Patent Publication Number: US-2015084785-A1

Title: Wireless utility meter reading system and method

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ (0009339USU), filed on an even date herewith, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     1. Field of the Disclosure 
     This disclosure relates to a wireless utility meter reading system and method. More particularly, this disclosure relates to a camera or imaging device that wirelessly communicates utility meter image data to a central location or utility provider. The utility meter image data can be utilized by the utility provider or its billing agent to determine utility usage and manage billing. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Utility meters are used in many settings to monitor utility usage of a location (e.g., residence, commercial building, etc.) for natural gas, water, and/or electric. Typically, the utility supplier or its agent hires an individual, e.g., a meter reader, to travel to the various locations, view the meters, and record the meter readings. The meter reader provides that information back to the utility supplier or agent, so that their server can determine utility usage and manage billings, such as billing the customer for the usage. 
     The costs involved in having a meter reader travel to the various customer locations to take the meter reading can be excessive. Moreover, in some situations, the meter may be located inside of a structure which is not always readily accessible to the meter reader, thus hampering the meter reader and adding delay and further costs. In addition, the meter-readers may be subject to dog bites, human attack, or other dangers. 
     The field of remote sensing is growing rapidly. Remote sensing may include capturing visible light images, temperature, vibrations, seismic, infrared images, chemical or acoustic data. The remote data is either stored locally for later collection, or is transmitted via a wired or wireless connection to a data collection point. However, the use of remote imagers has been limited to applications where the remote camera has a stable power source, such as connection to a utility grid, or where the camera system can be conveniently accessed to change or charge its battery. Accordingly, the applications for remote imaging have been limited. 
     One application that could benefit from remote sensing is a remote utility meter reader. Meters, such as gas, electric, water, or other utility meters, are attached to nearly every home or business, and are often manually read every month by a meter reader. As indicated above, this is an expensive and time consuming process, and can expose meter readers to dangers. Due to the high cost of using human readers, some utilities use estimated bills. With an estimated bill, the utility actually reads the meter only a limited number of times per year, and based on historical records, estimates bills for the months when no reading is taken. At each reading cycle, there is a true-up, where the utility credits for any over-charge, or a larger bill to make up for underpayments. Either way, the estimated bills are a stop-gap so the utility can save money, and often leads to great consumer dissatisfaction. 
     Some new utility meters are being installed that have wired or wireless communication of usage data to the utility. These meters directly address the problems raised above, and in the long term, may be a satisfactory solution. However, these meters are quite expensive, and there are millions of legacy meters installed. It will take many years, if not longer, to replace and update all these meters. To date, there is no practical way to automatically read these meters. 
     For the foregoing reasons, given the limitations of the above-mentioned systems, an improved wireless meter reading system is desirable. 
     The present disclosure provides many advantages, which shall become apparent as described below. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     This disclosure provides a wireless utility meter reading system and method. 
     Also, this disclosure provides a camera or imaging device that wirelessly communicates utility meter image data to a central location or utility provider. The utility meter image data can be utilized by the utility provider or its billing agent to determine utility usage and manage billing. 
     This disclosure provides a wireless meter reading system that comprises: (a) at least one utility meter having a housing and a face; (b) at least one camera or imaging device optionally coupled to the at least one utility meter, wherein the at least one camera or imaging device operates to provide one or more wireless meter reading images of the at least one utility meter from time to time, and wherein the one or more wireless meter reading images comprise utility usage data and identifying data of the at least one utility meter; (c) a power source coupled to the at least one camera or imaging device; (d) a communication device for wirelessly receiving the meter reading images from the at least one camera or imaging device; and (e) a wide area connection with the communication device for communicating the meter reading images to a central location. 
     Also, this disclosure provides a system that comprises one or more databases configured to store a first set of information including billing activities attributable to a utility provider and payment activities attributable to one or more utility consumers; one or more databases configured to store a second set of information including billing activities attributable to a financial transaction processing entity and purchasing and payment activities attributable to the one or more utility consumers; and a processor. The processor is configured to: analyze the first set of information and the second set of information to identify one or more correlations between utility usage and utility consumers; and generate one or more predictive models based at least in part on the one or more correlations. 
     Further, this disclosure provides a camera or imaging device configured to read a utility meter. The camera or imaging device comprises a housing; and a lens, a memory, a processor, a power source, and a wireless communication transceiver associated with the housing. The camera or imaging device is adapted to be connected to the utility meter. 
     Advantageously, the camera or imaging devices of the present disclosure may be attached to legacy meters, enabling very efficient and accurate remote meter reading. 
     This disclosure yet further provides a method of billing a consumer for utility usage. The method comprises providing a camera or imaging device optionally coupled to a utility meter at a consumer site. The camera or imaging device operates to provide one or more wireless meter reading images of the utility meter from time to time. The one or more wireless meter reading images comprise utility usage data and identifying data of the utility meter. The one or more wireless meter reading images are transmitted to the utility provider. The utility consumer receives from the utility provider a billing statement for utility usage at the consumer site for a defined time period. The billing statement is based on the one or more wireless meter reading images transmitted to the utility provider. 
     This disclosure also provides a method that involves retrieving, from one or more databases, a first set of information including billing activities attributable to a utility provider and payment activities attributable to one or more utility consumers; and retrieving, from one or more databases, a second set of information including billing activities attributable to a financial transaction processing entity and purchasing and payment activities attributable to the one or more utility consumers. The first set of information and the second set of information are analyzed to identify one or more correlations between utility usage and utility consumers. One or more predictive models are generated based at least in part on the one or more correlations. 
     The method of this disclosure further comprises trading or investing in weather derivatives based on the one or more predictive models. The trading or investing in weather derivatives based on the one or more predictive models is part of a risk management strategy to reduce risk associated with adverse or unexpected weather conditions. 
