circuitry to identify a notable finding in the ECG data and circuitry to send the ECG data corresponding to the notable finding to a computing system. The mobile device may also include circuitry to receive from the computing system a pattern based on analysis of the ECG data sent from the computing system using additional computing resources of the computing system. | 11-14-2013 |
20130300576 | WATER MONITORING SYSTEM USING A RANDOM PHASE MULTIPLE ACCESS SYSTEM - Methods, systems, and apparatuses, including computer programs encoded on computer-readable media, are configured for receiving monitor data from a water meter. A data stream is created based upon the monitor data. The data stream is spread with a common pseudo-noise (PN) code that is used by a plurality of nodes in communication with an access point. The spread data stream is transmitted at a first time based on a slot start time and a first randomly selected timing offset. The spread data stream is transmitted while at least a portion of a second spread data stream is transmitted at a second time based on the slot start time and a second randomly selected timing offset. The second spread data stream is spread with the common PN code. | 11-14-2013 |
20130300577 | COLLECTING UTILITY DATA INFORMATION AND CONDUCTING RECONFIGURATIONS, SUCH AS DEMAND RESETS, IN A UTILITY METERING SYSTEM - In a data collection system having a utility data collector configured for remotely collecting utility data, a system includes one or more endpoints. Each endpoint has a utility meter, memory for storing at least utility consumption data from the utility meter, and a radio for transmitting a communication message to the utility data collector. The radio establishes a communication link between the endpoint and the utility data collector, and provides consumption data when a wireless communication channel quality test determines an adequacy of communications from the endpoint and the utility data collector (e.g. using RSSI). The utility meter sets a hold-off timer or other validity check and only performs subsequently received reset requests or other reconfigurations if the timer has expired or the validity check is valid. Other features are also disclosed. | 11-14-2013 |
20130300578 | MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE AND COMMUNICATION METHOD - A mobile communication device ( | 11-14-2013 |
20130307701 | Wirelessly Networked Fluid Monitoring Method, System and Apparatus - Some embodiments relate to a fluid monitoring system, comprising: a housing positioned in-ground above a buried fluid conduit, the housing having a lockable access hatch to allow access to an internal volume of the housing from surface level; at least one sensor accessible through the internal volume and arranged to sense at least one condition of fluid in the fluid conduit; and a wireless telemetry unit supported in the housing and coupled to receive output signals from the at least one sensor in relation to the at least one condition. Some embodiments relate to methods usable by such systems. Some embodiments relate to fluid supply/drainage zone monitoring systems and methods employing multiple in-ground installations. | 11-21-2013 |
20130307702 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF ENERGY CONSUMPTION BY HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES - A method and system for effective management of energy consumption by household appliances, using a home energy information gateway. Particularly, the invention provides a method and system for an efficient and economic home energy information gateway which can provide the energy consumption information and communication interface through a set top box like gateway device on the existing display device such as television thereby reducing extra display medium cost. More particularly, the invention provides a method and system for managing energy consumption effectively by monitoring, controlling and displaying energy usage of household appliances by way of collecting smart meter data and generating user friendly reports and graphs. | 11-21-2013 |
20130314244 | DRAFT BEER SUPPLY CHAIN SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Supply chain systems and methods are disclosed for monitoring fluid levels in liquid containers, such as kegs. Embodiments include sensors that fit within a keg's false bottom, measure the weight of the keg, and transmit the weight information to a computer database via a wireless network. Other embodiments include an RFID device with information about a characteristic of the liquid within a keg (such as brand and/or type of beer) that may be attached to the keg and paired with the sensor so the sensor can transmit information about the characteristic of the liquid in the keg. In alternate embodiments, the sensor's transmitter is short range and an uplink/gateway is used to receive information from the sensor and relay that sensor's information to a broader wireless network. Multiple containers in close proximity may each be fitted with an RFID device and sensor and communicate their individual information to the database. | 11-28-2013 |
20130314245 | MODULAR METERING SYSTEM - A modular metering unit, shown generally at | 11-28-2013 |
20130314246 | INTELLIGENT ELECTRONIC DEVICE HAVING AUDIBLE AND VISUAL INTERFACE - An intelligent electronic device having an audible and visual interface for providing audible and visual instructions to a user in an event of an alarm or trouble indication in the electrical power system. The intelligent electronic device includes at least one sensor configured for measuring at least one power parameter of an electrical circuit and generating at least one analog signal indicative of the at least one power parameter; at least one analog to digital converter for receiving the at least one analog signal and converting the at least one analog signal to at least one digital signal; a processor configured for receiving the at least one digital signal and detecting at least one event occurring in the electrical circuit; and an interface configured for providing instructions associated to the at least one detected event. The instructions may be in the form of text, audio and/or video. | 11-28-2013 |
20130314247 | Close Proximity Communication Device and Methods - Disclosed herein are methods and systems for receiving an encoded data packet, one or more activation commands, and a communication identifier, decoding the received data packet, validating the decoded received data packet, and executing one or more routines associated with the respective one or more activation commands. | 11-28-2013 |
20130314248 | Signal Converting Cradle for Medical Condition Monitoring and Management System - A monitoring apparatus is disclosed which includes a receiver unit for receiving data and outputting a first alert signal based on the received data; and a docking unit comprising a converter unit which converts the first alert signal when the receiver unit is connected to the docking unit. | 11-28-2013 |
20130314249 | UTILITY METER FOR METERING A UTILITY CONSUMPTION AND OPTIMIZING UPSTREAM COMMUNICATIONS AND METHOD FOR MANAGING THESE COMMUNICATIONS - A utility meter and method for metering consumption of at least one utility including: a metering unit, a communication unit for sending/receiving messages to/from a management center, a memory to store a unique identifier pertaining to the utility meter and a first key, an encryption unit for encrypting the utility consumption as a first cryptogram, a message generator for generating a utility message containing the first cryptogram, a key generator for generating a payload key to be used by the encryption unit for encrypting the utility consumption, a second cryptogram generated by the encryption unit by encrypting the payload key with the first key, the second cryptogram being intended to be included, by the message generator, at least once into the utility message to be sent to the remote management center. | 11-28-2013 |
20130328695 | ACTIVITY METER - An activity meter includes an activity amount acquisition unit that acquires an amount of physical activity of a user, an activity age acquisition unit that acquires an activity age representing a standard age of a person who does a same amount of activity as the activity amount acquired in a unit period, using body information and a basal metabolic rate of the user, and an output processing unit that outputs information relating to the acquired activity age. | 12-12-2013 |
20130328696 | PASSIVE REDIRECTION DEVICE FOR CONSUMPTION METER COMMUNICATION - A method of transmitting and redirecting a radio signal using a data transmission system, the data transmission system including a data collection unit, a radio transmitter being connected to the data collection unit, and a redirection device being arranged at the top of a hollow shaft, the radio transmitter and the data collection unit being arranged in a lower part of the hollow shaft, the method including the steps of the radio transmitter transmitting the radio signal representative of measurement data from the data collection unit, and the redirection device redirecting the radio signal to be received at a communication device. The invention furthermore relates to a data transmission system and a redirection device adapted for operating in accordance with the above mentioned method. | 12-12-2013 |
20130342358 | METER DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND SOFTWARE WITH OUTAGE MANAGEMENT CAPABILITIES - The present inventors recognized a need to leverage the data from Advanced Metering Systems (AMIs) in the management of electrical outages. To address this and/or other needs, they present inventors devised, among other things, systems, methods, and software that not only intelligently filter and communicate AMI outage data to Outage Management Systems (OMSs), but also facilitate communications between OMSs and multiple types of AMI systems. One exemplary system includes an outage management module that receives AMI outage data in the form of “last gasp” messages from meters and determines whether the OMS is already aware of a power outage associated with those meters. If the OMS is already aware of an outage associated with these meters, the outage management module excludes the outage reports from its communications with the OMS, thereby preserving its capacity to handle new outage information and overcoming a significant obstacle to using AMI data within OMSs. | 12-26-2013 |
20140002274 | BATTERY-POWERED LEVEL GAUGE SYSTEM ADAPTED FOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATION | 01-02-2014 |
20140002275 | Bridge Safety Monitoring Integrated System with Full Optical Fiber and the Method for Sensing Thereof | 01-02-2014 |
20140015687 | POSTURE CALIBRATION FOR ACTIVITY MONITORING - A method and system for activity monitoring of a user are disclosed. In a first aspect, the method comprises calibrating posture by the user to determine a calibration vector. The method includes validating the calibration vector by comparing an anteroposterior axis to a threshold, wherein activity of the user is monitored using the validated calibration vector. In a second aspect, a wireless sensor device comprises a processor and a memory device coupled to the processor, wherein the memory device includes an application that, when executed by the processor, causes the processor to receive a posture calibration request from the user and to determine a calibration vector based on the received request. The application, when executed by the processor, further causes the processor to validate the calibration vector by comparing an anteroposterior axis to a threshold, wherein activity of the user is monitored using the validated calibration vector. | 01-16-2014 |
20140022092 | Receiver and Digital Demodulation Circuitry for an External Controller Useable in an Implantable Medical Device System - Receiver and digital demodulation circuitry for an external controller for communicating with an implantable medical device (IMD) is disclosed. A Digital Signal Processor (DSP) is used to sample received analog data transmitted from the IMD at a lower rate than would otherwise be required for the frequency components in the transmitted data by the Nyquist sampling criteria. To allow for this reduced sampling rate, the incoming data is shifted to a lower intermediate frequency using a switching circuit. The switching circuit receives a clock signal, which is preferably but not necessarily the same clock signal used by the DSP to sample the data. The switching circuit multiplies the received data with the clock signal to produce lower intermediate frequencies, which can then be adequately sampled at the DSP at the reduced sampling rate per the Nyquist sampling criteria. | 01-23-2014 |
20140022093 | PRODUCT SENSOR, PRODUCT WITH THE PRODUCT SENSOR, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ALLOWING COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE PRODUCT SENSOR AND THE SYSTEM - A product may be provided with a product sensor, thus making it possible to determine, together with the product, data relating to a system or a machine with the aid of the product sensor. The data determined can be used to diagnose and/or control the system or machine. In this case, it is advantageous that the data are obtained at the location of the product and it is thus possible to directly determine a desirable or undesirable effect (for example of environmental parameters or of the system itself) on the product. This system can be used, for example, in automation, in systems or machines or in different product manufacture variants. | 01-23-2014 |
20140028463 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DETECTION OF SENSOR TAMPERING - A system includes a utility meter, which includes a first sensor configured to detect usage of electric power, and a tamper detection system configured to detect an abnormality with an electrical current measurement from the first sensor as an indication of a tamper event associated with the first sensor. | 01-30-2014 |
20140028464 | PREDICTIVE NOTIFICATIONS FOR ADVERSE PATIENT EVENTS - Methods for providing predictive notifications to a monitoring device are provided. In one aspect, a method includes receiving retrospective patient data collected from a plurality of medical devices, and determining, based on a comparison of the retrospective patient data with current patient data for a patient from a medical device, a likelihood of a potential adverse medical event occurring for the patient. The method also includes providing a notification to a monitoring device indicative of the potential adverse medical event for the patient. Systems, graphical user interfaces, and machine-readable media are also provided. | 01-30-2014 |
20140028465 | RF METER READING SYSTEM - The automatic meter reading (AMR) systems and methods of the present invention facilitate meter reading utilizing one-way and two-way communication with utility meter endpoint devices while at the same time providing an operating regime that conserves energy for long battery life and utilizes the available airwaves for AMR communications efficiently. Embodiments of the invention are applicable in AMR systems employing handheld and/or vehicle-based mobile readers, fixed readers, and combinations thereof. Moreover, embodiments of the invention facilitate smooth transition from mobile AMR systems to fixed systems, and provide for automatic AMR system performance monitoring and automatic adaptability to maintain or improve performance. | 01-30-2014 |
20140028466 | METHOD AND SERVER FOR MONITORING ENERGY SOURCE - A method for monitoring energy source by a server receives a service request transmitted by a user terminal, requesting to gather statistics of an energy usage situation of a monitor object corresponding to an energy sensor. The server obtains energy input quantity and energy output quantity of the monitor object detected by the energy sensor according to the service request. The server gathers the statistics of the energy usage situation of the monitor object according to the energy input quantity and the energy output quantity. The server creates an energy monitor report according to the statistics of the energy usage situation of the monitor object, and transmits the energy monitor report to the user terminal | 01-30-2014 |
20140028467 | WIRELESS SENSOR READER - A wireless sensor reader is provided to interface with a wireless sensor. The wireless sensor reader transmits an excitation pulse to cause the wireless sensor to generate a ring signal. The wireless sensor reader receives and amplifies the ring signal and sends the signal to a phase-locked loop. A voltage-controlled oscillator in the phase-locked loop locks onto the ring signal frequency and generates a count signal at a frequency related to the ring signal frequency. The voltage-controlled oscillator is placed into a hold mode where the control voltage is maintained constant to allow the count signal frequency to be determined. The reader uses an ambient reading or other information to select a subset of the possible ring signal frequencies, and tunes or adjusts its circuits and algorithms to focus on that subset. | 01-30-2014 |
20140035760 | WATT-HOUR METER AND METHOD OF DETECTION OF ABNORMAL STATUS THEREOF - There are provided a watt-hour meter capable of detecting an abnormal status due to the surreptitious use of electricity or electrical current leakage by vector synthesis of a three-phase current and a method of detection of an abnormal status thereof, the watt-hour meter including a sensing unit detecting alternating current (AC) power, an abnormal status detecting unit detecting an abnormal status by vector-synthesizing a current value of the AC power detected by the sensing unit, and a controlling unit controlling displaying of the abnormal status according to a detection result from the abnormal status detecting unit. | 02-06-2014 |
20140035761 | Methods, Systems and Devices for Generating Real-Time Activity Data Updates to Display Devices - Methods, systems and devices are provided for displaying monitored activity data in substantial real-time on a screen of a computing device. One example method includes capturing motion data associated with activity of a user via an activity tracking device. The motion data is quantified into a plurality of metrics associated with the activity of the user. The method storing the motion data in storage of the activity tracking device. The method connects the activity tracking device with a computing device over a wireless data connection, and sending motion data to the computing device for display of a metric, of the plurality of metrics, on a graphical user interface of an activity application of the computing device. The sending of motion data to the computing device is configured to continue while additional motion data is captured and sent to the computing device. The metric displayed on the graphical user interface is shown to change in an increasing numerical or graphical form in substantial real-time. | 02-06-2014 |
20140049403 | REMOTE INSPECTION SYSTEM AND COMMUNICATION METHOD THEREOF - A remote inspection system and a communication method thereof are provided. According to exemplary embodiments, the system may be implemented such that desired inspection data can be received from a meter only after unlocking the meter, by setting the meter to a lock state using an inherent obis code at the beginning and receiving a corresponding unlock obis code from a remote inspection server. This may result in further enhancement of security levels of the meter and the system. | 02-20-2014 |
20140055281 | SERVER AND METHOD FOR MANAGING GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS INVESTIGATIONS - In a method for managing greenhouse gas emissions investigations, collected data of greenhouse gas emissions is received from one or more computing devices and checked. An amount of CO | 02-27-2014 |
