System and method for single and multizonal optimization of utility services delivery and utilization

Abstract

The present invention is directed to utility service delivery wherein distributed intelligence and networking is used in the optimization of the service delivery. The present invention employs a network of data collection nodes and aggregation nodes located on a power grid controlled by a controlling agency. The data collection nodes comprise Intelligent Communicating Devices (ICDs) and Communicating Devices (CDs), which transmit metrics they collect over the power grid from locations near meters or service transformers to the aggregation nodes. Commands, policies, and program updates may be transmitted from a server at an aggregation node to the ICDs and CDs. The ICDs are also capable of issuing control commands to the CDs and grid management devices, acting locally and/or in conjunction with other ICDs, CDs, aggregation nodes, and central controlling agencies. Through these communications and commands, utility services delivery and utilization is optimized.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 476,083, filed Apr. 15, 2011.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention is directed generally toward utility service delivery and the use of distributed intelligence and networking in the optimization of utility, especially electrical, service delivery. Applications in this field are popularly characterized as “Smart Grid” applications.[0004]2. Background of the Invention[0005]The electrical grid in the United States and most other areas of the world is historically divided into two networks: the transmission grid, and the distribution grid. The transmission grid originates at a generation point, such as a coal-burning or atomic power plant, or a hydroelectric generator at a dam. DC power is generated, converted to high-voltage AC, and transmitted to distribution points, called distribution substations, v...

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Benefits of technology

[0019]Unlike prior art systems based on wireless technologies, the present invention does not require a separate network of wireless towers for transmitters, receivers, collectors, and repeaters to be built between the network edge and the final aggregation point. The system of the present invention works wherever electrical power is available. This provides an advantage over prior systems such as RF and cellular solutions, which tend to work poorly in dense urban areas, places where the electrical infrastructure is under ground, and rural areas where cellular service is unavailable or inadequate and the costs of building RF mesh networks are prohibitively high.

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Problems solved by technology

Because of this paucity of information, the utilities have been forced to over-deliver service, so that, for example, a standard outlet or socket in a consumer residence might deliver 122V AC when the loading devices used there are designed and rated to operate at as low as 110 V AC.

This disparity provides a substantial opportunity for conservation, but the opportunity cannot be realized without better information about the pattern of demand.

This coarse-grained method is effective for keeping voltages at the load points within specifications, but, to keep some end points from being under-served, requires a s

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