     Further, the method of this disclosure further comprises identifying activities and characteristics attributable to the one or more utility consumers based on the one or more predictive models. The activities and characteristics include, for example, energy conservation, water conservation, green practices, and/or sustainable lifestyle practices. 
     Further objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will be understood by reference to the following drawings and detailed description. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a block diagram illustrating a high-level view of system architecture of a financial transaction processing system in accordance with exemplary embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic diagram of an exemplary mobile computing device useful for taking digital images of a utility meter in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 3  is a diagrammatic illustration of an individual, such as a utility customer, using the mobile computing device of  FIG. 2  to take a digital picture of a utility meter in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 4  is an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 3  showing an exemplary utility meter (analog). 
         FIG. 5A  is a flow chart showing correction of energy meter misreads in an exemplary embodiment the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 5B  is a flow chart showing a camera device for capturing and sending energy meter images to energy companies in an exemplary embodiment the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6A  is a perspective view of a portion of a wireless meter reading system according to the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 6B  is a perspective view of a portion of the wireless-meter reading system of  FIG. 6  showing a side view of the system. 
         FIG. 7  is a block diagram of a meter reading system in accordance with the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 8  is a block diagram of a meter reading system in accordance with the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 9  is a block diagram of a meter reading system in accordance with the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 10  is a flowchart of a method for meter reading in accordance with the present disclosure. 
         FIG. 11  is a flow chart illustrating a method for generating predictive models in accordance with exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure can now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the disclosure are shown. Indeed, the disclosure can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure may satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. 
     As used herein, entities can include one or more persons, organizations, businesses, institutions and/or other entities, including but not limited to, financial institutions, and services providers, that implement one or more portions of one or more of the embodiments described and/or contemplated herein. In particular, entities can include a person, business, school, club, fraternity or sorority, an organization having members in a particular trade or profession, sales representative for particular products, charity, not-for-profit organization, labor union, local government, government agency, or political party. 
     For purposes of this disclosure, the term “consumer site” is interchangeable with the term “customer site”, and the term “utility company site” is interchangeable with the term “utility provider site”. Furthermore, the terms “customer” and “consumer” are interchangeable, as are the terms “utility company” and “utility provider”. The term “network hub” is interchangeable with “internet network”. The term “utility customer” is interchangeable with the term “utility consumer”. 
     The present disclosure facilitates easy capture of utility meter readings by which to simply, economically, and automatically obtain accurate utility meter readings without the disadvantages encountered with prior meter reading methods. To that end, and in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a customer or other individual takes a digital picture of the utility meter, specifically including at least the dials thereof, such as with a digital camera. The meter reading can then be transmitted to the utility provider, and utilized by the utility provider or its billing agent to determine utility usage and manage billing. 
     In particularly advantageous embodiments of the disclosure, the digital picture may be received through a digital camera forming part of a mobile computing device such as a smart phone. The meter reading image obtained with the smart phone can be sent, using the communication facility of the smart phone, to a server associated with a utility provider or its agent to determine utility usage and manage billings. 
     While one embodiment of the present disclosure is particularly advantageously applied to and with a smart phone, other embodiments do not necessarily require or involve a smart phone. For example, other mobile computing devices generally considered to be hand-held and having digital imaging and communication capability may be used, such as tablet computers, netbook computers, or the like. Similarly, the digital image can be captured by a stand-alone digital camera, as described herein, and then transferred to a separate computer, either wirelessly or with a cable. The separate computer could be a customer&#39;s computer where the image is processed and the results communicated to the server. Or the computer could be the server, which receives the image from the digital camera or from an intermediary computer such as a customer&#39;s computer which itself had received the digital image. 
     Most individuals have digital cameras and computers equipped for internet communication. Many also have mobile computing devices, such as smart phones. Thus, deployment and/or implementation of the disclosure can be readily and economically accomplished to automatically develop and provide customer supplied meter readings, but in a fashion that is so easy to use that compliance is far more likely, with little cost and with significantly less risk of error than encountered with prior meter reading methods. For example, with the present disclosure, the customer does not have to determine the respective positions of the dial indicators, does not have to fill out and mail a card, and does not have to call and report the dial indicator positions verbally. Instead, in an embodiment, the customer need merely aim the digital camera at the meter dials and takes a picture thereof in conventional manner. As a consequence, the drawbacks of prior meter reading methods are overcome. More particularly, the foregoing can be readily accomplished without the costs of sending meter readers to the consumer locations, and without the delays, costs, and errors of approaches which involve the consumer manually reading the dials, and completing mailings or voice call-ins. Yet, the consumer can take the digital image and cause or permit it, or the meter reading, as appropriate, to be sent electronically to the server of the utility provider or its billing agent, thereby reducing costs and errors. Nonetheless, in some situations, the utility supplier or its agent may find it beneficial to provide the meter reader(s) with an appropriate programmed mobile computing device to facilitate their meter reading tasks. 
     In another embodiment, a wireless meter reading system is provided that includes a utility meter having a housing and a face and a camera or imaging device located in the housing. The camera or imaging device is adapted to read and convert data located on a portion of the face to wirelessly transmittable data. A power source coupled to the camera or imaging device permits continuous and instantaneous capture of the wirelessly transmittable data from the face of the utility meter by the camera or imaging device. A communication device provided for wirelessly receiving and transmitting data between a consumer site and a utility provider site facilitates monitoring of the face of the utility meter by the consumer site and by the utility provider site. 
     The wireless meter reading system is at least one meter having a housing, with a camera or imaging device located in the housing of the at least one meter. The camera or imaging device is preferably capable of capturing multiple images of a face of the meter having usage data and unique identifying data pertaining to the meter. The camera or imaging device (or a module located in the housing of the meter) is adapted to transmit the captured images wirelessly to at least one of a satellite, a cell phone network and a combination router/cable. The captured images are relayed to a network hub wirelessly. The captured images are then relayed to both at least one consumer and at least one utility provider, where the visual images of the meter are viewed. 
