Power monitoring apparatus, method, storage medium, and computer program product

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a power monitoring device, a method, a storage medium and a computer program product, the power monitoring device comprising at least one sensor unit, a measurement unit and a signal line wherein each sensor unit comprises a current sensor and a voltage sensor; a signal line connecting the at least one sensor unit and the measuring unit, wherein the signal line comprises a current sensor line for transmitting a current signal and a voltage sensor line for transmitting a voltage signal; the measurement unit is configured to measure a power parameter based on the current signal and the voltage signal received from the at least one sensor unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of distribution systems, and more particularly, to a power monitoring device, method, storage medium, and computer program product. Background Art

[0002] In a low-voltage distribution system, when measuring power parameters using power measurement devices, sensors need to be installed to measure voltage and current. However, the following problems exist:

[0003] 1. For traditional instrument installation, it is necessary to install current sensors and their cables, voltage sensors and their cables, and optional power cables, which will bring a lot of workload.

[0004] 2. The space for installing sensors in the electrical cabinet is very limited. In high-current scenarios, the sizes of cables and busbars are very large. If traditional split current transformers are used, their sizes will become even larger, further increasing the complexity of installation in a narrow space.

[0005] 3. When directly measuring the busbar, due to various on-site conditions, the spacing and height of the busbar in the horizontal or vertical direction are usually different. This makes it challenging to use a single power measurement device to connect to the busbar and measure the power parameters in the above situations.

[0006] Currently, some products use a single-unit design to directly interface with the breaker busbar to reduce the size of the installation space and the installation workload. However, using this method requires designing specific products for each type of breaker, resulting in very limited applicability. Summary of the Invention

[0007] A brief overview of the present invention is given below to provide a basic understanding of certain aspects of the present invention. It should be understood that this overview is not an exhaustive overview of the present invention. It is not intended to identify the key or important parts of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Its purpose is merely to present certain concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description discussed later.

[0008] In a first aspect, a power monitoring device is provided. The power monitoring device includes at least one sensor unit, a measurement unit, and signal lines, wherein each sensor unit includes a current sensor and a voltage sensor; the signal lines connect at least one sensor unit and the measurement unit, wherein the signal lines include current sensor lines for transmitting current signals and voltage sensor lines for transmitting voltage signals; the measurement unit is configured to measure power parameters based on the current signals and voltage signals received from at least one sensor unit.

[0009] This configuration allows for a flexible and modular power monitoring device that can adapt to various installation scenarios and bus configurations. Separating the sensor unit from the measurement unit reduces the installation space requirements and simplifies the installation process.

[0010] Among them, the sensor unit can be: one sensor unit for measuring single-phase power parameters, three sensor units for measuring three-phase power parameters, or one sensor unit combined for measuring three-phase power parameters.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the sensor unit can be configured to be installed on the bus.

[0012] This configuration enables a direct connection to the power source, eliminating the need for additional wiring and reducing the installation complexity.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the measurement unit can be configured to be fixed to at least one of the following: a single sensor unit, two or more sensor units, or an electrical cabinet.

[0014] The flexibility of this installation option allows for the optimal placement of the measurement unit within the available space, adapting to various installation limitations.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the measurement unit can be configured to be fixed using at least one of the following: a DIN rail or a clip.

[0016] Using standard installation methods such as DIN rails or clips ensures compatibility with the existing electrical cabinet infrastructure and facilitates the easy installation and removal of the device.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the sensor unit can be configured to be flexibly positioned for installation to adapt to different bus configurations.

[0018] This adaptability allows the power monitoring device to be installed in a wide range of electrical systems with various bus layouts, enhancing its versatility and applicability.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the sensor unit further includes a power source, and the power monitoring device is powered by one or more sensor units among the at least one sensor unit or by a separate power source.

[0020] By obtaining power from the sensor unit, the need for a separate power connection or an external power source can be reduced or eliminated, thus achieving a more compact and efficient design.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the power source of the measurement unit can be supplied through the voltage sensor line of at least one sensor unit.

