Extensible multifunctional metering box

Abstract

The utility model discloses an extensible multifunctional metering box, which relates to the technical field of power equipment and comprises a main frame, a main control board, a power supply module, an electric quantity metering module, an environment monitoring module, a communication module, an expansion slot, a display module, a safety module and a heat dissipation module. According to the utility model, the embedded processor, the memory, the storage chip and the power management module are integrated on the main control board, and the electric quantity metering module is arranged, so that key electric energy parameters such as active power, reactive power, apparent power and power factors can be measured with high precision; meanwhile, expansion slots are reserved in the metering box, so that diversified requirements in an electric power system are met; according to the utility model, the flexibility and adaptability of the existing metering box are obviously improved, the cost is reduced, and the management efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of electric power equipment, and more specifically to an expandable multifunctional metering box. Background Art

[0002] With the rapid development of smart grid and Internet of Things technologies, power metering systems are moving towards intelligent, networked, and high-precision features. Modern meter boxes must not only provide basic electricity metering functions but also support multiple functions such as remote monitoring, data transmission, and fault diagnosis to meet increasingly complex power demand and management requirements.

[0003] Traditional meter boxes are primarily used for electricity metering in homes and industrial settings. Their basic functions include energy metering, display, and simple data logging. However, with the increasing complexity of power systems and the diversification of user needs, traditional meter boxes have gradually revealed some shortcomings. For example, many traditional meter boxes only provide basic electricity metering functions and lack additional features such as power factor measurement, harmonic analysis, and voltage quality monitoring. Furthermore, traditional meter boxes often have fixed hardware configurations and cannot be expanded or upgraded to meet actual needs. For example, once a meter box leaves the factory, the type and number of sensors cannot be added.

[0004] Existing meter boxes, due to their single metering function and fixed hardware configuration, cannot meet the diverse and high-precision requirements of modern power systems. For example, the lack of power factor measurement and voltage quality monitoring functions requires users to purchase and install additional equipment, increasing costs and complexity. At the same time, the fixed hardware configuration limits the flexibility and adaptability of the meter box, making it difficult to expand or upgrade according to actual needs, affecting the overall performance and management efficiency of the system.

[0005] Therefore, the utility model discloses an expandable multifunctional metering box to meet the requirements of modern power systems for diversification and high precision, and to improve the flexibility and management efficiency of the system. Utility Model Content

[0006] The purpose of this utility model is to provide an expandable multifunctional meter box. By integrating an embedded processor, memory, storage chip, and power management module on the main control board and equipped with an electricity metering module, the meter box can measure key electrical energy parameters such as active power, reactive power, apparent power, and power factor with high precision, without requiring the user to purchase and install additional equipment, thereby reducing cost and complexity. Furthermore, the reserved expansion slots within the meter box, including a standard PCIe slot, USB port, GPIO port, and power port, provide users with great flexibility, allowing them to easily add additional sensors or functional modules according to actual needs, meeting the diverse needs of the power system. Furthermore, the integration of an environmental monitoring module and a communication module enables the meter box to monitor environmental parameters (such as temperature, humidity, and air quality) in real time and transmit data with external devices and systems, providing users with more comprehensive power system information, helping to promptly identify and resolve potential problems, and improving the overall performance and management efficiency of the system. The security module provides users with physical and electrical security protection, effectively preventing unauthorized access and operation, and ensuring the stable operation of the meter box in the complex and changing power system environment. The application of the heat dissipation module ensures that the electronic components inside the meter box can operate normally in a high-temperature environment, extending the service life of the equipment and improving the stability and reliability of the system.

[0007] In order to achieve the above technical effects, the present invention adopts the following technical solutions:

[0008] An expandable multifunctional metering box comprises: a main frame, a main control board is arranged at the center of the top of the main frame, and the main control board is connected to various functional modules through a high-speed data bus; a power module is arranged at the bottom left position of the main frame, and the power module is connected to the main control board and other functional modules through a power line; the power module includes a power adapter, a battery pack, a power converter, a power switch and a fuse; an embedded processor, a memory, a storage chip and a power management module are integrated on the main control board; an electric quantity metering module is arranged at the middle left position of the main frame, and is connected to the main control board through a data line; an environmental monitoring module is arranged at the middle right position of the main frame The power measurement module is provided, and a communication module is provided on the top right side of the main frame; the power metering module, the environmental monitoring module and the communication module are connected to the main control board through signal lines; a number of expansion slots are reserved on the right side of the main frame; the expansion slots include standard PCIe slots, USB interfaces, GPIO interfaces and power interfaces, and the expansion slots are connected to the main control board through data cables and power cables; a display module is provided in the center of the front panel of the main frame; a security module is provided in the middle of the right side of the main frame; a heat dissipation module is provided at the rear of the main frame; mounting brackets are provided at the four corners of the back panel of the main frame; the mounting brackets are connected to the main frame through fixing nuts.

