Television – Special applications – Observation of or from a specific location
Patent
1996-09-25
1999-02-09
Britton, Howard
Television
Special applications
Observation of or from a specific location
34087002, 382100, H04N 718
Patent
active
058701400
ABSTRACT:
A system for remote meter viewing and reporting. The system comprises a remote camera located at the meter. The remote camera is coupled to a central computer through a communications channel. In response to a command from the central computer, the camera scans the meter face, i.e. readings on the dials, and stores an image in memory. The scanned image is transmitted to the central computer. The central computer includes software for analyzing the scanned image in determining the consumption of electricity, for example, by comparing the current readings on the dials with the readings on the dials taken at the last billing cycle. The processed image is then used to generate a billing statement which is sent to the household consumer using conventional post. In another aspect, the billing statement generated by the system includes scanned images of the past and current meter readings. The system according to the present invention is suitable for public utilities, such as gas, electricity, water companies and leasing companies who lease office equipment to companies situated in remote locations, which equipment is fitted with meters which record their use, i.e. copying machines, printers, etc. where it is desirable to determine the quantities of copies made, thus enabling the timely scheduling of visits of company service representatives to perform ongoing maintenance, thereby helping to ensure minimal down-time and optimal equipment performance.
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Britton Howard
Harbour Management Services Limited
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