MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORPORATIONPUBLIC RELATIONS DIVISION
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No. 3343

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Mitsubishi Electric Develops “BLEnDer® ICE” Battery-powered WirelessTerminal to Collect Meter Data and Control Networked Sensors
Utilizes sensor data to improve the efficiency of gas and water utilities
TOKYO, March 16, 2020 – Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) announced today that it hasdeveloped the BLEnDer® ICE battery-powered wireless communication terminal for use in sensor networks
to collect gas and water meter data and remotely control sensors in the networks. This terminal will enable
meters to be automatically read and both monitored and controlled remotely to achieve greater efficiency inthe maintenance operations of utilities and infrastructure operators. Various tests conducted so far havedemonstrated that the terminal operates and communicates stably in the field.
BLEnDer (short for Bid Liaison and Energy Dispatcher) is a packaged software developed by Mitsubishi
Electric in response to the changes in the power industry and support utilities to realize smarter and more
efficient operations. The BLEnDer Intelligent Communication Edge (ICE) terminal will work together with
the BLEnDer HE (Head End) software which manages and controls smart meters through various
communication methods and the BLEnDer MESH software which utilizes wireless multi-hop communication
to realize a wide range smart meter communication network at a low cost.

Service applications envisioned for BLEnDer ICE

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Key Features
1) Common interface enables connection with diverse meters and sensors
The BLEnDer ICE terminal supports standard communication interfaces to ensure connectivity with not only
gas and water meters but also various sensing equipment.

2)

Wide-area network connectivity for remote control, monitoring and metering

By using low cost sub-GHz wireless communication which does not require a special license or a designatedspecialist to connect with, not only is the ICE terminal suited for smart-meter networks it is capable ofexpanding existing communication networks. This will enable new services such as automated meter reading
and infrastructure equipment monitor and control through sensors at a low cost.

3)

Battery operation for unassisted operation up to 10 years

Since no external power supply is required, the BLEnDer ICE battery-powered terminal can be installed
anywhere, including meters in locations where power supply is difficult. Depending on usage conditions andthe environment, it should be possible to use the device for up to 10 years, which is the lifespan of most meters.
Future Development
In view of expected increases in the use of renewable energy, virtual power plants (VPP) and micro-grids,
supporting interfaces required for remote monitor and control of demand-side and distributed-energy resources
is planned in the future.
Development BackgroundIn recent years, due to labor shortages and the aging of equipment installed in large numbers during Japan’s
period of high economic growth decades ago, there has been a growing demand among utilities and public
infrastructure operators for IoT solutions that help to realize more efficient operations while also ensuring
stable services.
Since 2014, by using its BLEnDer package software, Mitsubishi Electric has been a major provider of utilitynetwork solutions, including the deregulation of Japan’s electric-power sector and other IoT public
infrastructure.
Specifications
Item

Specifications

Operating temperature-25℃ to 70℃; 95% or less humidity (without condensation)

Power source

battery pack (lithium battery)Dimensions

110mm (W)×41mm (D)×133mm (H) (excluding protrusion)

Cooling method

Natural air cooling

RoHS

RoHS compliant2/3

Contribution to the Environment
Using IoT solutions helps reduce CO2 emissions and lower other environmental impacts in various areas ofsociety.

BLEnDer is a registered trademark of Mitsubishi Electric Corporation.

###About Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
With nearly 100 years of experience in providing reliable, high-quality products, Mitsubishi Electric
Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) is a recognized world leader in the manufacture, marketing and sales of electricaland electronic equipment used in information processing and communications, space development and satellite
communications, consumer electronics, industrial technology, energy, transportation and building equipment.
Embracing the spirit of its corporate statement, Changes for the Better, and its environmental statement, EcoChanges, Mitsubishi Electric endeavors to be a global, leading green company, enriching society withtechnology. The company recorded a revenue of 4,519.9 billion yen (US$ 40.7 billion*) in the fiscal year
ended March 31, 2019. For more information visit:
www.MitsubishiElectric.com*At an exchange rate of 111 yen to the US dollar, the rate given by the Tokyo Foreign Exchange Market on
March 31, 20193/3