[0009] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0010] The electricity metering module includes a current transformer, a voltage transformer, a metering chip and a first signal conditioning circuit; the current transformer and the voltage transformer are installed on the side wall of the main frame, the current transformer is connected to the main circuit through a current line, the current line includes a primary current side and a secondary current side, and the secondary current side is connected to the metering chip through a signal line; the voltage transformer is connected to the main circuit through a voltage line, the voltage line includes a primary voltage side and a secondary voltage side, and the secondary voltage side is connected to the metering chip through a signal line; the metering chip is connected to the main control board through a data line, and the first signal conditioning circuit is connected to the current transformer and the voltage transformer through a signal line.

[0011] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0012] The electricity metering module includes a current transformer, a voltage transformer, a metering chip and a first signal conditioning circuit; the current transformer and the voltage transformer are installed on the side wall of the main frame, the current transformer is connected to the main circuit through a current line, the current line includes a primary current side and a secondary current side, and the secondary current side is connected to the metering chip through a signal line; the voltage transformer is connected to the main circuit through a voltage line, the voltage line includes a primary voltage side and a secondary voltage side, and the secondary voltage side is connected to the metering chip through a signal line; the metering chip is connected to the main control board through a data line, and the first signal conditioning circuit is connected to the current transformer and the voltage transformer through a signal line.

[0013] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0014] The environmental monitoring module includes a first temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an air quality sensor and a second signal conditioning circuit; the temperature sensor, humidity sensor and air quality sensor are installed on the front and rear panels of the main frame and are connected to the main control board through signal lines.

[0015] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0016] The display module includes a touch screen display, an LED indicator light and a button; the touch screen display is connected to the main control board via a data line, and the LED indicator light and the button are connected to the main control board via a control line.

[0017] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0018] The security module includes a door lock, an electromagnetic lock, a fuse, a circuit breaker and a surge protector; the door lock and electromagnetic lock are installed on the front panel of the main frame and are connected to the main control board through a control line; the fuse, circuit breaker and surge protector are installed on the left side of the power module and are connected to the power module through a power line.

[0019] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0020] The communication module includes an Ethernet interface and an RS-485 interface.

[0021] As a further description of the above technical solution:

[0022] The heat dissipation module includes a heat sink, a fan, a second temperature sensor and a temperature control switch. The heat sink and the fan are installed at the rear of the main frame. The fan is connected to the power module through a power cord. The second temperature sensor and the temperature control switch are installed near the main control board and connected to the main control board through a signal line.

[0023] In summary, due to the adoption of the above technical solutions, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows: by integrating an embedded processor, memory, storage chip, and power management module on the main control board, and equipping it with an electricity metering module, the present invention can measure key electrical energy parameters such as active power, reactive power, apparent power, and power factor with high precision, without requiring the user to purchase and install additional equipment, thereby reducing cost and complexity. At the same time, the expansion slots reserved inside the meter box, including standard PCIe slots, USB ports, GPIO ports, and power ports, provide users with great flexibility, allowing them to easily add additional sensors or functional modules according to actual needs, meeting the diverse needs of the power system. In addition, the integration of the environmental monitoring module and the communication module enables the meter box to monitor environmental parameters (such as temperature, humidity, and air quality) in real time and realize data transmission with external devices and systems, providing users with more comprehensive power system information, helping to promptly identify and resolve potential problems, and improving the overall performance and management efficiency of the system. The setting of the security module provides users with physical and electrical security protection, effectively preventing unauthorized access and operation, and ensuring the stable operation of the meter box in the complex and changing power system environment. The application of the heat dissipation module ensures that the electronic components inside the meter box can operate normally in a high-temperature environment, extending the service life of the equipment and improving the stability and reliability of the system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without inventive work. Among them:

[0025] Figure 1 It is a structural diagram of the utility model;

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the horizontal structure of the utility model;

[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit principle of the utility model;

[0028] Numbers in the figure: 1. Main frame; 2. Main control board; 3. Power module; 4. Power metering module; 5. Environmental monitoring module; 6. Communication module; 7. Expansion slot; 8. Display module; 9. Security module; 10. Heat dissipation module; 11. Mounting bracket. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The following will clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making any creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this utility model.

[0030] like Figure 1-3 As shown, an expandable multifunctional metering box comprises: a main frame 1, a main control board 2 is provided at the center of the top of the main frame 1, and the main control board 2 is connected to each functional module through a high-speed data bus; a power supply module 3 is provided at the bottom left of the main frame 1, and the power supply module 3 is connected to the main control board 2 and other functional modules through a power line; an electric quantity metering module 4 is provided at the middle left of the main frame 1, and is connected to the main control board 2 through a data line; an environmental monitoring module 5 is provided at the middle right of the main frame 1, and an environmental monitoring module 5 is provided at the top right of the main frame There is a communication module 6; the power metering module 4, the environmental monitoring module 5 and the communication module 6 are connected to the main control board 2 through signal lines; several expansion slots 7 are reserved on the right side of the main frame 1; the expansion slots 7 are connected to the main control board 2 through data cables and power cables; a display module 8 is provided in the center of the front panel of the main frame 1; a security module 9 is provided in the middle position on the right side of the main frame; a heat dissipation module 10 is provided at the rear of the main frame 1; mounting brackets 11 are provided at the four corners of the back panel of the main frame 1; the mounting brackets 11 are connected to the main frame 1 through fixing nuts.

