New metering and reading techniques based on a modular design concept

There is a general trend towards a multi-tariff system of measuring electricity at different times during the day or year for direct, short-distance or remote communication. Thanks to modern electronics, these functions can be carried out in an economical and reliable way by the integration of a maximum number of components into special circuits and by using surface-mounted components. This leads to a reduction in dimensions, so that the size of the apparatus is acceptable. The measuring of energy, combined with the above mentioned functions, is effected similarly by a maximum concentration of the metering elements within a high-integration circuit. Since the requirements of the electricity boards are very varied, the separate functions are carried out by complementary modules. These devices transmit locally or remotely messages which enable the customer to regulate his electricity consumption and assist the electricity board in controlling the network load