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    METHOD TO PREVENT EXCESSIVE BATTERY PASSIVATION AND ELECTRONIC METER READING MODULE. The precepts here reveal a method and apparatus for preventing excessive battery passivation in an electronic meter reading module. The module operates in a low power state most of the time. The low power state is interrupted at defined transmission times, when the module temporarily turns on or otherwise activates an included communication transmitter, for wireless data transmission to a remote node. Due to its low current consumption during the moments between data transmission, the battery of the modules is vulnerable to the constitution of a passivation layer. Advantageously, however, the module is configured to perform fictitious activations of its transmitter in moments other than the defined transmission moments, for example, in the intervals between data transmissions. These fictional activations are not for data transmission, but instead are temporary activations of the relatively high power transmitter to reduce the accumulation of the passivation layer on the battery before a next data transmission.
    公开号:BR112013028172B1
    申请号:R112013028172-3
    申请日:2012-05-01
    公开日:2020-12-08
    发明作者:Nicholas Heath
    申请人:Sensus Usa Inc.；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    FIELD OF THE INVENTION
    [0001] The present invention relates in general to the depassivation of a battery in an electronic device and, more particularly, the depassivation of a battery using functional equipment already present in the device in the moments when the functional equipment is not performing a normal operation. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
    [0002] Batteries are used as a power source for a variety of different functional devices. Many batteries, such as lithium batteries, have a long shelf life and are capable of operating a functional device for an extended period of time. Battery life can be extended even further when the device has a backup module that draws very little current from the battery, when the device is not performing functional operations, or is otherwise operating in a low current state.
    [0003] One aspect of lithium batteries and certain other types of batteries is the formation of a passivation layer that forms through a reaction between the anode and the metal cathode. The passivation layer is a resistant layer that builds up over time that prevents or reduces the internal discharge of the battery, thus allowing a longer shelf life. The passivation layer can also be formed more quickly when the battery is exposed to a high ambient temperature. A disadvantage of the passivation layer is that the battery experiences a drop in the initial available voltage when the battery is first used after a reserve period. The initial available voltage may not be adequate to properly activate the device, causing the device to shut down or abort specific normal operations performed by the device.
    [0004] It is known to incur the additional cost and / or complexity of the set of depassivation load circuits in Automatic Meter Reading Devices (AMR). For example, it is known to add a digitally controlled charging circuit, such as digital-to-analog (D / A) based charging circuit, to such devices for use in battery depassivation. See, for example, "Battery Depassivation Algorithm", I.P.COM Journal, I.P.COM Inc., December 2008 (12/18/2008), I.P.COM No. 000144103D, ISSN 1533-0001. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
    [0005] The precepts here reveal a method and apparatus for preventing excessive battery passivation in an electronic meter reading module. The method operates in a low power state most of the time. The low power state is interrupted at defined transmission times, when the module temporarily turns on or otherwise activates an included communication transmitter, for data transmission to a remote node reachable via a wireless communication network. Due to its low current consumption during the moments between data transmissions, the module's battery is vulnerable to the constitution of the passivation layer. Advantageously, however, the module is configured to perform fictitious activations of its transmitter in moments other than the defined transmission moments, for example, in the intervals between data transmissions. These fictional activations are not for data transmission, but instead are temporary activations of the relatively high power transmitter, to reduce the constitution of the passivation layer on the battery before a next data transmission.
    [0006] An example modality provides a method of preventing excessive battery passivation in an electronic meter reading module that is powered by a battery. The method includes collecting measurement data from an associated meter based on the progress of the event using a relatively low power circuit system that is powered by the battery, and transmitting the measurement data to a remote node over a wireless communication network. transmission moments defined using a relatively high power communication transceiver that is also powered by the battery and temporarily activated during transmission moments. Advantageously, the method additionally includes performing fictitious activations of the communication transceiver at additional times other than the defined transmission times, nor for transmitting measurement data, but instead for depassivating the battery.
    [0007] In another embodiment, a method of preventing excessive battery passivation in an electronic meter reading module includes: operating in a low-power state for extended periods of time and collecting or otherwise maintaining measurement data for a associated meter while in the low power state. The method additionally includes interrupting the low power state at defined transmission times, activating a communication transceiver, including a transmitter, to carry out a data transmission, and interrupting the low power state at additional times other than said transmission moments. defined, activating the transmitter not for data transmission, but instead to reduce the constitution of the passivation layer in the battery.
    [0008] Also in another mode, an electronic meter reading module is configured for battery-operated operation of a battery, and includes a wireless communication controller and transceiver. The controller is configured to obtain measurement data from an interface circuit associated with a meter, and the communication transceiver is configured to connect the module communicatively to a remote node attainable by means of a wireless communication network. In addition, the controller is configured to: connect or otherwise activate the communication transceiver temporarily at defined transmission times, for the transmission of said measurement data or other information; and to perform fictitious activations of a transmitter in the communication transceiver at additional moments, in addition to the defined transmission moments, for battery de-passivation.
    [0009] Certainly, the present invention is not limited to the described summary of advantages and features. Experienced in the technique, they will realize additional features and advantages from the following detailed discussion and the attached illustrations. In addition, the various aspects of the various modalities can be used alone or in any combination, in the desired manner. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [00010] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a modality of a battery-operated meter reading module connected communicatively to a remote node by means of a wireless communication network.