20140055282 | Automated Reconfiguration of Utility Meters - Techniques for reconfiguring utility meters from a mobile mode to a network mode are discussed. A utility meter may be configured for operation in a mobile mode environment, wherein it transmits data using radio frequency (RF) transmissions, such as by “bubbling-up” a “standard consumption message” at intervals. However, a switchover from mobile mode to network mode may be scheduled. The switchover may involve a plurality of endpoints (i.e., metering devices together with associated mobile mode and network mode functionality) transitioning from mobile mode functionality to network mode functionality. In one example, processors on an endpoint using a first “image” including executable software providing mobile mode functions may reboot to use a second image providing fixed network mode functions (e.g., mesh or star network operability). Following the transition, the endpoints may discover adjacent or nearby endpoints, and a fixed network having network mode functionality may be configured. | 02-27-2014 |
20140055283 | MULTIPLE AND INTERCHANGEABLE METER READING PROBES - A characteristic of a first utility meter is detected with a first probe head, and a characteristic of a second utility meter is detected with a second probe head. The characteristic of the first utility meter is dependent on a usage of a first utility metered by the first utility meter, and the characteristic of the second utility meter is dependent on a usage of a second utility metered by the second utility meter. Information related to the characteristic of the first utility meter is communicated from the first probe head to a communication unit, and information related to the characteristic of the second utility meter is communicated from the second probe head to the communication unit. A message is also sent from the communication unit indicating the usage of the first utility or the usage of the second utility. | 02-27-2014 |
20140062719 | USING SMART METERS AS RELIABLE CROWD-SOURCING AGENTS - Methods, systems, computer-readable media, and apparatuses for using a smart meter as a reliable crowd-sourcing agent are presented. In some embodiments, a smart meter installed at a location may observe one or more wireless signals at the location. Subsequently, the smart meter may provide, to at least one signal almanac server, information that identifies the location and describes one or more detected properties of the one or more observed wireless signals. In at least one arrangement, the information provided to the at least one signal almanac server may be configured to be used by the at least one signal almanac server in providing position assistance information to one or more mobile devices located in a vicinity of the location. | 03-06-2014 |
20140062720 | Remote Pipeline Corrosion Protection and Valve Monitoring Apparatus - A combined method and apparatus for the detection, monitoring and control of electrolytic corrosion in pipelines and other metallic structures along with pipeline valve status and pressure changes indicating a loss of flammable or toxic high pressure products. Pipeline valve station and corrosion protection station status is monitored and controlled from a distant location. The apparatus transmits data by electrical signal along the conductive pipe or by short-range and long-range radio transceivers. | 03-06-2014 |
20140062721 | MODULAR WIRELESS FIXED NETWORK FOR WIDE-AREA METERING DATA COLLECTION AND METER MODULE APPARATUS - A method of encoding interval consumption values transmitted by a meter module in a metering data collection system includes collecting consumption values at selected intervals, and compressing collected consumption data using a logarithmic table encoder to reduce the number of bits required in a data message for each consumption interval. | 03-06-2014 |
20140062722 | MOBILE DEVICES AND APPLICATIONS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR USE IN COMMUNICATION WITH AN ALCOHOL DETECTION DEVICE - According to various embodiments a mobile device is provided having resident thereon a mobile application for use in conjunction with an alcohol detection device. The mobile device comprises a memory and one or more processors configured to execute the mobile application. The mobile application is configured to: determine whether at least one communication pathway exists between the mobile application and the alcohol detection device; responsive to at least one communication pathway existing, generate an indication that the alcohol detection device is ready for conducting at least one blood alcohol content (BAC) level test therewith; receive formatted test data from the alcohol detection device; and provide, based at least in part upon the formatted test data and via an interface of the mobile device, one or more test results for consideration by a user of the mobile device. Associated computer-implemented methods and non-transitory computer program products are also provided. | 03-06-2014 |
20140077968 | PREDICTION OF AN ESTIMATED REMAINING UTILITY USAGE VIA METER - A method and system for predicting an estimated remaining utility usage and adjusting an alert threshold for a prepaid utility meter account includes receiving an indication of a time period of inaccessibility to replenish a prepaid utility meter account, predicting an alert trigger time when an estimated remaining utility usage for the prepaid utility meter account falls below an alert threshold, and determining that the time period of inaccessibility overlaps the predicted alert trigger time, and responsively adjusting the alert threshold such that the predicted alert trigger time occurs before the time period of inaccessibility. The method also includes receiving an indication of a business objective for a utility company and automatically adjusting the alert threshold associated with the prepaid utility meter account based on the business objective. | 03-20-2014 |
20140077969 | Forest Sensor Deployment and Monitoring System - A method and apparatus for managing a location. Soil sensor units are deployed in the location in a forest from a group of aerial vehicles. Information is generated about a number of soil conditions in the location in the forest using the soil sensor units in the location. The information is transmitted from the soil sensor units to a remote location for analysis. | 03-20-2014 |
20140085103 | ON-LINE WEB ACCESSED ENERGY METER - An electrical metering system capable of performing multiple metering functions, collecting data, and wirelessly provides the collected metering data to a utility operator. In the electrical metering system, at least one computing device for initiating a request for data. A first modem connects the computing device to an infrastructure. A wireless embedded modem for wirelessly connects an electric meter to an infrastructure, and the wireless electric modem receives a request from the computing device and wirelessly transmits the metering data to the computing device, thereby initiating the request. | 03-27-2014 |
20140091946 | METER DISPLAY DURING POWER INTERRUPTION - A circuit arrangement for use in a utility meter includes a processing circuit, a magnetically-actuated switch, and a first circuit. The processing circuit has a first mode and a second mode. The processing circuit performs a first set of metering operations related to energy metering in the first mode, and a second set of operations in the second mode or sleep mode. The second set of operations has fewer operations than the first set of operation, and requires less energy. The switch has is coupled to provide a first output signal to the processing circuit. The first circuit is configured to generate a pulse signal responsive to the switch transitioning states, and is operably coupled to provide the pulse signal to the processing circuit. The processing circuit causes display of stored values responsive to receiving the pulse and receiving the first output signal. | 04-03-2014 |
20140097965 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR UTILITY METER ACTIVATION - A utility network includes a utility meter capable of measuring a property of the network once installed and capable of communicating the measurement to a server once activated. The network also includes an access point configured to communicatively couple to the utility meter and to the server and configured to notify the server when the utility meter has been bound to the access point. The network further includes a mobile device configured to notify the server when the utility meter has been installed, configured to request the server to add the utility meter to a queue of utility meters to be activated by the server, and configured to receive a response from the server when the utility meter is activated. | 04-10-2014 |
20140097966 | System and Method for Support of One-Way Endpoints in Two-Way Wireless Networks - A sensor data collection system includes a plurality of sensors operatively coupled to a corresponding set of endpoints, the endpoints configured to communicate sensor data to a central data collection point via a data communication protocol. A proxy service-enabled endpoint facilitates interoperability with the data collection system for the benefit of endpoints that are otherwise incompatible with the data communication protocol. The endpoint includes a remote endpoint interface module configured to receive communications from at least one of the incompatible endpoints containing incompatible endpoint sensor data. A remote endpoint virtualization module operatively coupled to the remote endpoint interface module and associated with the at least one of the incompatible endpoints. The remote endpoint virtualization module is uniquely addressable according to a corresponding virtual endpoint address, and configured to store the incompatible endpoint sensor data and to communicate that data to the central data collection point via the data communication protocol. | 04-10-2014 |
20140111354 | Systems and Methods for Location Reporting of Detected Events in Vehicle Operation - Systems and methods for location reporting of detected events during vehicle operation in accordance embodiments of the invention are disclosed. In one embodiment of the invention, an event reporting telematics unit configured to report the location of events includes a first sensor configured to determine sensor information, a storage device configured to store sensor information and an event reporting application, and a processor, wherein the event reporting application configures the processor to receive a first sensor information using the first sensor, calculate a first sensor information timestamp, where the first sensor information timestamp is associated with the first sensor information, determine the occurrence of a vehicle event, complete the determination of the vehicle event, correlate the first sensor information with the determined event using the first sensor information timestamp, and determine the time corresponding to the beginning of the determined event. | 04-24-2014 |
20140118161 | MEMS UTILITY METERS WITH EXCHANGEABLE METROLOGY UNIT - An all-electronic utility gas meter using with micromachined (a.k.a. MEMS Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) silicon sensor to measure gas metrology data for custody transfer or tariff in city gas metering application is disclosed in the present invention. The meter has two separate metrology units. One of the units is located in the main flow channel with the insertion probing configuration while the other is configured as a bypass unit assembly with the main metrology unit. The bypass metrology unit can perform independent metrology tasks and can be exchanged onsite during service, maintenance or repair without dismantle the meter from the service pipeline. The bypass metrology unit also can be used to compare the measured data from time to time and performance self-diagnosis that shall help the performance and data authentication during the meter field service. Both of the units can be powered by battery or external sources. The units can be connected to network as well as provide internal plural storages for data transmission and safety. | 05-01-2014 |
20140118162 | HYBRID SENSOR SYSTEM FOR GAS FLOW MEASUREMENTS - Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for measuring gas flow. A gas flow meter can include a plurality of sensors to detect a gas flow at various flow rates in the meter. A first sensor can detect a gas flow at a low flow rate and a second sensor can detect a gas flow when the flow rate is sufficient to produce an oscillating jet. The first sensor can be disposed parallel to the gas flow and detect the flow rate and the temperature of the gas flow. When the flow rate of the gas is below a predetermined threshold, power is supplied to the first sensor to detect gas flow. When the gas flow rate is high enough such that the gas flow produces an oscillating jet of fluid, power is supplied to the second sensor. The second sensor can detect the frequency of the oscillating jet flow. | 05-01-2014 |
20140118163 | DATA PROCESSING APPARATUS AND DATA PROCESSING METHOD THEREOF FOR USE IN POWER LINE COMMUNICATIONS - A data processing apparatus and a data processing method thereof for use in power line communications are provided. The data processing apparatus includes a first communication interface, a second communication interface, a storage, and a processor electrically connected to the first communication interface, the second communication interface and the storage. The first communication interface communicates with an electricity meter via a first power line and receives a first signal from the electricity meter, wherein the first signal comprises electricity meter data. The second communication interface communicates with a concentrator via a second power line. The processor estimates a first channel parameter of the second power line, and stores the electricity meter data to the storage if the processor determines that the first channel parameter is larger than a channel parameter threshold. | 05-01-2014 |
20140118164 | Method and Apparatus for Collecting Data from Automatic Meter Reading for Smart Power Grid - A communication network system includes a solid-state meter, an optical line terminal (“OLT”) based device, and a meter network management device. In one embodiment, the solid-state meter, which can be an electricity meter or a gas meter, provides a measurement, and has a serial communication interface. The OLT based device transfers the information between network devices via a communication network. The meter network management device, which may be an optical network terminal (“ONT”), is capable of communicating with the solid-state meter using the serial communication interface via an RS-232 port. | 05-01-2014 |
20140125492 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF A SMART ENERGY PROFILE USING DATA-INTERCHANGE ENCODING - Embodiments of the disclosure can provide systems and methods for implementation of a smart energy profile using data-interchange encoding. According to one embodiment of the disclosure, a system can be provided. The system can include at least one memory that stores computer-executable instructions. The system can include at least one processor configured to access the at least one memory, wherein the at least one processor is configured to execute the computer-executable instructions to receive, by the at least one processor, a control instruction for a home area network (HAN) device. The at least one processor can be configured to convert the control instruction to a JSON object and transmit the JSON object to the HAN device. | 05-08-2014 |
20140125493 | GENERAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS MANAGEMENT METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A WELLNESS APPLICATION USING DATA ASSOCIATED WITH A DATA-CAPABLE BAND - Health and wellness management techniques and devices are described including receiving data representing an activity profile defining parameters upon which a target score is established based on health-related activities, acquiring sensor data representing subsets of acquired parameters based on sensors disposed in a wearable computing device, determining values for the subsets of the acquired parameters based on reference values for the parameters set forth in the activity profile, calculating an activity score based on the values, the activity score representing an attained portion of the health-related activities, causing presentation of a representation of an overall score comprising the activity score, adjusting a determination upon which to modify the target score, the target score being indicative of one or more standards against which to compare one or more groups of values aggregated to form the target score, and modifying the activity profile using an activity profile manager. | 05-08-2014 |
20140125494 | METERING AND MEASURING-POINT SYSTEM FOR MEASURING AND METERING ELECTRICAL POWER/ELECTRICITY, AND A METHOD - A metering and measuring point system for measuring and metering electrical energy/electricity drawn off and/or fed into a drawing off and/or feeding device at a fixed geographical point by a consumption unit, comprises one or more stationary drawing off and/or feeding devices that are connected to the power supply and configured for drawing off and/or feeding in electrical energy/electricity by means of consumption/generation units and at least one identifiable non-stationary functional unit for measuring and metering electrical energy/electricity that is conductively, via an electric conductor or inductively, drawn off or fed into one or more stationary drawing off and/or feeding devices by consumption/generation units. | 05-08-2014 |
20140139351 | ELECTRIC METER NETWORK SYSTEM, ELECTRIC METER NODE AND BROADCASTING METHOD THEREOF - An electric meter (EM) network system, an EM node and a broadcasting method thereof are provided. The EM node, which is electrically connected to a power supply loop, stores a layer number and a total layer number. When the power supply loop recovers from a power disconnect condition to a power supplying condition, the EM node obtains a waiting time according to a difference value between the layer number and the total layer number, and broadcasts a route message after the waiting time. | 05-22-2014 |
20140152463 | POWER MONITORING DEVICE AND POWER ANALYSIS METHOD - A power monitoring device and a power analysis method are provided. The power monitoring device receives a plurality of pieces of power consumption information from a power meter. The power meter is installed on a power line of an electric device. The power monitoring device stores a piece of power specification information of the power device and a piece of user and environment information associated with the power device, and generates a piece of user behavior feature information according to the plurality of pieces of power consumption information. The power monitoring device retrieves a piece of key feature information from the power specification information, the user and environment information and the user behavior feature information so as to generate an inform message according to the key feature information, and transmit the inform message to a user device associated with the electric device. | 06-05-2014 |
20140152464 | Companion Activity Sensor System - The present invention relates to compliance monitoring systems for health care monitors and, more particularly, in certain embodiments, to a compliance monitoring system for a mandibular repositioning device. Embodiments may include a system and method for measuring usage data of health care monitor or apparatus. | 06-05-2014 |
20140152465 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IDENTIFYING LIKELY GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATIONS OF ANOMALIES IN A WATER UTILITY NETWORK - A computerized method for determining one or more statistically likely geographical locations of an anomaly in a region or zone of a water utility network, the water utility network comprising at least a network of pipes for delivering water to consumers and a plurality of meters positioned within the water utility network including a plurality of meters capturing data regarding the water delivering within the region or zone of the anomaly, the method comprising. The method includes receiving anomaly event data, the anomaly event data representing an indication of an anomaly occurring or having occurred within a region or zone of the water utility network, the anomaly event data being associated with meter data produced by one or more of the meters. The method also includes performing a plurality of tests on the anomaly event data each designed to statistically determine a likely geographical location of the anomaly within the region or zone, the performance of each test producing a result. The results of the plurality of tests to generate scores for the determined likely locations for the anomaly are combined. The one or more of the determined likely locations are presented to a user. | 06-05-2014 |
