Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A prepayment system for electric power or other utility commodity distribution uses radio frequency identification (RFID) tag technology to store and transfer value (money or KWh) from the retail vendor to the customer, and deliver power to the customer from the power distribution system. The customer purchases power at a retail outlet in the form of a credit to his Card containing an RFID tag. The Card is credited for the amount purchased by the store clerk, using the store's Sales Terminal. The customer takes this Card to his residence or small business and holds it up to the RFID reader/writer sealed into the face of the System Controller. This System Controller is installed at a convenient location near, on or within his premises. Alternatively, he may use an optional Remote Terminal installed inside his premises. In either case, the display associated with the reader/writer indicates to the customer the amount of power remaining. The System Controller then stores the new deposit in the Meter/Contactor associated with the particular customer's circuit. Mounted at the top of the pole, on the building or inside the building, the Meter/Contactor measures usage, decrements the customer's credit, and shuts off power if the credit is depleted.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim