Techniques are directed to using communication metric data associated with multiple modulation schemes to achieve a link quality metric that is representative of the link as a whole, across the multiple modulation schemes that may be employed on the link. A calculation of a link quality metric may be triggered by a network layer transmission attempt, with communication metrics accumulated at the link layer of the link. A filter used to calculate the link quality metric may be updated based on network layer transmission attempts, based on successful and/or unsuccessful transmissions at a Media Access Control (MAC) layer of the link. More generally, a calculation of link quality may be triggered by a higher layer transmission attempt while being calculated based on transmission attempts at a lower layer of the link.
Techniques for establishing communications within a multicast group of nodes included in a mesh network include a method comprising: transmitting, by a node included in a mesh network using unicast, a first request to join a multicast group to a multicast group leader of the multicast group; and in response to determining that no message acknowledging the first request has been received from the multicast group leader, broadcasting, by the node, a second request to join the multicast group.
An example pressure-sensing device includes a pipe or conduit having upstream and downstream connectors for respective upstream and downstream transducers to measure fluid (e.g., water) flow. The conduit may be made at least in part of a resiliently deformable material. A deformable electrode of a capacitor may be mounted in contact with a dry-side surface of an area of the resiliently deformable material. The wet-side surface of the area may define part of a pathway for a flow of the fluid. In operation, the area of the resiliently deformable material changes a location and/or a shape of the deformable electrode in response to changes in fluid pressure. A fixed electrode of the capacitor is separated by a dielectric material (e.g., air or an insulator) from the deformable electrode, and a circuit determines a pressure of the fluid based at least in part on a capacitance between the deformable electrode and the fixed electrode.
G01F 1/86 - Indirect mass flowmeters, e.g. measuring volume flow and density, temperature, or pressure
G01M 3/26 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors
Cost effective pressure sensors for gas meters are described herein. In an example, responsive to an abnormal condition at an ultrasonic metrology unit of a gas meter, rates of pressure sensor operation are increased. In the example, the operations may include: measuring gas-environment pressure values; measuring contemporaneous air-environment pressure values; calculating pressure difference values of the gas-environment pressure values minus the contemporaneous air-environment pressure values; and comparing pressure difference values to one or more threshold values.
G01F 1/20 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by using mechanical effects by detection of dynamic effects of the flow
5.
Metrology module adaptable for use in multiple gas meters
A gas meter control system is adapted for use in gas meters having a plurality of different sizes (e.g., ability to measure different flowrates and/or different gas volumes per billing cycle) and different functional capabilities. In an example, the gas meter control system is configured to recognize and identify a metrology unit, sensor(s), switch(es), valve(s), valve motor(s), and/or other device(s) within a gas meter. Having identified devices present within a gas-environment and an air-environment of the meter, the control system selects and executes appropriate software to operate the identified devices. Addition of an additional component to the meter (e.g., an earthquake sensor or a tamper sensor) results in identification of the added component and execution of appropriate control software. Accordingly, the gas meter control system replaces a number of control systems configured to operate a single specific meter and/or configuration.
G01F 15/063 - Indicating or recording devices for remote indication using electrical means
G01F 15/00 - MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW, OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
G01F 15/18 - Supports or connecting means for meters
Techniques are provided for ad-hoc authenticated group discovery and data sharing in a mesh network. A group of devices is created without leaving a security gap due to the open communication needed to establish the discovery of the devices forming the group. The group can be authenticated autonomously following network discovery of the devices. Instead of requiring global pre-assigned keys for authentication, the devices in the group are authenticated with signatures and certificate passing thereby providing strong security. The efficiency of data sharing between the devices of the network, such as a mesh network, can also be increased. One or more devices may act as a bridge device between devices of a same group that are not in direct wireless communication with each other to reduce re-broadcasts within the mesh network.
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for establishing communications within a multicast group of nodes included in a mesh network. The technique includes receiving a first unicast message that includes a multicast join request from a member node included in the multicast group, wherein the multicast join request specifies a first shortest path from the member node to a multicast group leader also included in the multicast group. The technique also includes forwarding the first unicast message to the multicast group leader along the first shortest path, and forwarding a second unicast message from the multicast group leader to the member node along a second shortest path, wherein the second unicast message includes a multicast join acknowledgment. The technique further includes declaring a first node as a multicast forwarder in the multicast group, wherein the first node is responsible for forwarding the second unicast message.
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for establishing communications within a multicast group of nodes included in a mesh network. The technique includes detecting that a first message related to the member node joining the multicast group has not been received from a multicast group leader included in the multicast group. The technique also includes in response, generating a first broadcast message for the member node that includes a multicast join request. The technique further includes forwarding the first broadcast message to one or more nodes included in the mesh network that are direct neighbors of the member node, wherein at least one node included in the one or more nodes further forwards the first broadcast message based on a first maximum hop limit.
Techniques are disclosed for promoting more desirable fluid flow within a section of pipe between upstream and downstream transducers in a fluid meter (e.g., a water or gas meter). To create better fluid flow characteristics, an insert may be installed within the section of pipe. The insert may be configured with an upper portion and a lower portion that are connected in the manufacturing process. The insert may include mirror supports configured to result in low pressure drop and stable flow conditions. The mirror supports (upstream and downstream) reflect the ultrasonic signals sent between the upstream and downstream piezo transducers. A fluid stabilizer may be connected to one of the upper portion or the lower portion of the insert. The fluid stabilizer may include a conical central portion and four blades to smooth fluid flow between the transducers and associated mirrors.
G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
G01F 1/663 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters by measuring Doppler frequency shift
G01F 1/667 - Arrangements of transducers for ultrasonic flowmeters; Circuits for operating ultrasonic flowmeters
10.
Reliable link quality estimation in multi-rate networks
Techniques are directed to using communication metric data associated with multiple modulation schemes to achieve a link quality metric that is representative of the link as a whole, across the multiple modulation schemes that may be employed on the link. A calculation of a link quality metric may be triggered by a network layer transmission attempt, with communication metrics accumulated at the link layer of the link. A filter used to calculate the link quality metric may be updated based on network layer transmission attempts, based on successful and/or unsuccessful transmissions at a Media Access Control (MAC) layer of the link. More generally, a calculation of link quality may be triggered by a higher layer transmission attempt while being calculated based on transmission attempts at a lower layer of the link.
Techniques configure a network to relay data from a node to a root device are described herein. In an example, one-hop neighbors of the node are determined and ranked according to link quality. The ranked neighbor nodes may be considered potential “parent nodes” of the node. The ranked nodes may be divided into a plurality of groups according to link quality. A parent node may be selected from among the “best” group of one-hop neighbor nodes and may be used to relay data for the node to and/or from the router or other device. The node continues to use the parent node at least until its ranking removes it from the best group or falls below a threshold value. After the ranking of the parent falls below such a prescribed threshold it may be replaced by selection of a replacement parent from the group of one-hop upstream neighbors having the best link quality.