20140159912 | BIOMEDICAL MONITOR FOR SMARTPHONE - A biomedical device for continuous or intermittent monitoring of vital signs, such a arterial blood pressure, pulse oxymetry, etc., comprises two components connected by a wireless link. The first component is an electronic bracelet attached to a patient, while the second one is a smartphone that controls the first component and receives from it biomedical signals. The bracelet carries various sensors and actuators to enable and acquiring medical signals. The smartphone has an app that commands the bracelet and then receives and processes data and takes further actions, like enabling an alarm, plotting data, calling an emergency service or doctor office. | 06-12-2014 |
20140159913 | System And Method For Managing Sensor Network Uplink And Downlink Communications - A network includes a supervisory sensor in communication with a wireless network and a non-supervisory sensor in communication with the supervisory sensor, wherein the non-supervisory sensor communicates with the wireless network through the supervisory sensor. The supervisory sensor may be configured to receive downloads from a server communicating through the wireless network and to collect data from the non-supervisory sensor. The supervisory sensor may be configured to transmit the collected data to a server on the wireless network. Moreover, the non-supervisory sensor and the supervisory sensor each have an active state and an inactive state and wherein the supervisory sensor may be in the active state while the non-supervisory sensor is in the inactive state. | 06-12-2014 |
20140159914 | ELECTRONIC REPORTING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - The present invention is directed to a system and process for electronic reporting of a sensor monitored process. The system includes a reader associated with a monitored process and in communication with a server over a network. The reader is configured for input from at least one sensor. The sensors are paired with a reader, whereby the reader is configured to relay the sensor output to the server. The system monitors the reader for output from the sensor. On receipt of the reader data, the system retrievably stores the data for compliance report review. | 06-12-2014 |
20140167973 | PHYSICAL ACTIVITY INFERENCE FROM ENVIRONMENTAL METRICS - Portable devices include environmental sensors that generate metrics about the environment (e.g., accelerometers detecting impulses and vibration, and GPS receivers detecting position and velocity). Such devices often use environmental metrics to extract user input directed at the device by the user, and status information about the device and the environment. Presented herein are techniques for using environmental metrics to infer physical activities performed by the user while attached to the device. For example, jogging may be inferred from regular, strong impulses and typical jogging speed; walking may be inferred from regular, weak impulses and typical walking speed; and riding in a vehicle may be inferred from low-level vibrations and high speed (optionally identifying the type of vehicle ridden by the user). Based on these inferences, the device may automatically present applications and/or or adjust user interfaces suitable for the user's physical activity, rather than responsive to user input. | 06-19-2014 |
20140167974 | METROLOGY WITH UNIVERSAL SERIAL BUS (USB) CONNECTION - Data communication may be accomplished between a utility meter and a peripheral device via a universal serial bus (USB) connection and a USB protocol. The meter may include metrology components arranged to measure utility consumption at a site. The meter may further include components for providing the data communication with the peripheral via the universal serial bus (USB) connection and a USB protocol. In an implementation, the meter provides electrical isolation between the data communication components and the metrology components. | 06-19-2014 |
20140167975 | RF Dynamic Power Control and Radio Protection in Metering Devices - Techniques for dynamic power control of a radio of a utility data collection device (e.g., utility meter configured for wireless communications) are described that utilize a detection scheme applied to a Front End Module (FEM) in the utility data collection device. A utility data collection device measures a Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR) presented to the FEM during transmission. The result of this measurement allows the utility data collection device to dynamically control the input power to a FEM transmit portion. Utilizing these techniques, the utility data collection device can adjust to environmental changes and conditions experienced in the field. | 06-19-2014 |
20140167976 | VIRTUAL METERING WITH PARTITIONED METROLOGY - A distributed metering platform virtualizes functions of a conventional metrology sensor and separates the virtualized functions from a metrology sensor. One or more virtual meters or applications may be instantiated at a network communication device that is remote from the metrology sensor and processes metrology data received from the metrology sensor. Each virtual meter may include multiple partitioned application spaces that are isolated from one another. In one example, a first application space includes a locked version of code and a second application space includes an unlocked version of code. Furthermore, each virtual meter may be isolated from other virtual meters such that each virtual meter is unable to affect operations and/or data associated with other virtual meters. | 06-19-2014 |
20140167977 | System on a Module for Smart Grid Nodes - A system on a module and techniques for use and operation in multiple different smart grid devices and/or nodes are described herein. One example of a system on a module includes a processor, a flash memory device in communication with the processor, and a RAM memory device in communication with the processor. A connector provides an interface to the smart grid device, and includes a plurality of metrology and communications interfaces. | 06-19-2014 |
20140167978 | Near Field Communications for Utility Meters - Techniques for utilizing near field communications (NFC) with utility meters are described herein. In one example, a meter is configured for operation, either in a stand-alone or utility network capacity. The example meter may include a processor in communication with a memory device and a tag device configured for near field communication (NFC). In operation, the processor operates the tag device to read from the memory device to obtain data for transmission via NFC and/or write data obtained via NFC to the memory device. | 06-19-2014 |
20140167979 | SMART METER SYSTEM, MANAGEMENT ROUTER, AND METER - Management routers perform control for performing a prefix information delegation request for requesting a management server to delegate the management of prefix information, receiving, as a response to the prefix information delegation request, prefix information management delegation from the management server, and delegating the management of the prefix information within a range of management delegation from the management server in response to a prefix information delegation request from meters. The meters perform control for transmitting a prefix information delegation request to the management routers, receiving prefix information management delegation from the management routers as a response to the prefix information delegation request, and notifying a home apparatus in a home network connected to the meters of the prefix information, the management of which is delegated from the management routers. | 06-19-2014 |
20140167980 | Cable Load Measuring Element With Radio Transmission Of The Measured Values - Method for measuring cable loads in a mineshaft ( | 06-19-2014 |
20140176337 | SOLAR PANEL WIND TURBINE COMMUNICATION SERVER NETWORK APPARATUS METHOD AND MECHANISM - The method included herein is an alternative energy wireless solar panel wind turbine communication server appliance node mechanism with built in communications server array, wireless energy and communications mechanism with protection, sharing, storage, accessing, authentication, battery management, certification, processing attachment and tracking mechanisms. The method and mechanism is utilized via networked servers, solar panels, and wireless electronic devices (online and offline) as well as mobile (wireless) communications devices built into one waterproof, temperature, controlled self-sensing hardware package. The method and mechanism also works as part of a kilowatt hour banking system, and thermal passive solar control mechanism for living spaces. | 06-26-2014 |
20140176338 | WIRELESS COMMUNICATION AUTHENTICATION FOR MEDICAL MONITORING DEVICE - Methods, systems, and devices for short-range low-power wireless communication of analyte information are provided. In some implementations, short-range low-power wireless communication of analyte information may include receiving an electromagnetic wireless communication signal and harvesting energy from the electromagnetic wireless communication signal. In some implementations, short-range low-power wireless communication of analyte information may include enabling capabilities associated with an external sensor in response to detecting the external sensor. In some implementations, short-range low-power wireless communication of analyte information may include detecting an analyte sample; determining an analyte concentration associated with the detected analyte sample; and transmitting an indication of the analyte concentration to an external device. | 06-26-2014 |
20140176339 | DEVICE FOR MONITORING POWER CONSUMPTION - A device for monitoring power consumption includes a measuring unit, a wireless communication unit, and a shell unit. The measuring unit is for obtaining a set of current parameters of an electricity-consuming apparatus, and is operable to obtain power consumption information with reference to the set of current parameters. The wireless communication unit is operable to transmit the power consumption information. The shell unit includes a shell body and a set of connection ports. The shell body is formed with at least one opening. The set of connection ports is disposed at the at least one opening. The set of current measuring components is coupled to a processor via the set of connection ports, and is exposed from the shell body. | 06-26-2014 |
20140176340 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR POWERLINE TO MESHED NETWORK FOR POWER METER INFRA-STRUCTURE - A transparent networking system for meter infrastructure within a network. The system has a single transparent meshed communication network comprising a first ZigBee network provided within a first spatial region and a second ZigBee network provided within a second spatial region. The network has a powerline carrier configured between the first ZigBee network and the second ZigBee network to facility transfer of bi-directional information packet by packet between the first ZigBee network and the second ZigBee networks. | 06-26-2014 |
20140176341 | BATTERY-OPERATED STATIONARY SENSOR ARRANGEMENT WITH UNIDIRECTIONAL DATA TRANSMISSION - Embodiments of the present invention provide a battery-operated stationary sensor arrangement with a unidirectional data transmission. The battery-operated stationary sensor arrangement has a sensor, a means for generating data packets and a means for transmitting data packets. The transmitter is implemented to determine sensor data and provide a sensor data packet based on the sensor data, wherein the sensor data has an amount of data of less than 1 kbit. The means for generating data packets is implemented to divide the sensor data packet into at least two data packets, wherein each of the at least two data packets is shorter than the sensor data packet. The means for transmitting data packets is implemented to transmit the data packets with a data rate of less than 50 kbit/s and a time interval via a communication channel. | 06-26-2014 |
20140176342 | Patient Environment with Accelerometer - A system includes a patient environment having a first surface and a second surface, an accelerometer mounted to the first surface and configured to capture physiological data of a patient in contact win the second surface, and a connection to transmit the physiological data to a processing system. | 06-26-2014 |
20140184422 | REMOTE MONITORING OF ANALYTE MEASUREMENTS - Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, are provided for remote monitoring. In some example implementations, there is provided a method. The method may include receiving, at a remote monitor, a notification message representative of an event detected, by a server, from analyte sensor data obtained from a receiver monitoring an analyte state of a host; presenting, at the remote monitor, the notification message to activate the remote monitor, wherein the remote monitor is configured by the server to receive the notification message to augment the receiver monitoring of the analyte state of the host; accessing, by the remote monitor, the server, in response to the presenting of the notification message; and receiving, in response to the accessing, information including at least the analyte sensor data. Related systems, methods, and articles of manufacture are also disclosed. | 07-03-2014 |
20140191880 | SYSTEM, METHOD, AND SOFTWARE FOR AMBULATORY PATIENT MONITORING - A method for monitoring an ambulatory patient includes receiving a patient parameter from a medical device, and receiving a clinician parameter from a clinician device. The method further comprises analyzing the patient parameter, transforming the patient parameter and the clinician parameter into history parameters, and transforming the patient parameter into an audio parameter. The method further comprises transmitting the audio parameter to the clinician device, updating the history parameter in response to receiving a second patient parameter or a second clinician parameter, and updating the audio parameter in response to receiving a second patient parameter. | 07-10-2014 |
20140191881 | METHOD FOR REMOTELY READING FLUID METERS, AND METER AND SERVER ASSOCIATED WITH SAID METHOD - The invention relates to a method for remotely reading fluid meters, according to which a meter comprises a module having a metering clock and a wireless transmitter for transmitting a frame of time-stamped remote-reading information to a server which comprises a server clock; after every N frames are transmitted, the meter module enters a receiving mode (Rx) for a period of time (ΔRx); upon receiving a frame of time-stamped information, the server determines the difference between the time information contained in the received frame and the time information provided by the server clock; then, if the difference is greater than a predetermined limit (ΔL), the server sends a reset message to the meter; upon receiving the reset message, the module of the meter updates the meter clock. | 07-10-2014 |
20140197964 | DETERMINATION OF RESOURCE CONSUMPTION - System and method for determining consumption of resources to assist a meter reading personnel are described. According to an embodiment, the system includes a processor and an extraction module coupled to the processor configured to extract historical data associated with a meter to be read. The system further includes a prediction module coupled to the processor configured to determine a predicted resource consumption for a current cycle based on the historical data and provide the predicted meter reading to a display device corresponding to a meter reading personnel. Furthermore, the system includes a computation module coupled to the processor configured to determine an actual resource consumption for the current cycle based on an analysis of an observed resource consumption of the current cycle with respect to the predicted resource consumption. | 07-17-2014 |
20140203948 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPTIMIZED MONITORING AND IDENTIFICATION OF ADVANCED METERING INFRASTRUCTURE DEVICE COMMUNICATION FAILURES - A method for optimized monitoring and identification of AMI device communication failures in an AMI network is provided. A graphical representation of AMI devices is generated comprising nodes corresponding to AMI devices and links representing connectivity between AMI devices. The graphical representation is generated based on data associated with AMI devices retrieved via AMI network in real time. Further, properties of the AMI devices are computed using the graphical representation based on values associated with the nodes corresponding to the AMI devices. The graphical representation is modified based on the computed properties and predefined rules. Nodes in the modified graphical representation are selected and processed in an order based on AMI device hierarchy, priority and criticality. Further, the graphical representation is modified based on processing of selected nodes. AMI device with communication failures are identified from at least one of the generated and modified graphical representation of AMI devices. | 07-24-2014 |
20140218209 | REAL-TIME MONITORING AND DISSEMINATION OF ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION DATA - A facility comprising systems, methods, and techniques for collecting data indicative of energy consumption and/or energy production by energy systems and devices and providing the data to interested users and devices in real-time is described. The facility may comprise an energy gateway device coupled to one or more monitored devices, one or more energy data extraction servers, and one or more client computers. The energy gateway devices and energy data extraction servers are coupled to a network and are configured to collect energy consumption and/or energy production data from one or more devices and provide an indication of the collected data in real-time or near real-time. The facility may collect current energy consumption or production rates, predicted energy consumption or production levels over a future period of time, and/or amounts of energy that has been consumed or produced by the device over a previous period of time. | 08-07-2014 |
20140218210 | Medical Communication Hub and Associated Methods - A medical sensing system including a data acquisition module operable to receive patient data from a medical sensing device, the data acquisition module being operable to packetize the patient data, a processing module operable to process the packetized first patient data, a user interface module operable to present the processed packetized patient data within a graphical user interface, and a message queue module in communication with the data acquisition module, processing module, and user interface module, the message queue module being operable to receive the packetized patient data from the modules, temporarily store the packetized patient data, and make the packetized patient data available for retrieval by the modules. | 08-07-2014 |
20140232549 | INTEGRATED TERMINAL FOR ADVANCE METERING INFRASTRUCTUE AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE SAME - An integrated terminal for an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) system based on a home network for a smart grid and a method of controlling the same are disclosed. The integrated terminal is connected between an upper system | 08-21-2014 |
20140232550 | SENSING DEVICE - An energy usage monitoring system includes at least one sensing device operatively connected to a building visualization/control unit. The sensing device is arranged for attachment to a window or door and includes a sensor, which is arranged to sense whether the window or door is open or closed and to sense the degree of opening of the window or door, and wireless communication device for transmitting a signal dependent on the sensor output. The sensor includes an accelerometer and/or a gyroscope. | 08-21-2014 |
