Modularized electric energy metering box based on high-cold region
Through modular design and intelligent algorithms, the problems of antifreeze and operation and maintenance of traditional power metering boxes in high-altitude and cold regions have been solved. Stability and efficient intelligent control in extremely cold environments have been achieved, which has solved the problems of insufficient adaptability and intelligence of existing power metering boxes, and realized efficient and safe power metering management.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- STATE GRID HEILONGJIANG ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
- Filing Date
- 2026-04-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-14
AI Technical Summary
Traditional electricity metering boxes suffer from problems such as insufficient anti-freezing capability, fixed functions, cumbersome operation and maintenance, low level of intelligence, high safety risks, and lack of cluster linkage mechanism in high-altitude and cold regions, making it difficult to meet the needs of smart grid construction.
The modularly designed electricity metering box includes a low-temperature resistant standardized frame, independent and detachable functional modules, intelligent management units, and multiple algorithms to achieve full-link electrical connectivity and intelligent closed-loop control. It features high-altitude cold-proof and anti-icing capabilities, modular expansion, edge computing, multi-dimensional anti-theft identification, and cluster linkage functions.
It can stably control temperature in extremely cold environments, reduce operation and maintenance costs, improve operation and maintenance efficiency, achieve safe and reliable intelligent management and control, adapt to diverse needs, support the expansion of functions such as photovoltaics and charging piles, reduce electrical safety risks, and has good scalability.
Smart Images

Figure CN122393780A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of power metering equipment technology, and in particular to a modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions. Background Technology
[0002] Against the backdrop of smart grid construction and the expansion of power grid coverage in western and high-altitude cold regions, electricity metering boxes, as core terminals for electricity metering, face stringent environmental and functional requirements. Traditional and conventional modular metering boxes suffer from several technical defects, making them unsuitable for high-altitude and extremely cold environments, thus becoming a bottleneck for the intelligent upgrading of the power grid. Firstly, their anti-freezing capabilities are insufficient; the box body and core components lack dedicated low-temperature protection, making them prone to cracking and frost formation at -40℃, leading to metering failures, short circuits, and other malfunctions. Simple insulation and heat tracing solutions lack intelligent temperature control, resulting in high energy consumption, poor performance, and high maintenance costs. Secondly, their functions are fixed; the integrated structure only enables basic metering and cannot accommodate expanded needs such as photovoltaic, charging piles, and combined water, gas, and electricity metering. Expansion requires complete redesign. The problems are: 1) Poor compatibility and waste of resources when replacing components; 2) Cumbersome operation and maintenance, requiring power outages for bolt fixing and manual wiring, resulting in long cycles, disturbance to residents, and high costs; 3) Mixed wiring inside the box, slow troubleshooting, poor spare parts compatibility, and high safety risks; 4) Weak intelligence and security, relying on manual inspections, lacking remote control and monitoring capabilities against electricity theft and vandalism, and some simple products lack edge computing, making local control difficult under weak network conditions; 5) Lack of cluster linkage mechanism, scattered deployment makes unified scheduling difficult, and lack of high-altitude and cold-weather-specific performance standards, resulting in unreliable stability under extremely cold conditions.
[0003] Therefore, we urgently need a modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions. Summary of the Invention
[0004] The present invention proposes a modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions, which solves the above-mentioned shortcomings of the prior art.
[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:
[0006] A modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions includes a box frame module, functional module components, a standardized interface system, an intelligent management unit, and an intelligent algorithm system. All modules are electrically connected through a full link, and the intelligent algorithm system enables intelligent closed-loop management and control of the metering box.
[0007] The enclosure frame module is a low-temperature resistant standardized general-purpose frame that can withstand temperatures of ≥-40℃ without brittle cracking or deformation. It is equipped with T-shaped guide rails, positioning slots, enclosed flame-retardant wiring channels, and anti-slip wire fixing clips. The splicing seams, wire inlets, and door closures are equipped with a special waterproof and heat-insulating sealing structure for high-altitude and cold-resistant environments. It integrates high-altitude and cold-resistant anti-icing and anti-freezing components and an external force damage monitoring unit. The overall protection level is not lower than IP65.
[0008] The functional module components are independent, detachable, plug-and-play standardized units, including a metering module, a control module, a communication module, an expansion module, an anti-theft module, and a surge protection module. The enclosure frame module has reserved dedicated installation positions for the main incoming switch and the individual household outgoing switches. Each module is equipped with standardized electrical interfaces and mechanical clips to form a layered independent circuit connection system.
[0009] The standardized interface system adopts pluggable electrical terminals and snap-on mechanical structure, with anti-misinsertion and anti-dislodgement design. It also reserves multi-box linkage interface, spare line wiring hole and new energy expansion interface. The interface has built-in signal amplification and anti-interference module.
[0010] The intelligent management unit has a built-in edge computing module and a backup lithium battery. It works in conjunction with various functional modules, cold-resistant and anti-icing components, and external force damage monitoring units to monitor the overall status, push alarms in a tiered manner, store data locally, and monitor equipment operating parameters in real time.
[0011] The intelligent algorithm system is embedded in the intelligent management unit and includes a high-altitude adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm, a multi-dimensional anti-electricity theft identification algorithm, a modular cluster linkage scheduling algorithm, and an extreme cold working condition fault diagnosis and location algorithm, which are used for adaptive temperature control, electricity theft identification and early warning, multi-box cluster linkage, and rapid fault diagnosis and location.
