×

Systems and methods for remote utility metering and meter monitoring

  • US 8,994,551 B2
  • Filed: 08/14/2012
  • Issued: 03/31/2015
  • Est. Priority Date: 06/08/2006
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A remote water meter monitoring system comprising:

  • a water meter body coupling a water supply source to a water customer;

    a flow meter contained within the water body that is configured to measure a flow rate of water through the water meter;

    a power supply system disposed within the water meter body, the power supply system including at least one battery and a power generator, wherein the power generator is powered by a flow of water through the water meter body;

    a controller disposed within the water meter body and communicatively coupled to the water meter body and power supply system; and

    at least one antenna connected to the controller; and

    wherein the controller is coupled to the flow meter and configured to calculate water consumption based on signals received from the flow meter; and

    wherein the controller is configured to perform steps comprising;

    awaking from a sleep state;

    checking battery charge levels and adjusting a charging cycle in response to available power;

    preparing a data packet for transmitting water consumption data to a collector;

    listening for a communication from a collector;

    transmitting the prepared data packet; and

    returning to a sleep state.

View all claims
  • 5 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×