     According to this embodiment, the improved wireless meter reading system enables all parties with an interest in the utility usage to obtain real-time information. The consumer benefits from this arrangement by being able to observe the meter and optimize utility usage. The utility provider benefits by reducing employee costs, knowing when the meter is malfunctioning and optimizing future utility usage needs by observing consumption of the utility, and providing feedback to the consumer about peak usage and how the consumer may be able to reduce utility usage costs. 
     In accordance with one embodiment of this disclosure, a wireless meter reading system is disclosed. The system having at least one consumer site and at least one utility provider site, comprises in combination (a) at least one utility meter having a housing and a face; (b) at least one camera or imaging device coupled to the housing, the at least one camera or imaging device adapted to read and convert data located on a portion of the face to wirelessly transmittable data; (c) a power source coupled to the camera or imaging device for powering the at least one camera or imaging device; and (d) a communication device for wirelessly receiving and transmitting data between the at least one consumer site and the at least one utility provider site to facilitate monitoring of the face of the at least one utility meter by the at least one consumer site and by the at least one utility provider site. 
     In yet another embodiment, a system and method is provided for automatically reading meters, such as utility meters. A camera or imaging unit is attached to or otherwise associated with an existing utility meter. From time to time, either automatically, or upon wireless command, the camera unit takes an image of the utility meter&#39;s readings, and communicates wirelessly the image or image data, to a local area receiver. The images can be transmitted immediately, or stored for later transmission, depending on the network protocol. The camera or imaging unit is battery powered, and operates communication protocols that enable extended operational life. These protocols allow for the camera&#39;s radio and processor to be turned on only when necessary, and then for only brief periods of time. At most times, the camera is in a power-conserving sleep mode. Multiple camera units may be arranged to communicate utility meter image data to the local area receiver, either using asynchronous or synchronous processes. The meter image data is communicated from the receiver to a central office using a wide area connection, where the image data is used for determining the utility meter reading. In one example, the image may be included with a utility bill as confirmed evidence of the current meter reading. 
     Advantageously, the camera units of the present disclosure may be attached to legacy meters, enabling very efficient and accurate remote meter reading. Because of the low-power protocols and structures in the camera units, in normal use the camera units will operate autonomously for up to several years. Accordingly, meter reading can be made more efficient and safe, and fully automated remote meter reading is possible, even with older legacy meters. This allows the cost, accuracy, and safety benefits of remote meter readings to be used on existing meters. In addition, frequent readings, even several times a day, are conveniently possible. This enables utility companies to track hourly usage or even charge per time of use (especially for electricity). In addition, simple imaging DSP (digital signal processing) can be applied to the meter image, and used to read the meter by the utility. This information may then be used to compare to previous readings by a computer, and create a bill without human intervention thus improving reliability and productivity. In one example, the bill may even include an image of the final meter reading. 
     The steps and/or actions of a method described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. A software module can reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, a hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium can be coupled to the processor, such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. Further, in some embodiments, the processor and the storage medium can reside in an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium can reside as discrete components in a computing device. Additionally, in some embodiments, the events and/or actions of a method can reside as one or any combination or set of codes and/or instructions on a machine-readable medium and/or computer-readable medium, which can be incorporated into a computer program product. 
     In one or more embodiments, the functions described can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions can be stored or transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media and communication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another. A storage medium can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures, and that can be accessed by a computer. Also, any connection can be termed a computer-readable medium. For example, if software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of medium. “Disk” and “disc”, as used herein, include compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and blu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs usually reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media. 
     Computer program code for carrying out operations of embodiments of the present disclosure can be written in an object oriented, scripted or unscripted programming language such as Java, Perl, Smalltalk, C++, or the like. However, the computer program code for carrying out operations of embodiments of the present disclosure can also be written in conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products. It can be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and/or combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create mechanisms for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks. 
     These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block(s). 
     The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide steps for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block(s). Alternatively, computer program implemented steps or acts can be combined with operator or human implemented steps or acts in order to carry out an embodiment of the disclosure. 
     Thus, apparatus, systems, methods and computer program products are herein disclosed to generate predictive models. Embodiments of the present disclosure will leverage the information available to identify data that is predictive of, for example, weather trends. Opportunities, including trading or investing in weather derivatives, are available using the predictive models. Embodiments of the present disclosure will leverage the information available to identify data that is indicative of a customer&#39;s activities and characteristics and to predict consumer behavior and intent based on those activities and characteristics, e.g., energy conservation, water conservation, green practices (e.g., reducing carbon footprints, recycling, etc.) and sustainable lifestyle practices of customers, and the like. By identifying and analyzing consumer activities and characteristics, predictive models can be generated and one can offer products and services that are relevant to the consumer&#39;s needs. 
     Referring to the drawings and, in particular,  FIG. 1 , there is shown a four party payment (credit, debit or other) card system generally represented by reference numeral  100 . In card system  100 , utility consumer card holder  120  submits the payment card to the utility provider  130 . The utility provider&#39;s point of sale (POS) device communicates  132  with his acquiring bank or acquirer  140 , which acts as a payment processor. The acquirer  140  initiates, at  142 , the transaction on the payment card company network  150 . The payment card company network  150  (that includes the financial transaction processing company) routes, via  162 , the transaction to the issuing bank or card issuer  160 , which is identified using information in the transaction message. The card issuer  160  approves or denies an authorization request, and then routes, via the payment card company network  150 , an authorization response back to the acquirer  140 . The acquirer  140  sends approval to the POS device of the utility provider  130 . Thereafter, seconds later, the utility consumer card holder  120  completes the purchase and receives a receipt. 