[0022] By utilizing a voltage sensor line for power transmission, this configuration reduces the need for additional power lines, further simplifying the installation process and reducing clutter within the electrical cabinet.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the sensor unit can be configured to obtain power from the busbar to which it is connected.

[0024] This self - powering ability eliminates the need for an external power source, making the device more autonomous and easier to install at various locations within the electrical system.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the electrical parameters may include at least one of the following: voltage, current, power, or energy consumption.

[0026] By measuring a comprehensive range of electrical parameters, the device provides valuable insights into the performance and efficiency of the monitored electrical system.

[0027] In a second aspect, a power detection method is provided that uses the power monitoring device of the first aspect to monitor the electrical parameters of a power distribution system.

[0028] The method includes: at least one sensor unit of the power monitoring device measures the current signal and voltage signal of the power distribution system; the measurement unit of the power detection device receives the current signal and the voltage signal from the at least one sensor unit through a signal line; and the measurement unit measures the electrical parameters of the power distribution system based on the received current signal and voltage signal.

[0029] This method achieves accurate and efficient monitoring of the electrical system by utilizing the modular design of the power monitoring device.

[0030] In a third aspect, a non - transitory machine - readable storage medium is provided. The non - transitory machine - readable storage medium stores executable instructions that, when executed, cause a machine to perform the method of the second aspect.

[0031] In a fourth aspect, a computer program product is provided. The computer program product is tangibly stored on a computer - readable medium and includes computer - executable instructions that, when executed, cause at least one processor to perform the method of the second aspect. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Referring to the following description of the embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the drawings, it will be easier to understand the above and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention. The components in the drawings are only for showing the principle of the present invention. In the drawings, the same or similar technical features or components will be represented by the same or similar reference numerals. In the drawings:

[0033] Figure 1is a schematic structural block diagram of a power monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 2 is a schematic structural block diagram of a power monitoring device provided with one sensor unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 3 is a schematic structural block diagram of a power monitoring device provided with three sensor units according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 4 is a schematic structural block diagram of a power monitoring device that flexibly arranges sensor units at appropriate positions according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 5 is a schematic structural block diagram of a power monitoring device according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein three sensor units are combined into a group of sensor units; and

[0038] Figure 6 is a flowchart of an exemplary process of a power monitoring method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Wherein, the reference numerals are as follows:

[0040] 100: Power monitoring device 102: Sensor unit

[0041] 104: Measuring unit 106: Signal line

[0042] 108: Busbar 1061: Current sensor line

[0043] 1062: Voltage sensor line 500: Power monitoring method

[0044] S502, S504, S506: Steps Detailed implementation manners

[0045] Now, the subject matter described herein will be discussed with reference to exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that discussing these embodiments is only to enable those skilled in the art to better understand and thus implement the subject matter described herein, and is not a limitation on the protection scope, applicability, or examples set forth in the claims. The functions and arrangements of the elements discussed can be changed without departing from the protection scope of the present disclosure. Each example can omit, substitute, or add various processes or components as needed.

[0046] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationships indicated by the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc. are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation to the present application.

[0047] As used herein, the term "comprising" and its variants denote open terms, meaning "including but not limited to". The term "based on" means "at least partially based on". The term "one embodiment" and "an embodiment" mean "at least one embodiment". The term "another embodiment" means "at least one other embodiment". The terms "first", "second", etc. may refer to different or the same objects. Other definitions may be included below, whether explicit or implicit. Unless explicitly specified in the context, the definition of a term is consistent throughout the specification.

[0048] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a power monitoring device is provided for measuring power parameters in a power distribution system, especially a low-voltage power distribution system. The device can be flexibly configured and installed in various electrical systems to adapt to different measurement requirements and physical limitations of the installation environment.

[0049] The power monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] Figure 1 is a schematic structural block diagram of a power monitoring device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As Figure 1 shown, the power monitoring device 100 includes at least one sensor unit 102, a measurement unit 104, and a signal line 106.