[0012] The high-altitude adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm is the core supporting algorithm for extreme cold protection. Based on fuzzy PID control logic, it integrates multi-dimensional monitoring data such as internal temperature, ambient temperature, humidity, and wind speed to achieve dynamic adaptive adjustment of heating power. This reduces standby energy consumption while preventing icing and frost, precisely addressing the industry pain points of traditional heating equipment, such as high energy consumption, lagging temperature control, and frequent start-stop cycles. The core formula of the algorithm is as follows:
[0013] ;
[0014] in, This represents the percentage of heat tracing output power.
[0015] This is a proportionality coefficient, with a value ranging from 1.2 to 1.8;
[0016] The integral time constant is 30s.
[0017] The differential time constant is 5s;
[0018] Real-time temperature deviation (set antifreeze critical temperature - actual measured temperature inside the chamber);
[0019] The compensation coefficient for cold environments is calculated by linking on-site wind speed and humidity. In high-humidity and high-wind environments, the compensation value is automatically increased to enhance the antifreeze effect.
[0020] The multi-dimensional anti-theft electricity identification algorithm is based on the fusion of multi-dimensional data, including current phase comparison, power balance analysis, illegal opening monitoring, and load anomaly identification, to achieve accurate judgment and instantaneous early warning of electricity theft. This solves the problems of high false alarm rate, delayed identification, and difficulty in obtaining evidence associated with traditional anti-theft methods, thus strengthening the security of power assets. The core judgment formula of the algorithm is as follows:
[0021] ;
[0022] ;
[0023] in, This refers to the deviation between the incoming and outgoing line currents;
[0024] This represents the total incoming current.
[0025] This represents the total current of the outgoing lines for each household.
[0026] Set to 2% of the rated current; exceeding this value is considered an abnormal current.
[0027] This refers to the phase deviation between voltage and current.
[0028] If the phase difference exceeds the limit, it can be determined that there is suspicion of electricity theft.
[0029] Furthermore, the material of the box frame module is low-temperature resistant galvanized steel plate or flame-retardant and cold-resistant ABS plastic, and its mechanical strength meets the GB / T2423.1-2008 low-temperature test standard;
[0030] The T-shaped guide rail and positioning slot adopt the standardized parameters of the State Grid. A single box supports horizontal and vertical independent splicing and expansion, supporting a maximum of 12 households for metering, and also supports the overall combination and splicing of metering boxes of the same model.
[0031] The enclosed flame-retardant wiring trough is made of cold-resistant PVC material, which can withstand low temperatures of ≤-45℃ without deformation. The inner wall is treated with anti-wear insulation. The wiring trough is divided into strong current area and weak current area with independent partitions. The electrical clearance and creepage distance are not less than 8mm.
[0032] The high-altitude cold-resistant waterproof and thermal insulation sealing structure adopts EPDM cold-resistant sealing strips and heated waterproof inlet sleeves.
[0033] Furthermore, the high-altitude cold-resistant and anti-icing component adopts a triple closed-loop structure of heat preservation and cold insulation, active heat tracing, and ice dissipation and flow guidance, which, together with the high-altitude cold-resistant adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm, achieves adaptive temperature adjustment.
[0034] The external force damage monitoring unit includes a vibration sensor, a tilt sensor, and anti-pry contacts to monitor for pry damage to the enclosure, impact tilting, illegal opening, and other external force damage and trigger an early warning.
[0035] Furthermore, all modules and switches of the functional module components are universal and interchangeable, and parts of the same specification can be directly replaced;
[0036] The module's outer shell is made of flame-retardant and cold-resistant material, and the internal components are industrial-grade wide-temperature chips, with an operating temperature range of -40℃ to 85℃.
[0037] The main incoming switch and individual outgoing switches are connected to each module and external cable in an orderly manner through dedicated wiring terminals, and the operation of each module and switch circuit does not interfere with each other.
[0038] Furthermore, the pluggable electrical terminals of the standardized interface system are made of tin-plated copper alloy, with a contact resistance ≤50mΩ, withstand voltage ≥AC220V, and pluggable life ≥1000 times;
[0039] The buckle of the snap-on mechanical structure is made of spring steel with a pull-out force ≥50N;
[0040] This interface system enables tool-free quick installation and disassembly of modules, without manual wiring or power interruption, and the time for disassembly and assembly of a single module is ≤30 seconds.
[0041] The interface compatibility complies with DL / T645-2007 and GB / T17215.321-2022 power industry standards.
[0042] Furthermore, the edge computing module of the intelligent management unit is based on the ARM Cortex-A7 architecture, with a main frequency of 1.2GHz, 32GB of flash memory and 4GB of RAM, and locally stores more than 6 months of operating data, alarm logs and evidence information;
[0043] The backup lithium battery is 3.7V and can operate continuously for 72 hours after a power outage;
[0044] The intelligent management unit monitors the on / off status of the main incoming switch and the individual outgoing switches, as well as overload temperature rise and leakage current in real time, with an early warning response time of ≤50ms.