     The account of the utility provider  130  is credited, via  170 , by the acquirer  140 . The card issuer  160  pays, via  172 , the acquirer  140 . Eventually, the utility consumer card holder  120  pays, via  174 , the card issuer  160 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 2 , there is shown a schematic view of an exemplary mobile computing device  200  which may advantageously be adapted or used with the present disclosure. Mobile computing device  200  has a housing  202  sized to easily held in one hand by an individual  302  ( FIG. 3 ), such as a utility customer or someone acting on the customer&#39;s behalf, or a meter reader. One particularly advantageous type of mobile computing device  200  is a smart phone, such as an iPhone or a Droid-based cellular phone by way of examples, the housing  202  of which is sized to be hand-held so as to be easily carried in or with one hand. Mobile computing device  200  will thus be referenced herein as a smart phone, although it will be understood that the mobile computing device  200  could be some other comparable, hand-held device, such as a tablet computer an example of which is the iPad, a netbook computer, or the like. 
     Housing  202  supports the various electronic components of the smart phone  200  operatively interconnected by one or more busses. These components include a digital camera  204 , a microphone  206 , a speaker  208 , a transceiver (T/R) section  210 , a processor  212 , a memory  214 , and a display/user interface  216 , all as may be standard in a smart phone  200 . Housing  202  may also support a battery  220 , which may be rechargeable, to provide power to the various electrical components of smart phone  200  such that the smart phone  200  is mobile and self-contained for use. The display/user interface  216  provides images to the user  302 , such as icons or other virtual buttons as at  218 , or digital images sent to the smart phone  200 , or as captured by the digital camera  204  thereof. Similarly, the memory  214  includes various operating programs  222  for operation of the smart phone  200  and a data storage  224 . Smart phone  200  may, through its T/R section  210 , communicate over a communication network  316  ( FIG. 3 ). The communication network  316  may provided by a cellular provider, examples of which include Verizon, Sprint, and AT&amp;T. The communication network  316  can be, by way of further example, a Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) or Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network, and may also include an IEEE 802.11 (WiFi) network as all or part thereof. Data may be stored in a data storage  224  of memory  214  by which to facilitate storage and communication of data such as digital images taken by camera  204  or messages, texts, images, and/or web pages received by the smart phone  200  over the communication network  316 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 3 , a utility meter  304  may be mounted to a wall  306  of a house or other structure  308  to monitor usage of a utility of that structure  308 . With further reference to  FIG. 4 , which is an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 3 , meter  400  includes a plurality of dials  402  each having a dial indicator  404  which rotates, such as clockwise or counterclockwise (they may all rotate in the same direction, or some may rotate in one direction while others rotate in the other direction) driven by an axial pin  406  of the dial  402  as the utility being metered is used. The angular relationship of each dial indicator  404  correlates to the amount of utility consumed, such as by pointing to respective numbers about the dial  402 . The meter  400  typically also includes identifying indicia, such as a serial number or the like as at  408 . 
     The individual  302  holds the smart phone  200  so as to aim the digital camera  204  thereof at the dials  402 . An image of what is in the view of the digital camera  204  will typically show in the display/user interface  216 . The individual  302  desirably positions the smart phone  200  such that the dials  402  are aligned horizontally across the display/user interface  216  and visible within a bracketed image area (not shown). The user may be prompted by a message on the display/user interface  216  to either tap thereon to take a picture or swipe thereacross to cancel. When the picture is taken, a digital image or picture of the meter  400  as seen in  FIG. 4 , including the dials  402  will then typically be stored in the data store  224 . The digital image is considered received by the processor  212  of the smart phone  200  when it is taken. 
     Advantageously, the image includes all of the dials  402  with the respective dial indicators  404  showing their respective angular relationships within each dial  402 . The digital image also advantageously, but need not necessarily, includes the meter identifying information  408 . When the picture is taken, all or a portion thereof is also typically displayed on display/user interface  216 . 
     The meter reading (with or without the image) may be transmitted via the communication network  316  from the smart phone  200  to a server  310 , which is used by or on behalf of a utility provider or supplier to determine utility usage, manage billings and/or for other purposes as considered necessary by the utility supplier or its agents. As will be readily understood, the server  310  may communicate with the communication network  316  directly or via other connections, such as telephone lines, other cable connections, the internet, and/or cellular or other wireless connections. 
     The server  310  may contain a program  312  which will cause the processor  314  of the server to analyze the received digital image and generate the meter reading directly. Where the smart phone  200  transmits both the digital image and the meter reading, the processor  314  of the server may analyze the digital image to compare it to the received meter reading as a reliability check. The digital image may be evaluated at or by the server  310  in respect of the meter identifying information  408  to confirm that the digital image and/or meter reading are from an expected meter  400 . 
     While a smart phone  200  is a particularly advantageous implementation of the present disclosure, other mobile computing devices can be employed. The digital image can be captured by a stand-alone digital camera, and then transferred to a separate computer, either wirelessly or with a cable. The separate computer could be a customer&#39;s computer where the image is communicated to the server  310 . Or the computer could be the server  310 , which receives the image from the digital camera or from an intermediary computer such as a customer&#39;s computer which itself had received the digital image as described herein. In any of these situations, the processor of the computer (whether of the mobile computing device, the customer&#39;s computer, and/or the server) may be programmed to analyze the received image. 
