MXPA01005149A - Improved memory integrity for meters - Google Patents

Abstract

An improved process (10) ensures to the extent possible that the usage memory (100, 102) of an electronically-based electricity meter (92)is always in a state that most recent data may be retrieved. Two separate areas or pages (88, 90) of memories (100, 102) are maintained and updated as to quantitative consumption, i.e. kilowatt-hour. The older of the two data memories (100, 102) is updated, based on a data validation check. The approach ensures that a previous value is always retained, to prevent full data loss in the event that the power goes down. If one area (88, 90) of memory (100, 102) becomes corrupted, the other value can be retrieved and verified so as to prevent loss of both memory areas (88, 90), before a subsequent data reading (such as kWh or an unit of time for a kW reading). Use of a relatively small unit of measure prevents significant adverse data loss, since any data lost is limited to the chosen unit of measure since the most recent update.

Description

INTEGRITY OF IMPROVED MEMORY FOR METERS PRIORITY CLAIM The priority of the provisional application filed previously with the same title and the same inventor as herein indicated, filed on November 25, 1998 and assigned as USSN 60/109, 906, is hereby claimed.

ATTACHMENTS OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to processes or techniques for generating the integrity of the meters during power outages, and more particularly refers to the improved memory integrity of electricity meters so that a memory is always in a state where previous data can be recovered. The present invention relates to apparatus and methodology in such areas, including the use of practical computer software applications that involve an algorithmic approach to produce a useful, concrete and tangible result, i.e., a value of stored data. for electricity consumed (or another product) to be charged to a customer's account. The general purpose of metrology (ie, the science of measurement) is to monitor a physical phenomenon to allow a record of the monitored events. If the potential to record the measured or monitored data is lost, then the whole purpose. of the measuring device and / or the effort of the same. The basic function the effort of the devices. ~ • > • It can be applied to a number of contexts. A large area __ • = measurement refers, for example, to service meters that may include monitoring the consumption of a variety of energy or other products, such as electricity, oil, to name a few. Historically, service meters have been used in a mechanical way, such an approach providing a relatively reliable field device with certain inherent advantages, for example, if the product flow of consumption / - - s © measures. it was interrupted, the mechanical form of the simple meter -J stopped in its place, automatically reflecting the previous accumulation without other provisions that were required and without - a loss of the accumulated data. of the flow of the product, the mechanical register could simply add the values of additional flow to the accumulation p.; .- so that precise data was reflected in all mom ', -. ruptures of the intermittent product flow. Also, in many cases, the meter or record would not have a separate power supply since it was operated directly. v- by the flow of the product. In the case of electro - * meters! , the mechanical register could be powered electrically, ... Therefore, when the energy was lost, the measurement function was temporarily interrupted without measuring functionality that was lost even if the meter itself was temporarily without power. Since the technology of measurement devices has advanced, mechanical records are beginning to be replaced with electrical-based devices and electronic forms of registration. Generally speaking, all these devices require a form of electrical energy for their operation and the function of data storage. This fact created the potential for catastrophic losses of the accumulated data (that is, the failure of the entire purpose of the measurement device if the data representing the use of the product were lost). For example, in the case of an electricity meter, electrical energy is already flowing to (and through) the meter or measuring device. This fact establishes a convenient supply of electricity, without having to rely on the operation of batteries or any other source of electrical energy. However, this arrangement, insofar as it is advantageous in certain aspects, is inherently susceptible to the loss of electrical energy to the measuring device (including its registers) at the same time that there is any loss of energy towards the client's location ( example, home or business). Intermittent electrical power interruptions (or other conditions, such as low-voltage illumination) can occur even in systems with better maintenance.; For example, a power system can be damaged > ,. Storm debris (branches that fall) or powerful winds or from an accident (for example, vehicles such as ca n .. <-s or cars that hit the poles of the electric service and power lines). Under certain conditions of car restriction, it may even be necessary that the energy to a specific location be interrupted in a delirious manner. Regardless of the causes (or possibly other causes of power interruptions), the inherent problem is, - the electrical measuring device with an electrical-powered register may lose its accumulated data in the case - an interruption of routine energy.Previous attempts have been made to solve this technical problem.In one case, an algorithm or storage technique, used to store the quantities of the meter to a non-volatile memory. that an interr > < > ri of energy occurred In that previous attempt the technique involved a relatively timely ion of the interruption of the electric power and the consideration of the retention times of the supply d. This method is used to complete the storage of the quantities of electricity m to the non-volatile memory.The so-called "t retention" refers to the amount of time that an i The acceptable output power will be sent to the circuit .. - or the voltage of the line has been removed. Therefore, single use involved the use of relatively complicated and expensive power failure detection circuits and energy supply retention components. In addition, most non-volatile memory devices are limited by the maximum number of times a memory area can be written during the lifetime of said device. Other provisions and aspects of electricity meters on an electronic basis are already known. See, for example, the description set forth in the U.S. Patents Nos. 4,783,623; 5,469,049 and 4,509, 128. The descriptions of all of those patents are incorporated herein by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention recognizes and resolves the variations of the above and other problems, with reference to metrology operations. Therefore, speaking in general terms, the main object of this invention is that of improved metrology operations. More particularly, a major interest is the improved measurement integrity through the preservation of data regardless of intermittent power interruptions. Another more particular object of the present invention is to provide the improved apparatus and methodology for memory integrity and electricity meters. In such context, it is a general object to provide the improved integrity of quantity; With the electricity meter stored, including, but not limited to, items such as energy, or use by demand in said context, it is desired to facilitate the measurement of, for example. , • J, certain units of energy for a kilowatt / hour reading or • v •. t) or, with reference to the units of time for a lectio ... e; and kilowatt (kW). Another general object of the present invention is proport. • r- .. r a practical application of computer software for prodí.,. useful, concrete and tangible result, that is, the integrity of m _. > Improved metrology results, as obtained by the service meter, particularly such as the meter, or, and electricity. In that particular context, it is an object. .nal eliminate the need to use f :: detection circuits. it is e supply and retention components of e. ..-.,. ' to relatively complicated and expensive. In the context of electricity meters, another current issue is to make use of a storage technique of dc. ~ or algorithm to make sure that there will always be a re ... IO value of the previous electricity meter, avoiding this man. • i. total loss of energy in a discharge. In this context,. . n additional object limit the loss of any information .. < .-quantity of the electricity meter up to a unit of m x.x selected, chosen to be small enough ... ... < Significantly affect the accuracy of a value that is stored. Still another object of the present invention is to provide improved metrology technology that makes improved use of non-volatile memory devices, but without resorting to additional circuits for direct fault detection or other arrangements to provide memory usage not volatile. It is another general object of the present invention to provide an improved apparatus and technology that can be implemented advantageously and with the help of specific computer software to implement a memory integrity algorithm for double temporal storage of the stored data involved in maintenance and updating two separate memory areas for stored quantities, such as the amounts of the electricity meter. Additional objects and advantages of the invention are set forth or will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from the detailed description herein. Likewise, it should be further appreciated that the modifications and variations to the features and steps specifically illustrated, referred to and discussed herein may be practiced in various embodiments and use of this invention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, by virtue of the current reference to it. Such variations may include, but are not limited to, substitution of means and features or equivalent steps for those shown, referred or discussed and the functional, operational or positional investment of various parts, characteristic stages or the like. Furthermore, it is understood that the different modalities, as well as the different currently preferred modalities of this invention may include various combinations or configurations of steps or features currently described or their equivalents (including combinations of steps or features or configurations thereof not expressly referred to in the figures or set forth in the detailed description). A currently preferred embodiment of the invention relates to improved memory integrity which makes use of a double maintenance temporary storage process and the updating of two memory areas for stored data of quantity, such as electricity meters. One area maintains a more recent reading while the other maintains a previous reading. According to said technique or algorithm, the previous memory of these two is updated. The practice of said arrangement and / or technique advantageously allows, for example, that an electricity meter maintains any quantity, such as an increasing record of kWh reading (kiloWatt / hour) in a fault tolerant environment. Other current illustrative embodiments of the present invention may make use of various types of memory, such as non-volatile technology devices. These devices may include, for example, EEPROM (programmable read-only memories that can be electrically erased), FLASH memory devices, magnetic media, or battery-backed RAM (random access memory). As another aspect of the present invention, any non-volatile technology memory devices may be located either internally or externally to the processing device. In accordance with the present invention each memory device would be used to constitute the storage areas. . double temporal, with each temporary memory having its own value of sum of control. Said sum of control is a method L '. Indicated for validity the data that are transmitted to and d <; ? a processing device and its storage means • which, as referred to, may vary according to the > > . - .- o:. invention). Using an algorithm or warehouse technique. . The double point according to the present invention ensures that the previous one is always retained, while the loss of energy during any interruption of the electric power is avoided. Also in accordance with the illustrative modalities. the present invention, only one of at least the areas. . , 'is (that is, the oldest value) is updated to a new one, ¡. . anytime. In such a way, in the case that one of I. . If it is altered, the other value can be recovered and verified:. o -ra avoid the possibility of any alteration that has uo _. catastrophic uto, as would be the case of the loss of both memory •.

In additional aspects of the present invention tea < The current algorithm handles and inspects the memory operation to match (in the case of an electrode .. .. - .., with a certain unit of energy for a reading or unit. - O! - Time for a kW reading According to the present in \.:, The measurement is selected to be sufficiently p_.¡. -fia so that it does not significantly affect the accuracy of the vac . r? e is stored in case storage fails intent_ ... -.-- < ,, - ie, memory write operation) at the same time, it is selected to not be so small that it exceeds (cumulative) ... • ....) the service life of the non-volatile memory device, t. ' An interest, for example, in the case of device, EEPR ', which has a limited number of times that a location or memory can be described. According to the present invention the technique or algor! 1 ..._ > Storage is not activated by any power interruption, so the need to have the X.-na power failure warning is completely eliminated from the system. In additional modalities involving the technique, current, or algorithm, a write operation may be allowed: a non-volatile memory to the failure without eliminating complete or basic metrology function involved In such a case, from a-, • .-, -. < .X with the present invention, the maximum loss of data, the preselected measurement from the most recent update-ie, prior. example, if there is a power failure conf. • - the process is being operated to replace the previous stored energy value, then the write operation would fail.To restore the power, said attempted update of the previous value would be found to have In this case, according to the current technique or algorithm, the most recently stored energy value would be returned successfully, therefore the last amount of energy (ie the data about said energy) during the intermediate would be only the unit of increase of the energy (ie, the data about said energy). It is understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention involves the apparatus that implements the techniques and computer software or other flowchart implementations and / or algorithms as they are involved with the present invention, to constitute an application practice of such techniques or algorithms to produce a useful, concrete and tangible result. Those with ordinary experience in the api technique. The characteristics and aspects of said modalities and techniques, and others, will be better analyzed when reviewing the rest of the specification.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A full description of the present invention, inc. -, JO the best way of it, addressed to someone with exp ..-:. .-. Or what is ordinarily known in the art, is set forth in the specification, which refers to the appended figures, in which: Figure 1 is a flowchart representation of the illustrative embodiments of the memory integrity processes in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the techniques for storage characteristics of double time storage data according to the present invention; Figure 3 is a sequence diagram showing the illustrative events according to the present invention during a data writing condition; Fig. 4 is a sequence diagram showing the illustrative events according to the present invention during a data reading condition; and Figure 5 is a schematic revision of the block diagram of certain aspects of the present invention. The repeated use of the reference characters through the present specification and the attached drawings is intended to represent characteristics, identical or similar elements or steps of the invention. The use of certain numbers in the figures is intended to represent values, events or locations, rather than specific reference characters, as would be described in other detail in detail through the specification. The meaning of the numbers indicated will be evident in the context for someone with ordinary skill in the art, taken in conjunction with the corresponding description thereof in the specification.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that various modifications can be made to the specific examples and embodiments described herein and that the present invention is not intended to be limited by those specific examples. In addition, the description of such specific examples is d. - ':. only by way of example, rather than limitation, of p > . < or or that the variations referred to above can be practiced. or of the spirit and scope of the invention. Making additional reference to the ilu:.:. In the present case, it is understood that the present invention involves "a technique or temporal storage algorithm". To maintain and update two memory areas for the. < _,.; . .iad stored. Preferably, said amounts can ip ••• .- ••: '. rrrrr amounts of electricity meter of various types (such as. on electrical service meters. Other modalities of the ¡. , or:, the invention can be practiced with other forms of med. ? .o-j and adapt for use with them, including several m. I or is of service of the types referred to above.