[0031] The main frame 1 provides structural support and houses several functional module areas. Specifically, the main frame 1 is constructed of high-quality cold-rolled steel with a rust-proof surface treatment to ensure long-term corrosion resistance. It measures 600mm long, 400mm wide, and 800mm high. The front and rear panels are 1.5mm thick, the side and bottom panels are 1.2mm thick, and the top panel is 1.5mm thick. The color is RAL7035 (matte gray). The frame features multiple standardized mounting areas for functional modules, including the power module, control panel, power metering, environmental monitoring, and communication modules. Several expansion slots, including standard PCIe slots, USB ports, GPIO ports, and a power port, are reserved on the bottom right side to facilitate future upgrades or the addition of new features. A display window is located above the front panel for mounting the display module, and a security module mounting area is located on the bottom right side to enhance the device's safety. A cooling fan and vents are installed on the rear to improve heat dissipation efficiency. Adjustable mounting brackets are located at the four corners of the back for easy wall or cabinet installation. The door panels feature magnetic or latch-type openings for easy maintenance and inspection. A transparent viewing window allows for viewing the interior without opening the door. The main frame 1 has an IP54 rating, making it dustproof and waterproof, suitable for indoor and light outdoor use. It can withstand a maximum load of 50 kg, ensuring stability even after installing various electronic components. All metal parts are grounded for electrical safety.

[0032] The main control board 2 is responsible for processing data from each module, executing control instructions, managing communications, and storing historical data. It integrates an embedded processor, memory, storage chips, and a power management module. In practice, the main control board 2 operates as follows: First, each functional module (such as the power metering module, environmental monitoring module, and communication module) sends collected data to the main control board 2 via a high-speed data bus. Upon receiving the data, the embedded processor processes and analyzes it according to a preset algorithm, generating corresponding control instructions. These instructions can adjust the operating status of a module, trigger an alarm, or send a notification. The processed data and generated instructions are transmitted to external devices or systems via the communication module, enabling remote monitoring and management. Important data is also stored in the storage chip for subsequent query and analysis. The power management module provides a stable power supply throughout the entire process, ensuring the proper operation of all components.

[0033] The embedded processor uses the NXP i.MX 8QuadMax, with four Cortex-A72 cores and two Cortex-M4F cores, and a maximum frequency of 2.0GHz. The memory is Micron DDR4-3200 with a capacity of 4GB. The storage chip is Samsung 32GB eMMC 5.1 with a capacity of 32GB and an 8-bit DDR interface. The power management module is Texas Instruments TPS65983, with an input voltage range of 4.5V to 28V and output voltages of 1.8V, 3.3V, and 5V.

[0034] Power module 3 provides dual power inputs, including mains power and battery power. It includes a power adapter, a battery pack, a power converter, a power switch, and a fuse. In a specific implementation, when the mains power is normal, the power adapter converts the mains power to direct current (DC) and distributes the DC power to various system components via the power converter. The DC power output by the power adapter also charges the battery pack, ensuring it remains fully charged. When the mains power is disconnected, power module 3 automatically switches to the battery pack for power. The power converter converts the battery voltage to the required system voltage levels, ensuring continued normal operation. The power management module monitors the status of the mains power and battery, automatically switching power inputs based on actual conditions. When the mains power is restored, the power management module switches back to mains power and resumes charging the battery pack. Furthermore, the fuse in power module 3 quickly blows in the event of a circuit overload or short circuit, cutting off power and protecting the circuit from damage. Overvoltage and overcurrent protection circuits are also integrated into the power converter and power adapter, further enhancing system safety.

[0035] In practice, dual power supply from a power adapter and battery pack ensures continuous system operation under all circumstances. The power converter's efficient conversion and stable output ensure the proper functioning of all system components. The power management module's intelligent switching and protection mechanisms enhance system reliability and safety. This design not only simplifies system complexity but also improves overall performance and user experience.

[0036] Compared with similar hardware, the power module 3 provides dual power inputs of AC power and battery, ensuring that the system can still operate normally when the AC power is disconnected, thereby improving the reliability and availability of the system.