     Additionally, while the present disclosure advantageously facilitates easy capture of meter readings by which to simply, economically, and automatically obtain accurate customer-supplied meter readings without the disadvantages encountered with present approaches, meter readers may also take advantage of the present disclosure, such as with an appropriate programmed mobile computing device  200 . Similarly, while the disclosure has been described in the context of a fully functioning smart phone  200 , it will be appreciated that the various embodiments of the programming for implementing the disclosure are capable of being distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, and that the disclosure applies equally regardless of the particular type of computer readable media used to actually carry out the distribution. Examples of computer readable media include but are not limited to physical and tangible recordable type media such as volatile and nonvolatile memory devices, floppy and other removable disks, hard disk drives, optical disks (e.g., CD-ROM&#39;s, DVD&#39;s, etc.), among others. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5A , a household energy meter  502  is read at a particular date and time. A smartphone  200  is used to capture the meter reading, geolocation and date-time stamp. The meter reading image(s) is wirelessly transmitted to an energy provider or supplier  504  where the image(s) and data are processed and stored. An energy billing statement  506  is sent to a consumer who pays his or her energy bill with a payment card  508 . The energy billing statement  506  is thereby connected to the payment card transaction and, if a discrepancy exists between the billing statement and utility usage at the consumer site for a defined time period, the consumer can request the utility provider to adjust the billing statement to accurately reflect the utility usage at the consumer site for the defined time period, based on the wireless meter reading images transmitted to the utility provider. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5B , a household energy meter  502  is read at a particular date and time. A camera device  510  is used to capture the meter reading, geolocation and date-time stamp. The camera device  510  is connected to the energy meter  502  and is WiFi enabled to transmit images to the energy company  504 . The WiFi connection sends image data at time intervals to the energy company  504 . The meter reading image(s) is wirelessly transmitted to an energy provider or supplier  504  where the image(s) and data are processed and stored. In accordance with this embodiment, the energy provider or supplier  504  is able to collect meter readings electronically without the need of meter readers. 
     In another embodiment of this disclosure, the camera or imaging device is attached to or otherwise coupled to the utility meter. This embodiment provides a wireless meter reading system in which no meter reader is needed. 
     According to  FIG. 6A , a portion of a wireless meter reading system  600  comprises at least one utility meter  604  (shown in  FIG. 6A  as an electric utility meter  604 ) having a housing  612  and including a face  606 . The housing  612  preferably comprises a substantially transparent durable polymer. The face  606  of the at least one utility meter  604  comprises at least utility usage data  608  (shown in  FIG. 6A  as a plurality of numeric dials  608 ) of the at least one utility meter  604 . The movement of each one of the plurality of dials  608  indicates (counts) utility usage. The face  606  of the utility meter  604  displays identifying data  610 . The identifying data  610  uniquely identifies each utility meter  604  that corresponds to each customer (or consumer) site. A portion of the wireless meter reading system  600  further comprises at least one camera or imaging device  602 . 
     The camera or imaging device  602  is adapted to read and convert the data (the utility usage data  608  and the identifying data  610 ) located on a portion of the face  606  to wirelessly transmittable data. Conversion methods include various compression schemes for transmitting digital data more easily, including Joint Photographic Experts Group (“jpeg”) formats and the like. The camera or imaging device  602  is located in the housing  612  of the utility meter  604 . The camera or imaging device  602  may be at least one of a digital camera, a web camera, an electronic eye, a laser, a digitally counting electronic chip, a scanner, a bar code reader or the like. The listing of the above is not to be construed as a limitation of the scope of the present disclosure. The camera or imaging device  602  can comprise a charge-coupled device (CCD) sensor having at least about 0.03 mega-pixel resolution and the camera or imaging device  602  captures visual images through a small fixed lens. 
     The camera or imaging device  602  converts the visual images to electric pulses and either temporarily saves these electric pulse images in on-board memory within the at least one camera or imaging device  602  for subsequent wireless transmission, or immediately transmits these electric pulse images wirelessly. Each one of the electric pulse images can have at least a resolution of 160×120 pixels. The camera or imaging device  602  can be a still digital camera or a digital camera capable of continuous operation such as a digital movie camera operating at a speed of at least 15 frames per second. An aperture of the lens of the camera or imaging device  602  has both auto-focus and auto light settings, thereby taking into account prevailing environmental conditions. If the camera or imaging device  602  is a digital camera, a digital shutter of the camera or imaging device  602  controls the operation of the camera or imaging device  602 . 
     A portion of the wireless meter reading system  600  may further comprise the utility meter  604  having an alarm (shown as a portion of the camera or imaging device  602  coupled to the housing  612 ) adapted to alert the utility provider (or utility company) site when the utility meter  604  is inoperable and requires repair. A portion of the wireless meter reading system  600  may further comprise a light source (not shown) located in the housing  612  of the utility meter  602 . The light source may be activated under low light conditions where the auto light setting may be inadequate, thereby facilitating optical capture of wirelessly transmittable data (utility usage data  608  and identifying data  610  converted into electronic form) from the face  606  of the utility meter  602 . 
     The housing  612  of the utility meter  604  may further have at least one wireless transfer module located in the housing  612 . Alternatively, the camera or imaging device  602  may comprise the wireless transfer module (not shown). Well-known wireless technologies having wireless transfer modules include UWB, 802.11g, 802.11a, 802.11b, WLAN, Wi-Fi®, AirPort, Infrared, Bluetooth® and ZIGBEE®, and the like. However, wireless technology is a rapidly developing technical field and the above listing of wireless technologies should not be construed as a limitation of the current disclosure. With the wireless transfer module, e-mail may be sent wirelessly to a (intranet or internet) network hub by a communication device provided for wirelessly receiving and transmitting data. The network hub is controlled by the at least one utility company (or provider) site, and e-mail may be distributed to both the customer (or consumer) site and the utility company (or utility provider) site. The network hub comprises a server (not shown) of a central processing unit preferably controlled by the utility provider site. The server of the network hub wirelessly relays data to at least one local CPU having an antenna located at the at least one utility company site. The server of the network hub also wirelessly relays data to at least one local central processing unit (CPU) having an antenna located at the at least one customer site. 
     The communication device comprises a combination of a router/modem. An antenna of the communication device for wirelessly receiving and transmitting couples the combination of the router/modem wirelessly to both the camera or imaging device  602  and to the network hub. The network hub relays visual images of the face  606  of the utility meter  604  from the camera or imaging device  602  to the customer (or consumer site) and to the one utility company (or utility provider) site. The network hub facilitates e-mail transmissions between the utility company (or utility provider) site and the customer (or consumer site). 