In conjunction with maintaining and updating two memory areas for the stored amount, one area retains the most recent reading while the other retains a previous reading.

According to the present invention, the oldest of the two registered areas is updated sequentially. As referred to above, different types of memory may preferably be used from any non-volatile technology such as EEPROM, FLASH memory devices, magnetic media or battery-backed RAM, located either internally or externally to the device. measurement (specifically, the portion of processing device thereof). A checksum methodology is used to validate the data, with each of the double temporary storage areas having its own sum of control value. The data that are validated are those that are transmitted to and from a processing device and its means of storage. In any form that is practiced by someone with exper,. Ordinary in the technique according to the modality of the pre? invention. The use of the storage algorithm or process ensures that there will always be a previous value retained, in a way, -the total loss of energy is avoided in case of discharge. Y . or "only one of the double areas (that is, the value plus an ') is updated to a new value at any time, the other \ can be retrieved if a qu area is found. :, • updated is altered. If the other value is recovered and verified, the possibility of an alteration that has a catastrophic effect is avoided, that is, the loss of both memory areas. When in accordance with the present invention, the measurement unit is selected to be small enough so as not to significantly affect the accuracy of the value that is stored, the amount of energy lost (ie, the data about the energy) will be in the worst case, the managed increment energy unit. This will occur only in the event that the attempted storage (that is, the write operation) fails. The selected measurement unit is according to the present invention not so small as to exceed the service life of the non-volatile memory device. Referring more specifically to the currently illustrative modalities, using a double storage process, technique or algorithm according to the present invention, one has the certainty that there will always be a previous value retained, to avoid a total loss of data during any power failure. In general, an energy interruption may occur during storage of the first or second stored area according to the present invention. To the final restoration of energy, both values in the two non-volatile memory areas can be tested to determine if none, or both, are correct. According to the present invention, if one of the tested values is greater than another, then the highest value is considered as the most recent accumulation. This is based on the assumption that the meter is in the power consumption mode and that it is not operating "backward" since it is intended for the customer who makes a normal consumption, such as through the use of a generator, placing the energy on the power grid. According to the present invention, the smaller of the two data values (based on said assumption) can be discarded and updated with the following new value since it is considered that said memory array contains the oldest of the two values. In the context of the present invention, said unit or memory storage area can be referred to alternatively only towards or contemplated as a "page" of memory or simply as a "page". A variety of reasons can cause the failure of correct values that are written to a non-volatile memory or that are read from that memory. For example, the loss of energy can occur through a write operation to the memory so that the write operation is not able to be completed before the power is completely depleted. Another possibility is that noise may occur during a read or write operation. Even another potential reason for the failure is simply the failure of the hardware involved. Even another potential failure is simply the failure of one of the areas or "pages" of the double storage area. The practice of the present invention involves the attempt to recover the stored values in the presence of any of said faults. Generally speaking in accordance with the present invention, either with a read or write operation, both areas or pages of the double storage area are read and their respective corresponding checksum values are calculated. The following table 1 specifies in accordance with the present invention the potential consequences resulting from the errors of the checksum and the corresponding actions that are taken for the invention.

TABLE 1: PAGE 2 Page 1 Correct control sum Control error sum Control sum Control checks errors = 0 Check sum errors = 1 Correct update of the oldest value. update both values. Sum of control Check sum errors = 1 Check sum errors = 2 erroneous update both values. update both values.