    [00011] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a modality of a battery-operated meter reading module, as shown in figure 1.
    [00012] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing a modality of a method of depassivating the battery of an electronic meter reading module or other electronic device powered by battery. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
    [00013] The present application addresses a method and apparatus for preventing excessive battery passivation in a battery powered device, such as an electronic meter reading module (module) that is powered by a battery. As a non-limiting example, these modules each include a battery-operated functional circuit that collects measurement data from an associated meter as the measurement progresses. Here, based on "measurement progress" does not necessarily mean continuous reading, but instead connotes that the module tracks or otherwise records measurement data over time. For example, the module can track pulse counts or read other usage related data from the associated meter.
    [00014] The example module also includes a transceiver powered by the module's battery. In a non-limiting example, the transceiver is turned off or otherwise inactive most of the time to save energy. At defined transmission times, which can be programmed and / or triggered by an event, the module connects at least a transmission portion of its communication transceiver and transmits measurement data or other information to a remote node that is attainable through a wireless communication network.
    [00015] In general, the module also activates the receiving portion of its transceiver, coinciding with the activation of the transmitter, for bidirectional communication, such as to receive confirmations of its transmissions, etc. The module can also activate only the receiving portion at other times to hear messages addressed to the module, and will understand that the receiving portion of the transceiver can operate at substantially less power than the transmitter.
    [00016] An example transceiver comprises a radio frequency transceiver configured to operate on defined uplink and downlink frequencies, as in the 900 MHz spectrum and can include digital modulator and demodulator circuits. Additionally, in one or more modes, the transceiver includes a transmitter, for example, with a power amplifier (PA), which is configured to operate at a defined transmission power. Sample transmission powers include 0.5 Watt, 1 Watt and 2 watts. In at least one mode, the included transmitter is programmable with respect to its transmission power, meaning that the module can select or otherwise control the transmission power. In an example of such an operation, the module can use the lowest defined transmission power setting that allows acceptably reliable data transmission.
    [00017] In a general example of the method of reducing battery passivation contemplated in this disclosure, the module explores the power extracted from its included communication transceiver, to reduce the constitution of the passivation layer in the included battery. That is, in addition to using the transceiver for "normal" communication according to the module's defined functional operation, the module activates its transceiver at certain times, not for real communications, but instead to consume higher current from its battery and thereby reduce any passivation layer that may have formed during an extended period of low-current operation.
    [00018] Consider an example case, where the module collects measurement data during the measurement progress, still operating in a low power state. In an example case, the module can consume 50 microamps during movements when communications are not active. Then, at certain defined transmission times, the module temporarily activates its communication transceiver, to send measurement data and / or other information. When the transceiver is active, the module can consume 500 milliamps or more. (Here, "defined transmission times" roughly connote periodic transmissions or other scheduled transmissions, as well as event-driven transmissions, such as where the module is configured to automatically transmit responsive data for the detection of alarm conditions, etc., or when the module is consulted or otherwise asked to transmit data).
    [00019] Consequently, it can be understood that the example module operates at very low current draws for potentially prolonged periods of time, with temporary intermittent operation at much higher currents during data transmissions. Such operation allows the constitution of the potentially excessive passivation layer in the module's battery, which can interfere with the module's ability to operate correctly when it activates its transceiver for transmission of measurement data. So according to one or more modalities here, the module is configured to temporarily activate its transceiver between actual data transmissions, not for data transmission, but, instead, to "collide" the battery with a higher current load than reduces any constitution of passivation that would otherwise occur between data transmissions.
    [00020] These activations can be referred to as "fictitious" activations, because they are not actual data transmissions, but, instead, transceiver activations performed specifically to condition the battery between actual data transmissions. In addition, in one or more modalities, the module intelligently manages such fictitious transmissions.
    [00021] In an example mode, the module does not perform a fictitious activation of its transceiver unless the interval between data transmissions exceeds a defined threshold, which can be understood as an elapsed time qualifier. In addition, or alternatively, the module performs fictitious activations only if the ambient temperature exceeds a defined threshold, which can be advantageous since battery passivation problems tend to be more severe at higher ambient temperatures. Note that such decision processing based on ambient temperature can be qualified to use "time at temperature" values, where the module performs fictitious activations only if the module is "soaking" at higher temperatures.
    [00022] The module can implement such fictitious activations in a "fictitious activation routine" that is triggered conditionally in the previously noted manner, based on elapsed time, temperature, battery voltage behavior, etc. In one embodiment, the dummy activation routine includes only a dummy activation - that is, a temporary "pulsed" connection from the included communication transmitter. The length of this pulse can be fixed or adapted, for example, depending on the temperature or voltage behavior of the battery observed. In another modality, however, the fictitious activation routine is iterative, meaning that an execution of the routine may involve more than one fictitious activation.
    [00023] For example, in a routine run, the module can make an initial connection of the communication transceiver and then decide whether to make one or more additional connections based on the observation of how the battery voltage performed in association with the initial connection. . In addition, the module can adapt the pulse width in time and / or the power setting of the transmitter, for the initial connection and / or any of the subsequent connections in an execution of the battery de-passivation routine. In an advantageous example of this approach, the module minimizes the battery life spent by the depassivation routine by performing an initial pulse and observing the voltage behavior of the battery. If the voltage behaves well, for example, it does not fall below a defined operational or test voltage threshold, the module ends this execution of the battery de-energization routine. On the other hand, if the battery voltage has not performed well, the module continues the battery passivation routine by performing one or more additional pulses.