     Alternatively, the communication device may be at least one of a satellite and a cell phone network, and the like. The communication device is wirelessly coupled to the camera or imaging device  602  (such as a wireless cell phone). It is understood that when the communication device is coupled to a wireless cell phone, the wireless cell phone further comprises at least a camera or imaging device  602  such as a digital camera, and the like. The wireless cell phone may be programmed to respond to transmissions from both the customer site and the utility company site. Each one of the satellite and the cell phone network is adapted to relay data from the camera or imaging device  602  located in the housing  612  of the utility meter  604  to the consumer site and to the utility provider site. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6B , a side view of a portion of the wireless meter reading system  600  includes the camera or imaging device  602  positioned in the housing  612  of the electric utility meter  604  of  FIG. 6A . The camera or imaging device  602  is adapted to read the face  606 , having the utility usage data  608  and the identifying data  610  (not shown in  FIG. 6B ), located thereon of the electric utility meter  604 . 
     In an embodiment, the utility provider or consumer can monitor the face  606  of the utility meter  604  of each consumer and predict future utility usage of each consumer. This will enable the utility provider to improve planning for utility expansion. The utility provider is further enabled to improve planning of peak usage times of the utility usage of each consumer to allocate costs of the utility usage to each consumer during peak usage times efficiently. 
     In another embodiment, referring to  FIG. 7 , an automated meter reading system is illustrated. System  700  generally comprises an imaging camera unit  720  attached to or otherwise coupled to a meter  710 . In one arrangement, the camera includes a lens or lens system and a CCD or CMOS imager. From time to time, camera unit  720  takes an image of the reading area  712  of meter  710 . Reading area  712  has dials, such as dial  714 , or a digital display for presenting utility usage information. The image is captured by camera unit  720 , and communicated back to a receiver unit  740 . In one example, receiver unit  740  is a handheld device used by a human meter reader. In this way, a person driving in a vehicle or walking a distance away from the meter can remotely and wirelessly read the meter. In another example, the receiver unit is in the residential or commercial unit for meter  710 , and wirelessly receives image data. The image data may then be communicated through a wide area connection back to the utility company. In another example, the receiver unit may be a centrally located receiver or hub communicating to a network of camera units. It will be appreciated that the communication processes operating between camera unit and the receiver unit  740  may be determined by the physical, electrical, and application requirements for each installation. 
     Advantageously, camera unit  720  may be configured to take meter readings as often as required or desirable for the utility company. For example, meter  710  may be read several times a day to assess peak utility usage. Also, the image of reading area  712  is a precise, accurate record of the reading, so any billing disputes may be immediately addressed. In one example, an image of reading area  712  may be included with a consumer bill for verification of accurate reading. As will be described below, camera unit  720  operates as a very low power imaging system. In this way, camera unit  720  operates particular network protocols for reducing power consumption. By conserving power, camera unit  720  may operate on battery  732  for several years. Since camera unit  720  may operate autonomously for years without maintenance, and provides an accurate, timely, and efficient way of reading legacy analog or digital meters, meter reading system  700  may be advantageously deployed for existing residential and commercial applications. 
     One example of camera unit  720  is described. Camera unit  720  has a small and compact housing for enclosing and protecting camera components. Camera unit  720  includes an imaging sensor  722  for capturing images of a meter dials or displays. The sensor may be, for example, a CMOS imager sensor for reduced power consumption, or may employ CCD imaging technology. It will be appreciated that other evolving technologies may be used to implement the sensor. The sensor may also be constructed to capture visible wavelength information, or may be set to detect other wavelengths, such as infrared. The sensor cooperates with a lens  734  to obtain the correct size and resolution of the image to facilitate automated or manual interpretation of the image. It will be appreciated that the resolution should be selected high enough to support the intended automated detection processes, if used. It will also be understood that the resolution needed will depend on dial or digit size, distance to the meter reading area, quality of lens, and other application characteristics. Of course, better resolution may support simplified and more accurate reading, but will also require more power to take and transmit the image. One skilled in the art will understand the tradeoffs and compromises between resolution, automated recognition, and power consumption. Camera unit  720  also has processor  724  for providing control and processing capability to the camera unit. For example, processor  724  may be constructed to configure and control sensor  722 . In another example, processor  724  may apply image processing to captured images, for example, to compress, recognize, or encrypt image data. In one specific example, processor  724  applies a JPEG compression algorithm to images captured by sensor  722  to reduce file size while maintaining image quality. 
     Processor  724  may also implement network control settings and processes. For example, network control settings may define how often the camera attempts to communicate with a receiver  740 , or settings regarding encryption or compression. Further, network control settings may include a unique ID for the camera  720 . The unique ID may be used to associate the camera with a particular meter, and thereby be used by an accounting process to automatically and confidently assure that the proper entity is billed. In this way, a unique association is made between particular meter data and the party-to-be billed. The unique ID also enables a receiver  740  to be associated with a particular camera, which may be a hub or another camera. Camera  720  also has camera control settings. These camera control settings may set integration times for sensor  722 , define capture windows, or define timing and sequential information regarding image capture. 
     In providing the various functions, processor  724  cooperates with local memory  726 . Local memory  726  provides storage space for images captured by sensor  722 , as well as memory space for application and algorithmic processes performed by processor  724 . Camera  720  is intended for discrete installation, as well as long-term operation without any required maintenance. This includes for example remote operation relying fully on battery  732  for power. It will be appreciated that as battery technology advances, additional gains in battery life may be expected. 
     Battery  732  life is extended by having the camera normally operate in a sleep mode, and only activating the camera for necessary periods of time. More specifically, camera  720  normally operates in a sleep mode where radio  728  is deactivated. Further, except as discussed below, processor  724  is also deactivated. In sleep mode, the processor  724  is deactivated except for a low power timer. This low power timer draws in the range of 5 to 10 micro amps of power. The low power timer may be set to generate an interrupt at a set time or on a periodic basis. It will be understood that the resolution and stability of the clock may be selected according to application needs. For example, some asynchronous communication processes may benefit from a relatively inaccurate and unstable clock, while a synchronous system may need a better resolution clock. When the low power timer generates an interrupt signal, an interrupt activates radio  728  as well as processor  724 . The camera, now being activated, acts according to its defined network controls and its camera controls. In one specific example, when the camera first wakes up, it generates a request signal through radio  728 , which is transmitted by antenna  730 . 