20140240142 | TIME DIVERSIFIED PACKET PROTOCOL - A method of reporting information from a meter interface unit to a receiving device in which a data packet is transferred from the meter interface unit containing meter readings, which are associated with an indicator of the elapsed time since the reading was taken. The receiving device compares this elapsed time value with the actual elapsed time, based upon the internal clock of the receiving device, in order to determine any inaccuracies in the clock of the meter interface unit. In another embodiment, the data packet includes at least two nonsequential meter readings, separated by a multiplicity of reading intervals, on a rolling basis, such that data will not be lost as a result of a temporary obstruction that interferes with the transmission or receipt of meter readings. | 08-28-2014 |
20140247139 | ELECTRIC POWER CONSUMPTION, PIPELINED GAS OR WATER REAL TIME REMOTE MONITORING SYSTEM EMPLOYED IN INDUSTRIAL, COMMERCIAL AND HOME DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS, MANAGED BY POWER, GAS AND WATER CONCESSIONARIES - As of invention patent, hereof represented by an inventive solution under the represented management concessionary sector for the distribution, commercialization of electricity, pipelined gas and water, internet and cable TV subscription services is provided. Notably as far as data collection, and individual consumption data processing (home, commercial and industrial) which once applied produces gains in terms of operational logistics, expressive cost reduction, notably manpower cost reduction, more reliability of the collected consumption data, also the possibility of real time consumption monitoring, enabling the efficient processing in due diligence of the accounts payable payments, as well as signaling the concessionary company on the consumption points, such as proprieties where there is excessive consumption of electricity, pipelined water and gas which is not in accordance with the previously defined home ( | 09-04-2014 |
20140247140 | MONITORING DEVICE WITH SELECTABLE WIRELESS COMMUNICATION - One or more sensors are coupled to a monitoring device which has a unique user ID. The one or more sensors acquire user information selected from of at least one of, a user's activities, behaviors and habit information. ID circuitry including ID storage, a communication system that reads and transmits the unique ID from an ID storage, a power source and a pathway system to route signals through the circuitry is at the monitoring device. A multi-protocol wireless controller coupled to one or more wireless interfaces is at the monitoring device and characterizes available networks to determine current network information. A wireless connectivity assistant is at the monitoring device and selects one of the available networks based on the current network information and at least one of user preferences, application requirements and system information. A telemetry system is in communication with the monitoring device. | 09-04-2014 |
20140247141 | MONITORING DEVICE WITH WIRELESS COMMUNICATION OVER NON-CONTIGUOUS CHANNELS - A communication system for a monitoring device. The monitoring device includes, one or more sensors, a unique user ID, ID circuitry with ID storage, a communication system that reads and transmits the unique ID from an ID storage, a power source and a pathway system to route signals through the circuitry. The one or more sensors acquire user information selected from of at least one of, a user's activities, behaviors and habit information. A telemetry system is in communication with the monitoring device. The monitoring device and/or the telemetry system includes a wireless communication device that in operation transmits a wireless communication packet to the other over a plurality of non-contiguous wireless communication channels. | 09-04-2014 |
20140247142 | SYSTEMS USING LIFESTYLE DATABASE ANALYSIS TO PROVIDE FEEDBACK - A method is provided for utilizing a personal monitoring device or other personal logging device, to assist an individual in a lifestyle control program. The method includes storing lifestyle data from a statistically large group of persons in a database, collecting, in a personal logging device, corresponding personal lifestyle data; feeding the data from the personal logging device to the database; performing a statistical analysis of the collected lifestyle data, and producing an output and providing feedback to the user based on correlations. | 09-04-2014 |
20140247143 | USER OR PATIENT MONITORING SYSTEMS WITH ONE OR MORE ANALYSIS TOOLS - A system is provided for using telemetry data based on user habit information or user monitoring. A monitoring device has one or more sensors that detect or measure user information selected from of at least one of, a user's activities, behaviors and habit information, and a user's health. The monitoring device includes ID circuitry with an ID storage that contains a unique user ID, a communication system which reads and transmits the unique user ID from the ID storage, a power source and a pathway system. A telemetry system with a database receives the user information from the telemetry device. One or more analysis tools are at the telemetry system that analyze the user information and produce analysis information that is sent to the monitoring device. | 09-04-2014 |
20140247144 | METHODS USING A MONITORING DEVICE TO MONITOR INDIVIDUAL ACTIVITIES, BEHAVIORS OR HABIT INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATE WITH A DATABASE WITH CORRESPONDING INDIVIDUAL BASE INFORMATION FOR COMPARISON - A method is provided for obtaining monitored information about an individual and provide the individual with feedback. A monitoring device with one or more sensors is used to measure or detect individual information selected from of at least one of, an individual's activities, behaviors and habit information, and an individual's health. The monitoring device has ID circuitry with an ID storage that contains a unique individual ID, a communication system which reads and transmits the unique individual ID from the ID storage, a power source and a pathway system. The monitoring device communicates with a telemetry system. The telemetry system has a database that includes base individual information selected from at least one of, individual physiological information, information that is indicative of the individual's activities, data indicative of one or more contextual parameters of the individual and information regarding a degree to which an individual has followed a routine. | 09-04-2014 |
20140247145 | METHODS USING ACTIVITY MANAGER FOR MONITORING USER ACTIVITY - A method uses telemetry data based on user habit information or user monitoring. User information is acquired from one or more sensors of a monitoring device. The user information is selected from of at least one of, a user's activities, behaviors and habit information. Signals are routed through ID circuitry at the user monitoring device. User information is communicated between the monitoring device and a telemetry system. A database of user ID's is accessed at the telemetry system. The telemetry system analyzes telemetry data based on at least one of, user's activities, behaviors and habit information, user condition, and user parameter, to create personalized information about the user. One or more contexts of a user activity are associated with an activity manager. The activity manager is a standalone device, included with the telemetry system or included with the monitoring device. | 09-04-2014 |
20140247146 | MOBILE DEVICE THAT MONITORS AN INDIVIDUALS ACTIVITIES, BEHAVIORS, HABITS OR HEALTH PARAMETERS - A mobile device is provided that obtains monitored information about an individual. A display is coupled to a housing. A memory is coupled to a memory and one or more processing units (CPU's), a peripherals interface, a Network Systems circuitry and an input/output (I/O) subsystems. A system is included with one or more sensors that detects or measure an individual's activities. | 09-04-2014 |
20140247147 | SYSTEM FOR MONITORING HEALTH, WELLNESS AND FITNESS WITH FEEDBACK - A system is provided for obtaining monitored information about an individual and create life activities data. A monitoring device has that detect or measure individual information selected from of at least one of, an individual's activities, behaviors and habit information, and an individual's health. The monitoring device includes ID circuitry with an ID storage that contains a unique individual ID, a communication system which reads and transmits the unique individual ID from the ID storage, a power source and a pathway system. A telemetry system includes a database that receives the individual information from the telemetry device. One or more analysis tools at the telemetry system analyze the individual information and create life activities data. | 09-04-2014 |
20140247148 | MONITORING DEVICE WITH WIRELESS COMMUNICATION USING CDMA - One or more sensors are coupled to a monitoring device that has a unique user ID, the one or more sensors acquiring user information selected from of at least one of, a user's activities, behaviors and habit information. ID circuitry is at the monitoring device. Also included is ID storage, a communication system that reads and transmits the unique ID from an ID storage, a power source and a pathway system to route signals through the circuitry. A telemetry system includes a database of user ID's. The telemetry system is in communication with the monitoring device and analyzes data from monitoring device based on at least one of, user's activities, behaviors and habit information and creating personalized information about the user, and a controller transmits a set of data frames relative to the monitoring device. A set of data frames is transmitted from the monitoring device. | 09-04-2014 |
20140247149 | SYSTEM WITH A MONITORING DEVICE THAT MONITORS INDIVIDUAL ACTIVITIES, BEHAVIORS OR HABIT INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATES WITH A DATABASE WITH CORRESPONDING INDIVIDUAL BASE INFORMATION FOR COMPARISON - A system is provided for obtaining monitored information about an individual and provide the individual with feedback. A monitoring device has one or more sensors that detect or measure individual information selected from of at least one of, an individual's activities, behaviors and habit information, and an individual's health. The monitoring device includes ID circuitry with an ID storage that contains a unique individual ID, a communication system which reads and transmits the unique individual ID from the ID storage, a power source and a pathway system. A telemetry system is in communication with the monitoring device. The telemetry system has a database that includes base individual information selected from at least one of, individual physiological information, information that is indicative of the individual's activities, data indicative of one or more contextual parameters of the individual and information regarding a degree to which an individual has followed a routine. | 09-04-2014 |
20140247150 | SYSTEM FOR MONITORING INDIVIDUALS WITH A MONITORING DEVICE, TELEMETRY SYSTEM, ACTIVITY MANAGER AND A FEEDBACK SYSTEM - A monitoring device, with one or more sensors detects or measures individual information selected from of at least one of, an individual's activities, behaviors and habit information, and an individual's health. The monitoring device includes ID circuitry with an ID storage that contains a unique individual ID, a communication system which reads and transmits the unique individual ID from the ID storage, a power source and a pathway system. A telemetry system is in communication with the monitoring device. An activity manager is in communication with the monitoring device. The activity manager provides information analysis of the individual information received from the monitoring device, the individual information selected from at least one of, individual physiological information, information that is indicative of the individual's activities, data indicative of one or more contextual parameters of the individual and monitoring a degree to which an individual has followed a routine. | 09-04-2014 |
20140247151 | SYSTEM OR DEVICE WITH WEARABLE DEVICES HAVING ONE OR MORE SENSORS WITH ASSIGNMENT OF A WEARABLE DEVICE USER IDENTIFIER TO A WEARABLE DEVICE USER - A system provides assignment of a wearable device user identifier to a wearable device user. A wearable device has one or more sensors that detect or measure wearable device user information selected from of at least one of, a wearable device user's activities, behaviors and habit information, and a wearable device user's health. The wearable device includes a communication system, and a pathway system. A telemetry system has a database of wearable device user profiles. The telemetry system includes a processor and a wearable device user database. The processor has at least one of, access to the wearable device user database, at least partially creates the wearable device user database and at least partially determines a wearable device user profile. A wearable device user identifier of a wearable device user is assigned to the wearable device user before or after the wearable device user receives the wearable device. | 09-04-2014 |
20140253342 | Information Retrieval for Boundary Reading Processing - Information in a data store may be efficiently accessed to perform boundary reading processing. In one example, register readings of one or more register channels that are linked to one or more interval channels may be retrieved from the data store to determine whether or not a boundary reading of a time span is missing. If a boundary reading is missing, but a proximate register reading exists, the boundary reading may be estimated from the proximate register reading and at least one interval reading. | 09-11-2014 |
20140253343 | METHOD, METERING EQUIPMENT, USER DEVICE, AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING OF METERING INFORMATION - A method, metering equipment, a user device, and a system provide metering information. In particular, the method for providing metering information of the metering equipment, includes detecting a communication request input at the metering equipment, activating a communication interface of the metering equipment responsive to the detected communication request input, receiving instruction information via the activated communication interface, and providing via the activated communication interface the metering information responsive to the received instruction information. The communication interface is deactivated at the latest after a time period since the activating of the communication interface. | 09-11-2014 |
20140266778 | UTILITY METER REPORTING NETWORK - A utility meter reporting network is disclosed. In one embodiment, an end-point reporting device is configured to collect utility usage data and to convey the utility usage data to a gateway device via a first Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) radio communication link using a first ISM transceiver operable in the 902 MHz to 928 MHz range. The network further comprises a gateway device comprising a second ISM transceiver for receiving the utility usage data from the end point and a wireless transceiver which is configured to send the utility usage data via an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 compliant wireless communication link. The network further comprises a utility office which receives the utility usage data from said gateway device via said IEEE 802.11 compliant wireless communication link. | 09-18-2014 |
20140266779 | PAIRING OF A BATTERY MONITOR TO A COMMUNICATION DEVICE - A battery monitor is paired to a communication device, e.g., as provided on an industrial vehicle, battery charger, etc., for wireless communication. Pairing is implemented by transmitting an encoded message from the communication device to a load. The encoded message is detected by the battery monitor, by sensing changes in a characteristic of the battery that occur responsive to the communication device transmitting the encoded message to the load. The battery monitor then converts the encoded message into a discovery parameter. A paired wireless connection is set up between the communication device and the battery monitor using the discovery parameter such that the battery monitor and communication device wirelessly communicate thereafter. | 09-18-2014 |
20140266780 | MOTION PROFILE TEMPLATES AND MOVEMENT LANGUAGES FOR WEARABLE DEVICES - Techniques for motion profiles in wearable devices are described, including receiving motion-related data, user-related data, and environmental-related data from one or more sensors coupled to one or more wearable devices, forming a motion profile using the motion-related data, determining an activity using the motion profile, the user-related data, and the environmental-related data, the activity comprising sleep, and setting a mode of operation of one of the one or more wearable devices to a sleep mode, the mode of operation being configured to be set to one of the sleep mode and another mode. A sampling rate of one of the one or more sensors in the sleep mode may be set to be lower than the sampling rate of the one of the one or more sensors in the another mode. | 09-18-2014 |
20140266781 | DISTRIBUTED WIRELESS NETWORK FOR CONTROL SYSTEMS - A wireless distributed network for transmitting data from an array of solar energy collectors to a control and monitoring system. Each solar energy collector in the array has a local control unit that can collect telemetry and other operational data for the solar energy collector. The data is periodically transmitted to ‘churped’ by the local control unit without the wireless manager querying the local control unit for sending the data. The data is routed via the distributed wireless network that links all the solar energy collectors in the array with the control and monitoring system. Multiple data paths are possible, which increases the redundancy and robustness of the wiereless network. | 09-18-2014 |
20140285356 | Power Measuring System, Power Measuring Device Information Synchronizing Method, and Power Consumption Display Method - A power measuring system according to an embodiment includes a power measuring device configured to measure power consumption of a measurement target provided indoors. The power measuring system includes a gateway provided indoors, communicably connectable to the power measuring device, and including a managing unit configured to manage first power measuring device information indicating the measurement target. The power measuring system includes a server communicably connectable to the gateway and including a server storing unit configured to be capable of storing second power measuring device information indicating the measurement target. If content of one of the first power measuring device information and the second power measuring device information is set or updated, the power measuring system synchronizes content of the other with the set or updated content. | 09-25-2014 |
20140285357 | System and method for analyzing the energy consumption of electric loads in a consumer network - The method for analyzing and displaying the energy consumption of electric loads according to the invention comprises, in principle, the following steps: providing at least one consumer network comprising a plurality of interconnected electric loads; sampling the total current, voltage and phase shift of the consumer network with a sampling rate of less than 5 Hz; transmitting the sampled measured data through the internet to a means for load recognition; receiving the sampled measured data through the internet by the means for load recognition; determining individual loads in the measured data by the means for load recognition, comprising: determining temporal regularities of individual loads by means of a spectral analysis of the measured data, and/or generating load models for individual loads by modelling individual phenomena in the measured data by means of classifiers, and visualizing the energy consumption in the consumer network. | 09-25-2014 |
20140285358 | RADIO PROTOCOL FOR COMMUNICATION WITH METER DEVICES - A method for communication between a meter device and a communication network in accordance with a radio protocol, the meter device including a meter device identification and the radio protocol including a reduced part of the meter device identification and a data field, wherein the method of communication involves transmitting a data telegram according to the protocol from the meter device, receiving the data telegram by the communication network, and identifying the meter device from a set of identification elements, including the reduced part of the meter device identification and at least one information element obtained from a data source external to the meter device. The invention furthermore relates to an identification computer device and a meter device adapted for operating according to the above mentioned radio protocol, and a radio protocol for communication between a meter device and a communication network in accordance with the above mentioned radio protocol. | 09-25-2014 |