    [00024] For example, at some point in a given low power operation interval, the module consumes a pulse of battery current by activating the transceiver for a few hundred milliseconds, while still observing the battery voltage. If the battery voltage drops below a certain programmed threshold, the module performs one or more additional pulses, possibly varying the duration and magnitude of the current, to further condition the battery for the next real data transmission. Such an iteration can be terminated by observing the acceptable battery voltage behavior, or by reaching a programmed repetition limit.
    [00025] With the above in mind, figure 1 illustrates a non-limiting example of an electronic meter reading module. In particular, figure 1 represents a module 20 that is positioned in the field and associated with a 100 meter. Module 20 is configured for low average current consumption and long battery life, for example, twenty years. As such, it is understood that module 20 operates in a low power state most of the time, interrupted by brief moments of operation at higher power, during which module 20 conducts communication operations.
    [00026] Module 20 receives inputs, for example, measurement pulses or other measurement signals, from meter 100. In one or more modalities, module 20 is configured to monitor and record (for example, counting or otherwise storing ) measurement signals such as pulses corresponding to meter revolutions, to accumulate measurement data over time. Such operation is carried out at low power, for example, at current consumption less than or equal to 100 microamps. The module battery is, therefore, prone to the constitution of the passivation layer during this low power operational state. In a similar but alternative mode, module 20 sleeps most of the time, but periodically wakes up to "read" the associated meter 100, which may have dial or wheel positions that can be detected by module 20 and interpreted as data from use.
    [00027] In any case, module 20 is additionally configured to transmit measurement data collected at defined transmission times, by means of a wireless communication system 30 to a remote node 40 for reception by an associated user. Remote node 40 is, by way of non-limiting example, a server computer operated by a utility company and can be integrated or communicatively coupled with operations and maintenance systems, billing systems, etc. In this regard, it is understood that in one or more modalities module 20 can also receive signals from remote node 40 through communication network 30 to make various adjustments or otherwise change the configuration of module 20, to control it, such as for demand control.
    [00028] The communication network 30 provides two-way radio links 31 - for example, an uplink and a downlink - with module 20. The representation of the communication network 30 is simplified to facilitate the illustration and, as such, is shown with a base station 32. It is realized that, for practical implementation, the communication network 30 can include multiple base stations 32 dispersed in one or more geographic regions, and that these multiple base stations 32 can be configured in a different way. cell, as it is known. According to the cellular configuration, each base station 32 serves a defined geographic region (cell), where these cells can be configured in an overlapping or adjacent manner to provide more or less continuous coverage over a larger area.
    [00029] As an example, communication network 30 comprises a FLEXNET radio network from SENSUS USA, Inc. FLEXNET radio networks operate on the licensed spectrum in the 900 MHz band, with the uplink using 901 to 902 MHz and the downstream using 940 to 941 MHz. These spectrum allocations are subdivided into multiple narrowband channels, for example, 25 KHz channels, to potentially support large pluralities of modules 20. The individual channels of the narrowband channels can be allocated to the respective modules 20, or a set of modules 20 can be assigned to operate on one or more such channels, while other groups are assigned to other channels. Data is sent on a per channel basis using Frequency Shift Switching (FSK), for example, 4, 8 or 16 FSK, where data can be "packaged" into messages of a predefined bit length.
    [00030] The information transmitted from each such module 20 is transmitted through the communication network 30 and transferred to a radio network interface (RNI) 33, also sometimes referred to as "regional network interface". RNI 33, which can be a server or other computer system that is configured with a radio interface, is configured to receive computer network signaling, for example, IP-based packets, from remote node 40 and convert that signaling into signaling control and data for transmission via base station 32.
    [00031] In contrast, RNI 33 allows conversion of radio network signaling from individual modules 20 into computer network signaling for transfer to node 40. In particular, such messages can be provided to remote node 40 by means of an interface 34, which can be, for example, a computer network interface accessible via a computer network connection, such as provided over the Internet or over a private IP network. Information regarding the module configuration can similarly be sent by remote node 40 through interface 34 and RNI 33 to communication network 30 for reception by an individually targeted module 20. That is, there can be many modules 20, and communications can be addressed for information, or to otherwise carry information identifying the particular module 20 (or modules 20) targeted by a given downlink transmission.
    [00032] The illustrated module 20 can be operatively connected to a variety of different types of meter. Modalities include, but are not limited to, gas, electricity and water meters that provide the convenience corresponding to a residential home, business, municipality, city, etc. Module 20 communicates usage information for meter 100 to a remote user 40 for billing, monitoring, etc.
    [00033] In addition, module 20 can also be operatively connected to several sensors, including, but not limited to, a water level sensor for a reservoir and pressure sensor operatively connected to a piece of equipment. The signals from such sensors can trigger data transmission through module 20. For example, module 20 can initiate data transmission to signal an alarm condition, as indicated by an attached level sensor.
    [00034] The type of measurement installation, therefore, can determine the transmission timing of module 20. For example, in some contexts, it is sufficient for module 20 to transmit measurement data at predetermined times, for example, every four hours, or maybe once a day. In other contexts, such as where module 20 receives level detection inputs or otherwise provides condition monitoring, it can still transmit at predefined intervals, but it can additionally transmit as needed, such as when exceptions are detected , both with a monitored signal and due to self-test failures, etc.
