Motorola Corporation

James M Barlow

Ronald L Bane

Stelios J Patsiokas

A remote meter reading system (10) includes a group of meter interface units operable in an inactive state and periodically activated to monitor a communication channel for activity. Each meter interface unit (12) is responsive to communication signals from a meter reading device (15). The meter reading device (15) initiates communication with a first meter interface unit (12) selected from the group. The meter reading device (15) transmits to the first meter interface unit, a first message including a request for data. The meter reading device (15) then receives transmissions from the first meter interface unit (12) which are governed by a first transmission rule. The meter reading device (15) determines when at least a second meter interface unit (12) is operating in an active state, and transmits to the first meter interface unit (12), a second message including a specifier for a second transmission rule.

Method and apparatus for activating and accessing remote meter interface

A remote meter reading system (10) includes a group of meter interface units in which each meter interface unit (12) operates between periods of activity and inactivity. The meter interface unit has stored first (400) and second (500) operational schedules, and a third schedule (600) which is used to determine whether to use the first (400) or second (500) schedule. The first (400) and second (500) schedules inform controller (26) when to provide a control signal to power control circuit (27) in order to stop the flow of battery energy from battery (25) to communication unit (24). Thereby, conserving valuable battery energy during those periods of time when the meter interface unit (12) is not likely to be interrogated by meter reading device (15).

Growing community of inventors

Lawrenceville, GA, United States of America

James M Barlow