As expressed in Table 1, the number of checksum errors is used to indicate the validity of the data involved and / or to specify the additional action to be taken in accordance with the present invention. For example, as a result of a write operation, any checksum error occurring whatever may require a second write operation to take place in order to ensure successful storage of the corresponding data. In other words, in table 1, when the checksum is indicated as "erroneous" or when the number of checksum errors is indicated as = 1, it results in a second write operation as referred to above. In the case of two checksum errors (ie, checksum error = 2), the results may be indicating loss of stored value whatever. In given cases it may be impossible to recover any data from the case of a loss of energy. However, in this portion of the algorithm technique, the actual loss of energy may not have occurred already. Until then, the data may be valid. As a result, the occurrence of said condition (i.e., two checksum errors) could be used to signal a particular measurement unit or processing device for scheduled maintenance. With a read operation, a contum error could indicate a technique of a unit of measurement, as referred to above. However, the occurrence of two checksum errors would indicate a complete loss of stored data cause a non-recoverable error. Figure 1 is a review of ur flow chart. process or memory integrity algorithm generally ten according to the present invention. Referring to the flow diagram, the operations and operation of the illustrative embodiments according to the present invention are explained in greater detail. . . n and memory integrity process and the algorithm inherently described and defined through the flowchart of Figure 1. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand and appreciate that at least a portion of said process or algorithm 10 according to the present invention involves the operation of the same after the restoration of energy after an interruption thereof. For the purposes of the current example, it is understood that the practice of the present invention is applied to an electricity meter. It is likewise understood that the variations and modifications of the present invention can be adapted and applied to other forms of service meters, and to other types of meters. After the start of process 10 for stage 12, both pages (i.e., page 1 and page 2) of the data (e.g., electricity meter quantities) are read into the temporary storage to calculate the checksums, for step 14. As part of said process operations step, an error counter is placed in zeros and the control sums are calculated from the data records in both pages for step 16. As the next steps or operation from said phase of process 10, the checksums are reviewed (ie, compared) to determine the validity of the data of both pages, page 1 and page 2, for the respective stages 18 and 20. As illustrated For the flowchart of the general process 10, several different ramifications are involved depending on what combination of results are involved with the verification of the validity of the data for page 1 and page 2. In the case where it is They erase both pages to be valid, the current illustrative process continues along the flow line 22 to a determination operation 24. At least at the entry point of the decision operation 24, it has been determined that page 1 and page 2 have been determined. passed representing that the error counter is equal to 0. Said operation 24 determines whether a read operation or a write operation is taking place. If a reading operation is being performed, the control flows to a decision operation 26, as shown in FIG. 1. The functional purpose of decision operation 26 is to determine whether page 1 or page 2 is the most recent value (based on the assumption of an incremental data record). As mentioned earlier, said determination is made by directly comparing the two data values to determine which is the highest value. If it is determined that page 1 has the highest value then a page refresh signal is set for step 28 (in this case representing the setting of the value d. "Ch update signal at" 1"). of stage 28 of the fixation of the se,.; _. page update to 1 is to direct the next opera > > '< d writing to the oldest of the two pages, which, * - -,? case has been determined (based on the assumption I established ..., <v_ is page 1. In view of that result, the named page 1 is then used to restore the value of d ... or > active, for stage 30, which means that the data of the .3 n 1 are copied to an additional location, such COT-J or RAM storage.From here, the operation continues.K .. l long of the flow line generally 32 to return to the error code (the fate of the flow line from a variety of different operations, as shown in figure 1.) If, on the other hand, the determination of the o.oió operation is that page 2 is the most recent data, the s- '• .-. d page update will be set to "0" for the operation stage7 ... _, 4.

To summarize, a page update signal "1" _.-.,! ...! C that the data on page 1 is used during a write operation and a page update signal of "0" signifies. .. the data on page 2 is used during an operation •• .- .. d writing. In accordance with this illustrative mode of p. • _ t invention, the page refresh signal is also f ij., ... . ^ it is determined that the values on pages 1 and 2 are equal! __ L this form, an affirmative movement flow diagram e- .v; .? Forward is provided for any possibility. That ordinary experience in the art will understand that. . other provisions should be made, in the case that the value of it. On page 1 it is determined that it is equal to that of the page ".

Regardless of whether the stored data values of page 1 were found to be smaller than or equal to the stored data values of page 2, the exemplary embodiment of the invention for the flow chart of FIG. data on page 2 called that are copied to the alternative storage site, i.e., a RAM storage for the operation of step 36. The subsequent operation proceeds by way of the flow line 32 from step 36, as referred to above . Returning to the decision operation stage 24, the function of the illustrative embodiments of the present invention for Figure 1 is more specifically set forth below in the case where the storage data operation is taking place (ie, a "write" operation). Referring to that point in Figure 1, it has already been determined that both pages 1 and 2 maintain valid data. Proceeding along the flow line 38 in view of a write operation being conducted, a page update or layout signal operation is used according to the current process or algorithm to toggle the write operations between the page 1 or page 2. It is understood that, for the preferred operation, reading is executed after an ignition. As shown in the eta? With alternative operation 28 and 34, said operation results in a page update that is reinitialized to either a "1" or "2" value. Specifically, the decision operation step 40 causes an examination of the aforementioned page update signal. When the signal is set to "0" (see step 34 and its corresponding description), the operation branches to an additional decision branch operation generally 42. If the page refresh signal is set to "1" (see step operative 28 and its corresponding discussion), the operation proceeds to an additional decision operation step generally 44. Both operational stages 42 and 44 examine their respective data information to determine whether or not a blocking or restoration condition exists. This condition exists whenever the new data is to be written if it is less than or equal to the value of the data sums in the respective pages (page 1 for the operational stage 42 and page 2 for the operative stage 44). If the decision process of the operation stage 42 results in an affirmative or positive result, then the new data is written to the storage on page 2 for step 46. If the answer is negative, then the new data is written to the storage of page 1 in step 48. Operational step 44 functions only as the inverse of that operation step 42, although it proves the same issue (ie whether or not a blocking or restoration operation exists). If there is an affirmative answer, then the new data is written to the storage of page 1, for step 50. If answer is negative, then the new data is written storage of page 2 for step 52. Once the stages, the alternating page update signal for page 54 and the operation continues with the i or return error counter 56, just as it was referred to anti- i description with the flow line 32. The operating stages or processes that result at - ' . . .... algorithm, for storage or operating data. or .. "writing" keep the most recent data and ar. e Operations are also inherently avoided. consecutive to a single page, thus extending i - v. useful of the "writing cycle" of any of the devices of •,,. r such as EEPROM's. Those with ordinary experience in the technical compo v_ that whenever there is a condition of blocking or restaur '- >; I mean, the branch of decision "yes" for the operations. . decision 42 and 44), the new data is written to both. - Storage of page 1 as of page 2. This. > . effect, to start with fully updated data or ni-, • -. _ both page storage areas. The successive ope represented by the stages in pairs 46 and * -,, and l stages in pairs 50 and 52 (involving the flow lines ¡i. • • "49 and 53 respectively) represent the preferred mode of o; . , < .. _ in the process 10.