[0045] Furthermore, the high-altitude adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm is based on fuzzy PID control logic, and integrates data on the temperature inside the chamber, ambient temperature, humidity, and wind speed to achieve dynamic adaptive adjustment of the heating power. The algorithm sets 10℃ as the critical temperature for antifreeze start-up and stably controls the temperature inside the chamber in the range of 8℃~20℃, with a temperature control accuracy of ±1℃.
[0046] Furthermore, the multi-dimensional anti-electricity theft identification algorithm is based on the fusion of current phase comparison, power balance analysis, illegal opening monitoring, and load anomaly identification data to determine electricity theft behavior. It adopts a triple judgment logic for the final judgment, with an electricity theft identification accuracy rate of ≥98% and a false alarm rate of ≤1%.
[0047] Furthermore, the modular cluster linkage scheduling algorithm adopts a master-slave linkage architecture, with one master metering box as the core node for cluster management and control. The remaining slave boxes establish communication links with the master box through RS485 / 4G dual-mode communication, supporting synchronous cluster linkage of 32 metering boxes with 100% command transmission accuracy.
[0048] Furthermore, the extreme cold condition fault diagnosis and location algorithm is based on equipment status big data analysis and fault feature database matching, covering six types of faults: abnormal temperature, heat tracing fault, communication interruption, switch tripping, leakage current exceeding standard, and module offline. It accurately locates the fault location and generates standardized maintenance plans, with fault diagnosis time ≤ 5 minutes.
[0049] Compared with existing technologies, the beneficial effects of this invention are:
[0050] 1. This invention adopts a triple high-altitude cold-resistant and anti-icing structure and a fuzzy PID intelligent temperature control algorithm, which can stably control the temperature at an extremely low temperature of -40℃, eliminating icing and frost and component damage. The cabinet and components are made of wide-temperature weather-resistant materials and have passed authoritative low-temperature and damp heat tests. It can meet the requirements of long-term reliable operation in high-altitude and extremely cold regions, and is also compatible with conventional use in plains. It breaks the geographical adaptability limitations of traditional metering boxes and achieves stable deployment in all regions.
[0051] 2. This invention adopts a standardized, modular frame and plug-and-play modules, supporting tool-free, uninterrupted, and rapid disassembly and assembly. A single module replacement takes only tens of seconds, significantly reducing construction cycle and maintenance costs. The modules are highly versatile and can be freely combined and expanded, compatible with diverse needs such as photovoltaics, charging piles, and water, gas, and electricity testing. Functions can be upgraded without replacing the entire box, reducing resource waste and greatly improving the deployment and maintenance efficiency of centralized scenarios.
[0052] 3. This invention has a built-in edge computing unit and four core algorithms, which can complete functions such as adaptive temperature control, electricity theft detection, fault diagnosis, and cluster linkage. Local data processing reduces the pressure on the cloud, and it can still operate stably in weak network environments. It can realize remote meter reading, batch power control, accurate early warning and rapid positioning, and completely replace manual inspection, making operation and maintenance management more intelligent, efficient and timely, which meets the requirements of smart grid construction.
[0053] 4. This invention adopts a layered wiring design for strong and weak currents, flame-retardant sealing and surge protection to reduce electrical safety risks. It is equipped with triple security protections: anti-theft, anti-vandalism, and leakage monitoring. Anomalies can be alarmed and evidence collected in real time. The cluster linkage algorithm supports unified scheduling and batch management of multiple boxes. It is suitable for decentralized deployment and centralized operation and maintenance in high-altitude and remote areas. Overall, it is safe, reliable, and cost-controllable, and has the value for large-scale promotion and application.
[0054] In summary, this invention, the modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions, solves the problem of adapting to extreme cold with its low-temperature resistant structure and intelligent temperature control, improves operation and maintenance efficiency with its plug-and-play modules, and achieves safety management and rapid fault diagnosis with four algorithms. It also has good scalability and overall achieves cold-resistant reliability, convenient installation, intelligent efficiency, and scenario compatibility. It comprehensively solves the pain points of traditional equipment and significantly improves the safety of power metering and operation and maintenance efficiency in high-altitude and cold regions. Attached Figure Description
[0055] Figure 1 This invention presents a system functional interaction logic block diagram of a modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions.
[0056] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of an adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm for high-altitude and cold regions based on a modular power metering box, as proposed in this invention.
[0057] Figure 3 This is a logic block diagram of a multi-dimensional anti-theft electricity identification algorithm based on a modular electricity metering box for high-altitude and cold regions proposed in this invention. Detailed Implementation
[0058] The technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments.
[0059] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.
[0060] Reference Figure 1-3 A modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions includes a box frame module, functional module components, a standardized interface system, an intelligent management unit, and an intelligent algorithm system. All modules are electrically connected through a full link, and the intelligent algorithm system enables intelligent closed-loop management and control of the metering box.
[0061] The enclosure frame module is a low-temperature resistant standardized universal frame that can withstand temperatures of ≥-40℃ without brittle cracking or deformation. The interior is equipped with T-shaped guide rails, positioning slots, enclosed flame-retardant wiring channels, and anti-slip wire clips for fixing positions. The splicing seams, cable inlets, and door closures are equipped with a special waterproof and heat-insulating sealing structure for high-altitude and cold-resistant environments. The interior integrates high-altitude and cold-resistant anti-icing and anti-freezing components and an external force damage monitoring unit, with an overall protection level of no less than IP65.