An enclosure for an ultrasonic transducer is configured for variable moisture protection. During storage and transport, the enclosure may be kept in a sealed state, which prevents entry of humidity. During operation in a wet environment (e.g., in a water meter attached to a pipe) water leaks into the enclosure very slowly, even when sealed. Accordingly, a tube is opened, allowing water molecules to be exhausted from the enclosure and absorbed by a desiccant within the water meter. In an example, a tube passes from an interior of the enclosure to an exterior of the enclosure. An end cap on the tube prevents humid air from entering the enclosure during storage and transport of the ultrasonic transducer. During operation in a humid environment, removal of the end cap allows air exchange to ventilate the enclosure and allows a desiccant outside the enclosure to absorb humidity exhausted from the enclosure.
G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
G01N 29/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object - Details
Methods and devices for providing routing path and transit delay time data to a device running traceroute on an IP network comprising routing tunnels are described herein. In examples, a tunnel entrance device may copy a hop limit value associated with a traceroute probe into a hop limit field of a tunneled IP header. In other examples, the tunnel entrance device may perform address spoofing to generate an error message with a source address corresponding to an intermediate device disposed within a routing tunnel. In this way, a device executing traceroute may be able to receive network addresses corresponding to intermediate devices in a routing tunnel in order to perform network diagnostics, construct routing tables, determine more efficient routing paths, and so on.
Techniques are directed to using communication metric data associated with multiple modulation schemes to achieve a link quality metric that is representative of the link as a whole, across the multiple modulation schemes that may be employed on the link. A calculation of a link quality metric may be triggered by a network layer transmission attempt, with communication metrics accumulated at the link layer of the link. A filter used to calculate the link quality metric may be updated based on network layer transmission attempts, based on successful and/or unsuccessful transmissions at a Media Access Control (MAC) layer of the link. More generally, a calculation of link quality may be triggered by a higher layer transmission attempt while being calculated based on transmission attempts at a lower layer of the link.
Techniques are directed to determining, based at least in part on link quality metric data associated with communication over a link between the first node and a second node, to send an information message to the second node preceded by sending a corresponding polling message to the second node or to send the information message to the second node not preceded by sending the corresponding polling message to the second node. Based at least in part on the determining, a node may send the information message to the second node preceded by sending the corresponding polling message to the second node or sending the information message to the second node not preceded by sending the corresponding polling message to the second node. Overhead associated with polling messages may be reduced.
A first node operates in a network. The first node sends a polling message to a second node over a link at a first data rate, receiving an acknowledgement message from the second node. Based at least in part on receiving the acknowledgement message, the first node determines the second node is available to receive an information message. Based at least in part on the determining the second node is available to receive the information message, the first node sends the information message to the second node over the link at a second data rate. The second data rate is based at least on an indication of observed behavior of the link and the first data rate is based at least on the second data rate. For example, the first node may determine the first data rate to be a next slowest available data rate than the second data rate.
H04L 1/16 - Arrangements for detecting or preventing errors in the information received by using return channel in which the return channel carries supervisory signals, e.g. repetition request signals
H04W 40/12 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on transmission quality or channel quality
Techniques are directed to determining a rank value associated with a first network node. An example method includes determining a second network node indicated as being a preferred parent network node for the first network node. A first rank value is processed to determine a second rank value, the first rank value corresponding to a path from the second network node to a destination network node, including rounding up the first rank value in a predetermined manner to at least a second next higher integral rank value than the first rank value, to determine the second rank value. The second rank value is processed with at least a third rank value to determine the rank value associated with the first network node, the third rank value associated with a path from one of a plurality of candidate parent network nodes, for the first network node, to the destination network node.
Techniques configure a network to relay data from a node to a root device are described herein. In an example, one-hop neighbors of the node are determined and ranked according to link quality. The ranked neighbor nodes may be considered potential “parent nodes” of the node. The ranked nodes may be divided into a plurality of groups according to link quality. A parent node may be selected from among the “best” group of one-hop neighbor nodes and may be used to relay data for the node to and/or from the router or other device. The node continues to use the parent node at least until its ranking removes it from the best group or falls below a threshold value. After the ranking of the parent falls below such a prescribed threshold it may be replaced by selection of a replacement parent from the group of one-hop upstream neighbors having the best link quality.
Techniques for operating a static fluid meter are described herein. In an example, a sampling interval is identified. The sampling interval is a period of time within which an electromagnetic or acoustic device measures or samples a rate of the fluid flow. The sampling interval may be approximately 1 second long; however, the interval may be longer or shorter depending on the design requirements of a particular system. A random number is generated and/or received. A sampling time within the sampling interval may be determined based at least in part on the random number. By sampling at a different and randomly determined location within each of a series of sampling intervals a more accurate fluid measurement may be obtained.
G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
G01F 1/58 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by using electric or magnetic effects by electromagnetic flowmeters
G01F 15/00 - MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW, OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
A gas meter having a sensor module and at least one bypass module is described herein. In an example of the gas meter, an enclosure defines an interior cavity within which a manifold may be configured to include a sensor module connector, at least one bypass module connector, and an exhaust port. A sensor module may be connected to the sensor module connector of the manifold and may measure a flowrate through the sensor module and into the manifold. A bypass module may be connected to the bypass module connector of the manifold to bypass gas around the sensor module. A processor may be used to compute a gas flowrate through the meter using inputs including the measured flowrate and data based on the measured flowrate to adjust for gas that bypassed the sensor module.
Networked utility services handle data-flow in a system to operate electrical vehicle charging stations. In an example, first and second utility companies may operate in first and second respective areas. A user may have a residence in the first area and may have an electric vehicle at a vehicle charging station in the second area. The user may provide identification at the vehicle charging station in the second area, and the user's vehicle may be charged at that location using electricity from the second utility. Data including the user's identification and the electricity consumed in the charging may be sent to the first utility serving the area including the user's residence. The first utility may bill the user for the electricity used to charge the user's vehicle at the remote vehicle charging station. The charging station, both utilities and/or other parties may share in the receipts.
G06Q 20/40 - Authorisation, e.g. identification of payer or payee, verification of customer or shop credentials; Review and approval of payers, e.g. check of credit lines or negative lists
22.
Packet servicing for enhanced capability in time-slotted systems
Disclosed are techniques to provide data at listening event offsets, using a buffering scheme having a common buffer. Received data, to be transmitted at the listening event offsets, is stored into the common buffer without classification to listening event offsets. Data to be transmitted at an upcoming listening event offset is identified in the common buffer prior to the listening event offset. Example techniques provide for simpler reconfigurability of listening events offsets, as well as transmitting data at each listening event offset that is responsive to a state of the system prior to the listening event offset.