[0037] The electricity metering module 4 is used to measure electric energy, including active power, reactive power, apparent power, and power factor. The electricity metering module 4 includes a current transformer, a voltage transformer, a metering chip, and a first signal conditioning circuit. The current transformer and the voltage transformer are mounted on the side walls of the main frame. The current transformer is connected to the main circuit via a current line, which includes a primary current side and a secondary current side. The secondary current side is connected to the metering chip via a signal line. The voltage transformer is connected to the main circuit via a voltage line, which includes a primary voltage side and a secondary voltage side. The secondary voltage side is connected to the metering chip via a signal line. The metering chip is connected to the main control board via a data line, and the first signal conditioning circuit is connected to the current transformer and the voltage transformer via a signal line. In a specific embodiment, the current transformer is used to measure the current in the main circuit. The current transformer uses the principle of electromagnetic induction to convert the large current in the main circuit into a smaller secondary current for processing by the metering chip. The current transformer is mounted on the side wall of the main frame and connected to the main circuit via a current line. The current line includes a primary and a secondary side, with the secondary side connected to the metering chip via a signal line. The voltage transformer measures the voltage in the main circuit. Using the principle of electromagnetic induction, the voltage transformer converts the high voltage in the main circuit into a lower secondary voltage for processing by the metering chip. The voltage transformer is also mounted on the side wall of the main frame and connected to the main circuit via a voltage line. The metering chip processes the signals transmitted by the current and voltage transformers to calculate electrical energy parameters such as active power, reactive power, apparent power, and power factor. The metering chip features high precision and low power consumption, capable of processing large amounts of data in real time. The first signal conditioning circuit amplifies, filters, and linearizes the signals output by the current and voltage transformers to ensure signal stability and accuracy. Signal conditioning circuits typically include components such as amplifiers, filters, and A / D converters. Specifically, the power metering module 4 operates as follows: The current transformer converts the high current in the main circuit into a smaller secondary current using the principle of electromagnetic induction. The secondary current is transmitted via a signal line to the first signal conditioning circuit, where it is amplified and filtered before being transferred to the metering chip. The voltage transformer uses the principle of electromagnetic induction to convert the high voltage in the primary circuit into a lower secondary voltage. The secondary voltage is then transmitted via a signal line to the first signal conditioning circuit, where it is amplified and filtered before being transferred to the metering chip. The metering chip receives the current and voltage signals from the first signal conditioning circuit and uses an internal algorithm to calculate electrical energy parameters such as active power, reactive power, apparent power, and power factor. Finally, the metering chip transmits the calculated results via a data line to the main control board, which further processes the data and generates control instructions or transmits them to external devices.The energy metering module 4 converts the current and voltage in the main circuit into signals suitable for processing by the metering chip through current and voltage transformers. The first signal conditioning circuit preprocesses these signals to ensure signal stability and accuracy. The metering chip uses advanced algorithms and a high-precision A / D converter to calculate various energy parameters in real time. This design not only improves measurement accuracy but also simplifies system complexity, ensuring data reliability and real-time performance.

[0038] Compared to similar hardware, the power metering module 4 utilizes high-precision current transformers and voltage transformers to ensure accurate acquisition of current and voltage signals. The metering chip features a high-resolution A / D converter, enabling precise calculation of various energy parameters. Furthermore, the first signal conditioning circuit incorporates filtering and linearization capabilities, effectively suppressing noise and interference and improving signal stability. The current transformer has a rated current of 25A, an output current of 20mA, a frequency range of 50 / 60Hz, and an accuracy of 0.5%.

[0039] Voltage transformer: Rated voltage: 250V; Output voltage: 1V; Frequency range: 50 / 60Hz; Accuracy: 0.5%;

[0040] Metering chip: Processor: MSP430; AD converter: 24-bit; Sampling rate: 1ksps; Accuracy: ±0.1%;

[0041] Communication interface: SPI, I2C, UART;

[0042] First signal conditioning circuit; input range: ±250mV; output range: ±10V; gain: adjustable (1 to 1000); bandwidth: 1MHz; noise: 0.5μVp-p;

[0043] The environmental monitoring module 5 is used to monitor environmental parameters, including temperature, humidity, and air quality. It includes a first temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an air quality sensor, and a second signal conditioning circuit. These sensors are mounted on the front and rear panels of the main frame and connected to the main control board via signal cables. In a specific implementation, the temperature sensor is used to measure ambient temperature. Common temperature sensor types include thermistors (NTC / PTC), thermocouples, and digital temperature sensors. Digital temperature sensors, such as the DS18B20, communicate with the main control board via an I2C or 1-Wire interface and offer high accuracy and low power consumption. The humidity sensor is used to measure ambient humidity. Common humidity sensor types include capacitive and resistive. Capacitive humidity sensors, such as the HTU21D, communicate with the main control board via an I2C interface and offer high accuracy and fast response. The air quality sensor is used to measure air quality, including PM2.5, PM10, CO2, and VOCs. Common air quality sensors include photoelectric and electrochemical. Photoelectric air quality sensors, such as the PMS5003, communicate with the main control board via a UART interface and feature high sensitivity and low power consumption. The second signal conditioning circuit amplifies, filters, and linearizes the sensor output signal to ensure signal stability and accuracy. Signal conditioning circuits typically include components such as amplifiers, filters, and A / D converters. Specifically, the environmental monitoring module 5 operates as follows: The temperature sensor senses ambient temperature changes and converts the temperature signal into an electrical signal. The digital temperature sensor directly transmits the temperature data to the main control board via an I2C or 1-Wire interface. The humidity sensor senses ambient humidity changes and converts the humidity signal into an electrical signal. The capacitive humidity sensor transmits the humidity data to the main control board via an I2C interface. The air quality sensor senses the concentration of particulate matter and gas in the environment and converts the air quality signal into an electrical signal. The photoelectric air quality sensor transmits the air quality data to the main control board via a UART interface. Next, the second signal conditioning circuit amplifies, filters, and linearizes the sensor output signal to ensure signal stability and accuracy. The processed signal is transmitted to the main control board via a signal line. Finally, the main control board receives data from temperature, humidity, and air quality sensors, processes it using internal algorithms, and generates reports on environmental parameters. The main control board can also transmit this data to external devices or systems for remote monitoring and management.

