Method and apparatus for collecting and displaying consumption data from a meter reading system

Abstract

A method and an apparatus for collecting and displaying real-time utility consumption data and an estimate of utility costs from various utility metering modules upon request by the consumer within the comfort of their own home or business. According to one aspect of the invention, a utility display module is in communication with a utility end point device that monitors and displays consumption of a utility (water, gas, and/or electricity). The source of the data received by the module may be generated by utility meter transmitters that are attached to the various utility delivery end points or meters. In a related embodiment, a repeater may be used with a battery powered energy display module to make the module transportable.

1 . (canceled) 
     
     
         2 . An apparatus for collecting and displaying monitored status data for use by a user of a device, said apparatus comprising:
 communication circuitry configured to receive transmitted monitored status data from a vehicle adapted to monitor electrical and mechanical operations of the vehicle;   a display adapted to display the transmitted monitored status data to the user;   control circuitry operably coupled to the communication circuitry and display to control the receipt and display of the transmitted monitored status data to a user; and   power circuitry operably coupled to the control circuitry to regulate a flow of power thereto.   
     
     
         3 . The apparatus of  claim 2 , further including a housing to house the control circuitry, communication circuitry, power circuitry and display. 
     
     
         4 . The apparatus of  claim 3 , wherein the monitored electrical and mechanical operations comprise at least one selected from the group of fluid levels, maintenance related functions, electrical and mechanical sensors, warranty recalls, and general health of the vehicle.