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
Techniques are directed to using communication metric data associated with multiple modulation schemes to achieve a link quality metric that is representative of the link as a whole, across the multiple modulation schemes that may be employed on the link. A calculation of a link quality metric may be triggered by a network layer transmission attempt, with communication metrics accumulated at the link layer of the link. A filter used to calculate the link quality metric may be updated based on network layer transmission attempts, based on successful and/or unsuccessful transmissions at a Media Access Control (MAC) layer of the link. More generally, a calculation of link quality may be triggered by a higher layer transmission attempt while being calculated based on transmission attempts at a lower layer of the link.
Techniques are directed to using communication metric data associated with multiple modulation schemes to achieve a link quality metric that is representative of the link as a whole, across the multiple modulation schemes that may be employed on the link. A calculation of a link quality metric may be triggered by a network layer transmission attempt, with communication metrics accumulated at the link layer of the link. A filter used to calculate the link quality metric may be updated based on network layer transmission attempts, based on successful and/or unsuccessful transmissions at a Media Access Control (MAC) layer of the link. More generally, a calculation of link quality may be triggered by a higher layer transmission attempt while being calculated based on transmission attempts at a lower layer of the link.
A method for sending communications with dynamic data correction to at least one receiving device includes dividing a message into one or more message blocks and determining corresponding redundancy blocks for the one or more message blocks, the redundancy blocks to be used by at least one of the receiving devices for message block detection or message block correction. The method further includes constructing a data packet including a header and a data payload including the one or more message blocks and the corresponding redundancy blocks. The construction of the data packet is such that it is processable by receiving devices that are configured to recognize and process the corresponding redundancy blocks and also processable by other receiving devices that cannot recognize the presence of the corresponding redundancy blocks. The method further includes sending the constructed data packet to the at least one receiving device.
H04L 1/00 - Arrangements for detecting or preventing errors in the information received
H03M 13/05 - Error detection or forward error correction by redundancy in data representation, i.e. code words containing more digits than the source words using block codes, i.e. a predetermined number of check bits joined to a predetermined number of information bits
H03M 13/29 - Coding, decoding or code conversion, for error detection or error correction; Coding theory basic assumptions; Coding bounds; Error probability evaluation methods; Channel models; Simulation or testing of codes combining two or more codes or code structures, e.g. product codes, generalised product codes, concatenated codes, inner and outer codes
26.
Transducer enclosure to protect and position transducer wiring
A plug is adapted for connection to an ultrasonic transducer to protect and guide wiring during storage, transportation, and the manufacturing process. The plug protects and orients wires to allow for automated manufacturing and to provide an improved connection between the transducer and an electronic printed circuit board. The plug may include a first portion having wire guide(s) and a second portion configured for attachment to the transducer. The plug includes at least one wire guide to protect wire(s) that connect the ultrasonic transducer to a printed circuit board. A wire extends through a passage defined in each wire guide on a first portion of the plug. The first portion slides with respect to the second portion to expose portions of first and second wires carried within the first and second channels, respectively. Once exposed, the wires can be soldered to a PCB in an automated manner.
G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
G01N 29/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object - Details
An enclosure for an ultrasonic transducer is configured for variable moisture protection. During storage and transport, the enclosure may be kept in a sealed state, which prevents entry of humidity. During operation in a wet environment (e.g., in a water meter attached to a pipe) water leaks into the enclosure very slowly, even when sealed. Accordingly, a tube is opened, allowing water molecules to be exhausted from the enclosure and absorbed by a desiccant within the water meter. In an example, a tube passes from an interior of the enclosure to an exterior of the enclosure. An end cap on the tube prevents humid air from entering the enclosure during storage and transport of the ultrasonic transducer. During operation in a humid environment, removal of the end cap allows air exchange to ventilate the enclosure and allows a desiccant outside the enclosure to absorb humidity exhausted from the enclosure.
G01F 1/00 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow
G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
G01N 29/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object - Details
Techniques are disclosed for configuring a bi-material enclosure for an acoustic sensor assembly, such as for use in a water or gas metering applications, or other applications using piezo and/or transducer devices. A plastic housing with mechanical reinforcements (e.g., 40% glass fiber) provides the advantage of strength and resistance to a high-pressure environment encountered during use. Use of a plastic sleeve having less or no reinforcements provides more consistent signal reception and data generation between different transducer assemblies under the same or similar conditions. Accordingly, the bi-material transducer enclosure provides a high resistance to pressure and/or high reproducibility of signal-transmission characteristics between transducer assemblies.
G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
G01N 29/22 - Investigating or analysing materials by the use of ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves; Visualisation of the interior of objects by transmitting ultrasonic or sonic waves through the object - Details
Techniques for computing electrical phase of electrical metering devices are described. In an example, data indicating zero-crossing times at first and second metering devices is obtained. A time-difference between the zero-crossing times may be determined. In a first example, the time-difference may be based at least in part on calculations involving a first value of a first free-run timer on a first metering device, a second value of a second free-run timer on a second metering device, and a time of a transmission between the metering devices. In a second example, the time-difference may be based at least in part on calculations involving a start or end time of a time-slot of a spread spectrum radio frequency transmission scheme. A phase difference between the first zero-crossing and the second zero-crossing may be determined, based at least in part on the determined time-difference.
H04L 7/033 - Speed or phase control by the received code signals, the signals containing no special synchronisation information using the transitions of the received signal to control the phase of the synchronising-signal- generating means, e.g. using a phase-locked loop
H04W 4/38 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for collecting sensor information
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
H04L 7/00 - Arrangements for synchronising receiver with transmitter
30.
Precise time synchronization for communication devices in networks
Techniques for employing precise transmission capabilities of a physical (PHY) layer to transmit time-synchronization beacons at an edge-of-field-resolution increment of a field of MAC layer frame. In some examples, the PHY layer may transmit beacons with a greater precision than permitted by lower-resolution MAC layer header fields. The communication protocol may specify the size of the field that is populated with timing information at a first precision. However, the PHY layer may be capable of transmitting with a second precision that is greater than the first precision. Thus, to virtually increase the time-synchronization resolution of the beacons, the beacons may be transmitted by the PHY layer at an edge-of-field resolution of the MAC layer header field. In this way, the first precision of the timing information in the MAC layer header field is virtually increased to the second precision of the PHY layer.
Techniques are directed to opportunistically communicating using a modulation scheme that is other than the preferred modulation scheme, to update communication metric data for the second modulation scheme, such as a modulation scheme that has not been used as much as the first modulation scheme. The second modulation scheme may be associated with a higher data rate than the preferred modulation scheme. If communication using the second modulation scheme is successful, subsequent communication may be carried out exclusively using the second modulation scheme, and the communication metrics may develop such that the second modulation scheme becomes the preferred modulation scheme.