20140292531 | DEVICE, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD, FOR COMMUNICATION - An antenna is adapted for receiving via a CDMA/1×RTT digital wireless cellular radio communications network incoming data from a client remote control station, and for transmitting via a wireless cellular communications network outgoing data to the client remote control station. A cellular modem is connected to the antenna for establishing a wireless telephony data connection, and a processor is connected to the modem for receiving and processing incoming data, and for processing and communicating outgoing data to the modem for transmission via the antenna and the wireless cellular communications network to the client remote control station. A communication interface, such as a WiFi hotspot, is connected to the processor and connectable to the meter for communicating incoming data from the processor to the meter, and for communicating the outgoing data from the meter to the processor. A power supply is connected for supplying power to the processor and the modem. | 10-02-2014 |
20140292532 | DEVICE, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD, FOR COMMUNICATION - An antenna is adapted for receiving via a CDMA/1×RTT digital wireless cellular radio communications network incoming data from a client remote control station, and for transmitting via a wireless cellular communications network outgoing data to the client remote control station. A cellular modem is connected to the antenna for establishing a wireless telephony data connection, and a processor is connected to the modem for receiving and processing incoming data, and for processing and communicating outgoing data to the modem for transmission via the antenna and the wireless cellular communications network to the client remote control station. A communication interface, such as a WiFi hotspot, is connected to the processor and connectable to the meter for communicating incoming data from the processor to the meter, and for communicating the outgoing data from the meter to the processor. A power supply is connected for supplying power to the processor and the modem. | 10-02-2014 |
20140292533 | UNIVERSAL ENERGY INTERNET OF THINGS APPARATUS AND METHODS - A system to aggregate, filter, and share energy data for analysis receives first data associated with a first electrical circuit where the first data has a first protocol. The system samples the first data at a first sampling rate to generate first digital data where the first sampling rate is substantially continuous. Further, the system transmits at a reporting rate that is decoupled from the first sampling rate at least the first digital data over a network having a third protocol that is different from the first protocol. The network can be accessed by wired or wireless access and includes one or more servers in cloud configuration. | 10-02-2014 |
20140300487 | DEVICE FOR LINKING AN ELECTRONIC ELECTRICITY METER TO A REMOTE USAGE DISPLAY - This invention relates to a device that links a digital electricity meter to a remote usage display, such that there is no possibility of operation error and, in 100% of the cases, a meter with remote display is installed, in which the logical association between the meter and display can be correctly implemented. | 10-09-2014 |
20140300488 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CORRECTING METER DATA FOR ENHANCEMENT OF ELECTRICITY DATA MANAGEMENT OF PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULE - An apparatus and a method of correcting meter data for enhancement of electricity data management in a remote automatic measuring environment of a photovoltaic module are disclosed. According to an exemplary embodiment, a meter reads energy usage of a consumer and transmits meter data on the energy usage to an automatic meter reading (AMR) server. A meter data management system monitors an error in the transmitted meter data and a non-reading interval and re-requests collection of an error in meter data and a non-reading interval to the AMR server. When an error and a non-reading interval are found even after meter data is collected on the re-requesting, the error in the meter data and the non-reading interval are corrected using an estimated approximate value based on a history of previous meter data accumulated in a database of the AMR server. | 10-09-2014 |
20140300489 | POWER MONITORING AND SIGNAL UNIT - A power monitoring and signal unit; said unit provided with projecting connectors at a first face and sockets for receiving like connectors in a second opposite face; said unit provided with circuitry for monitoring power flow through said unit when said projecting connectors are plugged into a mains power outlet; said unit further provided with transceiver circuitry for the transmission of data including command and control data and the reception of data including command and control data. | 10-09-2014 |
20140306831 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INCREASING CURRENT MONITOR POWER TELEMETRY ACCURACY - Systems and method for increasing current monitor accuracy are disclosed. The systems and methods may include receiving a run-time load value from a current monitor, determining a component parameter value associated with the run-time load value, and communicating the component parameter value to the current monitor. | 10-16-2014 |
20140313050 | UTILITY DEVICE INTERFACE - A meter interface unit (MIU) is provided for a utility meter that uses RFID technology as both a source of backup power and as a means of transmitting utility usage data. Usage data is stored in non-volatile memory that will persist even if the main power source of the MIU is lost. Because an RFID generates electric current when it receives an electromagnetic signal from an interrogator, the RFID can provide power to the memory, read the usage data from the memory, and wirelessly transmit the usage data back to the interrogator without any other source of power. This can prevent data loss when the MIU runs out of power; for example, when its battery is expended. RFID technology can also provide many other benefits and uses when coupled with an MIU, in addition to serving as backup power and communication. | 10-23-2014 |
20140313051 | COMMUNICATION DEVICE, COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND COMMUNICATION METHOD FOR AN IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE - A communication device for an implantable medical device may include: an input/output interface configured to communicate with a wireless communication device; a communication interface configured to communicate with a remote system; and a processor configured to perform an analysis of data received from the wireless communication device via the input/output interface and associated with the implantable medical device. The communication device may include a user interface configured to receive data input by a user. A communication system may include a wireless communication device and the aforementioned communication device. A communication method for an implantable medical device may include: providing a communication device that is configured to communicate with a wireless communication device, to communicate with a remote system and to perform an analysis of data; communicating data associated with an implantable medical device from a wireless device to the communication device; and analyzing the received data at the communication device. | 10-23-2014 |
20140313052 | Near Field Telemetry Link for Passing a Shared Secret to Establish a Secure Radio Frequency Communication Link in a Physiological Condition Monitoring System - A physiological condition monitoring system (e.g., a continuous glucose monitoring system) includes a physiological condition meter and a physiological condition sensor. The physiological condition meter and the physiological condition sensor are be placed in proximity to exchange a secret key using a near field wireless link, which is used to encrypt data to secure a radio frequency (RF) wireless channel. | 10-23-2014 |
20140320303 | ONE TOUCH DATA COLLECTION METHOD AND MEDIUM - A method for collecting data and a computer-readable medium are provided. The method includes determining, using a data collection unit, that the data collection unit is physically proximal to a machine, and receiving a tag identifier from a tag positioned in, on, or near the machine using a tag reader of the data collection unit. The method also includes taking one or more measurements of one or more operating conditions of the machine using a sensor of the data collection unit. The method also includes storing the one or more measurements, and associating the one or more measurements with the tag identifier. | 10-30-2014 |
20140320304 | Method And System For Providing Web-Enabled Cellular Access To Meter Reading Data - A method and a system for collection of meter readings from meter reading and transmitting devices ( | 10-30-2014 |
20140320305 | METROLOGY TIMEKEEPING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) system includes a meter data management system, an AMI network, a network communication module and metering devices. The AMI network connects to a reference time clock and the meter data management system. The network communication module connects to the AMI network and is in communication with the reference time clock via the AMI network. Each metering device is connected to the network communication module and has a metrology device and a communication module device. The communication module device provides clock adjustments to the metrology clock and/or its own clock. The metrology device provides clock adjustments to the communications module clock and/or its own clock. Methods for use in an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) system provide clock adjustments | 10-30-2014 |
20140320306 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS OF READING UTILITY METERS AND METHODS AND SYSTEMS OF TRANSMITTING UTILITY METER DATA - A method of polling of meter data measured by a plurality of utility measuring devices and transmitted over a plurality of wireless local area network (WLAN) channels. The method comprises capturing a plurality of management frames which are transmitted periodically by a plurality of utility measuring devices over a plurality of WLAN channels, extracting meter data from each the management frame, and updating a plurality of consumer records, each according to respective the meter data from a respective the utility measuring device. | 10-30-2014 |
20140327553 | ZERO POWER METERING CIRCUITS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A system can include a passive wireless interface circuit that generates data from a wireless signal and further includes an energy harvesting circuit that generates first operating power from the wireless signal; a meter interface circuit configured to receive at least one input signal and second operating power from a metering device; logic circuits configured to arbitrate accesses to nonvolatile storage circuits from the passive wireless interface and meter interface circuits using the first or second operating power. | 11-06-2014 |
20140340236 | SYNCHRONIZED METROLOGY IN POWER GENERATION AND DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS - Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) tend to be specialized and expensive—relegated to only key points in power distribution networks, and are generally reliant on GPS technology. The present disclosure details how any smart meter—using wireless communication—can perform sub-microsecond-grade synchrophasor measurements. Other aspects concern smart meter-based determination of A, B or C phase of the tri-phase power network. This can involve count-stamp enabling message packets sent to and/or from a smart meter, and then associating such count-stamps to local measurements of power phase by a metrology unit. Once a network of such enabled smart meters and other devices is formed, sub-microsecond metropolitan-wide and entire region-wide synchronizing time standard can calibrate local measurements of power phase, where simple A, B and C phase determination is one low hanging fruit application of such. Low cost aggregate monitoring of metropolitan-wide synchrophasors promises a next chapter of importance for that relatively recent art. | 11-20-2014 |
20140340237 | APPLIANCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND APPLIANCE MANAGEMENT METHOD - The appliance management system according to the present invention includes: a meter device configured to measure a predetermined physical amount; an appliance having a predetermined function; and a management device. The management device sends first information including a first identifier allocated to the appliance and a second identifier allocated to the meter device. The meter device sends, when the second identifier included in the first information received from the management device matches the second identifier allocated to this meter device, second information including the first identifier included in the first information and the second identifier allocated to this meter device. The appliance performs, when the first identifier included in the second information received from the meter device matches the first identifier allocated to this appliance, a setting process of selecting the meter device identified by the second identifier included in the second information as a communication partner. | 11-20-2014 |
20140354447 | ANALYZING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POWER DATA - An analyzing system includes a retrieving module, a filtering module, an extracting module, a display module, and a storing module. The retrieving module is used to retrieve a data package. The filtering module is used to filter a power data parameter from the data package. The extracting module is used to extract a power data parameter value from the power data parameter. The display module is used to display the power data parameter value. The storing module is used to store the power data parameter value. The disclosure further offers an analyzing method. | 12-04-2014 |
20140361907 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INFERRING SCHEMATIC RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN LOAD POINTS AND SERVICE TRANSFORMERS - A system and method for identifying which of several candidate service transformers is powering a specific service point an electrical distribution grid are disclosed. An audio-frequency electrical signal, the detection signal, is injected onto the power line at the service point via a meter socket or electrical outlet. The Transmitter for the detection signal may be a portable device or it may be incorporated into an electrical meter. The audible or mechanical resonance caused in the service transformer by the detection signal is detected and recorded using an accelerometer or directional microphone in a Receiver. A variety of methods for fixing the Receiver at or in proximity to the service transformers are disclosed in order to adapt to variations in the siting and housing of service transformers. A variety of mechanisms and methods for collecting detection events are disclosed. | 12-11-2014 |
20140361908 | WIRELESS UTILITY METERING DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS - A multifunction electronic device generally involving a processor, a power source in electronic communication with the processor; and wireless communicator, the wireless communicator in electronic communication with the processor and the power source. The processor controls the wireless communicator in a manner that minimizes power consumption by the multifunction electronic device, whereby the power source is conserved. The multifunction electronic device serves at least one function, such as a register device or a remote device. The multifunction electronic device wirelessly communicates with a remote server, such as a cloud-based server, and performs metering measurements by way of a magnetic field sensor for enhancing accuracy of such measurements. | 12-11-2014 |
20140368351 | SYSTEM FOR CALCULATING AN ELECTRIC QUANTITY, TRANSFORMER SUB-STATION COMPRISING SUCH A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CALCULATING AN ELECTRIC QUANTITY WITH SUCH A SYSTEM - The system ( | 12-18-2014 |
20140368352 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATED INTERACTIVE GATEWAY SYSTEM - Embodiments of the present teachings disclose method, system, and programs that utilize a gateway and an optional interactive voice response system to allow remote monitoring of a patient's vital signs. | 12-18-2014 |
20140368353 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING COMMUNICATIONS TO AND FROM FIXED POSITION COMMUNICATION DEVICES OVER A FIXED BANDWIDTH COMMUNICATION LINK - An apparatus and method control transmission of messages over a fixed bandwidth communication link from fixed position client or communication devices to a central controller. In one exemplary embodiment, the central controller determines an identifier associated with each communication device, a reporting period during which messages are to be transmitted by the communication devices, and transmission increments within the reporting period. The central controller allocates each transmission increment to a respective group of multiple communication devices. The central controller then determines transmission times for messages from the communication devices, such that a transmission time for any particular communication device is based on (a) the identifier for the particular communication device, (b) a duration of a transmission increment allocated to a group of communication devices that includes the particular communication device, and (c) a quantity of communication devices in the group of communication devices that includes the particular communication device. | 12-18-2014 |
20140368354 | CENTRAL ALARM (CA) UNIT IN A GAS MONITORING SYSTEM INCLUDING GAS SENSORS AND GAS SENSOR CONTROLLERS - A central alarm (CA) unit in a gas monitoring system including gas sensors and gas sensor controllers operatively connected to respective gas sensors comprises a communications module configured to communicate with the gas sensor controllers, wherein each gas sensor controller is configured to communicate with respective gas sensors, and a gas sensor monitoring module configured to receive from each gas sensor controller a signal including status information of the gas sensors operatively connected to the respective gas sensor controller. | 12-18-2014 |
20140375472 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MEASUREMENT OF RESOURCE METERS - The present disclosure is directed at methods, systems, and techniques for measurements and, optionally, auditing of resource meters such as electricity meters. Each of multiple site aggregation units receive measurements from resource meters. Each of the site aggregation units generate a site aggregation digest that substantially uniquely identifies the resource measurements, stores these digests, and aggregates the resource measurements into site aggregation data that is sent to a central aggregation unit. The central aggregation unit generates a central aggregation digest that substantially uniquely identifies the site aggregation data, stores this digest, and aggregates the site aggregation data into central aggregation data that is sent to a resource provider with the central aggregation digest. When auditing is to be performed, the site and central aggregation digests can be used to verify the authenticity of the resource measurements and the site aggregation data, respectively. | 12-25-2014 |