The total operation of the process or algorithm generally 1 will result in the return of the number of checksum errors found, for step 56. Very simply, as! those with ordinary skill in the art will understand, or checksum "error" is determined whenever a sum of calculated control is not equal to the stored control sum. The number of possible checksum errors found can vary from 0 to 2. For such a scale, 0 is equal to n having errors, "1" is equal to having a checksum error "2" equals that both checksums are determined to be erroneous. In the case of a return value of "2", it can be determined what a fatal error has occurred, since both data in the storage locations are determined to be invalid based on the revision of the checksums for other operational stages of the storage. According to the process or algorithm generally, 0 A return value of "1" can be handled by the current pro - - algorithm as a nonfatal error since it has been determined that a storage location is still known. or io valid. The specific operations according to the current prc algorithm are described as follows. The decision ramification or operative stage 18 deter. s the checksum on page 1 is correct. If the answer is affirmative, then the checksum of p. _ for the decision operation stage 20, as referred to: however, if the answer is "no" when reviewing the sum of contr on page 1 (for branch 18), then the error counter is incremented for step 58. As a next operation, the control sum of page 2 is evaluated, by a decision branch or operational step 60. If the answer is no, then error counter is incremented by two by means of step 62 meaning that both pages have failed, as referred to above.

When both pages fail, the two values need to be updated, in accordance with the present invention (see table as referred to above). Therefore, the indication of a read operation for the decision branch 64 results in it not being read since there is no valid data available. However, the determination of a write operation for the operation branch 64 results in new data being described for storage of page 1 and storage of page 2 for successive operational stages 66 and 68. Again, the operation returns to the point to the line of flow 32, referred to above.

On the other hand, an affirmative decision from the branch of decision 60 indicates that at least one storage location still has valid data. In this case, it is also specifically indicated that page 2 is the location of said valid data. Therefore, the error counter is set to "1 since only page 1 has failed." In such a state, when an operation branch 70 is reached, any given read operation results in an instruction step to copy the data. from page 2 to RAM storage, for step 72. Said operative step takes place since the process or algorithm has determined that only page 2 maintains the valid data In the case of a write operation that is instructed as detected at decision stage 70, it is desirable to write the new data to both storage locations on page 1 and page 2, since it is known that the data on page 1 is invalid and that it is also time to update the data of page 2. Again, the successive writing operations of steps 66 and 68 are implemented and the process returns to the flow line 32 as referred to above. condition where it has been determined that the data values on page 1 are valid even though the data values on page 2 are not valid. The operation of a step 76 results again in increasing the error counter. Because the operation is proceeding on the "no" branch from the decision stage 20, it is known that not only one page has failed and that the pe r i -, -j 2 is the page with failure. Therefore, the operations of the decision branch io-n 78 are similar to (although inverse of) the operations resulting from a decision branch 70. Specifically, a read instruction detects • • • • • -n the decision branch 78 results in the data of the p. or, "1 are copied to a RAM storage, for step 80,,. . . a it has been determined that page 1 is the page with the valid data. If a write operation is detected for the decision branch 78, then the successive steps 82 and 84 result in new data being written to the storage on page 1 and storage on page 2, respectively. In any event, after the operation of steps 80, 82 and 84, the flow line 86 returns the operation to the return error counter stage 56, similar to the flow line 32 as referred to above. Figure 2 provides representations of diagrammatic or schematic format features that involve a pair of data pages as practiced in the illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Two respective pages are usually represented 88 (first page or page 1) and 90 (second page or page 2). As referred to above, each storage block can be referred to as a page, with each page containing a predetermined number of storage elements (such as the so-called bytes). As is known to those of ordinary skill in the art, some of the bytes within each page will contain the data to be stored and retrieved while one or more such bytes can retain the checksum information, as shown in Figure 2. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, the corresponding checksum value for the stored data will be stored within the page, ie the first or second page. page. Figures 3 and 4 represent the examples stage by e!; a d several write and read conditions, respectively, or _. or d in accordance with the present invention on illustrated sets * '-n d changing data values. In other words, the figure ...; / provide sequenced examples of events showing that the process or memory integrity algorithm of ... all the functions of the present invention should be understood, and it should be understood that the numbers indicated in the f i <.; r. 4 are not intended as reference characters, since: s referred to in figures 1 and 2. Instead, they represent e \ .- .. > .. > . discrete conditions, as described, and values of ... or illustrative, either new or stored data. It should be further understood that the examples of fig. -; 4 do not necessarily represent operating conditions., Or would occur under successive stages as shown for illustrative purposes. In other words, the actual events could be p, -. E in an order or form different from the examples shown. Figure 3 specifically represents an example. _ • io the writing data to a storage device ¡t > d non-volatile memory. Generally speaking, the e \ • _ .. • 1 represents an initialized factory condition, in doi. Data values are set to zero on both pages, together with the correct checksums for them.