    [00035] All such possibilities are included in the expression "defined moments of transmission". That is, the expression "defined transmission moments" connote predefined or dynamically determined transmission intervals and / or connotes conditional transmissions according to the need. In this sense, it can be understood that module 20 in one or more modes is operating in a state of general low power, in which it is sleeping or waiting (although it may be engaged in monitoring of measurement and data collection) . This low power state is interrupted at defined transmission moments, when module 20 activates its included transmitter temporarily, for example, for less than a second, during which it transmits measurement data and possibly other information to the node. remote 40.
    [00036] As noted in the context of figure 1, several other modules 20 can be positioned in other locations in the field and communicate with one or more users via the communication network 30. There are a large number of modules 20 associated with the remote node 40, and there may be other pluralities of modules 20 associated with additional remote nodes, such as those associated with other utility companies. The RNI 3 thus provides a communication interface for more than one remote node 20 and allows communication with different sets of modules 20 by the respective system operators.
    [00037] Figure 2 schematically illustrates a modality of a module 20. This modality illustrates module 20 as a low power communication module for remote data collection of information from a meter 100. However, it is contemplated here that the method and battery conditioning devices prescribed here, to reduce the constitution of the passivation layer during low power operation, can be incorporated into other types of electronic devices that are similarly equipped with communication transceivers.
    [00038] In any case, in the illustration, module 20 includes a battery 21 that supplies power to a controller 22 and a transceiver 23. Note that transceiver 23 can be turned on and off, for example, by controller 22, or another way selectively operated in an inactive mode with zero or very low current consumption, and an active mode with a substantially higher current consumption, where the actual magnitude of the current consumption of the transceiver 23 depends, for example, on the configured transmission power .
    [00039] Battery 21 includes one or more electrochemical cells that convert stored chemical energy into electrical energy. Battery 21 is configured to produce current immediately without requiring charging before use. Examples of batteries 21 include, but are not limited to, lithium and alkaline batteries. Battery 21 is built to have a long life that allows intermittent use over an extended period of time.
    [00040] Module 20 may include a linear regulator 28 associated with battery 21. Linear regulator 28 is a voltage regulator that maintains a constant output voltage for controller 22 and transceiver 23.
    [00041] Controller 22 is powered by battery 21 and provides primary control and operational logic 20. Controller 22 may comprise dedicated or programmable circuits, or any combination thereof. In at least one embodiment, controller 22 comprises one or more microprocessor-based circuits, such as a low-power 8-bit microcontroller that integrates program and data memory, along with counters / timers, etc. In another embodiment, controller 22 is implemented in an FPGA, ASIC, or other digital processing logic.
    [00042] Regardless, controller 22 includes or is associated with a system of interface circuits 24 for receiving and / or transmitting information with the measured device 100. For example, the measured device 100 can provide digital pulses or analog signal, and these they can be directly fed into controller 22 via coupling via interface circuit 24, or interface circuit 24 can provide level shift, signal conditioning / conversion, ESD protection, etc.
    [00043] Figure 2 illustrates additional circuit and / or functional elements 29, at least some of which can be integrated into controller 22. For example, memory 25a stores information necessary for the operation of module 20. Memory 25a can include functional programming to operate module 20 including interfacing with the measured device 100 and configuring by configuring transceiver 23 to transmit and / or receive information with the user on remote node 40.
    [00044] Thus, in one or more embodiments, memory 25a serves as a computer-readable medium that provides persistent (non-transient) storage of computer program instructions that configure module 20 according to the precepts described here, when such instructions are executed by digital processing logic incorporated in controller 22. Memory 25a may also be able to store configuration settings, such as transmission times, etc., and data received from measured device 100, or derived from monitoring signals from the measured device 100. Alternatively, an additional memory 25b provides such storage and serves as functional memory for the controller 22.
    [00045] In general, module 20 can have a combination of program and data memory, and at least a portion of such memory can provide non-volatile memory of configuration data, measurement data, etc. Such memory may include, by way of non-limiting example, FLASH, EEPROM, SRAM or any combination thereof. Non-volatile data storage can be provided using SRAM with battery backup, EEPROM, etc.
    [00046] Additionally, a temperature sensor 26 determines the ambient (ambient) temperature of module 20. Note that temperature sensor 26 is shown as a functionally separate element, but it can be integrated in controller 22 in some cases. As a non-limiting example, temperature sensor 26 comprises a low cost "web gap" temperature sensor, but other known types of temperature sensors can be used according to need or desire.
    [00047] Controller 22 may include an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with one or more channels or signal inputs, allowing controller 22 to digitize a temperature signal in either voltage or current mode, provided by temperature sensor 26. Certainly, temperature sensor 26 can provide direct digital temperature reading. In such cases, controller 22 can still use its ADC capabilities to read signals from the level sensor, etc. Although not shown, controller 22 may also include a PWM signal generator, an analog-to-digital converter (DAC), etc. according to the need for the particular measurement configuration in question.