[0062] The functional modules are independent, detachable, plug-and-play standardized units, including metering modules, control modules, communication modules, expansion modules, anti-theft modules, and surge protection modules. The enclosure frame module has reserved dedicated installation positions for the main incoming switch and individual household outgoing switches. Each module is equipped with standardized electrical interfaces and mechanical clips to form a layered independent circuit connection system.
[0063] The standardized interface system adopts pluggable electrical terminals and snap-on mechanical structure, with anti-misinsertion and anti-dislodgement design. It also reserves multi-box linkage interface, spare line wiring hole and new energy expansion interface. The interface has built-in signal amplification and anti-interference module.
[0064] The intelligent management unit has a built-in edge computing module and a backup lithium battery. It works in conjunction with various functional modules, cold-weather anti-icing and anti-freezing components, and external force damage monitoring units to monitor the overall status, push alarms in a tiered manner, store data locally, and monitor equipment operating parameters in real time.
[0065] The intelligent algorithm system is embedded in the intelligent management unit, including a high-altitude adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm, a multi-dimensional anti-electricity theft identification algorithm, a modular cluster linkage scheduling algorithm, and an extreme cold working condition fault diagnosis and location algorithm, which are used for adaptive temperature control, electricity theft identification and early warning, multi-box cluster linkage, and rapid fault diagnosis and location.
[0066] The high-altitude adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm is the core supporting algorithm for extreme cold protection. Based on fuzzy PID control logic, it integrates multi-dimensional monitoring data such as internal temperature, ambient temperature, humidity, and wind speed to achieve dynamic adaptive adjustment of heating power. This reduces standby energy consumption while preventing icing and frost formation, precisely addressing the industry pain points of traditional heating equipment, such as high energy consumption, lagging temperature control, and frequent start-stop cycles. The core formula of the algorithm is as follows:
[0067] ;
[0068] in, This represents the percentage of heat tracing output power.
[0069] This is a proportionality coefficient, with a value ranging from 1.2 to 1.8;
[0070] The integral time constant is 30s.
[0071] The differential time constant is 5s;
[0072] Real-time temperature deviation (set antifreeze critical temperature - actual measured temperature inside the chamber);
[0073] The compensation coefficient for cold environments is calculated by linking on-site wind speed and humidity. In high-humidity and high-wind environments, the compensation value is automatically increased to enhance the antifreeze effect.
[0074] The algorithm execution flow is as follows:
[0075] 1. Data Acquisition: The internal temperature is collected every 100ms using a high-precision low-temperature temperature sensor, a temperature and humidity sensor, and a wind speed sensor. Ambient temperature relative humidity Wind speed To ensure the real-time nature and accuracy of the data;
[0076] 2. Deviation Calculation: Calculate the temperature deviation. Set 10℃ as the critical temperature for antifreeze activation to quickly determine whether the antifreeze program is triggered;
[0077] 3. Fuzzy decision-making: Adjust the compensation coefficient based on real-time humidity and wind speed parameters. In scenarios with high winds and high humidity condensation risk, the heat tracing compensation power is automatically increased to adapt to complex and cold climates.
[0078] 4. Power output: The corresponding heat tracing power is output through algorithm calculation to start the flexible self-limiting temperature PTC heat tracing tape. It has a built-in 10-second delay start-stop logic to avoid frequent start-stop of the equipment caused by small temperature fluctuations.
[0079] 5. Closed-loop regulation: Real-time tracking of temperature changes inside the chamber, gradually reducing the heating power when it reaches 15℃, and automatically shutting off the heating when it reaches 20℃, achieving a two-way balance between antifreeze and energy saving;
[0080] Actual testing has verified that this algorithm can stably control the temperature inside the chamber within the range of 8℃~20℃ with a temperature control accuracy of ±1℃. Compared with the traditional constant temperature heating mode, it reduces standby power consumption by more than 60%, fundamentally solving the problem of icing and frost in high-altitude and cold environments.
[0081] The multi-dimensional anti-theft electricity detection algorithm is based on the fusion of multi-dimensional data, including current phase comparison, power balance analysis, illegal opening monitoring, and load anomaly identification. It achieves accurate judgment and instantaneous early warning of electricity theft, solving the problems of high false alarm rate, delayed identification, and difficulty in obtaining evidence in traditional anti-theft methods. This strengthens the security defense line for power assets. The core judgment formula of the algorithm is:
[0082] ;
[0083] ;
[0084] in, This refers to the deviation between the incoming and outgoing line currents;
[0085] This represents the total incoming current.
[0086] This represents the total current of the outgoing lines for each household.
[0087] Set to 2% of the rated current; exceeding this value is considered an abnormal current.
[0088] This refers to the phase deviation between voltage and current.
[0089] If the phase difference exceeds the limit, it can be determined that there is suspicion of electricity theft;
[0090] The algorithm execution flow is as follows:
[0091] 1. Real-time data acquisition: High-speed acquisition of incoming line voltage and current, and outgoing line voltage and current for each household every 15ms, and synchronous calculation of voltage and current phase difference, active power, and reactive power parameters;
[0092] 2. Baseline Modeling: Establish a normal electricity load model based on users' historical electricity consumption data, generate a baseline load curve, and eliminate interference from normal electricity fluctuations;
[0093] 3. Anomaly Detection: A triple-judgment logic is adopted. If the current deviation exceeds the standard, the phase deviation exceeds the standard, and the load changes suddenly, it will be immediately judged as electricity theft. Illegal opening of the box door and damage to the electronic seal will directly trigger the anti-pry electricity theft warning.