During the operation the data will begin to accumulate representing the quantities of electricity meter (in the examples practiced with electricity meters). Once s achieves a pre-selected increment (such as time), the sequence operates to update the data in the illustrative non-volatile memory device. This is represented by the event in Figure 3. In such a case, the value of the new illustrative data (represented by "20") is copied to a predetermined page and that both pages are initially equal (ie both or zero). The actual write step of the new data value to the data on page 1 is represented as the illustrative event 3. During a successive storage event, the page values are tested to copy the new value to the lowest page value d. In this example, the data on page 2 has persisted with the zero initial value. Therefore, in illustrative events 4 and 5, s determines that page 2 contains the data of least value, so that the new illustrative additional data value ("33") and updated for the data on page 2 in the event 5. The data on page 1, as illustrated, continues "in decline" as n changes through the illustrative sequence. Such operating steps, procedures or algorithm continues to function until a blockage or restoration occurs, as represented by the illustrative event 8 of FIG. 3. In other words, the data blocking condition may occur as long as the meter has achieved available full value represented by your registration. A restoration condition is often triggered by an operator or meter reader at periodic points in the meter's service life, for a variety of reasons for key maintenance or others not directly related to the determination of the data. For any reason, the illustrative event 8 of FIG. 3 represents the presentation of "new" blocking or restoration condition data ("00"). Through the operation of the process or algorithm described in detail with reference to Figure 1, the restoration or blocking condition is determined by the newest value that is less than (or equal to) the last page as written. In such a case, the new value of illustrative data is written to both pages, as represented by event 9, where the data for page 1 and page 2 are set for the new data value ("00). also the operation stage pairs 46 and 48 and the operation stage pairs 50 and 52 of Figure 1 and their corresponding description Figure 3 further represents that any page with an error control sum will cause a write to occur Both of these examples are represented by several X's events, see also the comment descriptions in the right column of figure 3, which show the "X + 1" event that page 1 CRC failed, so there is a script for both pages, again in a subsequent example called an "X +" event, it is noted that page 2 CRC failed, resulting in a writing to both pages. In said illustrative mode, it is understood by those with ordinary experience in the art that the "CRC" referred failure involves what is known as the control sum of cyclic redundancy, a method of checking data bits, a procedure known to those of ordinary skill in the art if discussion of additional detail, and which does not form a particular aspect of the present invention. The CRC method described herein is strictly by way of example and not in any way limiting the broader aspects of the present invention. As a further aspect of the illustrative embodiments of the present invention, it is understood that the algorithm of the control sum or process steps takes place before the page comparisons to determine the operation of data on the pages. In this way, the delayed action can be taken to recover or to indicate errors, as it is referred to in detail within the present figure 1 and its corresponding description. Figure 4 represents several examples of reading data from an illustrative nonvolatile memory device. The examples follow several specific forms depicted in Figure 1 and the corresponding description associated therewith. A checksum test is used together with a determination of the highest stored value of the two pages to decide which of the data values will be recovered. As s specifically represents by the illustrative event number 1 to 4 of the present figure 4, the checksum test validates and a determination of the larger of the two page values results in a new illustrative data value that is read from the data of page 1 or page 2. Specifically, in the illustrative event 1 of figure 4, after a correct checksum is determined and after it is found that the data values on page 1 are greater than those on page 2, the data on page 1 ("28") are read in the new data value, for event 2 of figure 4. In illustrative event 3 of figure 4, again after a determination of correct checksum, if the data value on page 1 is found to be equal to or less than that on page 2 (see event 3 of figure 4) then the illustrative data on page 2 ("34") they are read within the new data value (see event 4 of figure 4). The events 5 to 8 of Figure 4 represent several exemplary operative determinations in accordance with the present invention if an individual invalid checksum is detected, which means that the other page is determined to have a correct control sum value. In such a case, as referenced above, the error value is set equal to "1" or is signaled, and the corresponding page with the correct sum of value is used for reading purposes.

As referred to above, the juxtaposition of several respective examples as shown in Figure 4 does not necessarily mean that it indicates that the operations in practice would occur in that sequence, beyond the context of the discussion described in the present specification. More specifically, event 5 of figure 4 shows by example that the determination of page 1 CRC s finds that it is erroneous, resulting for event 6 of the figure in the data on page 2 ("34") that is they carry forward with a new data value from a reading operation. In the illustrative event 7 of Figure 4, page 2 CRC is determined to be erroneous so that the value for the page data ("28") is carried in the new data value (see event 8 of Figure 4). ). Events 9 and 10 of Figure 4 represent a situation in which both control sums are determined to be invalid. In this case, no reading is made and an erro value (a "fatal" error) of "2" can be signaled. As shown in event 9 of FIGURE 4 specifically (for the comment descriptions of the right column), both CRC determinations are found to be erroneous. For event 10 of figure 4, no reading occurs and s indicates a fatal error. Figure 5 widely depicts in diagrammatic form a block diagram various aspects of the hardware of the present invention (including various software implementations wired thereof). In the example of an electricity meter, such as the meter or measuring device generally 92 can receive the power input generally 94 from a power grid power distribution system represented by the generally 96 line. Otherwise incorporated within the power grid. Measurement device 92 or associated therewith may be an electronic metrology package or portion of processing device 98 generally. As will be understood from the current description, said portion of processing device 98 may include or be associated with a record electronic to emit quantities of electricity meter. Said record may not be visible, since it may use an RF output or other form of output that does not require display on the meter 92. Furthermore, according to the present invention, a pair of control area 100 and 102, respectively, may understand the storage elements of the temporary double memory of l page 1 and page 2 to practice the current process or algorithm said pages 100 and 102 are intended to represent all the various forms of the non-volatile memory storage devices referred to above and their equivalents Therefore, Figure 5 shows in broad relation a scheme of certain basic aspects according to certain embodiments of the present invention. Said widely defined illustration is intended to represent variations in any implementation of the present invention, to contain and use computer software and / or hardware devices. Those with ordinary skill in the art would be able to formulate corresponding computer software (such as the executable and microprocessor) to implement the flow chart of Figure 1 and its related description. Those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that the process or memory integrity algorithm can be practiced in various modalities, including various combinations of devices implemented with computer software and wired devices. Those of ordinary skill in the art would be able to put into practice their own selected variations of computer software wired implementations of the present invention, based on the description of this application (including the specification and the figures thereof). All those modifications and variations are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Likewise, the above-mentioned preferred modalities are only illustrative, and their description is in the same way through examples rather than limitations.