A decontamination device removes particles from a gas flow and is usable in a gas metering device. The decontamination device may include an upper portion defining a plurality of openings and a lower portion attached to the upper portion. In an example, the lower portion includes a first curved ramp to redirect the gas flow and a plurality of fingers in a path of the redirected gas flow. First and second flow pipes receive incoming gas and bifurcate the gas flow, which is redirected at the first curved ramp. The fingers contact and remove particles in the redirected gas flow. A second curved ramp may include at least one hole to bifurcate the gas flow into a first gas flow passing through the at least one hole and a second gas flow redirected by the second curved ramp to pass through the plurality of openings defined in the upper portion.
B01D 45/08 - Separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours by gravity, inertia, or centrifugal forces by utilising inertia by impingement against baffle separators
Methods and devices for providing routing path and transit delay time data to a device running traceroute on an IP network comprising routing tunnels are described herein. In examples, a tunnel entrance device may copy a hop limit value associated with a traceroute probe into a hop limit field of a tunneled IP header. In other examples, the tunnel entrance device may perform address spoofing to generate an error message with a source address corresponding to an intermediate device disposed within a routing tunnel. In this way, a device executing traceroute may be able to receive network addresses corresponding to intermediate devices in a routing tunnel in order to perform network diagnostics, construct routing tables, determine more efficient routing paths, and so on.
Techniques for controlling packet transmission levels in a multi-hop network may be performed in a distributed manner. Load-control functionality may be distributed among a plurality of nodes within a network, allowing such nodes to send feedback to upstream nodes, and receive feedback from downstream nodes. In an example, received packets are measured, such as by summing sizes of received packets over time, to determine a received traffic-level. Transmitted packets are measured, such as by summing sizes of transmitted packets over time, to determine a transmitted traffic-level. Feedback may be sent to at least one source of the received packets based at least in part on the received traffic-level and the transmitted traffic-level. The feedback may indicate a desired rate for the sender to transmit. A node may receive data from upstream node(s) and from an internal device, such as a metrology unit. Both data sources may be controlled by feedback.
A device and method for receiving communications with dynamic data correction, the method including receiving at a receiving device a data packet from a sending device, the data packet including a header, and a data payload including one or more message blocks and corresponding redundancy blocks; recognizing, via pre-configuration of the receiving device, that there are redundancy blocks to receive along with the one or more message blocks and reading in the message blocks and corresponding redundancy blocks; determining that at least one of the message blocks is defective (e.g., corrupt, missing, etc.); processing one or more of the redundancy blocks to correct the defective message blocks; and optionally sending a response message to the sending device. The method may further include identifying which message blocks are defective and sending a request for, and receiving, redundancy blocks corresponding to the identified defective message blocks.
H04L 1/00 - Arrangements for detecting or preventing errors in the information received
H03M 13/29 - Coding, decoding or code conversion, for error detection or error correction; Coding theory basic assumptions; Coding bounds; Error probability evaluation methods; Channel models; Simulation or testing of codes combining two or more codes or code structures, e.g. product codes, generalised product codes, concatenated codes, inner and outer codes
H03M 13/05 - Error detection or forward error correction by redundancy in data representation, i.e. code words containing more digits than the source words using block codes, i.e. a predetermined number of check bits joined to a predetermined number of information bits
A sensor for measuring the flow rate of a fluid in a flow tube, the sensor comprising sensing means and a sensor body, wherein a portion of the sensing means is located within the sensor body and a first portion of the sensor body is arranged to fasten the sensor body to the flow tube such that the sensor is positioned for sensing the flow rate of the fluid in the flow tube.
G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
37.
Transmission power control for wireless communication devices
A device and method for controlling transmission power in a network device is disclosed. The method comprises transmitting, at an initial transmission power, an initial data transmission intended for at least one receiving device on a network, receiving an initial response from the at least one receiving device, the initial response including an initial received signal strength indication (RSSI), determining a power loss based on the value of the initial transmission power and the received RSSI, determining a new transmission power based on the determined power loss, and transmitting, at the new transmission power, one or more additional data transmissions intended for the at least one receiving device. The method further comprises determining whether link quality is deteriorating, and applying additional measures for optimizing transmission power based on the link quality and other factors. A solution for mitigating a loop condition is also disclosed.
H04W 52/24 - TPC being performed according to specific parameters using SIR [Signal to Interference Ratio] or other wireless path parameters
H04W 52/36 - Transmission power control [TPC] using constraints in the total amount of available transmission power with a discrete range or set of values, e.g. step size, ramping or offsets
38.
Proxy mechanism for communications to establish routes in networks
Techniques for employing a Mains Powered Device as a proxy for communicating on behalf of a Battery Powered Device are described herein. In some examples, the Mains Powered Device may be a parent node to the Battery Powered Device in a network which operates using a Routing Protocol for Low-Power and Lossy Networks (RPL). The Mains Powered Device may detect and/or forward a Destination Advertisement Object (DAO) transmitted from the Battery Powered Device to a DODAG root of the network, and begin to perform subsequent transmission of DAOs on behalf of the Battery Powered Device. In this way, the Mains Powered Device updates a routing table of the DODAG root periodically to include an indication of the Battery Powered Device as existing in the network, while extending the battery life of the Battery Powered Device by transmitting DAOs on behalf of the Battery Powered Device.
Techniques directed to servicing communications based on when communication sessions are initialized for nodes are described. For example, a routing device may prioritize packets in a buffer according to when nodes have initiated communication sessions with a service provider or another node. The routing device may give priority to nodes that have first initiated communication sessions. This may avoid communication sessions ending prematurely due to time-out periods and/or avoid delays in completing communication sessions.
Techniques directed to attributing information regarding communications with a modulation scheme to a different modulation scheme are described. In one example, a successful communication for a higher data rate modulation scheme may be attributed to a lower data rate modulation scheme. Such attribution may infer that the lower data rate modulation scheme would have also been successful if it had been used. In another example, an unsuccessful communication for a lower data rate modulation may be attributed to a higher data rate modulation scheme. Here, such attribution may infer that the higher data rate modulation scheme would have also been unsuccessful if it had been used.
Techniques for providing additional timing information in periodic beacons in a network to enable battery powered devices to determine more appropriate listening windows for receiving the periodic beacons are described herein. In some examples, the battery powered devices use the additional information to determine more accurate listening windows based on a drift time of their internal clocks, and a jitter time of the network and/or a Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). Additionally, techniques for modifying when mains powered devices update their internal clocks based on transmission of beacons to downstream devices are described herein. For instance, the mains powered devices may refrain from updating their internal clocks to an updated network reference time until transmission of downstream beacons have occurred. In this way, timing synchronization of devices in a network may be improved, and battery life of battery powered devices in the network may be extended.
Given a node of a utility service distribution network, a topology of a subset of the distribution network having the given node as a root node and one or more child nodes branching from the given node is determined. The topology may be determined based on relationships or correlations of utility usage information between the given node and a plurality of potential nodes that are considered in the topology determination. Upon determining the topology associated with the given node, the determined topology may be used to detect fraud and leakage that may occur in the distribution network on a regular basis or upon request. If fraud or leakage is detected in the distribution network, the system may schedule a follow-up and/or field investigation to investigate and fix the fraud or the leakage in the distribution network.
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
44.
Meter and method for detecton of a meter having been tampered with
A method for detection of a utility meter having been tampered with, in particular a water or heat meter having been tampered with, and a meter for detecting such tampering are provided. The utility meter comprises a flow measurement portion in which the flow of water is measured. The method comprises detecting a presence of air in the flow measurement portion and evaluating a fraud condition, wherein the fraud condition comprises that air is present in the flow measurement portion for a first period of time or more. In response to the fraud condition being evaluated as met, an alert is generated.
G01F 15/00 - MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW, OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
A new device is deployed to an area in which a network is provided. The new device may join the network using a single handshake via a neighboring device that is a member of the network and register with a network management system managing the network. If the network is overloaded or has limited bandwidth remaining, the network may refuse to admit the new device, or if the new device is isolated, may force some devices that are members of the network to leave or migrate from the network to allow the isolated device to join the network.
H04L 12/911 - Network admission control and resource allocation, e.g. bandwidth allocation or in-call renegotiation
H04L 12/919 - Dynamic resource allocation, e.g. in-call renegotiation requested by the user or upon changing network conditions requested by the network initiated by the source endpoint
H04L 12/923 - Dynamic resource allocation, e.g. in-call renegotiation requested by the user or upon changing network conditions requested by the network initiated by the network
H04W 36/22 - Performing reselection for specific purposes for handling the traffic
H04W 60/00 - Affiliation to network, e.g. registration; Terminating affiliation with the network, e.g. de-registration
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
H04W 88/04 - Terminal devices adapted for relaying to or from another terminal or user
Techniques detect an electrical phase used by electrical network devices (e.g., a transformer, electrical meter, etc.). Voltage measurement data is obtained, such as from electrical meters. The voltage measurement data may be associated with a timestamp, and may be made at intervals over a period of time. Voltage changes may be calculated using the voltage measurement data. In an example, the voltage change is a difference determined between sequential voltage measurements. In some instances, voltage changes data is removed if it exceeds a threshold. An initial classification of network devices (e.g., randomly or by assumed electrical phase) is determined. A clustering technique (e.g., k-means) is applied, wherein the classification is updated in a manner that segregates the network devices according to actual electrical phase.
H02J 3/12 - Circuit arrangements for ac mains or ac distribution networks for adjusting voltage in ac networks by changing a characteristic of the network load
H02J 3/00 - Circuit arrangements for ac mains or ac distribution networks
G05B 13/02 - Adaptive control systems, i.e. systems automatically adjusting themselves to have a performance which is optimum according to some preassigned criterion electric
G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques
H02J 3/26 - Arrangements for eliminating or reducing asymmetry in polyphase networks
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
Techniques for frequency-hopping sequence-generation are described herein. In one example, a sequence of pseudo random numbers may be used to generate a scrambling sequence. The scrambling sequence may be used to map an unscrambled sequence of channels into a scrambled sequence of channels. Channel-repeats may be detected in the scrambled sequence of channels and resolved. Channel whitening may be performed to reduce channel overuse resulting from the channel-repeat resolutions. The scrambled sequence of channels may be provided to a radio to enable the radio to tune to the channels indicated by the scrambled sequence of channels.
Determination of electrical network topology and connectivity are described herein. A zero-crossing is indicated at a time when the line voltage of a conducting wire in an electrical grid is zero. Such zero-crossings may be used to measure time within a smart grid, and to determine the connectivity of, and the electrical phase used by, particular network elements. A first meter may receive a phase angle determination (PAD) message, including zero-crossing information, sent from a second meter, hereafter called a reference meter. The first meter may compare the received zero-crossing information to its own zero-crossing information. A phase difference may be determined between the first meter and the reference meter from which the PAD message originated. The first meter may pass the PAD message to additional meters, which propagate the message through the network. Accordingly, an electrical phase used by meters within the network may be determined.
Disclosed is a metrology assembly that utilizes a multi-Hall effect device configuration which eliminates the necessity of a magnetic concentrator. In some embodiments, the metrology assembly includes a substrate or support platform configured to support at least two Hall effect devices per phase of an electricity meter. The metrology assembly may further include one or more electrical conductors coupled to the substrate and configured to conduct electric current. The at least two Hall effect devices may be coupled to the substrate at opposing sides of an associated electrical conductor, each Hall effect device being configured to detect a magnetic field created by the electric current of the associated electrical conductor, and to generate an output.
G01R 33/00 - Arrangements or instruments for measuring magnetic variables
G01R 15/20 - Adaptations providing voltage or current isolation, e.g. for high-voltage or high-current networks using galvano-magnetic devices, e.g. Hall-effect devices
G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
Disclosed are techniques to minimize the electricity consumption of battery powered devices during network communications and performance of other functions. Example techniques include efficiently discovering other mains powered and battery powered devices within communication range of the battery powered device. In another example, techniques enable a battery powered device to serve as a relay for one or more other battery powered devices. In another example, techniques ensure that transmissions to and/or from battery powered devices are delivered efficiently and with low latency. In yet another example, techniques determine whether and under what conditions a battery powered device should migrate from one network to another. In the event of migration, example techniques minimize battery consumption associated with the migration.
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
Disclosed are techniques to minimize the electricity consumption of battery powered devices during network communications and performance of other functions. Example techniques include efficiently discovering other mains powered and battery powered devices within communication range of the battery powered device. In another example, techniques enable a battery powered device to serve as a relay for one or more other battery powered devices. In another example, techniques ensure that transmissions to and/or from battery powered devices are delivered efficiently and with low latency. In yet another example, techniques determine whether and under what conditions a battery powered device should migrate from one network to another. In the event of migration, example techniques minimize battery consumption associated with the migration.
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
Disclosed are techniques to minimize the electricity consumption of battery powered devices during network communications and performance of other functions. Example techniques include efficiently discovering other mains powered and battery powered devices within communication range of the battery powered device. In another example, techniques enable a battery powered device to serve as a relay for one or more other battery powered devices. In another example, techniques ensure that transmissions to and/or from battery powered devices are delivered efficiently and with low latency. In yet another example, techniques determine whether and under what conditions a battery powered device should migrate from one network to another. In the event of migration, example techniques minimize battery consumption associated with the migration.
G08C 19/22 - Electric signal transmission systems in which transmission is by pulses by varying the duration of individual pulses
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
Techniques for frequency-hopping sequence-generation are described herein. In one example, a sequence of pseudo random numbers may be used to generate a scrambling sequence. The scrambling sequence may be used to map an unscrambled sequence of channels into a scrambled sequence of channels. Channel-repeats may be detected in the scrambled sequence of channels and resolved. Channel whitening may be performed to reduce channel overuse resulting from the channel-repeat resolutions. The scrambled sequence of channels may be provided to a radio to enable the radio to tune to the channels indicated by the scrambled sequence of channels.