[0051] Among them, the sensor unit 102 includes a current sensor and a voltage sensor (not shown in the figure). The sensor unit combines these components into one unit, which can simplify the installation and reduce the space requirements in the electrical cabinet. This integrated design allows for more efficient use of limited space, especially in high-current scenarios where the busbars and cables are relatively large.

[0052] The signal line 106 is used to connect at least one sensor unit 102 and the measurement unit 104. The signal line 106 includes a current sensor line 1061 for transmitting current signals and a voltage sensor line 1062 for transmitting voltage signals.

[0053] Using separate current sensor lines and voltage sensor lines allows for efficient and accurate transmission of electrical signals from the sensor unit to the measurement unit. This configuration enables the device to maintain signal integrity and minimize interference between current and voltage measurements.

[0054] The current sensor lines are specifically designed to transmit current signals from the sensor unit to the measurement unit. These lines may be optimized to handle different magnitudes of current, ensuring accurate transmission of current data across different measurement ranges.

[0055] On the other hand, the voltage sensor lines are dedicated to transmitting voltage signals from the sensor unit to the measurement unit.

[0056] Separating the transmission of current and voltage signals into different lines contributes to the modular design of the device. This modular approach allows for flexibility in the placement and configuration of the sensor unit, as the signal lines can be independently routed to accommodate various installation scenarios.

[0057] The measurement unit 104 is configured to measure electrical power parameters based on the current and voltage signals received from at least one sensor unit 102.

[0058] With the current and voltage signals received from the sensor unit, the measurement unit can perform synchronous measurements, ensuring precise calculation of electrical power parameters.

[0059] The electrical power parameters can include voltage, current, power, or energy consumption. By receiving the current and voltage signals from the sensor unit, the measurement unit can perform comprehensive power analysis.

[0060] The power monitoring device can be configured with one to three sensor units for single-phase, two-phase, or three-phase measurements. This modular configuration provides significant flexibility for various installation scenarios and busbar configurations.

[0061] For single-phase measurements, the power monitoring device can be set up with just one sensor unit to measure single-phase electrical power parameters, such as Figure 2 shown. This configuration is suitable for monitoring a single circuit or single-phase load. One sensor unit combines current and voltage sensing capabilities in a compact package, simplifying installation and reducing space requirements.

[0062] In scenarios where two-phase measurements are required, the power monitoring device can be set up with two sensor units. This configuration allows for monitoring of two-phase systems or split-phase residential power systems. The ability to use two independent sensor units provides flexibility in positioning, allowing adaptation to different busbar layouts or restricted installation spaces.

[0063] For three-phase power systems (common in industrial and commercial environments), the power monitoring device can use three sensor units, as Figure 3As shown, a separate sensor unit is used for each phase. This configuration allows for flexible positioning to accommodate various busbar configurations, such as different busbar spacings or heights, as Figure 4 shown.

[0064] Figures 2 to 4 Schematically shown are three power monitoring devices with different numbers of sensor units and different mounting positions of the sensor units, with other components such as signal lines omitted.

[0065] Figure 5 is a schematic structural block diagram of a power monitoring device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, in which three sensor units are combined into a group of sensor units to measure three-phase power parameters.

[0066] Figure 5 The power monitoring device shown can use a group of sensor units to measure three-phase power parameters and can be directly connected to a circuit breaker, simplifying installation and reducing space requirements.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment according to the present disclosure, the sensor unit 102 is configured to be mounted on the busbar 108. This direct mounting on the busbar eliminates the need for separate current transformers and additional wiring, thus reducing installation complexity and time.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment according to the present disclosure, the sensor unit 102 is configured to be flexibly positioned to accommodate different busbar configurations. This flexibility allows the sensor unit to be installed in various electrical cabinet layouts and adapt to different busbar spacings and heights.

[0069] In another preferred embodiment of the device of the present invention, the measuring unit 104 is configured to be fixed to at least one of the following: a single sensor unit, two or more sensor units, or an electrical cabinet. This flexible mounting configuration allows for adaptable installation under various environmental and space constraints.