[0044] In specific implementation, the temperature inside and outside the metering box is monitored in real time to ensure that the equipment operates within an appropriate temperature range and prevent equipment failures caused by excessively high or low temperatures. The ambient humidity is monitored in real time to prevent short circuits or corrosion of electrical equipment caused by excessive humidity and ensure the long-term stable operation of the equipment. The particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10) and harmful gases (such as CO2, VOCs) in the environment are monitored to ensure that the equipment operates in a clean environment and reduce the impact of pollutants on the equipment. By monitoring environmental parameters in real time, potential environmental problems such as abnormally high temperature, excessive humidity or deterioration of air quality can be discovered in advance, so that corresponding preventive measures can be taken to avoid equipment failure and shutdown. In addition, the environmental monitoring module 5 can record and store historical environmental data. Through data analysis, the long-term change trend of the equipment operating environment can be understood, providing a basis for the optimization and improvement of the equipment. Secondly, the environmental monitoring data can be transmitted to the remote monitoring system through the communication module to realize remote monitoring and management of the equipment operating environment and improve operation and maintenance efficiency. At the same time, real-time monitoring of environmental parameters can promptly detect potential safety hazards, such as excessive temperature that may cause fire, excessive humidity that may cause electrical short circuits, and deteriorating air quality that may cause health problems for personnel, so that corresponding safety measures can be taken to ensure the safety of equipment and personnel.

[0045] In industrial production environments, the environmental monitoring module 5 can ensure that production equipment operates under appropriate temperature, humidity, and air quality conditions, thereby improving production efficiency and product quality. In data centers, the environmental monitoring module 5 can monitor the temperature, humidity, and air quality of the computer room in real time to ensure the stable operation of servers and other equipment and avoid equipment failures and data loss due to environmental problems. In smart home systems, the environmental monitoring module 5 can monitor the temperature, humidity, and air quality of the home environment, and adjust the air conditioner, humidifier, and air purifier through an intelligent control system to improve living comfort. In agricultural greenhouses, the environmental monitoring module 5 can monitor the temperature, humidity, and air quality within the greenhouse, and adjust the temperature, humidity, and ventilation through an automated control system to improve crop growth quality and yield.

[0046] Communication module 6 is used to realize data transmission with external devices and systems; communication module 6 includes an Ethernet interface and an RS-485 interface; in a specific implementation, the Ethernet interface is based on the IEEE 802.3 standard, transmits data via twisted pair cables, and supports transmission rates of 10 / 100 / 1000 Mbps. The Ethernet interface includes a physical layer (PHY) and a data link layer (MAC). The physical layer is responsible for signal transmission and reception, and the data link layer is responsible for encapsulation and decapsulation of data frames. The Ethernet interface is connected to external network devices via an RJ45 connector, and data is transmitted to an Ethernet switch, router, or server via twisted pair cables. The Ethernet controller (such as the RTL8211E) is responsible for managing data transmission and reception, ensuring data reliability and integrity. The RS-485 interface is based on the EIA-485 standard and is a half-duplex or multi-point communication interface that supports multi-point communication and can connect up to 32 devices. The RS-485 interface uses differential signal transmission, has strong anti-interference capabilities and a long transmission distance. The RS-485 interface connects to external devices via a DB9 or RJ45 connector, and data is transmitted over twisted-pair cables. An RS-485 transceiver (such as the MAX485) is responsible for signal transmission and reception, using differential signaling to improve signal immunity. Specifically, the Ethernet controller on the main control board encapsulates data frames into Ethernet packets and sends them to external network devices via the Ethernet interface. Upon receiving, the Ethernet controller decapsulates the packets, extracts the data frames, and passes them to the main control board for processing. The Ethernet interface connects to external network devices (such as switches and routers) via the RJ45 connector, forming a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) for remote data transmission and management. The RS-485 transceiver on the main control board converts data frames into differential signals and sends them to external devices via the RS-485 interface. Upon receiving, the RS-485 transceiver converts the differential signals into data frames and passes them to the main control board for processing. The RS-485 interface supports multipoint communication, allowing multiple devices to connect and collaborate. Address encoding allows the main control board to communicate with specific devices. Ethernet controller: Supported rate: 10 / 100 / 1000Mbps; Interface type: RJ45; Power supply voltage: 3.3V; Operating temperature: -40℃ to +85℃; Communication protocols: TCP / IP, UDP, ARP;

[0047] RS-485 transceiver: Data rate: up to 2.5Mbps; Interface type: DB9 or RJ45; Supply voltage: 3.3V to 5.5V; Operating temperature: -40℃ to +85℃ Communication protocols: Modbus, CAN;