[0094] 4. Early warning and evidence collection: After the early warning is triggered, the built-in capture unit is immediately activated to preserve on-site evidence and simultaneously push alarm information to the operation and maintenance platform to accurately locate the electricity theft account number and equipment location. The overall response time is ≤100ms.
[0095] The algorithm has an accuracy rate of ≥98% in identifying electricity theft and a false alarm rate of ≤1%, which can effectively curb illegal electricity theft, unauthorized wiring and other illegal activities, and minimize the loss of power assets.
[0096] The modular cluster linkage scheduling algorithm is designed for distributed multi-container deployment scenarios in high-altitude and remote areas. It enables multi-container data synchronization, batch management and control, and fault linkage response, solving the problems of independent operation, decentralized management and control, and inefficient operation and maintenance of traditional metering boxes. It is especially suitable for clustered operation and maintenance scenarios in large communities and industrial parks. The core logic of the algorithm is as follows: adopting a master-slave linkage architecture, selecting one master metering box as the core node of cluster management and control, and the other slave boxes establish a stable link with the master box through RS485 / 4G dual-mode communication to build a local area network and realize data sharing and remote batch command issuance.
[0097] The algorithm execution flow is as follows:
[0098] 1. Cluster networking: The master unit automatically scans surrounding metering units of the same model, quickly establishes communication links, assigns a unique cluster ID to each slave unit, and has a networking response time of ≤1s, making it suitable for weak network environments;
[0099] 2. Data Synchronization: The master unit collects all slave unit operating data every 5 minutes, caches and stores it locally, and synchronizes it to the cloud platform. When the network signal is poor, the data is temporarily stored and automatically re-transmitted after the network is restored to ensure data integrity.
[0100] 3. Batch scheduling: Supports remote batch meter reading, batch closing / opening, and batch parameter configuration, with 100% accuracy in command transmission, significantly reducing the workload of cluster operation and maintenance;
[0101] 4. Linked early warning: When a single unit triggers an early warning for fault, electricity theft, or excessive low temperature, the main unit will simultaneously push alarm information for the entire cluster to the operation and maintenance platform. Operation and maintenance personnel can view the operating status of the entire cluster with one click.
[0102] The algorithm supports synchronous clustering of up to 32 metering boxes, improving management efficiency by more than 90% compared to the independent operation and maintenance mode, and is perfectly suited to the centralized operation and maintenance needs of high-altitude and remote areas.
[0103] The extreme cold working condition fault diagnosis and location algorithm is based on equipment status big data analysis and fault feature database matching to achieve rapid diagnosis and accurate location of internal faults in the metering box. It solves the problems of long time consumption, high risk of misoperation and vague fault location in traditional operation and maintenance, and greatly shortens the fault handling cycle. The algorithm's fault judgment dimensions: comprehensively cover six major categories of high-frequency faults, including abnormal temperature, heat tracing fault, communication interruption, switch tripping, leakage current exceeding the standard and module offline. A standardized fault feature database and corresponding handling solution database are established in advance to realize the integration of fault judgment and maintenance guidance.
[0104] The algorithm execution flow is as follows:
[0105] 1. Status monitoring: Real-time acquisition of core parameters such as module online status, switch on / off status, temperature data, communication signal strength, leakage current, and voltage deviation;
[0106] 2. Feature matching: Real-time monitoring data is compared with a fault feature database. Once a match is found, the fault type is immediately determined and interference signals are eliminated.
[0107] 3. Location Analysis: By using module ID, loop number, and line node code, the specific location of the fault can be accurately located, such as a fault in the No. 3 individual metering module or a fault in the incoming heat tracing unit, with no location deviation;
[0108] 4. Handling suggestions: Automatically generate standardized maintenance plans and push them to the operation and maintenance terminal to guide operation and maintenance personnel to quickly replace modules and troubleshoot lines, reducing the troubleshooting time from the traditional 30-60 minutes to less than 5 minutes.
[0109] In this invention, the material of the box frame module is low-temperature resistant galvanized steel plate or flame-retardant and cold-resistant ABS plastic, and the mechanical strength meets the GB / T2423.1-2008 low-temperature test standard;
[0110] The T-shaped guide rail and positioning slot adopt the standardized parameters of the State Grid. A single box supports horizontal and vertical independent splicing and expansion, supporting a maximum of 12 households for metering, and also supports the overall combination and splicing of metering boxes of the same model.
[0111] The enclosed flame-retardant wiring trough is made of cold-resistant PVC material, which can withstand low temperatures of ≤-45℃ without deformation. The inner wall is treated with anti-wear insulation. The wiring trough is divided into strong current area and weak current area with independent partitions. The electrical clearance and creepage distance are not less than 8mm.
[0112] The high-altitude and cold-resistant waterproof and thermal insulation sealing structure adopts EPDM cold-resistant sealing strips and heated waterproof inlet sleeves.
[0113] In this invention, the high-altitude cold-resistant and anti-icing component adopts a triple closed-loop structure of heat preservation and cold insulation, active heat tracing, and ice dissipation and flow guidance, which, together with the high-altitude cold-adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm, achieves adaptive temperature adjustment.
[0114] The external force damage monitoring unit includes vibration sensors, tilt sensors, and anti-pry contacts to monitor for pry damage to the enclosure, impact tilting, unauthorized opening, and other external force damage and trigger an early warning.
[0115] In this invention, all modules and switches of the functional module components are universal and interchangeable, and parts of the same specification can be directly replaced;
[0116] The module's outer shell is made of flame-retardant and cold-resistant material, and the internal components are industrial-grade wide-temperature chips, with an operating temperature range of -40℃ to 85℃.
[0117] The main incoming switch and individual outgoing switches are connected to each module and external cable in an orderly manner through dedicated wiring terminals, and the operation of each module and switch circuit does not interfere with each other.
[0118] In this invention, the pluggable electrical terminals of the standardized interface system are made of tin-plated copper alloy, with a contact resistance ≤50mΩ, withstand voltage ≥AC220V, and pluggable life ≥1000 times.
[0119] The buckle of the snap-on mechanical structure is made of spring steel with a pull-out force ≥50N;
[0120] This interface system enables tool-free quick installation and disassembly of modules, without manual wiring or power interruption, and the time for disassembly and assembly of a single module is ≤30 seconds.
[0121] The interface compatibility complies with DL / T645-2007 and GB / T17215.321-2022 power industry standards.
[0122] In this invention, the edge computing module of the intelligent management unit is based on the ARM Cortex-A7 architecture, with a main frequency of 1.2GHz, 32GB of flash memory and 4GB of RAM, and locally stores more than 6 months of operating data, alarm logs and evidence information.
[0123] The backup lithium battery is 3.7V and can operate continuously for 72 hours after a power outage;
[0124] The intelligent management unit monitors the on / off status of the main incoming switch and the outgoing switches for each household in real time, as well as the overload temperature rise and leakage current, with an early warning response time of ≤50ms.
[0125] In this invention, the high-altitude adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm is based on fuzzy PID control logic. It integrates data on the temperature inside the chamber, ambient temperature, humidity, and wind speed to achieve dynamic adaptive adjustment of the heating power. The algorithm sets 10℃ as the critical temperature for antifreeze start-up and stably controls the temperature inside the chamber within the range of 8℃ to 20℃, with a temperature control accuracy of ±1℃.
[0126] In this invention, the multi-dimensional anti-electricity theft identification algorithm is based on the fusion of current phase comparison, power balance analysis, illegal opening monitoring, and load anomaly identification data to determine electricity theft behavior. It adopts a triple judgment logic for the final judgment, with an electricity theft identification accuracy rate of ≥98% and a false alarm rate of ≤1%.
[0127] In this invention, the modular cluster linkage scheduling algorithm adopts a master-slave linkage architecture, with one master metering box as the core node for cluster management and control. The remaining slave boxes establish communication links with the master box through RS485 / 4G dual-mode communication, supporting synchronous cluster linkage of 32 metering boxes, with 100% accuracy in command transmission.
[0128] In this invention, the fault diagnosis and location algorithm for extremely cold working conditions is based on big data analysis of equipment status and matching of fault feature database. It covers six types of faults: abnormal temperature, heat tracing fault, communication interruption, switch tripping, excessive leakage current, and module offline. It can accurately locate the fault location and generate a standardized maintenance plan, with a fault diagnosis time of ≤5 minutes.
[0129] Example 1: Standard version for 4 households per unit (galvanized steel frame + cold-weather anti-icing foundation);
[0130] This embodiment is a standard 4-household metering system commonly used in residential communities in high-altitude and cold regions, adapted to extremely low temperature environments of -40℃. The overall structure, assembly process, and operating logic are as follows:
[0131] 1. Hardware Composition and Core Parameters
[0132] The enclosure frame module is made of low-temperature resistant galvanized steel plate with a thickness of not less than 1.2mm. The plate can withstand low temperatures of ≥-40℃ without brittle cracking or deformation. The overall protection level reaches IP65. The interior is equipped with T-shaped guide rails, positioning slots and enclosed flame-retardant wiring channels to ensure precise module assembly and neat wiring layout. The high-altitude cold-resistant anti-icing and anti-freezing components consist of flexible self-limiting PTC heating cable, high-density polyurethane insulation layer, 5° inclined ice-removing channel, high-precision low-temperature temperature control sensor and PET anti-condensation breathable membrane. The heating cable has an operating temperature range of -40℃ to 60℃, a temperature control accuracy of ±1℃, an anti-icing start threshold of ≤5℃, a shutdown threshold of ≥15℃, and a built-in 10s delay start-stop logic to avoid frequent start-stop due to temperature fluctuations.
[0133] The ice-removing channel is treated with a smooth, water-repellent finish, and the top breathable membrane balances the humidity inside and outside the chamber. A magnetic heat-insulating sealing strip is installed on the inside of the chamber door, which fits seamlessly when closed, eliminating the problems of condensation, ice formation, and backflow of wind and snow from the source.
[0134] The external force damage monitoring unit is equipped with a high-sensitivity vibration sensor, tilt sensor and anti-pry contact. The vibration monitoring trigger threshold is ≥50N and the response time is ≤50ms. An alarm is triggered immediately when the tilt deviation is ≥3°. The anti-pry contact is mechanically linked to the door, and an alarm is triggered the moment the door is opened.
