초록 ▼

A communication system transmits data between a plurality of locations. The communication system is suitable for use by a utility provider to monitor a plurality of metering devices from a remote location. The communication system in accordance with use by a utility provider to monitor metering devi

A communication system transmits data between a plurality of locations. The communication system is suitable for use by a utility provider to monitor a plurality of metering devices from a remote location. The communication system in accordance with use by a utility provider to monitor metering devices comprises a control for at least receiving data, a plurality of metering devices arranged in a defined number of metering groups for transmitting data associated with an amount of usage of a utility, and a defined number of concentrators, each operably connected to the control and one metering group for transmission of data between the control and plurality of metering devices.

대표청구항 ▼

[ I claim:] [1.] A system for a utility provider to monitor a plurality of metering devices from a remote location comprising:control means for at least receiving data;a plurality of metering devices, with each said plurality of metering devices comprising means for transmitting data associated with

[ I claim:] [1.] A system for a utility provider to monitor a plurality of metering devices from a remote location comprising:control means for at least receiving data;a plurality of metering devices, with each said plurality of metering devices comprising means for transmitting data associated with an amount of usage of a utility, wherein said plurality of metering devices are arranged in a defined number of metering groups, with each said metering group comprising a selected number of plurality of metering devices operably connected together; anda defined number of concentrator, with each said concentrator being operably connected to the control means and one meter group, with each said concentrator being operably connected to one metering group by at least one power line, wherein each said concentrator comprises relay means for receiving data from one metering group over said at least one power line and transmitting data corresponding to the data received from said one metering group for receipt by said control means, to identify the amount of usage of a utility associated with each of the plurality of metering deviceswherein said concentrator further comprises a metering device and includes means for monitoring an amount of usage of a utility.