[0048] Expansion slot 7 is used to add additional sensors or functional modules. Expansion slot 7 includes a standard PCIe slot, a USB port, a GPIO port, and a power port. In a specific implementation, a standard PCIe slot is a high-speed serial computer expansion bus standard that supports point-to-point connections and features high bandwidth and low latency. The PCIe slot connects to the motherboard via a gold finger and supports multiple data transfer rates (e.g., Gen1, Gen2, Gen3, etc.). The standard PCIe slot connects to the main control board via high-speed differential signal lines and supports a variety of functional modules, such as high-speed data acquisition cards and graphics processing cards. A PCIe controller (e.g., Intel 82599) manages data transmission and reception, ensuring data reliability and integrity. The USB port is a universal serial bus standard that supports plug-and-play and hot-swappable functionality and offers multiple transfer rates (e.g., USB 2.0, USB 3.0, etc.). The USB port connects to the main control board via differential signal lines and a power cable. The USB port can be expanded to multiple USB ports via a USB hub (e.g., VIA VL812), supporting a variety of peripheral devices, such as mice, keyboards, and storage devices. The USB controller manages data transmission and reception, supporting high-speed data transmission and low-power modes. The GPIO interface is a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) interface that supports digital signal input and output. It connects to the main control board via parallel data lines and supports multiple logic levels (such as 3.3V and 5V). The GPIO interface manages multiple pins through a GPIO controller (such as the TI TCA6424A) and supports various input / output modes, such as input, output, and interrupt. The GPIO controller communicates with the main control board via I2C or SPI to control pins and read their status. The power interface provides a stable power supply for expansion modules. It connects to the main control board via a power cable and supports multiple voltage levels (such as 3.3V, 5V, and 12V). The power interface provides stable power output through a power management module (such as the TITPS7A4700), with overvoltage and overcurrent protection. The power management module ensures power stability and reliability through feedback circuits and voltage regulation circuits.

[0049] The display module 8 is used to display metering data and system status. The display module 8 includes a touchscreen display, LED indicators, and buttons. The touchscreen display is connected to the main control board via a data cable, while the LED indicators and buttons are connected to the main control board via control cables. In a specific implementation, the display is connected to the main control board via a data cable (e.g., an LVDS or MIPI interface), which controls the displayed content via a display driver (e.g., an ILI9341). A touchscreen controller (e.g., an FT6206) processes touch events and transmits touch data to the main control board via an I2C or SPI interface. LED indicators are light-emitting diodes whose light state is controlled by switching current on and off. LED indicators are typically used to display system status, such as power status and fault alarms. The LED indicators are connected to the main control board via control cables (e.g., GPIO pins). The main control board uses a GPIO controller (e.g., a PCA9685) to control the LED's on / off and flashing frequency to indicate different system states. The buttons are connected to the main control board via control cables (e.g., GPIO pins). The main control board uses the GPIO controller to detect button status and identify user commands. Among them, the touch screen display model: TFT-LCD 7-inch capacitive touch screen; resolution: 1024x600 pixels; interface type: LVDS; touch technology: capacitive; number of touch points: multi-touch (10 points); power supply voltage: 5V; operating temperature: -20°C to +70°C;

[0050] Display driver model: ILI9341; Resolution: supports 1024x600 pixels; Interface type: SPI; Supply voltage: 3.3V; Operating temperature: -20℃ to +85℃;

[0051] Touch screen controller model: FT6206; Number of touch points: multi-touch (10 points); Interface type: I2C; Supply voltage: 3.3V; Operating temperature: -20°C to +70°C;

[0052] LED indicator model: WS2812B; Color: RGB; Brightness: Maximum 1000mcd; Interface type: 3-wire (data, power, ground); Supply voltage: 5V; Operating temperature: -20°C to +85°C;

[0053] Key model: micro switch; Contact type: normally open; Contact load: 5V / 0.1A; Interface type: GPIO; Operating temperature: -20℃ to +70℃;

[0054] GPIO controller model: PCA9685; number of channels: 16 channels; interface type: I2C; supply voltage: 2.7V to 5.5V; operating temperature: -40℃ to +85℃;

[0055] Security module 9 provides physical and electrical security to prevent unauthorized access and manipulation. It includes a door lock, an electromagnetic lock, a fuse, a circuit breaker, and a surge protector. The door lock and electromagnetic lock are mounted on the front panel of the main frame and connected to the main control board via a control cable. The fuse, circuit breaker, and surge protector are mounted to the left of the power module and connected to the power module via a power cable. In a specific implementation, the door lock is mounted on the front panel of the main frame and mechanically locks the front panel. Users must use a key or enter a correct password to unlock it. The electromagnetic lock is mounted on the front panel of the main frame and connected to the main control board via a control cable. The main control board controls the electromagnetic lock's power supply via GPIO pins to achieve locking and unlocking functions. The fuse is mounted to the left of the power module and connected to the power module via a power cable. When the current exceeds the rated value, the fuse will blow, cutting off the power supply. The circuit breaker is mounted to the left of the power module and connected to the power module via a power cable. When the current exceeds the set value, the circuit breaker automatically trips, cutting off the power supply. The surge protector is installed to the left of the power module and connected to it via the power cable. When a transient high-voltage pulse appears in the circuit, the surge protector quickly absorbs and discharges the high-voltage pulse to protect the equipment.