A node having a multiple protocol receiver may listen to multiple links in parallel and determine a quality of links having multiple communication technologies between the node and multiple neighbor nodes. The multiple communication technologies may include radio frequency (RF) communication technologies and one or more power line communication (PLC) communication technologies. The node determines a link quality metric for each link associated with an optimum communication technology and data rate, and maintains availability information of neighbor nodes. The node may then route communications to neighbor nodes using the link quality metric and the availability information.
Techniques for converting communication packets in a network having multiple nodes are described herein. A node may receive communication packets from one or more neighboring nodes. Each communication packet may include control data and payload data. The node may extract the payload data and store the payload data for a time period. The node may determine whether to concatenate the extracted payload data of the communication packets (e.g., based on destinations to where each of the extracted payload data are to be sent, a supported data rate, an application type associated with the extracted payload data, etc.). The node may concatenate the extracted payload data of the communication packets and send the concatenated payload data to another node in a communication packet.
Techniques for broadcasting data in a multi-channel network having a control channel and multiple data channels are described. A node wishing to broadcast data may determine a particular data channel from among the multiple data channels, a modulation technique, and a data rate to be utilized to broadcast the data. The broadcasting node may transmit a message over the control channel indicating that the data will be broadcast on the particular data channel using the modulation technique and at the determined data rate. The broadcasting node and a node wishing to receive the data may switch to the particular data channel. The broadcasting node may broadcast the data over the particular data channel, while the receiving node may receive the data. After broadcasting the data or a predetermined time period has expired, the broadcasting node and receiving node may switch to the control channel.
Meters are described. In one example, a meter includes a totalizer including an electronic circuit and a metering screen, a cap at least partially covering the totalizer, the cap including a window to facilitate viewing of data of the metering screen, and a screen cover mounted on the cap and movable between an open position and a closed position in order to cover the metering screen. In such an arrangement the electronic circuit includes a device for detection of the open position or the closed position of the screen cover, and the detection of the open position or the closed position controls scrolling of data of the metering screen.
G01F 15/00 - MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW, OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
In a network environment, a node may measure and/or recognize network activity or congestion and send feedback to downstream nodes (i.e., higher rank nodes) in response. During periods of lower network activity, lower congestion and/or lower network load, the feedback may direct an upstream flow of packets to be transmitted at a quality of service (QoS) level that allows consumption of more bandwidth than is indicated by a QoS level associated with a service level agreement (SLA) of the upstream flow of packets. During periods of higher network activity, congestion and/or network load, the feedback may limit the upstream flow of packets to the QoS level associated with the SLA of the upstream flow of packets. Accordingly, an upstream node (e.g., a root node) may use feedback to regulate bandwidth used by one or more downstream nodes and/or flows of packets, in part using network activity, congestion and/or bandwidth availability.
A node having a multiple protocol receiver may listen to multiple links in parallel and determine a quality of links having multiple communication technologies between the node and multiple neighbor nodes. The multiple communication technologies may include radio frequency (RF) communication technologies and one or more power line communication (PLC) communication technologies. The node determines a link quality metric for each link associated with an optimum communication technology and data rate, and maintains availability information of neighbor nodes. The node may then route communications to neighbor nodes using the link quality metric and the availability information.
In a wireless and/or power line communication (PLC) network environment, techniques for multicast of data and management of multicast groups assist in regulating bandwidth consumption and provision of desired multicast data. Nodes indicate interest in multicast groups by transmission of reports upstream. Report transmission may be suppressed to balance bandwidth with need for multicast data. Multicast data packets may be retransmitted downstream to fulfill requests indicated by the reports at a rate and/or frequency based on multicast packet duplication or redundancy. Information, such as broken links or “leave” packets, may indicate that one or more downstream nodes should be removed from a forwarding state. However such removal may impact other nodes. A query may be transmitted downstream, to determine if retransmission/forwarding of multicast retransmissions should continue. Query transmission may be based on a balance between query bandwidth consumption and the needs of downstream nodes.
A new device is deployed to an area in which a network is provided. The new device may join the network using a single handshake via a neighboring device that is a member of the network and register with a network management system managing the network. If the network is overloaded or has limited bandwidth remaining, the network may refuse to admit the new device, or if the new device is isolated, may force some devices that are members of the network to leave or migrate from the network to allow the isolated device to join the network.
H04L 12/911 - Network admission control and resource allocation, e.g. bandwidth allocation or in-call renegotiation
H04L 12/919 - Dynamic resource allocation, e.g. in-call renegotiation requested by the user or upon changing network conditions requested by the network initiated by the source endpoint
H04L 12/923 - Dynamic resource allocation, e.g. in-call renegotiation requested by the user or upon changing network conditions requested by the network initiated by the network
H04W 36/22 - Performing reselection for specific purposes for handling the traffic
H04W 60/00 - Affiliation to network, e.g. registration; Terminating affiliation with the network, e.g. de-registration
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
H04W 88/04 - Terminal devices adapted for relaying to or from another terminal or user
62.
Automatic network topology detection and fraud detection
Given a node of a utility service distribution network, a topology of a subset of the distribution network having the given node as a root node and one or more child nodes branching from the given node is determined. The topology may be determined based on relationships or correlations of utility usage information between the given node and a plurality of potential nodes that are considered in the topology determination. Upon determining the topology associated with the given node, the determined topology may be used to detect fraud and leakage that may occur in the distribution network on a regular basis or upon request. If fraud or leakage is detected in the distribution network, the system may schedule a follow-up and/or field investigation to investigate and fix the fraud or the leakage in the distribution network.
G08C 19/04 - Electric signal transmission systems in which the signal transmitted is magnitude of current or voltage using variable resistance
G08C 19/10 - Electric signal transmission systems in which the signal transmitted is magnitude of current or voltage using variable capacitance
G08C 19/22 - Electric signal transmission systems in which transmission is by pulses by varying the duration of individual pulses
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
G01R 25/00 - Arrangements for measuring phase angle between a voltage and a current or between voltages or currents
H03D 13/00 - Circuits for comparing the phase or frequency of two mutually-independent oscillations
G01R 23/12 - Arrangements for measuring frequency, e.g. pulse repetition rate; Arrangements for measuring period of current or voltage by converting frequency into phase shift
G01R 23/02 - Arrangements for measuring frequency, e.g. pulse repetition rate; Arrangements for measuring period of current or voltage
G01R 19/00 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof
Techniques for converting communication packets in a network having multiple nodes are described herein. A node may receive communication packets from one or more neighboring nodes. Each communication packet may include control data and payload data. The node may extract the payload data and store the payload data for a time period. The node may determine whether to concatenate the extracted payload data of the communication packets (e.g., based on destinations to where each of the extracted payload data are to be sent, a supported data rate, an application type associated with the extracted payload data, etc.). The node may concatenate the extracted payload data of the communication packets and send the concatenated payload data to another node in a communication packet.