Claims (45)

1. REIVI N DICACIONES 1 . A service meter with improved memory integrity for conservation of consumption data regardless of intermittent power failures, comprising: means of electronic metrology to monitor and detect consumption of a service product and to generate the corresponding consumption data with relation to the same in predetermined increments of measurement; a pair of n volatile memory storage devices operative in tandem as dual temporary memory storage elements; and read / write logic for operating the memory storage devices in the predetermined increments of measurement so that the valid consumption data is kept operationally possible in at least one of the non-volatile memory storage devices. so that if the consumption data is altered in the other of the volatile memory storage devices, only the data corresponding to one of the predetermined increments of the measurement will be lost.
2. 2. A service meter according to claim 1, characterized in that the service product is electricity.
3. 3. A service meter according to claim 2, characterized in that the predetermined increments of the measurement coincide with a certain unit of energy for a reading of kWh and a unit of time for a reading of kW.
4. 4. A service meter according to claim 1, characterized in that the memory storage devices compile one of an EEPROM, a flash memory device, a magnetic medium and a battery-backed RAM.
5. 5. A service meter according to claim 4, characterized in that the memory storage devices are located internally or externally to the electronic metrology means.
6. 6. A service meter according to claim 1, characterized in that the read / write logic comprises a wired device operatively associated with the memory storage devices.
7. 7. A service meter in accordance with the claim 1, characterized in that the read / write logic comprises of a programmable device and associated implementation software collectively and operationally associated with the storage devices d.
8. 8. A service meter in accordance with the claim 1, characterized in that the read / write logic is operative to compare the values of the consumption data in the memory storage devices and to replace any value data determined as relatively lower with the following available consumption data generated by the means of electronic metrology.
9. 9. A service meter according to claim 8, characterized in that the read / write logic is operative to monitor the potential errors in the sum of control values associated respectively with the consumption data stored in the storage devices of the consumer. memory. A service meter according to claim 9, characterized in that the read / write logic is operative to replace the consumption data in the memory storage devices with the following new consumption data available generated by the electronic metrology means and At least one of the values of your monitored control is found to have an error. 1. A service meter according to claim 1, characterized in that: the memory storage devices comprise first and second respective memory packets; and the read / write logic is operative to respectively determine the potential checksum errors associated with each of the memory pages and to replace the consumption data selected in each of the pages by updating them with the following new available consumption data generated by electronic metrology means, with the update that is conducted in accordance with the following logical table: Page 2 Page 1 Correct control sum Addition of erroneous control Sum of control Check sum errors = 0 Check sum errors = correct update old value. update both values. Sum of control Check sum errors = 1 Check sum errors = wrong to update both values. update both values. 12. A service meter according to claim 11, characterized in that the determination of checksum errors by the read / write logic results in an indication of the scheduled maintenance required for said service meter. 13. A service meter according to claim 12, characterized in that the read / write logic is operative to recover the consumption data under [.adid by means of the first determination of whether or not there are errors of sum of control and deciding afterwards which page has the highest value valid consumption data d and then retrieves said valid data of higher value. 14. Methodology for operation of a service meter to improve the memory integrity of the same for the conservation of consumption data regardless of intermittent power failures comprising the steps of: providing means of electronic metrology to monitor and send consumption of a service product and to generate the corresponding consumption data in relation to it and predetermined increments of measurement; provide a pair of tandem operating non-volatile memory storage devices as dual temporary memory storage elements; and operating the read / write logic for the memory storage devices in predetermined measurement increments so that the valid consumption data is maintained if operatively possible in at least one of the non-volatile memory storage devices so that if the consumption data is altered in the other of the non-volatile memory storage devices, only the data corresponding to one of the predetermined measurement increments will be lost. 15. Methodology for the operation of a service meter according to claim 14, characterized in that the service product is electricity. 16. Methodology for operating a service meter according to claim 14, characterized in that the service product is one of electricity, water, gas and oil. 17. Methodology for the operation of a service meter according to claim 15, characterized in that the predetermined increments of measurement coincide with a certain unit of energy for a reading of kWh and a unit of time for a reading of kW. The methodology for the operation of a service meter according to claim 14, wherein the memory storage devices comprise one of EEPROM, FLASH memory device, a magnetic medium and a battery backed RA. 19. The methodology for the operation of a service meter according to claim 18, characterized in that the memory storage devices are located internally external to the electronic metrology means. 20. Methodology for operating a service meter according to claim 14, characterized in that the read / write logic comprises a wired device operatively associated with memory storage devices twenty-one . Methodology for operation of a service meter according to claim 14, characterized in that the read / write logic comprises a programmable device to implement the associated software, collectively associated operatively with the memory storage devices 22. Methodology for operation of a service meter according to claim 14, characterized in that the read / write logic is operative to compare the values of the consumption data in the memory storage devices and to replace any value data determined relatively low with the following new consu data available generated by electronic metrology means. 23. Methodology for operation of a service meter according to claim 22, characterized in that the read / write logic is operative to monitor the potential errors in the checksum values associated respectively with the consumption data stored in the memory storage devices. 24. Methodology for operation of a service meter according to claim 23, characterized in that the read / write logic is operative to replace the consumption data in both memory storage devices when the following new consumption data available generated by electronic metrology means if at least one of the checksum values monitored is found to have an error. 25. Methodology for operating a service meter according to claim 14, characterized in that: the memory storage devices comprise respective first and second memory pages.; and the read / write logic is operative to determine respectively the potential checksum errors associated with each of the memory pages and to replace the consumption data selected in each of the pages by updating it with the following new data. of available consumption generated by electronic metrology means, with the update being conducted according to the following logical table: Page 2 Page 1 Sum of correct control Sum of wrong control Sum of control Sum of control errors = 0 Check sum errors = 1 correct to update the oldest value. update both values. Sum of control Check sum errors = 1 Check sum errors = 2 erroneous update both values. update both values. 