[0056] Compared to similar hardware, the Safety Module 9 effectively prevents damage from overcurrent through a fast-blow fuse mechanism. It also effectively prevents damage from overloads and short circuits through an automatic tripping mechanism. It also effectively protects against damage from lightning strikes and power grid fluctuations by absorbing and dissipating transient high-voltage pulses.

[0057] The heat dissipation module 10 ensures the proper functioning of internal electronic components in high-temperature environments. The heat dissipation module 10 includes a heat sink, a fan, a second temperature sensor, and a temperature-controlled switch. The heat sink and fan are mounted at the rear of the main frame. The fan is connected to the power module via a power cable. The second temperature sensor and temperature-controlled switch are mounted near the main control board and connected to the main control board via a signal cable. In a specific implementation, the heat sink is mounted at the rear of the main frame, in close contact with heat-generating components (such as the main control board and power module), transferring heat to the air through heat conduction. The fan is mounted at the rear of the main frame and connected to the power module via a power cable. The fan speed can be adjusted based on the temperature sensor signal to meet different heat dissipation requirements. The second temperature sensor is mounted near the main control board and connected to the main control board via a signal cable. The main control board reads the temperature sensor data via an I2C or SPI interface and controls the fan speed based on temperature changes. The temperature-controlled switch is mounted near the main control board and connected to the main control board via a signal cable. When the temperature exceeds a set value, the temperature-controlled switch automatically cuts off the power supply, protecting the circuit from overheating damage.

[0058] The fan's rotating blades generate airflow, removing heat from the heat sink. The fan's speed can be adjusted based on the signal from the temperature sensor to accommodate varying cooling requirements. The main control board uses PWM (pulse width modulation) to control the fan's speed based on the signal from the second temperature sensor. When the temperature is high, the fan speed increases; when the temperature is low, the fan speed decreases or stops. The second temperature sensor monitors the temperature near the main control board and transmits this temperature data to the main control board via a signal line. The main control board controls the fan's speed based on this temperature data to ensure the internal temperature remains within a safe range. When the temperature exceeds the set value, a temperature control switch automatically cuts off the power supply to protect the circuit from overheating. When the temperature returns to a safe range, the temperature control switch automatically restores the power supply and resumes normal operation.

[0059] The following is an exemplary description of the expandable multifunctional metering box through specific embodiments:

[0060] At startup, the power module takes over, receiving 220V AC input and converting it to a stable 5V DC via an AC-DC converter (such as the LM2596), which then powers the entire system. A backup lithium battery provides redundancy, ensuring the system can maintain stable operation for a period of time in the event of a main power failure.

[0061] The main control board, powered by an STM32F4 series microcontroller, serves as the "brain" of the entire system, processing data from various modules, executing control instructions, managing communication protocols, and storing historical data for subsequent analysis. Through the SPI interface, the main control board communicates closely with the ADE7758 three-phase energy metering chip, accurately collecting energy parameters such as active power, reactive power, apparent power, and power factor. Simultaneously, a DHT11 temperature and humidity sensor and an MQ-2 gas sensor provide real-time ambient temperature, humidity, and air quality data to the main control board via the I2C interface and analog signal channels, respectively.

[0062] To transmit data to the central management system in real time, the communication module uses an ESP8266 Wi-Fi module, which connects to the main control board via a UART interface, enabling wireless data transmission. This wireless connection not only increases data transmission flexibility but also reduces wiring complexity, facilitating deployment in complex environments.

[0063] In addition, the meter box is also designed with an expansion slot that uses a standard pin and socket connection method to support users to add additional sensors or functional modules according to actual needs, such as light sensors, sound sensors, etc., further enhancing the scalability and functional diversity of the system.

[0064] The display module uses an OLED display, connected to the main control board via an I2C interface, to intuitively display metering data and system status, facilitating on-site monitoring and troubleshooting. Meanwhile, the security module provides dual physical and electrical protection for the system through physical locks and electrical isolation measures such as relays and optocouplers, preventing unauthorized access and operation.

[0065] Finally, the heat dissipation module uses an aluminum heat sink and fan combination, and monitors the system temperature in real time through a thermistor. When the temperature exceeds the preset threshold, the fan is automatically started to dissipate heat, ensuring that the internal electronic components can still work normally in a high temperature environment.

[0066] In the specific implementation, the main control board uses an STM32F407VGT6 microcontroller; the power module uses an LM2596 AC-DC converter, a 1N4007 diode, and a lithium battery; the power metering module uses an ADE7758 three-phase power metering chip, a current transformer, and a voltage transformer; the environmental monitoring module uses a DHT11 temperature and humidity sensor and an MQ-2 gas sensor; the communication module uses an ESP8266 Wi-Fi module; the display module uses an OLED display (driver chip SSD1306); the expansion slot uses standard pins and sockets; the security module uses physical locks and electrical isolation measures (such as relays and optocouplers); and the heat dissipation module uses an aluminum heat sink, a fan, and a thermistor.