20140375473 | SENSOR TERMINAL AND SENSOR NETWORK SYSTEM - A sensor terminal which processes a sensor signal output from at least one sensor and transmits the sensor signal being processed to a center device through a network control unit and a communication line, includes a communication interface unit capable of being connected to the network control unit, a sensor input interface unit being connected to the sensor and inputting the sensor signal, and a control unit generating sensor data from the sensor signal input through the sensor input interface unit and transmitting sensor data corresponding to a request signal of the center device which is input through the communication interface unit from the network control unit or active sensor data to the center device through the network control unit from the communication interface unit. | 12-25-2014 |
20140375474 | METHOD FOR COMMUNICATION OF ENERGY CONSUMPTION-SPECIFIC MEASUREMENT DATA ELEMENTS BETWEEN A SMART METER DEVICE AND A COMPUTER SYSTEM OF A UTILITY COMPANY AND/OR OPERATOR OF A MEASURING SYSTEM - A method for communicating energy consumption-specific measurement data elements recorded by a smart meter between a smart meter device and a first computer system of a utility company and/or operator of a measuring system, the device having a security module, said security module serving as the sole communication interface between of the device with the first computer system, the device having configuration data required for its operation, and the device being associated with an indication of those measurement data elements and/or configuration data for which the first computer system has a read access authorization, the method comprising: establishing a first communication channel between the first computer system and the security module, mutually authenticating the computer system and the security module, authentication being carried out with the aid of a first certificate of the security module and a second certificate of the first computer system; once mutual authentication has been completed, transmitting via the security module at least a part of the measurement data elements and/or configuration data specified in the indication to the first computer system by a secured transmission. | 12-25-2014 |
20150009042 | PATIENT MONITORING SYSTEMS AND MESSAGES THAT SEND ALERTS TO PATIENTS - A system for is provided for using telemetry data based on patient habit information or patient monitoring. One or more patient monitoring devices has a unique patient ID. The one or more monitoring devices acquire patient information selected from of at least one of, a patient's activities, behaviors and habit information, and patient monitoring. ID circuitry is at the patient monitoring device. The ID circuitry includes ID storage, a communication system that reads and transmits the unique ID from an ID storage, a power source and a pathway system to route signals through the circuitry. An alarm is at the patient monitoring device that provides an alert only when the patient is in a wake-state. A telemetry system is in communication with the patient monitoring device. The telemetry system includes a database of patient ID's. | 01-08-2015 |
20150015414 | MAGNETICALLY-IMPERVIOUS RETROFIT KIT FOR A METERED-COMMODITY CONSUMPTION METER - Apparatus and associated methods relate to a Metered-Commodity Consumption Meter (MCCM) utilizing a rotationally occluded optical beam to simultaneously measure flow/consumption and verify operational integrity. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, an existing MCCM may be retrofit by sealably attaching a module containing an optical system which may generate one or more optical beams. Each optical beam may have a defined optical path originating from an optical source and terminating at an optical sensor within the module. In an exemplary embodiment, a Rotational Retrofit Member (RRM) may be attachable to a rotational metering gear responsive to a flow/consumption of the metered commodity. The RRM may have an occluding blade which may partially occlude the optical beams periodically when the RRM rotates. In various embodiments, the MCCM may be retrofit to make the measurement of the metered commodity impervious to external magnetic fields. | 01-15-2015 |
20150035681 | Point-to-Multipoint Polling in a Monitoring System for an Electric Power Distribution System - An automation controller may wirelessly poll a plurality of remote monitoring devices configured to monitor an electric power distribution system and store monitored system data collected therefrom. The automation controller may be wirelessly coupled to the plurality of remote monitoring devices using a spread-spectrum protocol, such as Bluetooth®. The automation controller may gather the monitored system data using the Distributed Network Protocol (DNP3). DNP3 packets may be communicated as the payload of Bluetooth® packets. The spread-spectrum protocol may limit the number of devices to which the automation controller may be actively connected at one time. Accordingly, the automation controller may couple and uncouple from the remote monitoring devices in a round-robin pattern to collect the monitored system data from all of the remote monitoring devices. The automation controller may provide engineering access and/or collect relay event data using the spread-spectrum protocol and a high-bandwidth protocol. | 02-05-2015 |
20150035682 | SLAVE SUITABLE FOR ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - The slave suitable for energy management systems in accordance with the present invention is a slave suitable for an energy management system for collecting, from an energy meter for measuring an amount of electric energy supplied from a power source to a predetermined place through a distribution line, meter-reading data including the amount of energy. The slave includes: a first interface unit configured to communicate with an upper device; a second interface unit configured to perform wireless communication using an electric wave with an electric appliance installed in the predetermined place; and a third interface unit configured to perform wireless communication using an electric wave with a communication terminal. The second interface unit and the third interface unit are configured to use the same protocol. | 02-05-2015 |
20150042488 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ESTIMATING CONSERVATION ALLOCATION WITH PARTIAL AMI - This disclosure is directed to a system and method of allocating energy provided by a power source. The system includes a computing device that receives, from meters, observations of energy delivered by the power source to sites. The device classifies the sites into consumption classes, where a first consumption class has complete coverage and a second consumption class has incomplete coverage. The device determines a metric for a characteristic of energy for the first class. The device determines a first demand for the first class based on the metric for the characteristic of energy for the first class. The device generates a sampling distribution of the metric for the characteristic for the second class and determines a second demand for the second class based on the sampling distribution. The device determines a dissipation metric based on the first and second demands. | 02-12-2015 |
20150054656 | BASE STATION CONNECTIVITY WITH A BEACON HAVING INTERNAL GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION TRACKING THAT RECEIVES THE LOCATION IN A SHORT-AND-INSTANT TELEMETRY MESSAGE - Systems, methods and apparatus are provided through which in some implementations a geographic location of a beacon is determined by a component integrated within or in close proximity to the beacon and the geographic location is communicated to an external network using a wireless communications channel between the beacon and the external network. | 02-26-2015 |
20150061886 | ELECTRICITY METER ISOLATED PHYSICAL LAYER ETHERNET INTERFACE - A metering arrangement includes at least a first and second meter. The first meter includes a first metrology circuit, an Ethernet controller, and an isolation circuit. The first metrology circuit has a first data interface. The Ethernet controller has an Ethernet port and a conversion circuit coupled to convert Ethernet standard signals having a first communication protocol to signals of a second communication protocol. The isolation circuit is coupled between the Ethernet controller and the first data interface. The Ethernet controller is operably coupled to communicate data with the first data interface via the isolation circuit, and the conversion circuit is further operably coupled to communicate data via the first data port. The second meter includes a second metrology circuit having a second data interface operably connected to a second data port. The second data port is operably coupled to communicate data with the first data port. | 03-05-2015 |
20150061887 | Device For Automatically Reading A Glow Tube - The disclosure provides a wireless gauge reader system for use on an existing electrical substation where the substation has a window through which at least one glow tube is visible. The system includes a frame fastened to the substation that surrounds at least a portion of the window, and a door in connection with the frame that allows the door to open and close. The door includes a wireless gauge reader (WGR) that has an optical sensor that is positioned to view the glow tube when the door is closed. The WGR also has a transmitter to transmit a wireless signal based on the illumination state of the glow tube. Various aspects of the connection of the door to the frame are disclosed. | 03-05-2015 |
20150070187 | Wireless Relay Module For Remote Monitoring Systems - Systems and methods for communication include one or more wireless relay devices having a first receiver capable of wirelessly receiving medical device data over a wireless relay network from at least one network device, a first transmitter capable of wirelessly transmitting data over an internet-accessible wireless communications network and a second transmitter capable of wirelessly transmitting medical device data to a second medical device or a wireless relay module over the wireless relay network. Patient identification information can be obtained and/or communicated. | 03-12-2015 |
20150070188 | MONITORING DEVICE AND METHOD OF USE - A garden management system including a monitoring device, the monitoring device including a soil sensor; a body including a set of ambient environment sensors, a geographic location mechanism, a wireless communication mechanism, a power supply electrically connected to and configured to power the soil sensor, ambient environment sensors, wireless communication mechanism, and geographic location mechanism; and a renewable power source electrically connected to and configured to charge the power supply with harvested renewable power; and a set of supports connecting the body to an end of the soil sensor, the body cooperatively defining a handle void with the set of supports. | 03-12-2015 |
20150070189 | AMR Transmitter And Method Using Multiple Radio Messages - The invention provides a method and several types of devices for converting meter reading signals into data messages including a first message ( | 03-12-2015 |
20150077266 | Smart Measurement System - A system and method are presented for collecting and retrieving characterization data of measurement devices, such as flow meters. The system includes a meter, a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag for storing the meter characterization data, and electronics, such as a totalizer, to read the characterization data from the RFID tag and calibrate the meter measurements using the characterization data. | 03-19-2015 |
20150077267 | MODULAR LIGHT SYSTEM AND RELATED METHODS - A modular warning light system for warning aerial vehicles of an obstacle such as a steel lattice tower includes a support, a light structure adjustably mounted onto the support, a warning light coupled to the light structure, and a power system coupled to the light structure. The power system comprises a solar panel and a rechargeable battery. The solar panel is configured for charging the rechargeable battery, and the rechargeable battery is configured for powering the warning light. | 03-19-2015 |
20150084785 | WIRELESS UTILITY METER READING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A wireless meter reading system and method are provided to facilitate billing a consumer for utility usage. The wireless meter reading system comprises: (a) at least one utility meter; (b) at least one camera or imaging device optionally coupled to the at least one utility meter, wherein the at least one camera or imaging device operates to provide wireless meter reading image(s) of the utility meter from time to time, and wherein the wireless meter reading images comprise utility usage data and identifying data of the utility meter; (c) a power source coupled to the camera or imaging device; (d) a communication device for wirelessly receiving the meter reading images from the camera or imaging device; and (e) a wide area connection with the communication device for communicating the meter reading images to a central location. | 03-26-2015 |
20150084786 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATIC LOCATION-SPECIFIC CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT OF A REMOVABLE METER UNIT - A meter apparatus and method of operating a removable meter apparatus are described. The meter apparatus includes a tag associated with unique tag identification information and configured to be permanently affixed to a location housing at a unique physical location, and includes a removable meter unit configured to mate with the location housing and receive the tag identification from the tag and report the tag identification to a data manager configured to associate an identifier of the removable meter unit with the tag identification and unique physical location, and associate configuration information for the physical location with the removable meter unit and the tag identification. The unique physical location can comprise a single-space parking location. | 03-26-2015 |
20150097693 | IN-PREMISES MANAGEMENT OF HOME AREA NETWORKS - Systems and methods are disclosed for providing in-premises management of home area networks. An example management includes a network interface device, a processor in communication with the network interface device, and a transceiver device in communication with the processor. The network interface device can establish a paired communication link with a computing device that is in communication with a head-end system. The processor can receive a command originating from the head-end system and communicated to the management device from the computing device via the paired communication link. The processor can identify a terminal device of the home area network that can perform a function in response to the command. The processor can generate a message for the terminal device including the command. The transceiver device can transmit the message from the processor to the terminal device via a wireless communication link of the home area network. | 04-09-2015 |
20150097694 | METHODS OF PROCESSING DATA CORRESPONDING TO A DEVICE THAT CORRESPONDS TO A GAS, WATER, OR ELECTRIC GRID, AND RELATED DEVICES AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS - Methods of operating a communication node are provided. A method of operating a communication node may include receiving data from an electric grid device via a network interface. The method may include processing the data from the electric grid device at the communication node. Moreover, the method may include transmitting a filtered portion of the data to an electric utility head end system, after processing the data at the communication node. In some embodiments, a method of operating a communication node may include using a message broker controlled by a virtual machine in the communication node to provide a protocol to interface with a field message bus that includes a standards-based or open-source Application Programming Interface (API). Related communication nodes and computer program products are also described. | 04-09-2015 |
20150097695 | METHODS OF PROCESSING DATA CORRESPONDING TO A DEVICE THAT CORRESPONDS TO A GAS, WATER, OR ELECTRIC GRID, AND RELATED DEVICES AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS - Methods of operating a communication node are provided. A method of operating a communication node may include receiving data from an electric grid device via a network interface. The method may include processing the data from the electric grid device at the communication node. Moreover, the method may include transmitting a filtered portion of the data to an electric utility head end system, after processing the data at the communication node. In some embodiments, a method of operating a communication node may include using a message broker controlled by a virtual machine in the communication node to provide a protocol to interface with a field message bus that includes a standards-based or open-source Application Programming Interface (API). Related communication nodes and computer program products are also described. | 04-09-2015 |
20150097696 | METHODS OF PROCESSING DATA CORRESPONDING TO A DEVICE THAT CORRESPONDS TO A GAS, WATER, OR ELECTRIC GRID, AND RELATED DEVICES AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS - Methods of operating a communication node are provided. A method of operating a communication node may include receiving data from an electric grid device via a network interface. The method may include processing the data from the electric grid device at the communication node. Moreover, the method may include transmitting a filtered portion of the data to an electric utility head end system, after processing the data at the communication node. In some embodiments, a method of operating a communication node may include using a message broker controlled by a virtual machine in the communication node to provide a protocol to interface with a field message bus that includes a standards-based or open-source Application Programming Interface (API). Related communication nodes and computer program products are also described. | 04-09-2015 |
20150097697 | METHODS OF PROCESSING DATA CORRESPONDING TO A DEVICE THAT CORRESPONDS TO A GAS, WATER, OR ELECTRIC GRID, AND RELATED DEVICES AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS - Methods of operating a communication node are provided. A method of operating a communication node may include receiving data from an electric grid device via a network interface. The method may include processing the data from the electric grid device at the communication node. Moreover, the method may include transmitting a filtered portion of the data to an electric utility head end system, after processing the data at the communication node. In some embodiments, a method of operating a communication node may include using a message broker controlled by a virtual machine in the communication node to provide a protocol to interface with a field message bus that includes a standards-based or open-source Application Programming Interface (API). Related communication nodes and computer program products are also described. | 04-09-2015 |
20150097698 | METHOD, DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR MANAGING A PROVISION OF ENERGY - A remote server is connected to at least one energy box, each energy box being connected to at least one energy consuming device, and each energy box being connected to a metering device. The remote server sends to the energy box a transaction demand. The energy box sends to at least one energy consuming device an energy consumption reduction request. The metering device measures energy consumption of the energy consuming device. The metering device sends to the energy box the measured energy consumption. The energy box verifies whether the demanded transaction has been carried out based upon at least one test, the test depending on at least one measured energy consumption. If the demanded transaction has been carried out, the energy box sends to a remote server a transaction response. | 04-09-2015 |
20150097699 | SYSTEM, METHODS, DEVICE AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM, FOR IDENTIFYING CONNECTIVITIES IN ELECTRICAL NETWORKS - The system comprises:
| 04-09-2015 |
20150102939 | WEARABLE BODY SENSOR AND SYSTEM INCLUDING THE SAME - A body sensor, a system including the body sensor and a method of transmitting a biosignal are provided. A wearable body sensor includes a conductive electrode configured to conduct a biosignal from a body, a main board comprising a radio frequency (RF) communication circuit to generate an RF signal based on the biosignal, and an antenna disposed on the RF communication circuit to radiate the RF signal. | 04-16-2015 |