[0070] In another preferred embodiment of the device of the present invention, the measuring unit 104 can be fixed using different methods, such as DIN rails or clips.

[0071] This multi-functional mounting system allows for easy installation and disassembly of the measuring unit in various environments.

[0072] DIN rail mounting provides a standardized and secure method for mounting the measuring unit to an electrical enclosure or sensor unit equipped with a compatible rail. This method allows for quick installation and easy repositioning of the unit when needed.

[0073] The clip mounting method provides an alternative for situations where DIN rail mounting is not available or practical. The clip can provide a secure attachment and may offer greater positioning flexibility.

[0074] The ability to use either a DIN rail or a clip enhances the adaptability of the measurement unit in different installation scenarios. For example, in a compact electrical cabinet, clip mounting may be more suitable to save space, while in a larger installation, DIN rail mounting can provide a more organized and standardized approach.

[0075] In another preferred embodiment of the device of the present invention, the sensor unit 102 further includes a power supply, and the power monitoring device 100 is powered by one or more sensor units 102 or by a separate power supply.

[0076] By obtaining power from the sensor unit, the need for a separate power connection or an external power supply can be reduced or eliminated, enabling a more compact and efficient design.

[0077] The power supply for the measurement unit 104 can be supplied through the voltage sensor line of at least one sensor unit.

[0078] By utilizing the voltage sensor line for power transmission, the need for additional power lines is reduced, further simplifying the installation process and reducing the overall wiring complexity within the electrical cabinet.

[0079] In another preferred embodiment according to the present disclosure, the sensor unit is configured to obtain power from the busbar to which it is connected. This self - powering ability eliminates the need for additional power wiring, further simplifies the installation, and reduces potential failure points.

[0080] The modular architecture of the power monitoring device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure offers several advantages. It enables easy customization for single - phase or multi - phase power monitoring without using a separate device for each configuration. This adaptability reduces inventory complexity and allows for more efficient use of the installation space.

[0081] Alternative implementations of this embodiment may include changes in the number and arrangement of sensor units. For example, the device can be configured with one sensor unit for basic single - phase monitoring, or multiple sensor units for comprehensive three - phase power analysis. The measurement unit can be designed to accommodate different numbers of sensor inputs, allowing scalability of the monitoring capabilities.

[0082] The signal lines connecting the sensor unit and the measurement unit can be implemented using various techniques, such as using shielded cables to improve noise immunity, or using fiber optic cables for installations requiring electrical isolation. The modular design also allows for potential future upgrades, where new sensor types or communication protocols can be integrated into the existing framework with minimal changes to the overall system architecture.

[0083] The sensor unit can be designed to measure various electrical parameters, including but not limited to voltage, current, power, and energy consumption. Different sensor units can be produced to accommodate various current and voltage ranges, thereby allowing for use in a wide range of applications from residential to industrial power systems.

[0084] The power detection device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure has at least one of the following technical advantages.

[0085] The need for installation space can be reduced, and the installation process can be simplified.

[0086] Customized according to the specific requirements of the installation site, the user can select an appropriate number of sensor units according to the monitored power system, avoid unnecessary components, and reduce costs for a simpler installation.

[0087] The flexibility in placing the sensor units enables them to adapt to a wide range of busbar layouts and cabinet configurations. This is particularly beneficial in retrofit scenarios where space may be limited or the existing infrastructure may pose challenges to traditional power monitoring solutions.

[0088] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a power monitoring method is provided, which uses the power monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure to monitor the power parameters of a power distribution system.

[0089] Figure 5 It is a flowchart of an exemplary process of the power monitoring method 500 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] As Figure 5 shown, in step S502, at least one sensor unit of the power monitoring device measures the current signal and voltage signal of the power distribution system.

[0091] In this step, one or more sensor units are used to collect the current and voltage signals. These signals are transmitted to the measurement unit through dedicated current sensor lines and voltage sensor lines.