[0067] The 220V AC mains power is converted to 5V DC via an AC-DC converter (such as the LM2596) to power the entire system. A lithium battery is connected in parallel with the main power supply via a diode (such as the 1N4007) as a backup power source. When the main power fails, the diode conducts, allowing the lithium battery to power the system. The STM32F4 series microcontroller, as the core, communicates with the ADE7758 energy meter chip via the SPI interface to obtain energy data; communicates with the DHT11 temperature and humidity sensor and the MQ-2 gas sensor via the I2C interface to obtain environmental parameters; and communicates with the ESP8266 Wi-Fi module via the UART interface for data transmission. The STM32F4 also controls the display content of the OLED display via the GPIO interface. The ADE7758 three-phase energy meter chip is connected to the three-phase circuit via current transformers and voltage transformers to measure active power, reactive power, apparent power, and power factor. The chip's output signals are transmitted to the STM32F4 via the SPI interface for processing. The DHT11 temperature and humidity sensor and the MQ-2 gas sensor output analog signals to the STM32F4's I2C and ADC interfaces, respectively, via a single-wire bus protocol. The ESP8266 Wi-Fi module communicates with the STM32F4 via a UART interface, transmitting metering data and environmental parameters to the central management system. The module operates at 3.3V, compatible with the STM32F4's 3.3V I / O voltage levels. The expansion slots utilize standard pin and socket connections to support a variety of sensors and functional modules. Each expansion slot is equipped with power and signal cables to ensure proper function of the sensor or module. The OLED display communicates with the STM32F4 via an I2C interface to display metering data and system status. The display's driver chip is the SSD1306, supporting various display modes and font sizes. The security module includes a physical lock and electrical isolation measures to ensure system security. The heat dissipation module utilizes an aluminum heat sink and fan combination. The temperature is monitored by a thermistor, and the fan automatically activates when the temperature rises.

[0068] While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above, those skilled in the art will appreciate that these specific embodiments are merely illustrative, and that those skilled in the art may omit, substitute, and modify the details of the methods and systems described above without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention. For example, combining the steps of the above methods to perform substantially the same functions and achieve substantially the same results in substantially the same manner falls within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is limited solely by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An expandable multifunctional metering box, characterized in that: include: The main frame is provided with a main control board at the center of the top of the main frame, and the main control board is connected to each functional module through a high-speed data bus; the power module is provided at the bottom left position of the main frame, and the power module is connected to the main control board and other functional modules through a power line; the power module includes a power adapter, a battery pack, a power converter, a power switch and a fuse; the main control board is integrated with an embedded processor, memory, a storage chip and a power management module; the power metering module is provided at the middle left position of the main frame, and is connected to the main control board through a data line; the environmental monitoring module is provided at the middle right position of the main frame, and the main frame A communication module is provided on the top right side of the frame; the power metering module, the environmental monitoring module and the communication module are connected to the main control board through signal lines; a number of expansion slots are reserved on the right side of the main frame; the expansion slots include standard PCIe slots, USB interfaces, GPIO interfaces and power interfaces, and the expansion slots are connected to the main control board through data cables and power cables; a display module is provided in the center of the front panel of the main frame; a security module is provided in the middle of the right side of the main frame; a heat dissipation module is provided at the rear of the main frame; mounting brackets are provided at the four corners of the back panel of the main frame; the mounting brackets are connected to the main frame through fixing nuts.

2. The expandable multifunctional metering box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electricity metering module includes a current transformer, a voltage transformer, a metering chip and a first signal conditioning circuit; the current transformer and the voltage transformer are installed on the side wall of the main frame, the current transformer is connected to the main circuit through a current line, the current line includes a primary current side and a secondary current side, and the secondary current side is connected to the metering chip through a signal line; the voltage transformer is connected to the main circuit through a voltage line, the voltage line includes a primary voltage side and a secondary voltage side, and the secondary voltage side is connected to the metering chip through a signal line; the metering chip is connected to the main control board through a data line, and the first signal conditioning circuit is connected to the current transformer and the voltage transformer through a signal line.

3. The expandable multifunctional metering box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The environmental monitoring module includes a first temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, an air quality sensor and a second signal conditioning circuit; the temperature sensor, humidity sensor and air quality sensor are installed on the front and rear panels of the main frame and are connected to the main control board through signal lines.

4. The expandable multifunctional metering box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The display module includes a touch screen display, an LED indicator light and a button; the touch screen display is connected to the main control board via a data line, and the LED indicator light and the button are connected to the main control board via a control line.

5. The expandable multifunctional metering box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The security module includes a door lock, an electromagnetic lock, a fuse, a circuit breaker and a surge protector; the door lock and electromagnetic lock are installed on the front panel of the main frame and are connected to the main control board through a control line; the fuse, circuit breaker and surge protector are installed on the left side of the power module and are connected to the power module through a power line.

6. The expandable multifunctional metering box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The communication module includes an Ethernet interface and an RS-485 interface.

7. The expandable multifunctional metering box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The heat dissipation module includes a heat sink, a fan, a second temperature sensor and a temperature control switch. The heat sink and the fan are installed at the rear of the main frame. The fan is connected to the power module through a power cord. The second temperature sensor and the temperature control switch are installed near the main control board and connected to the main control board through a signal line.

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