20150102940 | METHODS AND APPARATUS RELATING TO MEASUREMENT INSTRUMENTS - Methods and apparatus are for storing and retrieving data related to the installation, service, repair or performance of an industrial flow meter or other measurement instrument. Methods and apparatus are also for other processes associated with measurement instruments. | 04-16-2015 |
20150102941 | METERING DEVICE AND PARTS THEREFOR - An industrial meter has wireless communication circuitry for communicating with a remote communication device. A repeater device allows the wireless communication circuitry of the industrial meter to continue to communicate with the remote communication device when the meter device is positioned in a location where direct communication between the wireless communication circuitry and the remote communication device is not possible (such as for example when the industrial meter is located underground). | 04-16-2015 |
20150109141 | ANALYTE-TESTING DEVICE - A device adapted to determine an analyte concentration of a fluid sample using a test sensor. The device comprises a display adapted to display information to a user. The device further comprises at least one user-interface mechanism adapted to allow the user to interact with the device. The device further comprises a body portion including at least one opening formed therein, the at least one opening being of sufficient size to receive the test sensor. The device further comprises a memory adapted to store a plurality of stored analyte concentrations. The device further comprises a processing feature adapted to inhibit the stored analyte concentrations from being displayed on the display. | 04-23-2015 |
20150116126 | REMOTE MONITORING OF TELEMEDICINE DEVICE - Methods and systems for monitoring usage of a telemedicine system are described. A monitoring system at a hospital or other central monitoring location provides for communication between personnel at a monitoring location (e.g. a medical care provider) and patient and/or caregiver at a patient location (e.g., the patient's home) via a telemedicine system. The telemedicine system may provide for audiovisual or other communication between the monitoring location and patient location, which may be in combination with medical monitoring or treatment provided with one or more associated article of medical equipment. The medical support monitoring system tracks the amount and type of usage of telepresence system and/or associated medical equipment. Tracked information regarding system usage may be used for various purposes, including billing, quality assurance, data analytics, including population studies of usage patterns, for example. Usage information may be linked to identity of patient, caregiver, or equipment used, or anonymized, depending upon the intended use. | 04-30-2015 |
20150116127 | ENERGY-EFFICIENT WIRELESS SENSING FOR ASYNCHRONOUS EVENT MONITORING - A sensor node, having a radio frequency (RF) transceiver, receives a data acquisition command from a network controller. The command includes various parameters. The RF transceiver is deactivated and data is obtained based on the parameters included in the command. The RF transceiver is activated and an inquiry message is sent to the network controller requesting the network controller to confirm that an event of interest has occurred during the data acquisition time interval. A subset of the obtained data containing the event of interest is transmitted to the network controller, using the RF transceiver, in response to receiving a confirmation from the network controller that an event of interest has occurred. Otherwise the RF transceiver is deactivated and no data is transmitted, in response to receiving from the network controller a negative acknowledgment message indicating that an event of interest has not occurred during the data acquisition interval. | 04-30-2015 |
20150116128 | CONSUMPTION METER WITH REMOTE PROGRAM UPDATE - The invention relates to a system of consumption meters ( | 04-30-2015 |
20150123809 | Hybrid Connection Device - A connection device for providing both a connection for liquid transport and a connection for the transport of electrical energy is disclosed. The connection device comprises a first part and a second part, which detachably connect to one another such that a first liquid conduit comprised in the first part connects with a second liquid conduit comprised in the second part, and a primary coil comprised in the first part inductively couples to a secondary coil comprised in the second part, wherein the first part further comprises a first electronic circuit electrically connected to the primary coil, and the second part further comprises a second electronic circuit electrically connected to the secondary coil. | 05-07-2015 |
20150123810 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A CONTINUOUS MONITORING OF ANALYTE VALUES - Systems and methods for a continuous monitoring of analyte values received from an analyte sensor system are provided. One method for a wireless data communication between an analyte sensor system and a mobile device involves storing identification information associated with a transceiver of the analyte sensor system, the identification information entered by a user of the mobile device via a custom application running on the mobile device; causing the custom application to enter a background mode; searching for advertisement signals; receiving an advertisement signal from the transceiver; authenticating the transceiver based on the identification information; prompting the user to bring the custom application to a foreground mode; causing the custom application to request a confirmation from the user that a data connection with the transceiver is desired; receiving the confirmation from the user; and completing the data connection with the transceiver. | 05-07-2015 |
20150123811 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A CONTINUOUS MONITORING OF ANALYTE VALUES - Systems and methods for a continuous monitoring of analyte values received from an analyte sensor system are provided. One method for a wireless data communication between an analyte sensor system and a mobile device involves storing identification information associated with a transceiver of the analyte sensor system, the identification information entered by a user of the mobile device via a custom application running on the mobile device; causing the custom application to enter a background mode; searching for advertisement signals; receiving an advertisement signal from the transceiver; authenticating the transceiver based on the identification information; prompting the user to bring the custom application to a foreground mode; causing the custom application to request a confirmation from the user that a data connection with the transceiver is desired; receiving the confirmation from the user; and completing the data connection with the transceiver. | 05-07-2015 |
20150123812 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A CONTINUOUS MONITORING OF ANALYTE VALUES - Systems and methods for a continuous monitoring of analyte values received from an analyte sensor system are provided. One method for a wireless data communication between an analyte sensor system and a mobile device involves storing identification information associated with a transceiver of the analyte sensor system, the identification information entered by a user of the mobile device via a custom application running on the mobile device; causing the custom application to enter a background mode; searching for advertisement signals; receiving an advertisement signal from the transceiver; authenticating the transceiver based on the identification information; prompting the user to bring the custom application to a foreground mode; causing the custom application to request a confirmation from the user that a data connection with the transceiver is desired; receiving the confirmation from the user; and completing the data connection with the transceiver. | 05-07-2015 |
20150123813 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A CONTINUOUS MONITORING OF ANALYTE VALUES - Systems and methods for a continuous monitoring of analyte values received from an analyte sensor system are provided. One method for a wireless data communication between an analyte sensor system and a mobile device involves storing identification information associated with a transceiver of the analyte sensor system, the identification information entered by a user of the mobile device via a custom application running on the mobile device; causing the custom application to enter a background mode; searching for advertisement signals; receiving an advertisement signal from the transceiver; authenticating the transceiver based on the identification information; prompting the user to bring the custom application to a foreground mode; causing the custom application to request a confirmation from the user that a data connection with the transceiver is desired; receiving the confirmation from the user; and completing the data connection with the transceiver. | 05-07-2015 |
20150130628 | NFC OR RFID BASED BIO SENSOR MEASUREMENT DEVICE AND MEASURING METHOD USING THE SAME - Disclosed herein are an NFC or RFID based bio sensor measurement device and a measuring method using the same capable of measuring components by being linked with a wireless communication device such as a smart phone. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the NFC or RFID based bio sensor measurement device is configured to include: a bio sensor unit | 05-14-2015 |
20150130629 | DETERMINING UTILIZATION OF ELECTRONIC ASSETS - An asset tag for monitoring usage of an electronic asset includes a usage monitor configured to monitor usage of the electronic asset and a transmitter configured to transmit an indication of the usage of the electronic asset. The asset tag may include a socket configured to receive a first plug, wherein the first plug comprises a plug of the electronic asset; a second plug electrically coupled to the socket, wherein the second plug is configured to transmit current to the socket; and, a power source configured to power the usage detector. | 05-14-2015 |
20150130630 | Method and apparatus for finding and accessing a vehicle fueling station and for reporting data from remote sensors - A control system and method are provided for a station to dispense fuel to a vehicle, including an electric vehicle, without requiring dedicated access to a communications network, with the advantage that authorization for fleet vehicles or individuals can be obtained from an access management system, using a portable, wireless device, such as a smart phone or a dashboard appliance. The authorization is wirelessly relayed to the station by the wireless device, to enable the dispensing of fuel. Subsequently, a log comprising the transaction is provided to the access management system, through the same or a different wireless, mobile computing device. The log may also report status and other events, such as load shedding. | 05-14-2015 |
20150137988 | PATIENT IN-THE-LOOP PARTICIPATORY CARE AND MONITORING - Methods and systems for patient participatory care and monitoring are provided for applications including respiratory care, ECG monitoring, capnography, infusion pump alarm prevention/management, pressure sore prevention, incentive spirometry, consciousness monitoring during sedation, pain management and other care and monitoring modalities. A patient in-the-loop system includes an input interface for receiving data acquired from a monitoring, controlling or sensing device, a storage device for storing the data at a first location, and a processor for analyzing artifacts in the data and determining whether the patient provided a deliberate action with respect to the device as a response to a prompt or query. The processor can further initiate a variety of prompts and/or output queries stored in the storage device at a second location to the patient. The data derived from these patient-in-the-loop techniques are formatted to be received and interpreted by electronic medical record and electronic record keeping systems. | 05-21-2015 |
20150137989 | ELECTRICAL GAS METER AND APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REMOTELY TRANSMITTING GAS USAGE - Disclosed are an apparatus and method for remotely transmitting gas usage in a gas meter. The apparatus includes: a main body having a gas inlet and a gas outlet; a diaphragm assembly for pumping gas; a rotary slider controlling the amount of gas introduced to the diaphragm assembly; a counter calculating cumulatively the amount of gas introduced into or discharged from a valve; a remote interface unit digitizing the value cumulatively calculated by the counter to transmit the digitized value to a remote control unit; and a controller controlling the remote interface unit to counter the number of revolutions of the counter so that the cumulatively calculated value of the gas is digitized to display the digitized value on a display unit. The digitized value of the gas is transmitted to the remote control unit. Therefore, the apparatus can exactly measure the flow rate, reduce power consumption, and remotely check gas usage. | 05-21-2015 |
20150145689 | ADVANCED METERING INFRASTRUCTURE SITE SURVEY SYSTEM - An advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) site survey system is provided. The AMI site survey system includes a gateway simulation equipment and a smart meter simulation equipment. The gateway simulation equipment communicates with a server via a WAN communication protocol, and communicates with the smart meter simulation equipment via a LAN communication protocol. The smart meter simulation equipment sends a piece of power simulation information, and transmits the power simulation information to the gateway simulation equipment based on the LAN communication protocol. The gateway simulation equipment transmits the power simulation information to the server based on the WAN communication protocol so that the server records a network transmission status of the transmission of the power simulation information via the WAN communication protocol and the LAN communication protocol. | 05-28-2015 |
20150296277 | THREE-PHASE POWER LINE COMMUNICATION APPARATUS AND COMMUNICATION METHOD THEREOF - Disclosed are a three-phase power line communication apparatus and a communication method thereof, and more particularly, to a three-phase power line communication apparatus capable of establishing a network group for each of three phases, performing communication by each established network group, setting a communication plan by each established network group, and performing communication with meters installed on each phase, in order to solve the conventional communication collision occurring on a single network group, and a communication method thereof. Since a network group is established for each of three phases and communication is performed by each network group, communication can be performed precisely and systematically, and data exchange and data management between communication apparatuses can be facilitated. | 10-15-2015 |
20150308856 | AUTOMATIC FIXTURE MONITORING USING MOBILE LOCATION AND SENSOR DATA WITH SMART METER DATA - A method and system for monitoring resource information and user activity. The method includes acquiring one or more data streams from one or more resource meters and one or more electronic device sensors. Discrete events are computed from each data stream. A sequence of discrete sensor-meter event itemsets are extracted based on the events. Frequent sensor-meter event itemsets are discovered from the sequence of discrete event itemsets that occur together, and a frequency of occurrence of each frequent co-occurrence itemset is discovered. Rising sensor-meter event itemsets and falling sensor-meter event itemsets are matched based on appliance state models and the frequency of occurrence of each sensor-meter event itemset. Each individual fixture is identified. Each fixture cluster is classified to a fixture category. Based on the matched fixture events, fixture clusters, and categories, resource usage information and user activities are determined for each fixture usage event identified. | 10-29-2015 |
20150312656 | EXTENDED FLUID METER BATTERY LIFE APPARATUS AND METHODS - Extended fluid meter battery life apparatus and methods. In an embodiment, the fluid metering device may include a battery; a wireless communications unit powered by the battery; and a monitoring unit configured to monitor fluid usage information to determine whether the fluid usage information meets a predetermined condition. The wireless communications unit may be powered up if the fluid usage information meets the predetermined condition and the fluid usage information may be transmitted using the wireless communications unit. | 10-29-2015 |
20150319512 | REMOTE METER READING SYSTEM AND METHOD USING MULTIPLE MASTER DEVICES - This specification relates to a remote meter reading system using a plurality of master devices and a remote meter reading method thereof, and more particularly, a remote meter reading system using a plurality of master devices, capable of allowing for communication with another electricity meter modem which can replace one electricity meter modem when there is a trouble in communication between the one electricity meter modem and the master devices, allowing for fast and flexible reaction with respect to changes in communication network between the electricity meter modem and the master devices, and constructing a network path for communication with an optimal communication performance, all by way of enabling network connection and information sharing among master devices through communication between electricity meter modems and the plurality of master devices, and a remote meter reading method thereof. | 11-05-2015 |
20150323343 | Utility Meter Controlling The Conversion Range Of An ADC - A utility meter for measuring a utility parameter is disclosed, the utility meter including a measuring system, an analog-to-digital converter having a conversion range, and a control unit, the measurement system being able to transmit a measurement signal representative of the utility parameter to the analog-to-digital converter, and the analog-to-digital converter being able to convert the measurement signal into a digital bit number and transmit the digital bit number to the control unit. The control unit controls the transmission of an ADC control signal based on a set of digital bit numbers to the analog-to-digital converter so as to control the conversion range. Furthermore, a method of operating a utility meter is disclosed. | 11-12-2015 |
20150323344 | Detecting Fraud in Resource Distribution Systems - Detecting fraud in resource distribution systems includes determining a meter of a resource in a resource distribution system exhibits a characteristic indicative of fraud and increasing a collection frequency of measurements of a usage of the resource of the meter per unit of time. | 11-12-2015 |
20150325114 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A CONNECTION OF A METER TO A POWER LINE - The disclosure relates to a meter for monitoring usage of power provided by a power transmission system to a site. The meter comprises: a communication module to generate communications carried over the transmission system; a relay having a first position connecting power from the transmission system to the site and a second position disconnecting power; a request manager module to process messages from a head end associated with the transmission system; a meter module connected to a power feed associated with the transmission system to provide readings relating to the power used at the site; an event manager module to evaluate new events queued in a message queue received by the meter and after evaluating the new events to send a message to the head end relating to the earliest event in the message queue; a connection manager module managing the power connection to the transmission system. | 11-12-2015 |