[0092] In step S504, the measurement unit of the power detection device receives the current signal and voltage signal from at least one sensor unit through the signal line.

[0093] In step S506, the measurement unit measures the power parameters of the power distribution system based on the received current signal and voltage signal.

[0094] The measurement unit can process and analyze the received signals to calculate various power parameters such as voltage, current, power, and energy consumption.

[0095] In another preferred embodiment of the method of the present invention, when the executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium are executed, the machine performs a method of monitoring electric power using an electric power monitoring device. This embodiment provides the advantage of automating the monitoring process, allowing for consistent and accurate measurements without manual intervention.

[0096] In another preferred embodiment of the computer program product of the present invention, the computer program product is tangibly stored on a computer-readable medium and includes computer-executable instructions. When executed, these instructions cause at least one processor to perform a method of monitoring electric power. This embodiment provides the advantage of flexibility because the computer program product can be easily distributed and installed on various computing devices.

[0097] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent replacements, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the present invention shall be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0098] Not all units in the above-described structural diagrams are necessary, and some units can be ignored according to actual needs. The device structures described in the above embodiments can be physical structures or logical structures. That is, some units may be implemented by the same physical entity, or some units may be implemented separately by multiple physical entities, or some components in multiple independent devices may be jointly implemented.

[0099] The above description of the present disclosure is provided to enable any ordinary skilled person in the art to implement or use the present disclosure. Various modifications to the present disclosure are obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art, and the general principles defined herein can also be applied to other variations without departing from the protection scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples and designs described herein, but is consistent with the broadest scope that conforms to the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A power monitoring device (100) includes at least one sensor unit (102), a measurement unit (104), and signal lines (106), wherein, each of the sensor units (102) includes a current sensor and a voltage sensor; the signal lines (106) connect the at least one sensor unit (102) and the measurement unit (104), wherein the signal lines (106) include current sensor lines (1061) for transmitting current signals and voltage sensor lines (1062) for transmitting voltage signals; and the measurement unit (104) is configured to measure power parameters based on the current signals and voltage signals received from the at least one sensor unit (102).

2. The power monitoring device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor unit (102) is: one sensor unit for measuring single-phase power parameters, three sensor units for measuring three-phase power parameters, or one sensor unit combined for measuring three-phase power parameters.

3. The power monitoring device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sensor unit (102) is configured to be mounted on a busbar (108).

4. The power monitoring device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sensor unit (102) is configured to be flexibly positioned and mounted to adapt to different busbar configurations.

5. The power monitoring device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The measurement unit (104) is configured to be fixed to at least one of the following: one sensor unit, two or more sensor units, an electrical cabinet.

6. The power monitoring device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The measurement unit (104) is configured to be fixed using at least one of the following: a DIN rail or a clip.

7. The power monitoring device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The sensor unit (102) further includes a power source, and the power monitoring device (100) is powered by one or more of the at least one sensor unit (102) or by a separate power source.

8. The power monitoring device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The measurement unit (104) is powered from the at least one sensor unit through the voltage sensor line.

9. The power monitoring device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sensor unit (102) is configured to obtain power from the busbar to which it is connected.

10. The power monitoring device (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The power parameters include at least one of the following: voltage, current, power, and energy consumption.

11. A power detection method (500) uses the power monitoring device according to any one of claims 1 to 9 to monitor power parameters of a power distribution system. The method includes: at least one sensor unit of the power monitoring device measures current signals and voltage signals of the power distribution system (S502); the measurement unit of the power detection device receives the current signals and the voltage signals from the at least one sensor unit through the signal lines (S504); and the measurement unit measures the power parameters of the power distribution system based on the received current signals and voltage signals (S506).

12. A non-transitory machine-readable storage medium stores executable instructions that, when executed, cause the machine to perform the method according to claim 11.

13. A computer program product is tangibly stored on a computer-readable medium and includes computer-executable instructions that, when executed, cause at least one processor to perform the method according to claim 11.

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