In a wireless network environment, techniques for traffic load management and transmission retry management assist a node to regulate network bandwidth consumed by one or more applications operating on the node, and assist the node to retransmit failed packets. Each of several software applications operating on the node may be prioritized. The prioritized applications will each receive a contention window appropriate to the priority of the application, which enforces an amount of bandwidth available to the application. In the event that a packet sent by the node fails to be acknowledged by a recipient, a retry algorithm may be utilized. The retry algorithm may use input including link quality and traffic density to adjust or maintain the contention window and/or retry count.
Disclosed are methodologies for implementing a firmware download to endpoints in a mesh network. A firmware package is divided into a number of blocks, each block containing a number of packets and sent as a broadcast to endpoints in a wireless mesh network. A number of redundancy packets are sent to permit calculation of lost packets. A maximum number of redundancy packets to be sent is determined and a forward error correction code is developed depending on the maximum number of redundancy packets and the total number of firmware packets to be sent. A first block of redundancy packets, less than the maximum number, is sent followed by additional blocks of redundancy packets depending on reports from the receiving endpoints.
H04L 12/24 - Arrangements for maintenance or administration
G08C 19/16 - Electric signal transmission systems in which transmission is by pulses
H04L 1/00 - Arrangements for detecting or preventing errors in the information received
H04W 40/10 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on wireless node resources based on available power or energy
H04W 48/12 - Access restriction or access information delivery, e.g. discovery data delivery using downlink control channel
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
Techniques for broadcasting data in a multi-channel network having a control channel and multiple data channels are described. A node wishing to broadcast data may determine a particular data channel from among the multiple data channels, a modulation technique, and a data rate to be utilized to broadcast the data. The broadcasting node may transmit a message over the control channel indicating that the data will be broadcast on the particular data channel using the modulation technique and at the determined data rate. The broadcasting node and a node wishing to receive the data may switch to the particular data channel. The broadcast node may broadcast the data over the particular data channel, while the receiving node may receive the data. After broadcasting the data or a predetermined time period has expired, the broadcasting node and receiving node may switch to the control channel.
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 the use of minimal propagation delay path to optimize a mesh network.
H04W 40/22 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing using selective relaying for reaching a BTS [Base Transceiver Station] or an access point
H04W 40/10 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on wireless node resources based on available power or energy
H04W 48/12 - Access restriction or access information delivery, e.g. discovery data delivery using downlink control channel
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
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.
H04L 12/703 - Route fault prevention or recovery, e.g. rerouting, route redundancy, virtual router redundancy protocol [VRRP] or hot standby router protocol [HSRP]
H04W 40/22 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing using selective relaying for reaching a BTS [Base Transceiver Station] or an access point
H04L 12/24 - Arrangements for maintenance or administration
An electrical switching device and method are disclosed. The electrical switching device can include two movable contacts. During opening of the switching device, the two movable contacts move in a first direction until one of the movable contacts engages a blocking member. The other movable contact continues in the first direction, effecting opening of the switching device. In a particular implementation, the movable contact that engages the blocking member “bounces” in a second direction after contacting the blocking member. This causes the contacts of the switching device to be separated very quickly, reducing electrical arcing during opening of the switching device.
A node may assist in the management of upstream network traffic in part by managing a contention window used by the node. The node may maintain a list of size(s) of contention window(s) of parent node(s) of the node. The node may set its own contention window to be longer (i.e., a longer period of time) than that of upstream neighbor nodes. With a longer contention window than that of its parent node(s), the node will refrain from using an RF channel needed by a parent node. Accordingly, upstream nodes are better able to transmit any backlog of data before receiving additional data from downstream nodes. This may better distribute data over the network, and may better manage data flow.
A node receives information that is to be transmitted to a destination. Upon receipt of the information, the node may query a busy device list to determine an availability of one or more neighbor nodes. The node may then identify a neighbor node that, according to the busy device list, is available to receive transmissions and is capable of propagating the information to the destination. The node may then transmit the information to the identified neighbor node.
Techniques for communicating via a control channel, determining a particular data channel based on the communicating, and transferring data via the particular data channel are described. One or more messages are communicated via the control channel between first and second nodes. The one or more messages may indicate a particular data channel from multiple data channels that may be utilized to transfer data between the first and second nodes. The one or more messages may also indicate a modulation technique and/or data rate that may be implemented on the particular data channel. The one or more messages may be utilized to determine the particular data channel that will be utilized to transfer the data. The first and second nodes may switch to the particular data channel based on the determination and transfer the data via the particular data channel.
Techniques for synchronization of clocks in nodes in a network are described. In one example, a node times or measures a synchronization timeout period. During the synchronization timeout period, the node may hear a beacon. In that event, the node may reset its clock using a time indicator found within the beacon. If the node does not hear a beacon before the end of the synchronization timeout period, the node may send a beacon request to one of its parents. In response, the parent node will broadcast a beacon, which may be heard by other nodes in the vicinity of the parent node. Upon receipt of the beacon and an included time indicator, the node will update its clock. Upon clock update, another synchronization timeout period is then started and the cycle is repeated, thereby maintaining synchronization of the clock with clocks of other nodes.
Techniques for quick advertisement of a failure of a cellular router in a network are described herein. In one example, problems with the cellular router in the network are recognized, such as by the cellular router itself, or by a node in communication with the cellular router. In response, one or more cellular router failure notification packets are sent by the cellular router prior to failure to one or more nodes within a cell served by the failing cellular router. The cellular router failure notification packets indicate that the cellular router is failing, thereby starting a discovery process in each node, wherein an attempt is made to discover a new cellular router.
The presently disclosed subject matter is directed to methods and apparatus for providing a multi-protocol receiver for use in a radio frequency (RF) network. The receiver is designed to listen for multiple different packet preambles in parallel and, upon detection of a particular preamble, shift to demodulating the data portion of the packet using the single modulation technique associated with the particular preamble. Transmission of packets may be performed using a single radio frequency for all network devices or by frequency hopping techniques but using the same hopping pattern for all network devices. The receiver may be used with general communications networks or more specific applications, such as Smart Grid and AMI networks, and meshed networks of metrology devices.
Implementation and operation of a multiple protocol receiver are described herein. In one example, a multiple protocol receiver in a node may alternate between first and second states. In a first state, the multiple protocol receiver listens simultaneously for a plurality of differently modulated signals. Such listening may be performed in a parallel manner, wherein a plurality of preamble detection processes each listens for a specific preamble. The listening may result in detection of a preamble of a packet, which triggers transition to the second state. The detected preamble may indicate a protocol used in transmission of the packet. The received packet may then be demodulated according to, for example, a data rate, synchronization, redundancy and/or other factors indicated by the protocol. The received packet may be utilized by the node or retransmitted. The multiple protocol receiver may return to the first state to repeat and continue the procedure.
