Tamper detection device for utility meter
US5086292A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 1989 |
| Grant date | Feb 4, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 31, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01R22/066
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system for detection of tampering with a utility meter provides not only an indication that tampering has occurred but also sufficient information to enable an estimation of actual consumption to be made as opposed to the tampered metered consumption. The device includes a plurality of tampering sensors sensing tilt, electric field, magnetic field, temperature, sound, reverse rotation of a moving element and excessive difference between metered consumption and an approximate actual consumption. The device also measures the movement of the moving element. These sensed signals are recorded in sequential time periods of for example eight hours so that an analysis can be made on a daily basis to provide an accurate pattern of consumption as opposed to the tampered meter consumption pattern.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.