    [00048] In any case, controller 22 uses temperature sensor 26 to monitor one or more parameters related to temperature, including one or more of the following items: the ambient temperature present in module 20; the amount of time that module 20 is exposed to an ambient temperature above a defined threshold; and temperature changes, such as changes in room temperature over one or more time periods. In one or more modalities, module 20 performs depassivation of the battery based on time, regardless of temperature, for example, it performs a fictitious activation of its communication transceiver 23 at some point between programmed data transmission times, at least in cases where the interval between scheduled data transmissions exceeds a defined duration level.
    [00049] This point can be predisposed to be just before the activation of the programmed data transmission to ensure that the battery 21 is "ready" for the actual data transmission. Alternatively, fictitious activation can be synchronized to occur at approximately the midpoint of the interval, which can allow for a little more constitution of the passivation layer with respect to the next synchronized data transmission, but also offers the advantage of reducing the maximum amount of constitution. of the passivation layer that can occur, and thus can keep the battery 21 in a better general condition for unscheduled event-driven transmissions that cannot necessarily be predicted by the controller.
    [00050] As a result of these synchronism considerations, and for basic functional considerations, one or more modalities of module 20 includes a stopwatch / clock 27. The stopwatch / clock 27 can be incorporated in controller 22, or it can be independent. Certainly, stopwatch / clock 27 in at least one mode represents a real-time timer, which can be independent of controller 22, and one or more low power digital meters, which can be integrated into controller 22. One or more meters can be be used, for example, to accumulate measurement pulses from meter 100, and one or more others can be used to synchronize data transmissions and / or other tasks in progress. Of course, a real-time clock, if installed, can also be used for task scheduling on the specific day time, such as for synchronizing data transmissions with specific log times.
    [00051] Additionally, timer 27 can supervise the total time that module 20 has been installed in measured device 100. Alternatively, and / or in addition, timer 27 can maintain discrete time periods in which device-specific operational resources have been in operation. Examples include, but are not limited to, the amount of time that the controller 22 has been activated, and the amount of time that the ambient temperature is above the predetermined threshold, etc.
    [00052] Certainly, in one mode, controller 22 advantageously combines temperature detection with time tracking, and uses this combined information to control fictitious activations of its communication transceiver 23 to de-battery the battery. That is, in one or more modalities, module 20 performs battery depassivation based only on tracking how long it has been operating in its low power mode. If that time exceeds a defined threshold, it performs a fictitious activation of the communication transceiver 23, to ensure that the battery 21 remains ready for real data transmission. However, in one or more modalities, module 20 conditions its battery's depassivation performance to temperature, for example, it may or may not perform depassivation depending on the ambient temperature. Additionally, or at least, it can change the way it aggressively synchronizes depassivation as a function of temperature.
    [00053] In an example, in particular, module 20 is configured to anticipate fictitious activations if the ambient temperature is below a first defined temperature threshold, for example, 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 ° C), and to perform them if the temperature is above that level. In another example, module 20 generally performs depassivation of the battery based on time, but changes the timing of such depassivation as a function of temperature, or the number of times that depassivation is repeated in any given depassivation cycle. In doing so, it allows module 20 to dynamically adapt to real-world conditions, and it can be understood that module 20 can de-energize its battery more aggressively during hot conditions, such as in the summer in New Mexico or Arizona, compared to its driving behavior. depassivation during operation at lower temperatures.
    [00054] Figure 3 roughly illustrates a modality of module operations and can be understood as a general processing "loop" that rotates continuously. Therefore, it is understood that the illustrated processing is represented in a simplified way, to better emphasize the associated decision processing such as depassivating the battery. In at least one embodiment, the processing method of figure 3 is implemented in whole or in part on a programmatic basis according to the execution of the computer program instructions stored by the controller 22. It is noticed that at least some of the illustrated steps can be carried out in a different order, and that certain steps broken down from the illustrated steps may be carried out in a different order, and that certain steps broken down for clarity of discussion may be included in other steps or carried out in parallel or in conjunction with one or more others phases.
    [00055] With these points in mind, the illustrated processing starts with module 20 performing "normal" and / or "background" operations (block 50). The particular nature of these operations will depend on the type of module 20 in question, the nature of the meter 100 and the type (s) of signals it provides and other application details. In general, however, normal / background operations can be assumed to represent the task or tasks that module 20 performs based on progress using relatively low power circuit system.
    [00056] As such, during operation of module 20 in the normal / background state of battery operations 21 observed at low current consumption and is, at least in certain conditions, therefore, vulnerable to the constitution of a passivation layer. In an example of normal / background operations, module 20 keeps the circuit system continuously or intermittently active enough, so that it can collect measurement data according to the measurement signals of meter 100 and can, from time to time. times, activate the receiving portion of your communication transceiver 23 to hear targeted transmissions to module 20.
    [00057] While the activation of the receiver can increase the current consumption in relation to that necessary only for the controller 22, it is understood that the transmission portion of the communication transceiver 23 represents the maximum current consumption of the transceiver 23 and the portion of transmission typically remains off or otherwise inactive until a defined transmission time. Thus, as part of performing normal / background operations 50, module 20 determines whether it is time for data transmission (block 52).
    [00058] For example, module 20 can determine that it is the time for a scheduled data transmission and / or that an event has occurred requiring a transmission, for example, the detection of an alarm condition. Anyway, "YES" of block 52 can be understood as module 20 determining that it has reached a defined transmission time. The processing thus goes to activate the transmission portion of the communication transceiver 23, followed by the transmission of the data to be sent, for example, measurement data, alarm conditions, etc. (block 54). Of course, module 20 can also activate the receiving portion of transceiver 23, so that it can also hear data, receive settings from its own transmissions, etc.
