Obtaining data from a ammeter using image-based movement tracking

Abstract

Power data is obtained from a power meter that utilizes a rotatable element (e.g., a disk) by illuminating a spot on the rotatable element, capturing image information from the surface of the rotatable element, processing the image information to track movement of the rotatable element, and converting the movement information to digital power data. Movement of the rotatable element is tracked by capturing successive frames of image information and correlating common features in the image frames to determine the magnitude of movement of the common features.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to acquiring data from electricity meters using image-based motion tracking. Background technique [0002] There is a growing need to be able to centrally monitor and control the use of electrical energy, especially in residential buildings, in real time. Real-time control of electrical energy usage is particularly beneficial during energy shortages or periods of peak demand. Real-time monitoring of electrical energy usage can be relatively easily achieved through central monitoring stations with newer solid-state meters. However, the installed base of inductive meters in residential buildings is very large at present, and the cost of replacing these meters is very high. [0003] Inductive meters rely on magnetic flux to turn a rotatable element such as a platter, which is proportional to the electrical energy dissipated. A mechanical counter counts revolutions of the rotatable element, which is converted into a measure...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

The limitation of these solutions is that the modification of the rotatable element increases the complexity of the installation process

Furthermore, it is difficult with these systems to discern the direction of rotation of the rotatable element, which is an important consideration when both consuming and generating electrical power

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