Autonomous algorithm for relative error of generalized flow meters in tree topology

This paper treats electricity meters or water meters on-site as a cluster of generalized flow meters constructing a tree topology. Providing flow conservation, it is demonstrated that every meter’s relative error can be calculated according to a group of readings of the meter cluster if the relative error of any meter in the cluster is given. The autonomous algorithm obtains relative errors without usage of external standard instrument. By the same algorithm, providing the accuracy class of any meter rather than the relative error exact, the range of relative errors of rest meters in the cluster can be worked out. With the aid of remote automatic reading system, the algorithm can reduce the maintenance cost of meters on site, and contributes to forecast the meters’ service lives.

► We treat water meter, gas meter, electricity meter as generalized flow meter.
► Relative error of a meter in tree topology can be reached not using a standard.
► We calculate electricity meter’s error by solving equation set of readings.
► The time complexity is of third-order considering the number of multiply operation.