    [00059] Activation of the transmitter is temporary, for example, less than a second, or even less than half a second. In general, the duration of activation will depend on the type of transmission protocol used, the amount of data to be sent, but in general, it is limited in time, for the sake of maximizing battery life. As such, it can be understood that block 54 is in a temporary activation, after which module 20 deactivates or otherwise turns off the transmission portion of the communication transceiver 23.
    [00060] Processing "continues" with module 20 determining whether it is time to perform depassivation of the battery (block 56). In one embodiment, module 20 maintains a timer or count value that represents the amount of time that has elapsed since the last data transmission. Thus, the check on block 56 in one mode is a simple check of how much time has elapsed since the last data transmission. If the elapsed time is below a defined threshold, module 20 determines that it is not the time to de-energize the battery ("NO" in block 56) and processing returns to normal / background operations in block 50.
    [00061] On the other hand, if the elapsed time meets or exceeds the defined threshold, module 20 determines that it is the time for battery deletion ("YES" in block 56) and starts a battery deletion procedure (block 58) . After the end of the battery's depassivation, the processing returns to the normal / background processing of block 50. Thus, in at least one mode, module 20 can be understood as executing a repetition processing loop, in which it circulates its normal / background operations, still checking whether to de-battery the battery.
    [00062] In one or more modalities, module 20 aims to verify the very long battery life, for example, up to twenty years. In this regard, it is understood that module 20 is spending most of its time in a low power state, interrupted from time to time for data transmissions, during which module 20 is temporarily switched on or otherwise active by minus the transmitter portion of the communication transceiver 23, for transmitting measured data and / or other information. Also note that the module 20 may also periodically activate only the receiving portion of the communication transceiver 23 to monitor the radio signal that arrives at it. This allows the module 20 to offer very low average current consumption, still remaining attainable through the wireless communication network 30.
    [00063] Thus, in one or more modalities, the determination of whether to consume battery 21 is based on time, both in the sense that module 20 maintains supervision of the time elapsed since the last data transmission, and in the sense that the module 20 simply performs a "programmed" battery depassivation between data transmissions, which in itself can be "programmed" in the sense that module 20 is configured to perform regular, periodically synchronized data transmission.
    [00064] However, more sophisticated decision-making is also contemplated here. For example, a modality dynamically changes the value of the elapsed time used to trigger the depassivation of the battery as a function of temperature. Battery deviation occurs more frequently at higher temperatures and less frequently at lower temperatures. In a variation of this method, one or more modalities of module 20 suspend the passivation of the battery, if the ambient temperature remains below a defined low temperature threshold.
    [00065] Also, in one embodiment, controller 22 sets a signal in memory before the transmission portion of transceiver 23, and clears the signal after successful activation. In this way, if the activation of the transmitter causes a voltage drop that restores the controller 22, the signal can be read by resetting to detect that event. That is, if the signaling is already established when the controller 22 resets, it interprets the reset as being caused by the voltage drop induced by the transmitter. Thus, in a mode like this, module 20 can anticipate depassivation operations and until it detects a low voltage fault induced by the transmitter.
    [00066] Also in another variation, module 20 controls how it performs depassivation of the battery according to the ambient temperature. For example, in one mode, module 20 can extend how long it turns on the transmitter during a fictitious activation, if the ambient temperature is above a defined threshold. Additionally, or alternatively, it can start the transmitter initially, followed by one or more immediately successive activations of the transmitter - that is, it can control the transmitter to draw two or more successive "pulses" of current from the battery 21, during a run. passivation routine shown in block 58.
    [00067] In this regard, it is understood that the transmitter in the communication transceiver 23 can be fixed in terms of its transmission power and can therefore have a fixed maximum current consumption. In this case, module 20 can vary the length of time the transmitter is turned on for a fictitious activation to de-energize the battery. Certainly, in at least one mode, the depassivation of the battery is dynamically adapted based on the corresponding observation of the battery voltage controller.
    [00068] In an example like this, controller 22 observes the behavior of the battery voltage in conjunction with the activation of the transmitter for a real data transmission and decides whether to perform depassivation of the battery before the next data transmission. Using non-limiting functional numbers, module 20 can be configured to perform data transmission once every four hours. If the controller 22 monitors the battery voltage at each such transmission and does not observe an excessive drop in the battery voltage when the transmitter is turned on for data transmission, it anticipates the completion of the battery de-passivation.
    [00069] On the other hand, if, in a given activation of the transmitter for data transmission, the controller 22 observes excessive voltage drop, for example, the battery voltage falls below a minimum defined voltage threshold in conjunction with the realization of a data transmission, then it performs a fictitious activation of the transmitter to de-passivate the battery, sometimes before the next data transmission. It can do this for a defined period of time before the next data transmission - for example, halfway between transmissions - or immediately before the next data transmission.
    [00070] This technique works even where the next data transmission is on demand or according to need, for example, in response to an alarm signal. In other words, module 20 can detect an alarm condition or other trigger event, perform a fictitious activation of the transmitter for depassivation and then perform a real data transmission. In doing so, the risk of experiencing failures or reestablishments that may otherwise arise if data transmission were carried out without any prior depassivation conditioning is avoided.
