En-Meter IR
Operational overview of energy consumption at any time and from anywhere using IoT technologies.
Measuring power consumption, including other quality of supply parameters, is an important prerequisite for efficient energy management and keeping costs and energy supply under control. Specialized Internet of Things (IoT) devices for meter reading will enable remote meter reading or monitoring of consumption virtually in real time. The current remote metering systems provided by distribution companies (Smart metering, AMM, as part of the Smart Grid concept) is not implemented in the Czech Republic and is in the pilot project phase with an as yet unclear intention and time horizon for eventual implementation.
The aim of the project was to develop and then commercialise an IoT device that uses remote electricity reading via an optical head (IR interface for meter reading) with the IoT Sigfox radio protocol. At the time of the project launch, no such product was available on the market.
What problems does it solve for its customers?
En-Meter IR - main advantages and possible applications:
- Readings of actual energy consumption - selectable reading intervals (typically 1 day, 1 hour, 15 minutes).
- Easy to install and inexpensive to operate - the sensor is held by a magnet and powered by a battery.
- Possibility of reading values in multiple tariffs (for consumption points that use HDO).
- Possibility to read other values, e.g. current consumption, current voltage values, energy supplied to local production, etc. (depends on the type of consumption point, type and setting of the meter and its IR interface).
The En-Meter IR is suitable for the following applications:
- Monitoring energy consumption at any point of consumption, typically in the home.
- Optimization of energy consumption in companies, institutions, buildings.
- Monitoring consumption and adjusting it to the current tariffs and network capabilities, typically in local systems with self-generation.
Monitoring of consumption with the possibility of generating alarms in case of unexpected behaviour (detection of undesired activity in the building).
En-Meter IR uses a standard optical meter reading interface in the infrared (IR) and Internet of Things (IoT). The Sigfox global network is used for wireless data transmission.
Product development phase
A functional prototype is available.
Commercialisation method
CTU is able to deliver units. We are looking for a partner for mass production.
Technical specification
En-Meter IR uses a standard optical meter reading interface in the infrared (IR) and IoT. The Sigfox global network is used for wireless data transmission. The basic technical parameters are as follows:
- Sigfox wireless transmission in the 868 MHz ISM band
- IR communication according to EN 62056-21
- Display of values on the web portal or via API
- Power supply 2 x CR123A batteries, lifetime typically 2 years with readings at 1 hour intervals.
- Operating temperature range: -20º to 85º C
- Degree of protection: IP40
- Dimensions: 65 x 45 x 32 mm.
Are you interested in this technology?
If you are interested in our technology, products and services, please contact our Technology Transfer Coordinator by phone or email:
