Hubei Chengze Diamod Products Co., Ltd. , https://www.ryomaltools.com
Analysis of the Development Trend of China's Electric Meter Intelligentization
With the growing adoption of smart meters, their positive impact on daily life is becoming more evident. These devices are not only improving efficiency but also subtly transforming how we manage and consume energy. As part of China Power Grid's strategic development plan over the past decade, it has become clear that achieving automated meter reading begins with making meters intelligent. This enables data to be transmitted efficiently, paving the way for centralized reading systems.
There are several types of electricity meters used globally for centralized meter reading. One common type is the electromechanical combined meter. It integrates an electronic counting system into traditional mechanical meters, often adding a card reader or communication interface to support automatic billing and control. These meters typically use optical sensors to detect the rotation of a mechanical disc, converting it into electrical pulses for accurate measurement. While they retain the same accuracy as mechanical meters, they come at a higher cost. However, they offer the advantage of utilizing existing infrastructure, which makes them easier to adopt by the public.
Another variation of the electromechanical meter uses an electronic circuit to generate digital pulses, driving a micro-motor that rotates a coded wheel to record energy consumption. Though this design is compact and practical, it requires precise calibration of the pulse-to-energy ratio, known as the meter constant. The reliance on RC components introduces variability, necessitating careful component selection and testing during production, which increases both time and cost. Due to these limitations, such meters are gradually being phased out.
The all-electronic meter represents the most advanced technology in power metering. It employs microcontroller units and specialized integrated circuits for high-precision measurements, while also offering features like anti-theft protection, low self-consumption, and reliability. Many models include dual billing capabilities, enabling seamless integration with automated meter reading systems. Digitized data allows for efficient remote monitoring and real-time billing, significantly reducing manual labor for utility companies and improving customer service.
Centralized meter reading can be implemented through various methods. In a bus-based system, smart meters are connected via a shared communication line, with signals routed through floor-level adapters to a central concentrator. Another approach is power line carrier communication, which uses existing electrical wiring to transmit data, eliminating the need for additional cabling. Although power lines are not ideal for data transmission due to noise and interference, modern modulation techniques have made this method more reliable.
A full electronic meter system typically includes remote meters, collectors, converters, and management software. Remote meters send pulse outputs representing measured values, which are collected by the collector. The converter then communicates with the master station, transmitting data and receiving commands. Management software handles data storage, analysis, reporting, and user control, providing a flexible and scalable solution for utilities and consumers alike.
Overall, smart meters are revolutionizing the way we monitor and manage energy consumption, offering greater accuracy, convenience, and efficiency in power distribution.