26. Methodology for operation of a service meter according to claim 25, characterized in that the read / write logic is operative when two checksum errors are determined to indicate the necessary scheduled maintenance of the service meter. 27. Methodology for operation of a service meter according to claim 26, characterized in that the read / write logic is operative to recover the consumption data on request determining first if there are any checksum errors and deciding afterwards which page it has the highest value valid consumption data and then retrieves said valid data of higher value. 28. A process to help prevent a metering device with an electrically powered recording apparatus from losing accumulated usage data in the event of a power failure or failure, such a process that includes: providing first and second devices of respective memory operatively associated with the measuring apparatus; and using a dual storage double time storage technique operative with the memory devices in a selected measuring unit for selectively writing and reading the usage data from the measuring apparatus in relation to the memory devices, so that any data of use lost due to failure or failure of the energy are limited to an amount that corresponds to only one of the selected units of measurement. 29. A process to help prevent a metering device from losing accumulated usage data in accordance with claim 28, characterized in that the dual storage double time storage technique includes only updating with one new value at a time one more value old determined from the usage data stored in the respective memory devices. 30. A process to help prevent a metering device from losing accumulated usage data in accordance with claim 29, characterized in that the dual storage double time storage technique includes conducting a checksum error test on the data of stored usage in each memory device and update both memory devices at a time with a new value if at least one of the memory devices is shown to have altered data as indicated by a checksum error. 31 A process to help prevent a metering device from losing accumulated usage data according to claim 30, characterized in that the double storage double time storage technique includes updating both memory devices at a time with a new value if indicates one of a restoration and blocking condition by said new value that is equal to or less than the value of the usage data stored in any one of the memory devices. 32. A process to help prevent a metering apparatus from losing accumulated usage data in accordance with claim 30, characterized in that the dual storage double time storage technique includes recovering the usage data stored on demand by first determining whether there is checksum errors and then deciding which memory device has the valid value data of higher value, and then retrieving said valid data of higher value. 33. A process to help prevent a metering apparatus from losing accumulated usage data in accordance with claim 30, characterized in that the dual storage double time storage technique includes indicating a need for scheduled maintenance of the measuring apparatus if errors are shown of checksum for each of the memory devices. 34. A process to help prevent a measuring apparatus from losing accumulated usage data in accordance with claim 29, characterized in that the measuring apparatus includes electronic metrology means for generating use data for the consumption of a service product, and the memory devices comprise non-volatile memory storage devices. 35. A process to help prevent a measuring apparatus from losing the accumulated usage data according to claim 34, characterized in that the service product is electricity and the measuring units coincide with one of a certain power unit for a reading of kWh and a unit of time for a kW reading. 36. A process to help prevent a metering device from losing accumulated usage data in accordance with claim 28, characterized in that the dual storage double time storage technique is implemented operatively in a programmable device with associated software. 37. A process to help prevent a measuring apparatus from losing accumulated usage data in accordance with claim 35, characterized in that the service product is one of electricity, water, gas and oil. 38. In a solid state electronic meter to monitor the consumption of electrical energy from an associated power line, a methodology to improve the conservation of usage data regardless of power interruptions or variations and without having to detect such interruptions to variations of energy and without having to delay the start thereof for such electronic meter, comprising: providing an electronic metrology device to indicate the detected values of the electric power consumption of the associated energy line; and providing a pair of non-volatile memory devices and the read / write logic based on associated software to operationally control the read and write operations in relation to the memory devices for a memory integrity algorithm for detected values stored in double temporal form from the electronic metrology device so that upon successful completion of successive writing operations any subsequent loss of usage data is limited to a predetermined unit of measurement controlled by the read / write logic. 39. In a solid state electronic meter, a methodology according to claim 38, characterized in that the measuring unit coincides with one of a certain power unit for a reading of kWh and a unit of time for a reading of kW. 40. In a solid state electronic meter, a methodology according to claim 38, characterized in that: the non-volatile memory devices each comprise an EEPROM, a FLASH memory device, a magnetic medium and a battery-backed RAM; and the memory devices are located internally or externally to the electronic metrology device. 41 In a solid state electronic meter, a methodology according to claim 38, characterized in that the memory integrity algorithm includes during the write operations thereof to compare the detected values stored in the pair of memory devices and replace any detected value usage data determined to be relatively low with the following new usage data generated by the electronic metrology device. 42. In a solid state electronic meter, a methodology according to claim 41, characterized in that the memory integrity algorithm includes during the write operations thereof to determine the existence of a block or restoration condition if the detected value of the following new usage data available is the same as om _ '.. ?? to the detected values stored in the pair of memory devices, and subsequently replacing the detected value of said new usage data available in each of the memory devices. 43. In a solid state electronic meter, a methodology according to claim 41, characterized in that the memory integrity algorithm includes duran! .; the writing operations of the same monitor the \. . ^ t is detected stored in the memory devices for potential errors in the checksum values respectively associated with it, and to replace the detected values in both memory devices with the following new detected values available from the usage data indicated by the electronic metrology device if at least one of the checksum values monitored is found to have an error. 44. In a solid state electronic meter, a methodology according to claim 43, characterized in that the memory integrity algorithm also includes during the write or read operations thereof indicate the scheduled maintenance necessary for the electronic solid-state meter associated if the monitoring shows checksum errors associated with both memory devices. 45. In a solid state electronic meter, a methodology according to claim 38, characterized in that the memory integrity algorithm includes during the read operations thereof to retrieve the usage data on request by first determining whether there are sum errors of control associated with any of the memory devices and later deciding which memory device has the highest value valid use date, and then retrieving said valid data of higher value.