     After the request signal has been transmitted, the radio  728  enters a listen mode for a defined short period of time. For example, this listen mode may be opened for 20 ms to 50 ms. During this listen mode, the camera  720  is waiting to receive an acknowledgment signal from a receiver, such as a hub or another camera. If no acknowledgment signal is received during the listen period, the camera  720  goes back to sleep, which may be for a programmable time period. If however, the receiver  740  does respond, then the receiver  740  may command the camera  720  to take an action. These actions could include, to take an image, to transmit a stored image, or to go back to sleep. Of course, the camera power requirements increase dramatically while radio  728  and processor  724  are operating. However, the radio and processor operate for only a short period of time, so the overall drain is not substantial. Accordingly, it will be recognized that overall battery life is highly dependent on how often the low power timer causes the camera to wake up. For example, if the node camera  720  is set to wake up and transmit its request signal once every 10 minutes, then the battery life may extend for a certain period of time. More frequent wake ups will result in a shorter battery life. It will be understood that the image can be transmitted immediately after taken or stored as a data file in the processor for later transmission, depending on the communication protocol. Each image may have a time stamp as part of the information field. 
     Both the camera unit  720  and the receiver unit  740  include radio transceivers to enable two way communications and power-conserving networking protocols, as required by the network. Receiver unit  740  is constructed to wirelessly communicate with one or more camera units, such as camera unit  720 . The receiver unit  740  has a two-way radio system  746  with antenna  748  constructed to cooperate with radios in the camera units. The receiver unit also has a processor  742  and memory  744  for performing network, control, or algorithmic processes. The receiver unit has a power source  750 , which in some cases may be a persistent source such as a connection to a utility power grid. In other cases, power  750  may be from a battery or rechargeable battery. For example, if receiver unit  740  is an 802.11 access point in a residential home, then the receiver unit  740  is likely powered by connection to household power. In another example, if receiver unit  740  is a handheld portable device, then power  750  may be a rechargeable battery. In yet another example, receiver unit  740  may be another camera, in which case power  750  will be a regular battery. It will be appreciated that the type and speed of the processor and the sophistication of applications operating on the receiver unit  740 , may in part be determined by the type of power available. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , a meter reading arrangement is illustrated. Arrangement  800  has multiple camera units, such as camera unit  720  described with reference to  FIG. 7 . Each camera unit is located in a particular geography, such as at the service entrance for a residential house, a commercial building, or an industrial site. In  FIG. 8 , camera/meter  802  is located on house  804 , camera/meter  806  is located on house  808 , and camera/meter  810  is located on house  812 . Each camera  802 ,  806 , and  810  is configured to communicate wirelessly with receiver unit  814 . Receiver unit  814  has a wide area connection to a utility company. In one example, receiver unit  814  is a central hub operated by the utility company. The receiver unit  814  operates an asynchronous network for controlling and receiving image data from each of the cameras. From time to time, the receiver unit  814  communicates meter reading data to the utility company. In another example, receiver unit  814  may be a portable receiver carried by a human meter reader or positioned in a utility company vehicle. In this way, the portable reader may be brought within a few hundred feet of meters, and meters automatically and wirelessly read as the receiver unit  814  moves down the street. In this way, a meter reader does not have to gain access to private areas of the house, but merely has to pass by on the public sidewalk or street areas. A portable receiver unit  814  may have a wireless connection back to the utility company, or may locally store data and then be connected to utility company servers at a later time. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , another arrangement  900  is illustrated. Arrangement  900  has camera/meter unit  902  located at house  904 , camera/meter unit  908  located at house  910 , and camera/meter unit  918  located at house  916 . Each house has a receiver unit associated with it. For example, house  904  has receiver unit  906 , house  910  has receiver unit  912 , and house  916  has receiver unit  914 . It will be appreciated that although the geographic areas of  FIG. 9  are illustrated with reference to residential homes, the geographic areas may be residential apartments, commercial establishments, or industrial facilities. It will also be understood that the geographic areas may be meter areas within a single manufacturing facility. For example, the geographic areas may represent an array of meters supporting manufacturing equipment, or may be an array of meters in a utility room. The receiver units  906 ,  912 , and  914  may be, for example, constructed to operate according to 802.11 protocols. In such a case, the associated cameras would also operate according this protocol, and enable simple communication between cameras and receiver units. In one specific example, the receiver units are also configured as Internet access points. In this way, each receiver unit has wide area connection to the utility company through an Internet connection. In this arrangement, each receiver unit obtains image information from its associated camera through an 802.11 communication, and then communicates meter data via the Internet to the utility company. This has the advantage of using existing communication modes and equipment for communication, but uses equipment not under the control of the utility company. Accordingly, receiver units may alternatively be constructed as proprietary equipment under the control of the utility company. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 10 , a system  1000  for reading a meter is illustrated. In system  1000  a remote camera system is attached to a meter as shown in block  1002 . For example, the meter may be attached or strapped to the outside of the meter housing, or may be positioned within the meter case itself. It will be appreciated that the attachment of a camera to a meter can use any of several know attachment devices or adhesives. The camera is configured to take an image of the meter as shown in block  1004 . For example, the camera may have one or more lenses in front of its sensor that enable the meter dials or digits to be captured with sufficient resolution to be automatically or manually deciphered. Also, the camera may have an associated lamp or lighting system for illuminating a dark meter. This lamp system may be augmented with an ambient light detection system, which illuminates the lamp only when ambient light is not sufficient. In one example, the imager itself is used to detect the level of ambient light, and responsive to unacceptably low contrast, will illuminate a lamp. In this way, the power cost of operating a lamp is only expended when necessary. 