    [00071] In other modalities, the transmitter of transceiver 23 has an adjustable transmission power. In such cases, the controller 22 can perform depassivation of the battery based on adjusting the duration of the dummy activation and / or setting the transmission power (i.e., the magnitude of the dummy activation current) of the transmitter. In one example, controller 22 performs an initial dummy activation with the transmitter adjusted, say, at its lowest power setting, and observes the battery voltage. If the battery voltage drops below a certain threshold, controller 22 ends the current execution of the depassivation routine. (Controller 22 can use its ADC to monitor battery voltage, or it can use a comparator-based circuit - not shown - with one or more levels of comparison).
    [00072] However, if the battery voltage drops too low at the initial dummy activation, it performs a dummy next activation, possibly at a higher power setting. This processing can be repeated until the battery voltage behaves well and / or a repetition limit is reached, for example, no more than four activations can be allowed in any run of the depassivation routine.
    [00073] In one or more embodiments, memory 25a or 25b may include a data table, indexed by temperature range. The table includes control settings that dictate how or when controller 22 performs battery de-passivation. Thus, the table can include frequency of decommissioning adjustments, transmission power adjustments, etc. All such adjustments can be switched in the temperature ranges or thresholds, so that the depassivation of the battery occurs more aggressively at higher temperatures and less aggressively, or absolutely does not occur, at lower temperatures.
    [00074] In any case, it is understood that the activation of the transmitter (for example, the PA) in the communication transceiver 23 uses the inherently higher current consumptions of the communication transceiver 23 to break the passivation layer of the battery. Thus, as shown in figure 2, transceiver 23 consumes a current L charge from battery 21 when activated. Transceiver 23 consumes a much greater amount of battery current 21 than controller 22, preferably Icarga >> Icontrol. The operation of transceiver 23 therefore represents a relatively high current event for module 20.
    [00075] It is noticed that the function of transceiver 23 during depassivation is different from its normal operation of transmitting data collected through communication network 30 and receiving signals from communication network 30. In one mode, the transmitter is turned on, but no data is transmitted. In one or more other modalities, a test signal or other dummy data is transmitted during a dummy activation. In addition, the transmitter can be operated at a different transmission frequency during dummy activations, or set to something other than its "standard" communication channel or assigned to prevent dummy activations from causing interference or unwanted interruption of actual data transmissions by others modules 20 operating on network 30.
    [00076] An additional point worth noting is that the terms "depassivate", "depassivation" and the like refer to the process of preventing the formation of the excessive battery passivation layer where battery 21 is unable to supply the necessary voltage for controller 22 and transceiver 23 to perform their normal operations. The actual amount that the passivation layer is removed or broken can vary depending on the application, the type of battery involved and / or the magnitude and duration of current used in the fictitious activations. It is noticed that the depassivation of the battery here does not necessarily mean that an accurate amount of passivation is removed, or that all constituted passivation is removed during any given fictitious activation. Rather, processing here means preventing excessive battery passivation, and thus preventing module 20 operational failures that may otherwise arise.
    [00077] Additionally, spatially relative terms such as "under", "below" "lower", "over," upper "and the like are used to facilitate description to explain the positioning of an element in relation to a second element. These terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device, in addition to the different orientations of those represented in the figures. Additionally, we have such as "first", "second" and the like are also used to describe various elements, regions, sections, etc. and are also not intended be limiting. Similar terms refer to similar elements throughout the description.
    [00078] In the form used herein, the terms "having", "containing", "including," comprising "and the like are open-bound terms that indicate the presence of declared elements or features, but do not exclude additional elements or features. "one", "one" and "o", "a" articles are intended to include the plural as well as the singular, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Finally, the present invention can be realized in other specific ways besides those presented here without departing from the scope and essential characteristics of the invention.The present modalities, therefore, must be considered in all respects as illustrative, and not restrictive, and all changes that fall within the meaning and equivalence range of the attached claims must be covered on them.
    权利要求:
    Claims (18)
    [0001]
    1. Method for preventing excessive battery passivation in an electronic meter reading module (20) that is powered by a battery (21), the method comprising the steps of: collecting measurement data from an associated meter (100) based on progress using relatively low power circuit system that is driven by the battery (21); transmit the measurement data to a remote node via a wireless communication network (30) at defined transmission times using a relatively high power communication transceiver (23) which is also powered by the battery (21) and temporarily activated during moments of transmission; the method characterized by also comprising: performing fictitious activations of the communication transceiver (23) at additional moments without defining the transmission moments, not to transmit measurement data, but to extract a second current from the battery (21) which is greater than the first current and reduces the accumulation of the passivation layer on the battery.
    [0002]
    2. Method, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the performance of said fictitious activations comprises performing one or more fictitious activations in each time interval between periodic data transmissions.
    [0003]
    3. Method, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that making said fictitious activations includes deciding to perform or skip any given fictitious activation depending on one or more of: time elapsed since a last data transmission or fictitious activation; room temperature value or time value at temperature; or the minimum battery voltage observed, measured during a last data transmission or fictitious activation.
    [0004]
    4. Method, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it additionally comprises conditioning the performance of said fictitious activations at room temperature, in such a way that said fictitious activations are carried out when a room temperature value or a time value in temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, and are not otherwise realized.