[0135] The functional modules adopt standardized independent units, with a total of 4 metering modules, 4 control modules, 1 communication module, 1 expansion module, and 1 anti-theft module. The upper part of the cabinet frame has a reserved installation position for the incoming line switch, which is equipped with a 32A molded case main incoming line switch as the main power control node of the whole cabinet. The lower part is equipped with a 16A branch line switch for each household. Both the incoming and outgoing line switches adopt a rail-type quick-installation structure and are equipped with flame-retardant terminal blocks.
[0136] The metering module integrates a Class 1.0 high-precision single-phase energy meter (compliant with GB / T17215.321-2022 standard) and a DL / T645-2007 communication protocol data acquisition device, with an adjustable sampling interval of 15 minutes. The control module integrates a 16A air switch, a 30mA leakage current protector, and an electromagnetic remote tripping device, with a tripping response time ≤100ms and a leakage current action time ≤0.1s. The communication module integrates a three-network 4G / NB-IoT dual-mode unit and an RS485 communication interface, with a transmission distance ≥1200m. The expansion module reserves a DC220V photovoltaic metering interface. The anti-theft module has current phase comparison, illegal opening capture, and electronic seal sensing functions. The current error exceeding ±2% will immediately determine the theft of electricity, with a response time ≤100ms.
[0137] 2. Wiring connection specifications;
[0138] The wiring connections strictly adhere to the high-altitude and cold-climate graded wiring specifications and the power metering box wiring standards: external incoming lines are connected to the main incoming switch via a heated waterproof incoming line seal at the bottom of the box, and the outgoing lines are branched to each household's outgoing switch via -40℃ cold-resistant and flame-retardant copper core cables, and then connected to the control module and metering module in sequence via standardized tin-plated terminals. The entire wiring is embedded in a closed flame-retardant wiring channel and fixed at fixed points using anti-slip wire clips, with clear routing and no crossing or dangling. In high-altitude and cold-climate areas, the wiring joints and terminal blocks are additionally wrapped with silicone rubber insulation sleeves, and the electrical clearance and creepage distance are strictly controlled to be no less than 8mm to prevent low-temperature freezing damage, poor contact, and creepage short circuit hazards. A surge protection unit is added inside the box to resist the impact of lightning and sudden voltage changes in high-altitude and cold-climate areas, and the wiring has a reserved redundant length throughout to adapt to the cold shrinkage characteristics of low-temperature cables.
[0139] 3. Intelligent algorithm operation;
[0140] The intelligent management unit is equipped with an adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm for cold weather, a multi-dimensional anti-theft electricity identification algorithm, and a fault diagnosis algorithm. It monitors the temperature inside the box in real time, automatically adjusts the heating power, monitors electricity consumption data in real time, accurately identifies electricity theft, quickly locates faults, and pushes maintenance instructions.
[0141] Actual testing showed that this embodiment operated continuously for 30 days at -40℃ without icing or malfunctions, with a metering accuracy error of ≤0.5% and an electricity theft detection accuracy rate of 98.5%.
[0142] Example 2: Single-box 8-unit industrial version (flame-retardant plastic frame + reinforced antifreeze);
[0143] This embodiment is suitable for centralized metering scenarios of 8 households in cold industrial parks. It adopts a flame-retardant and cold-resistant ABS plastic frame to enhance anti-freezing and cluster management functions. It is equipped with all four core algorithms and supports cluster linkage scheduling. Key optimizations include: thickening the insulation layer to 30mm, increasing the power of the heating cable by 50% to adapt to high-load industrial power consumption, enhancing the signal gain of the communication module to adapt to the complex electromagnetic environment of industrial parks, supporting cluster networking of 32 cabinets, batch management of industrial users' power consumption, and improving operation and maintenance efficiency by 95% compared to traditional products.
[0144] Example 3: Multi-box cluster extended version (dedicated to new energy metering);
[0145] This embodiment is adapted to photovoltaic grid-connected metering scenarios in high-altitude and cold regions. It consists of a cluster of four single boxes spliced together, and the expansion module is equipped with a photovoltaic bidirectional metering unit. Through the cluster linkage scheduling algorithm, it realizes data synchronization of multiple boxes, monitors photovoltaic grid-connected electricity and user electricity consumption in real time, supports bidirectional metering and remote settlement, perfectly meets the needs of new energy grid-connected metering, and fills the gap in new energy metering equipment in high-altitude and cold regions.
[0146] Performance testing and verification:
[0147] In accordance with the State Grid standards and the high-altitude and cold-weather environment special test standards, multiple performance tests were conducted, and the test results are as follows:
[0148] 1. Low temperature operation test: After 720 hours of continuous operation at -40℃, the chamber did not freeze, the components did not freeze and were not damaged, the temperature control was stable, and the measurement accuracy met the standard.
[0149] 2. Operation and maintenance efficiency test: Module disassembly and assembly time ≤20 seconds, fault diagnosis time ≤3 minutes, which is 92% more efficient than traditional products;
[0150] 3. Algorithm performance test: Temperature control accuracy ±1℃, electricity theft detection accuracy 98.2%, cluster networking success rate 100%, fault location accuracy 99%;
[0151] Protection performance test: IP65 protection level, waterproof, dustproof and cold resistance meet the standards, passed vibration and impact tests, and has excellent mechanical stability.