20150330809 | SERVICE METHOD OF GAS APPLIANCES - A service method of gas appliances includes: Detecting the gas appliances at the client ends to generate detecting signals. Transmitting the detecting signals to a service end. Identifying which client end the detecting signals come from. Examining the detecting signals to find whether the gas appliance has an abnormal condition; and informing the client end when the abnormal condition is found. After all, the service end may monitor the gas appliances at the client end, and inform the client for repair when the gas appliance has detected an abnormal signal or has damaged parts. | 11-19-2015 |
20150345986 | SLAVE SUITABLE FOR ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - The slave is used in an energy management system for collecting meter-reading data from an energy meter for measuring an amount of electric energy supplied from a power source to a predetermined place through a distribution line. The slave includes: a first interface unit configured to communicate with an upper device; a second interface unit configured to communicate with an electric appliance installed in the predetermined place; and a third interface unit configured to perform first wireless communication using an electric wave with a communication terminal. One of the first interface unit and the second interface unit is a wired communication unit configured to perform power line communication using the distribution line, and the other of the first interface unit and the second interface unit is a wireless communication unit configured to perform second wireless communication using an electric wave. | 12-03-2015 |
20150362333 | ASSET MANAGEMENT FOR PHYSICAL ASSETS - A technology is discussed for a wireless transfer station that is operable to communicate management information. Measurement information can be received from one or more other wireless transfer stations. The measurement information can be aggregated from the one or more other wireless transfer stations. The measurement information can be analyzed to determine a status of the one or more wireless transfer stations using the aggregated energy measurement information. | 12-17-2015 |
20150365737 | Wireless transfer station with display - A technology for a wireless transfer station that is operable to display information. The wireless transfer station can include a wireless transfer station housing with an outer surface, wherein the outer surface includes an optically viewable portion integrated into the outer surface of the wireless transfer station housing. The wireless transfer station can also include an energy information module that can be located within the wireless transfer station housing. The energy information module can be configured to provide selected energy information for display. The wireless transfer station can also include a display integrated into the wireless transfer station housing and located beneath the optically viewable portion of the outer surface, wherein the display is viewable to a user through the optically viewable portion. The display can be configured to display the energy information from the energy information module. | 12-17-2015 |
20160011005 | SMART METER SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE | 01-14-2016 |
20160011006 | SMART METER SYSTEM COMMUNICATION METHODS | 01-14-2016 |
20160011007 | System for Measuring and Reporting Resource Usage | 01-14-2016 |
20160011008 | DIRECTIVE ARRAY FOR DRIVE-BY METER READING | 01-14-2016 |
20160025514 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING POWER THROUGH THE FLOW OF WATER - Examples of generating power through the flow of water are disclosed. In one example, remote water meter monitoring system includes an energy converter and a sensor. The energy converter is in fluid connectivity with water flowing through a pipe, the energy convertor being driven by a mechanical energy of water flowing through the pipe to convert the mechanical energy into an electrical energy for charging a battery connected to the energy converter. The sensor detects a level of a property of the water, the sensor being powered by the battery connected to the energy converter. | 01-28-2016 |
20160027296 | USING DEVICE DATA COLLECTED FROM OTHER PROXIMATE DEVICES - An embodiment provides a method, including: in a first end user electronic device, running an application that uses device collected data; collecting, using the first end user electronic device, device data for the application; accessing, using a processor of the first end user electronic device, device data collected by another end user electronic device proximate to the first end user electronic device; and using, in the running of the application, one or more of the accessed device data and the collected device data. Other embodiments are described and claimed. | 01-28-2016 |
20160041002 | ADAPTIVE SAMPLING OF SMART METER DATA - In an approach for adaptive sampling of smart meter data, a computer retrieves one or more balancing constraints associated with one or more smart meter sensors. The computer retrieves meter sensor data from the one or more smart meter sensors according to the one or more balancing constraints. The computer determines a subsample of the meter sensor data, and then transmits the subsample of the meter sensor data to an optimization engine for use in solving an optimization problem. | 02-11-2016 |
20160066066 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR POWER PROFILING OF HARDWARE COMPONENTS OF NETWORKING DEVICES - Aspects of the present invention include telemetry measurement in a networking device. In embodiments of the present invention, fine granularity power measurement can be achieved at a component level within a networking device without additional hardware like a multi meter. Coarse level granularity of power management can also be achieved in embodiments of the present invention. | 03-03-2016 |
20160069039 | HYBRID UTILITY COVER - A utility cover for covering an opening includes an outer frame formed of a first material and an insert within the outer frame formed of a second material, wherein at least a portion of the insert is substantially transparent to wireless communications. | 03-10-2016 |
20160080837 | METHODS AND APPARATUS TO LOCATE UTILITY METER ENDPOINTS OF INTEREST - Methods and apparatus are disclosed to determine the location of endpoints of interest. An example method involves in response to detecting a transmission from the endpoint, determining whether the endpoint is an endpoint of interest. If the endpoint is the endpoint of interest, the example method involves sending a first command to the endpoint to increase a transmission rate of the endpoint, determining an estimated location of the endpoint using signal strengths of subsequent transmissions from the endpoint, and enabling the transmission rate of the endpoint to decrease. | 03-17-2016 |
20160080840 | On-Board Feature Extraction and Selection from High Frequency Electricity Consumption Data - Power consumption related data for the power source supplying an entire household or other group of appliances is captured at a relatively high data rate. The raw data is analyzed to remove redundancy and to identify pertinent features, and then the more informative of these features are then selected. The analysis and selection of features are pre-processing tasks that are performed on-site, on the same piece of hardware that acquires the raw data and transmits the pre-processed data to the server. By transmitting selective data to a remote server, only a low bandwidth is required for the transmission. | 03-17-2016 |
20160084672 | ELECTRICITY METER - There is provided an improved method of managing the supply of electricity. The method comprises transferring, via contactless communication, first data from an electricity meter to a portable storage medium. The first data may be historical data collected by the electricity meter and related to the supply of electricity by the electricity meter. The method further comprises transferring, via contactless communication, second data from the portable storage medium to the electricity meter. The second data comprises instruction for the electricity meter to supply electricity. | 03-24-2016 |
20160094897 | High Output Integrated Utility Meter Reporting System - A water meter transmission system reads data from a water meter and wirelessly transmits data to a central billing or receiving system. Disclosed transmission systems are fully integrated and contained within pit housings such that electronic components are well protected. A spiral antenna is integrated into a specially configured integrated antenna cover which fits into the top cover of a pit housing. The antenna cover and/or upper lip area of the upper lip of the main housing may comprise a distal barrier and a medial barrier used to exclude water and contaminates. Disclosed transmission systems offer high output and low power consumption and vitiate the need for meter readers to physically access a water meter or other meters. | 03-31-2016 |
20160100233 | OCCUPANCY PATTERN DETECTION, ESTIMATION AND PREDICTION - A system for detecting occupancy of an enclosure may include a sensing system adapted to monitor utility information for the enclosure which tends to indicate a likelihood of occupancy of the enclosure. The utility information may include power line information, Smart Meter information, Wi-Fi information, etc. The system may also include a processing system programmed to estimate occupancy of the enclosure based at least in part on the monitored utility information by the sensing system. | 04-07-2016 |
20160105735 | ELECTRICAL ACTIVITY SENSOR DEVICE FOR DETECTING ELECTRICAL ACTIVITY AND ELECTRICAL ACTIVITY MONITORING APPARATUS - An electrical activity monitoring device based on an RFID sensor device attachable to a power cable of an electrical device for monitoring the electrical status of the electrical device. The device comprises an antenna element which performs the dual functions of magnetically coupling with an electrical pulse generated in the power cable in response to a change of electrical power state of the electrical device and to wirelessly transmit data to an RFID reader. An electrical activity monitoring apparatus is also provided for monitoring the electrical status of at least one electrical device connected to a power supply network by a respective power cable provided with an RFID sensor device. The electrical activity monitoring apparatus comprises an RFID reader for communicating with the RFID sensor device. | 04-14-2016 |
20160109262 | SATELLITE-BASED LOW POWER RESOURCE METER READING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods for monitoring a utility resource are disclosed. One system includes a plurality of utility resource usage capture components connected to a utility resource management computing system via a satellite communications network. Each of the utility resource usage capture components includes a utility resource meter interface and a satellite communication module. The utility resource meter interface is configured to communicate with a plurality of different types of utility resource meters from a plurality of different manufacturers. Each of the plurality of utility resource usage capture components has a low power state and an operational state and configured to automatically enter the operational state, interrogate an associated utility resource meter to obtain a reading and communicate the reading via the satellite communication module, and return to the low power state. The utility resource management computing system stores information regarding a location of each of the utility resource usage capture components and is configured to receive and store readings from each of the plurality of utility resource usage capture components. | 04-21-2016 |
20160131501 | CORRELATING METER DATA TO DETECT MISMAPPINGS - Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with identifying mismappings of electric meters using voltage data are described. In one embodiment, a method includes selecting an electric meter from a plurality of electric meters represented in a connectivity model. The connectivity model is an electronic data structure that specifies information about connections between the plurality of electric meters and transformers in an electric distribution grid. The example method may also include analyzing mismapping metrics that characterize voltage data about the selected electric meter in relation to a set of electric meters that are geographically related to the selected electric meter to determine whether the connectivity model includes a mismapping of the selected electric meter. | 05-12-2016 |
20160138939 | METERING AND MEASURING POINT SYSTEM FOR MEASURING AND METERING ELECTRICAL ENERGY/ELECTRICITY AND METHOD - An inductive drawing or feeding device for inductively drawing off or feeding in electrical energy/electricity by electric vehicles is connected to a power grid. The inductive drawing or feeding device includes a measuring device configured to measure at least one physical parameter representing the electrical energy inductively transmitted through the associated drawing or feeding device. The inductive drawing or feeding device also includes an identifier for identifying the owner of the connection of the inductive drawing or feeding device. The inductive drawing of feeding device further includes a comparing device configured to compare the at least one physical parameter measured at a connecting side with at least one physical parameter measured at a drawing off or feeding side. | 05-19-2016 |
20160148501 | Multi-Layer Wireless Communication - Methods, systems, and apparatus for wireless communications. One device includes one or more sensing components; a microcontroller unit; and a wireless module, the wireless module configured to selectively operate in an active mode and a low power sleep mode, wherein the microcontroller unit is configured to analyze signals from the one or more sensing components and to selectively place the wireless modules in the active or sleep mode depending on the analysis. | 05-26-2016 |
20160150298 | SYSTEM FOR UTILITY USAGE TRIGGERING ACTION - The present disclosure relates to using sensors and measurements from sensors to trigger actions within a network. Specifically, various techniques and systems are provided for measuring usage or measurements, using sensors, of utilities or other environmental factors, generating profiles based on the usage or measurements, and triggering actions within a network device based on the usage, measurements and profiles. Embodiments of the present invention may include, for example, compiling historical usage based on the use or measurements detected by a network device and generating a usage profile based on that use or measurements. The normal usage profile may be compared with the usage over a certain predetermined period of time to detect any abnormal use or measurements from the network device, and an action may be taken as a result of an abnormality. | 05-26-2016 |
20160162831 | DRAFT BEER SUPPLY CHAIN SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Supply chain systems and methods are disclosed for monitoring fluid levels in liquid containers, such as kegs. Embodiments include sensors that fit within a keg's false bottom, measure the weight of the keg, and transmit the weight information to a computer database via a wireless network. Other embodiments include an RFID device with information about a characteristic of the liquid within a keg (such as brand and/or type of beer) that may be attached to the keg and paired with the sensor so the sensor can transmit information about the characteristic of the liquid in the keg. In alternate embodiments, the sensor's transmitter is short range and an uplink/gateway is used to receive information from the sensor and relay that sensor's information to a broader wireless network. Multiple containers in close proximity may each be fitted with an RFID device and sensor and communicate their individual information to the database. | 06-09-2016 |
20160173962 | WIRELESS METROLOGY COMMUNICATION | 06-16-2016 |
20160183795 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE SYSTEM TO DISPLAY BIOMETRIC FEEDBACK - Particular embodiments described herein provide for an electronic device, such as a wrist worn electronic device. One particular example implementation of the electronic device may include a main housing, a main display in the main housing, a wrist strap that allows the main housing to be secured to a user such that the main display is located on top of a wrist of the user, and a secondary display located on the wrist strap, where the secondary display communicates information to the user without the user having to turn the wrist. | 06-30-2016 |
20160187157 | Utility Meter Having a Meter Register Utilizing a Multiple Resonance Antenna - A utility meter includes: a meter body having a chamber through which material passes; a measuring unit contained within the chamber; and a register attached to the chamber. The register includes a register body and an electronics unit operatively connected to the measuring unit and positioned within the register body. The electronics unit coacts with the measuring unit to determine at least one of a volume of flow and a flow rate of a fluid traveling through the chamber. The register also includes a multiple resonance antenna operatively connected to the electronics unit and positioned within the register. The multiple resonance antenna is configured to resonate at at least a first frequency band and a second frequency band such that a signal representing at least one of the volume of flow and the flow rate is transmitted to a remote unit within the first frequency band when the utility meter is surrounded by a first medium and the signal representing at least one of the volume of flow and the flow rate is transmitted to the remote unit within the second frequency band when the utility meter is surrounded by a second medium. | 06-30-2016 |
20160195409 | MONITORING SYSTEM | 07-07-2016 |
20160198243 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR READING A METER | 07-07-2016 |
20160198245 | SYNCHRONIZED METROLOGY IN POWER GENERATION AND DISTRIBUTION NETWORKS | 07-07-2016 |
20160198246 | Interrogation signal parameter configuration | 07-07-2016 |
20160252367 | INTELLIGENT ELECTRONIC DEVICE | 09-01-2016 |
20160381438 | Method and Apparatus to Dynamically Control How Often Temperature Readings are Received - A control circuit dynamically controls how often temperature readings are received from a communication device such as an RFID tag having an integral temperature sensor. The communication device can be disposed to monitor an internal temperature of, for example, a delivery container. By one approach the control circuit dynamically controls how often the temperature readings are received as a function, at least in part, of local conditions for the delivery container. By one approach the aforementioned local conditions pertain to the contents of the delivery container. Examples in these regards include a temperature-based state of the contents, a volume-based metric of the contents, and mass-based metrics of the contents. By another approach, in lieu of the foregoing or in combination therewith, the aforementioned local conditions can pertain to ambient conditions as regards the delivery container. | 12-29-2016 |
20160381440 | MOBILE MONITORING PROCESS WITH GAS SENSING TECHNOLOGY - A system and method for mobile monitoring is provided. The system may include a mobile communications unit and a plurality of global positioning system “GPS” enabled sensors each configured to wirelessly transmit geographic data, liquid level data, and gas sensing data to the mobile communications unit. The system may further include a database configured to store a location associated with the mobile communication unit, the database further configured to receive the geographic data and liquid level data from the plurality of GPS enabled sensors, the database also configured to store baseline site survey data corresponding to the locations associated with the mobile communications unit. | 12-29-2016 |
20170234698 | Intelligent Receptacle | 08-17-2017 |
20170238071 | WIDE AREA ULTRA-LOW PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM | 08-17-2017 |
20180023990 | Method and Apparatus for Collecting and Providing Sensor Data | 01-25-2018 |
20180025549 | METERS AND UPGRADED METER COVER WITH SENSOR | 01-25-2018 |
20180025625 | ENHANCEMENTS INTRODUCED IN A PORTABLE MOISTURE METER DEVICE FOR REMOTE USE | 01-25-2018 |
20190147316 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A MULTI-TENANT WIRELESS CHARGING PLATFORM | 05-16-2019 |