A fluid meter includes a totaliser having an electronic card that communicates with a remote meter reading system. The electronic card may be contained in a metal housing covered in a leakproof manner by an upper transparent panel. The totaliser may be covered by a cover which retains the upper transparent panel in a leakproof manner. The cover may be covered by a cap made from plastic material. The upper transparent panel may be made from glass and the upper transparent panel and the cover may each include an orifice to allow communication between the electronic card and antenna disposed between the cover and the cap.
G01F 15/00 - MEASURING VOLUME, VOLUME FLOW, MASS FLOW, OR LIQUID LEVEL; METERING BY VOLUME - Details of, or accessories for, apparatus of groups insofar as such details or appliances are not adapted to particular types of such apparatus
Methodologies are provided for establishing peer-to-peer communications between nodes in a tree structured network having plural nodes including a root node. A source node seeking to send a message to a destination node will first request a most advantageous available path from the source to the destination node, and then the root node (or possibly another node within the network that has additional storage resources) will provide a routing path to one or both of the source and destination nodes. Messages may then be sent between the source and destination nodes that may or may not include addressing information in the packet headers without having to request routing information again for additional messages between the same nodes.
H04W 84/02 - Hierarchically pre-organised networks, e.g. paging networks, cellular networks, WLAN [Wireless Local Area Network] or WLL [Wireless Local Loop]
79.
Instrumentation circuit for shunt-based metrology measurement
Current flow at a line frequency may be measured from a source using matched voltage drops in a pair of voltage drop circuits. The voltage drop circuits may each includes a fixed value component, such as a resistor, and an adjustable value component, such as an adjustable current source, coupled in series. The adjustable valued components may be controlled based on differences in voltage drops produced by the voltage drop circuits based on a high-frequency signal, higher in frequency than the line frequency, applied to a control input for each of the adjustable value components.
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 (both network and device related) and methodology subject matters relating to uplink routing without requiring a routing table.
H04W 40/00 - Communication routing or communication path finding
H04W 40/22 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing using selective relaying for reaching a BTS [Base Transceiver Station] or an access point
H04W 40/24 - Connectivity information management, e.g. connectivity discovery or connectivity update
H04B 1/7143 - Arrangements for generation of hop patterns
H04W 40/10 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on wireless node resources based on available power or energy
H04W 48/12 - Access restriction or access information delivery, e.g. discovery data delivery using downlink control channel
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
81.
Beacon requests and RS bit resolving circular routes
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 concerning the handling of Beacon Requests and Registered State bit resolving to avoid circular routes.
X) generates an interrupt, so as to synchronize the microcontroller on the first received pulse and so as to act at the serial data transmission speed to generate a succession of bits, the value of each generated bit being equal either to the value of the preceding bit if no interrupt has been received in the meanwhile, or else being equal to the inverse of the value of the preceding bit if an interrupt has been received in the meanwhile.
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 concerning Traffic Load Control in a Mesh 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. Cell isolation is provided through methodology and apparatus subject matter relating to quasi-orthogonal sequences 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. Cell isolation is provided through quasi-orthogonal sequences in a frequency hopping network. Additional features relate to apparatus and methodology subject matters related to Embedded RF environmental evaluation tool features to gauge the performance need of RF transceivers.
Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for providing approaches to remove or reduce thermal drift of the magnetic sensitivity of Hall sensor devices, to improve the stability of resulting signals of interest. Samples of a particular signal or signals of interest having improved stability make for advantageous use in conjunction with electricity meters. At the same time, associated designs and related components have greater simplicity, for reduced complexity in implementation. Among alternative embodiments, a gating structure selected of various present alternative designs may be used to partially cover, to an intentionally selected degree, an active area of a Hall sensor, so that a zero-drift supply current value may likewise be selected so as to satisfy other criteria which may be applicable to use of the Hall sensor. In other alternative embodiments, a gate structure is used which fully covers the Hall sensor active area, but a gate-control technique is practiced which is based on combined use with an external, relatively high resistance voltage-divider circuitry arrangement, again for eliminating temperature-based drift of the magnetic sensitivity of the Hall sensor arrangement, regardless of the end use to which such Hall sensor is applied.
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 the use of minimal propagation delay path to optimize a mesh network.
G08C 15/06 - Arrangements characterised by the use of multiplexing for the transmission of a plurality of signals over a common path successively, i.e. using time division
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.
G08C 15/06 - Arrangements characterised by the use of multiplexing for the transmission of a plurality of signals over a common path successively, i.e. using time division
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 Number-of-sons' management.
H04W 40/00 - Communication routing or communication path finding
H04W 40/22 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing using selective relaying for reaching a BTS [Base Transceiver Station] or an access point
H04W 40/24 - Connectivity information management, e.g. connectivity discovery or connectivity update
H01L 45/00 - Solid state devices specially adapted for rectifying, amplifying, oscillating, or switching without a potential-jump barrier or surface barrier, e.g. dielectric triodes; Ovshinsky-effect devices; Processes or apparatus specially adapted for the manufacture or treatment thereof or of parts thereof
H04W 40/10 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on wireless node resources based on available power or energy
H04W 48/12 - Access restriction or access information delivery, e.g. discovery data delivery using downlink control channel
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
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 Downlink routing mechanisms.
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 (both network and device related) and methodology subject matters relating to uplink routing without requiring a routing table.
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.
H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
H04B 7/00 - Radio transmission systems, i.e. using radiation field
H04B 15/00 - Suppression or limitation of noise or interference
H04B 1/00 - TRANSMISSION - Details of transmission systems not characterised by the medium used for transmission
H04W 4/00 - Services specially adapted for wireless communication networks; Facilities therefor
G06F 15/16 - Combinations of two or more digital computers each having at least an arithmetic unit, a program unit and a register, e.g. for a simultaneous processing of several programs
93.
Embedded RF environmental evaluation tool to gauge RF transceivers performance need
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 related to Embedded RF environmental evaluation tool features to gauge the performance need of RF transceivers.
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 methodology and apparatus subject matter relating to quasi-orthogonal sequences 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. Cell isolation is provided through quasi-orthogonal sequences in a frequency hopping network. Additional features relate to apparatus and methodology subject matters concerning Traffic Load Control in a Mesh 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. 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.
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 Number-of-sons' management.
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 the use of minimal propagation delay path to optimize a mesh network.
G08C 15/06 - Arrangements characterised by the use of multiplexing for the transmission of a plurality of signals over a common path successively, i.e. using time division
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 crystal drift compensation in a mesh 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. Cell isolation is provided through quasi-orthogonal sequences in a frequency hopping network. Additional features relate to Outage notification system features, and corresponding methodology and apparatus subject matters, both at the network and device level.
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