[0152] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any equivalent substitutions or modifications made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in the present invention, based on the technical solution and inventive concept of the present invention, should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.
Claims
1. A modular energy metering box for high-altitude and cold regions, comprising a box frame module, functional module components, a standardized interface system, an intelligent management unit, and an intelligent algorithm system. Its characteristics are: The internal structure of the box frame module is equipped with T-shaped guide rails, positioning slots, enclosed flame-retardant wiring channels, and anti-slip wire fixing positions. It also integrates high-altitude cold-resistant anti-icing and anti-freezing components and an external force damage monitoring unit. The functional module components include a metering module, a control module, a communication module, an expansion module, an anti-theft module, and a surge protection module; The standardized interface system adopts pluggable electrical terminals and snap-on mechanical structure, and also reserves multi-box linkage interfaces, spare line wiring holes and new energy expansion interfaces. The interface has built-in signal amplification and anti-interference modules. The intelligent management unit has a built-in edge computing module and a backup lithium battery, which are used for full-domain status monitoring, hierarchical alarm push, local data storage, and real-time monitoring of equipment operating parameters. The intelligent algorithm system is embedded in the intelligent management unit and includes a high-altitude adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm, a multi-dimensional anti-theft electricity identification algorithm, a modular cluster linkage scheduling algorithm, and an extreme cold working condition fault diagnosis and location algorithm, which are used for adaptive temperature control, electricity theft identification and early warning, multi-box cluster linkage, and rapid fault diagnosis and location.
2. The modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions according to claim 1, characterized in that, The box frame module is made of low-temperature resistant galvanized steel plate or flame-retardant and cold-resistant ABS plastic. The T-shaped guide rail and positioning slot adopt the standardized parameters of the State Grid. A single box supports horizontal and vertical independent splicing and expansion, supporting a maximum of 12 households for metering, and also supports the overall combination and splicing of metering boxes of the same model. The enclosed flame-retardant wiring trough is made of cold-resistant PVC material, which can withstand low temperatures of ≤-45℃ without deformation. The inner wall is treated with anti-wear insulation. The wiring trough is divided into strong current area and weak current area with independent partitions. The high-altitude cold-resistant waterproof and thermal insulation sealing structure adopts EPDM cold-resistant sealing strips and heated waterproof inlet sleeves.
3. The modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions according to claim 1, characterized in that, The high-altitude cold-proof and anti-icing component adopts a triple closed-loop structure of heat preservation and cold insulation, active heat tracing, and ice-removing and guiding flow, which, together with the high-altitude cold-adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm, achieves temperature adaptive adjustment. The external force damage monitoring unit includes a vibration sensor, a tilt sensor, and anti-pry contacts to monitor for pry damage to the enclosure, impact tilting, illegal opening, and other external force damage and trigger an early warning.
4. A modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions according to claim 1, characterized in that, All modules and switches of the aforementioned functional module components are universal and interchangeable, and parts of the same specification can be directly replaced; The module's outer shell is made of flame-retardant and cold-resistant material, and the internal components are industrial-grade wide-temperature chips. The main incoming switch and individual outgoing switches are connected to each module and external cable in an orderly manner through dedicated wiring terminals, and the operation of each module and switch circuit does not interfere with each other.
5. A modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pluggable electrical terminals of the standardized interface system are made of tin-plated copper alloy. The buckle of the snap-on mechanical structure is made of spring steel. This interface system enables tool-free quick installation and removal of modules, without manual wiring or power outages.
6. A modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions according to claim 1, characterized in that, The edge computing module of the intelligent management unit is based on the ARM Cortex-A7 architecture, with a main frequency of 1.2GHz, 32GB of flash memory and 4GB of RAM, and locally stores more than 6 months of operating data, alarm logs and evidence information. The backup lithium battery is 3.7V and can operate continuously for 72 hours after a power outage; The intelligent management unit monitors the on / off status of the main incoming switch and the individual outgoing switches, as well as the overload temperature rise and leakage current in real time.
7. A modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions according to claim 1, characterized in that, The high-altitude adaptive intelligent temperature control algorithm is based on fuzzy PID control logic. It integrates data on the temperature inside the chamber, ambient temperature, humidity, and wind speed to achieve dynamic adaptive adjustment of the heating power. The algorithm sets 10℃ as the critical temperature for antifreeze start-up and stabilizes the temperature inside the chamber within the range of 8℃ to 20℃.
8. A modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-dimensional anti-electricity theft identification algorithm is based on the fusion of data from current phase comparison, power balance analysis, illegal opening monitoring, and load anomaly identification to determine electricity theft behavior, and uses a triple judgment logic for the final judgment.
9. A modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions according to claim 1, characterized in that, The modular cluster linkage scheduling algorithm adopts a master-slave linkage architecture, with one master metering box as the core node for cluster management and control. The remaining slave boxes establish communication links with the master box through RS485 / 4G dual-mode communication, supporting synchronous cluster linkage of 32 metering boxes.
10. A modular power metering box for high-altitude and cold regions according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extreme cold working condition fault diagnosis and location algorithm is based on equipment status big data analysis and fault feature database matching, covering six types of faults: abnormal temperature, heat tracing fault, communication interruption, switch tripping, leakage current exceeding standard, and module offline. It accurately locates the fault location and generates standardized maintenance plans.