     The camera then takes an image of the meter dial or digits as shown in block  1006 . This image may be taken periodically according to an internal clock in the camera system, or may be set or adjusted by a central controller such as a hub. In another example, the timing of the images may be defined by the utility, and communicated to the camera through a hub or other receiver. In this way, a utility may require faster rates of images during peak usage times, while allowing fewer images during off usage periods. Optionally, the image may be processed locally for image character recognition as shown in block  1010 . The image data is then wirelessly communicated to a local radio system as shown in block  1008 . This local receiver may be for example, a local IEEE 802.11 access point, a receiver or hub, a mobile radio, or a portable reader. It will be appreciated that several configurations of the radio system may be used. Since the local radio system may have additional power and processing capability, it may optionally be able to do character recognition as shown in block  1012 . The meter image data, whether raw image or processed data, is then communicated to the utility through a wide area connection as shown in block  1014 . This wide area connection may be another wide area wireless system, or may be through a connected network such as the Internet. 
     The central office then may perform central image recognition as shown in block  1016 , and may also put the image on the bill  1018  for reference. The utility is then able to advantageously use the meter data for preparing timely and accurate bills. It will also be understood that the camera system may send only change information in its images. In this regard, the imager may from time to time take a reference frame of the meter dial, and thereafter send only the differences between the reference frame and the current frame. Although this requires some additional processing at the camera, such processing is relatively simple, and may reduce substantially the amount of time necessary to operate the radio. Since the radio is a relatively high power device, performing such comparison on the local radio may net cause usage of less power. 
     In accordance with the method of this disclosure, one or more predictive models are generated based at least in part on the first set of information from the utility provider entity and the second set of information from the financial transaction processing entity. Predictive models can be selected based on the information obtained and stored in the one or more databases. The selection of information for representation in the predictive models can be different in every instance. In one embodiment, all information stored in each database can be used for selecting predictive models. In an alternative embodiment, only a portion of the information is used. The generation and selection of predictive models may be based on specific criteria. 
     Predictive models are generated from the information obtained from each database. The information is analyzed, extracted and correlated by, for example, a financial transaction processing company (e.g., a payment card company), and can include utility and financial account information, performing statistical analysis on utility and financial account information, finding correlations between account information and consumer behaviors, predicting future consumer behaviors based on account information, relating information on utility and financial accounts with other utility and financial accounts, or any other method of review suitable for the particular application of the data, which will be apparent to persons having skill in the relevant art. 
     The predictive models can be useful to leverage the information available, for example, in trading and investing in weather or other natural event derivatives. The trading or investing in weather or other natural event derivatives based on the one or more predictive models can be part of a risk management strategy to reduce risk associated with adverse or unexpected weather conditions or other natural events. 
     The predictive models can be useful to leverage the information available to identify data that is indicative of a customer&#39;s activities and characteristics and to predict consumer behavior and intent based on those activities and characteristics, e.g., energy conservation, water conservation, green practices and sustainable lifestyle practices of customers, and the like. 
     Predictive models can be defined based on geographical or demographical information, including but not limited to, age, gender, income, marital status, postal code, income, spending propensity, and familial status. In some embodiments, predictive models can be defined by a plurality of geographical and/or demographical categories. 
     In an embodiment, the information retrieved from each of the databases can be analyzed to determine behavioral information of the utility customer. Also, information related to an intent of utility customer can be extracted from the behavioral information. The predictive models can be based upon the behavioral information of the utility customers and the intent of the utility customers. The predictive models can be capable of predicting behavior and intent of the utility customers. 
     A method for generating one or more predictive models is an embodiment of this disclosure. Referring to  FIG. 11 , the method involves retrieving at  1102 , from one or more databases, a first set of information including billing activities attributable to a utility provider and payment activities attributable to one or more utility consumers. The information at  1102  comprises utility provider billing, utility consumer payment transactions, and optionally demographic and/or geographic information. The method further involves retrieving at  1104 , from one or more databases, a second set of information including billing activities attributable to a financial transaction processing entity (part of the payment card company network  150  in  FIG. 1 ) and purchasing and payment activities attributable to the one or more utility consumers. The information at  1104  comprises financial transaction processing entity billing, utility consumer payment transactions, and optionally demographic and/or geographic information. At  1106 , the first set of information and the second set of information are analyzed to identify correlation information of utility usage and utility consumers. One or more predictive models are generated at  1108  based at least in part on the correlation information. 
     In accordance with the method of this disclosure, information that is stored in one or more databases may be retrieved (e.g., by a processor). The information can contain, for example, a first set of information including billing activities attributable to the utility provider and payment activities attributable to the consumer (e.g., customers or subscribers of the utility provider). Illustrative first set information can include, for example, financial (e.g., billing statements), demographic (e.g., age and gender), geographic (e.g., zip code and state or country of residence), and the like. Also, the information can contain, for example, a second set of information including billing activities attributable to the financial transaction processing entity (e.g., a payment card company) and purchasing and payment activities attributable to the utility customers (e.g., payment card holders). Illustrative second set information can include, for example, financial (e.g., billing statements and payments), purchasing information, demographic (e.g., age and gender), geographic (e.g., zip code and state or country of residence), and the like. 
     In an embodiment, all information stored in each database can be retrieved. In another embodiment, only a single entry in each of the one or more databases can be retrieved. The retrieval of information can be performed a single time, or may be performed multiple times. In an exemplary embodiment, only information pertaining to a specific predictive model is retrieved from each of the databases. 
     Other card holder attributes part of the information can include, for example, geography (e.g., zip code, state or country), and demographics (e.g., age, gender, etc.). 
     While we have shown and described several embodiments in accordance with our disclosure, it is to be clearly understood that the same may be susceptible to numerous changes apparent to one skilled in the art. Therefore, we do not wish to be limited to the details shown and described but intend to show all changes and modifications that come within the scope of the appended claims.