    [0005]
    5. Method, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that making said fictitious activations includes monitoring the ambient temperature and making fictitious activations more frequently at higher temperatures and less often, or none at all, at lower temperatures.
    [0006]
    6. Method, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that making said fictitious activations includes triggering a fictitious activation in response to the detection that the ambient temperature in the electronic meter reading module increases a predetermined amount within a period predetermined time.
    [0007]
    7. Method, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that performing said fictitious activations includes triggering a fictitious activation before a next data transmission in response to the detection of excessive battery voltage drop in conjunction with the performance of a previous data transmission or a previous fictional activation.
    [0008]
    8. Method, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that carrying out said fictitious activations comprises, for each said fictitious activation, performing a battery de-energization routine that includes one or more fictitious activations of a power amplifier in a communication transceiver.
    [0009]
    9. Method, according to claim 8, characterized by the fact that the said battery de-energization routine comprises an iterative routine that conditionally performs more than one activation of the power amplifier depending on the ambient temperature or time on the temperature, depending on the observing the behavior of the battery voltage in association with each such activation of the power amplifier.
    [0010]
    10. Electronic meter reading module (20) configured for battery operation from a battery (21), the module comprising: a controller (22) configured to obtain measurement data from an interface circuit associated with a meter ( 100); and a communication transceiver (23) configured to connect the module communicatively to a remote node attainable by means of a wireless communication network (30); and wherein said controller (22) draws a first current from the battery (21) and is configured to: activate the communication transceiver (23) temporarily at defined transmission times, for transmission of said measurement data or other information; characterized by the fact that the controller (22) is additionally configured to: perform fictitious activations of a transmitter in said communication transceiver (23) at additional times different from said defined transmission moments, not to transmit measurement data but withdraw a second battery current (21) which is greater than the first current and reduces the accumulation of passivation layer on the battery (21).
    [0011]
    11. Module, according to claim 10, characterized by the fact that said controller (22) is configured to perform said fictitious activations by performing one or more fictitious activations in each time interval between periodic data transmissions.
    [0012]
    12. Module, according to claim 10, characterized by the fact that said controller (22) is configured to decide whether to perform or skip any given fictional activation depending on one or more of: time elapsed since a last data transmission or fictitious activation; room temperature value or time value at temperature; or a minimum observed battery voltage, measured by the controller for a last data transmission or fictitious activation.
    [0013]
    13. Module, according to claim 10, characterized by the fact that said controller (22) is configured to condition the performance of said fictitious activations at room temperature, in such a way that said fictitious activations are performed when a value of room temperature or time value at the temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, and are otherwise not performed.
    [0014]
    14. Module, according to claim 10, characterized by the fact that said controller (22) is configured to perform said fictitious activations based on the monitoring of the ambient temperature and to perform fictitious activations more frequently at higher temperatures and less frequently, or none at all, at lower temperatures.
    [0015]
    15. Module, according to claim 10, characterized in that said controller (22) is configured to trigger a fictitious activation in response to the detection that the ambient temperature in the electronic meter reading module increases a predetermined amount within a predetermined period of time.
    [0016]
    16. Module, according to claim 10, characterized by the fact that said controller (22) is configured to trigger a fictitious activation before a next data transmission in response to the detection of excessive battery voltage drop in conjunction with performing a previous data transmission or a previous dummy activation.
    [0017]
    17. Module, according to claim 10, characterized by the fact that said controller (22) is configured to perform said fictitious activations based on, for each said fictitious activation, in the execution of a battery de-passivation routine that includes temporarily connect a power amplifier to the communication transceiver one or more times.
    [0018]
    18. Module, according to claim 17, characterized by the fact that the said battery de-energization routine comprises an iterative routine in which said controller (22) is configured to conditionally perform more than one activation of the power amplifier in the dependence the ambient temperature or time in the temperature and / or depending on the observation of the battery voltage behavior in association with each such activation of the power amplifier.
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    IL229027D0|2013-12-31|
    US20120280830A1|2012-11-08|
    MX2013012812A|2014-02-10|
    CA2834576C|2019-07-30|
    HK1198398A1|2015-04-17|
    AU2012250910B2|2016-04-14|
    CN103828120A|2014-05-28|
    EP2705565B1|2015-07-08|
    ES2544469T3|2015-08-31|
    RU2594354C2|2016-08-20|
    RU2013153905A|2015-06-10|
    CN103828120B|2016-08-17|
    JP2014519679A|2014-08-14|
    US8847785B2|2014-09-30|
    BR112013028172A2|2017-01-10|
    JP6196965B2|2017-09-13|
    CA2834576A1|2012-11-08|
    AU2012250910A1|2013-11-28|
    EP2705565A1|2014-03-12|
    WO2012151185A1|2012-11-08|
    IL229027A|2019-01-31|
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    法律状态:
    2018-04-03| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2019-07-23| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2020-04-22| B06A| Patent application procedure suspended [chapter 6.1 patent gazette]|
    2020-09-15| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2020-12-08| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 01/05/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US13/101,203|US8847785B2|2011-05-05|2011-05-05|Method and apparatus for reducing battery passivation in a meter-reading module|
    US13/101,203|2011-05-05|
    PCT/US2012/035948|WO2012151185A1|2011-05-05|2012-05-01|Method and apparatus for reducing battery passivation in a meter-reading module|
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