Method for energy consumption forecasting

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for forecasting, calibrating, and controlling energy consumption and to a system and device suitable for the proposed method. The invention relates to a first sample device of a specific series device having different consumption states which have different energy consumptions, wherein a consumption forecast is determined for this first sample device, and to a second sample device of the same specific series device, wherein the consumption state and / or the consumption forecast is detected over a defined or an undefined time period for the second sample device.

Description

[0001] Methods for forecasting energy consumption

[0002] The invention relates to a method for energy consumption forecasting, calibration and control, as well as a device and system suitable for the presented method.

[0003] More and more companies want to contribute to a sustainable energy transition. Energy data acquisition is a crucial prerequisite for prioritizing, managing, and controlling these activities. Various methods already exist for acquiring energy data, such as extracting energy information from datasheets, installing energy meters upstream of the respective appliances, or integrating energy measurement functions into appliances or semiconductor ICs.

[0004] If energy data is used from datasheets, a disadvantage is that datasheets typically describe minimum, maximum, or average technical values. These are typically intended for the safe design of the electrical / electronic components of a machine or workplace. Precise energy data acquisition or optimization is usually not possible based on such datasheet information.

[0005] In cases where energy meters are to be installed upstream of consumers, external energy meters can be installed upstream, for example, in front of a machine or workstation, particularly to compensate for the aforementioned disadvantages. This enables precise energy data acquisition for the respective production cell. However, additional acquisition costs and / or installation efforts are disadvantages. Furthermore, a cost-benefit analysis does not justify data acquisition at the production cell level or at the underlying electronic component level. This is because it is usually complex and / or uneconomical to retrofit additional measuring devices upstream of each individual electronic component within a production cell. Therefore, fine-grained measurement and optimization are often no longer possible at this level.

[0006] When it comes to integrating energy measurement functions into electronic components, it must be noted that most electronic components do not offer this function. While some semiconductors (ICs, chips) do allow for the querying of their respective energy consumption, if only individual ICs (chips) within an electronic component can be queried, only a portion of the total energy consumption is recorded, and the resulting measurement is therefore too low from the perspective of the entire electronic component.

[0007] Sometimes, measurement electronics can be integrated directly into the central power supply of a given electronic component to record the total energy consumption of all electronic components within that component. This requires the internal power supply of the electronic component to be able to output the corresponding energy value ("smart power supply"). However, a disadvantage of this concept is that the power supply requires additional components for these extra functions, increasing the price, and the product environmental footprint (PEF) can be worsened by the additional semiconductor components. Another disadvantage of this hardware solution is that "next-generation" power supplies will only be incorporated into future electronic components, meaning that existing components, which may still be in operation for years or decades in industrial applications, will continue to lack this functionality.

[0008] Against this background, an object of the invention is to provide methods and products that allow for the most precise possible energy data acquisition without the need for the permanent use of upstream measuring devices or integrated measuring electronics. One aspect of the object of the invention is to avoid the need for additional measuring devices to be connected upstream of individual electronic components and / or the integration of additional measuring electronics into individual electronic components or power supplies. Another aspect of the object of the invention is to nevertheless enable fine-grained data acquisition at various levels, e.g., for production cells, electronic components, or even electronic subassemblies. A further aspect of the object of the invention is to enable the aforementioned capabilities to be retrofitted to existing components.Another aspect of the object of the invention is to provide methods and products that make it possible to better prioritize, manage and control activities, in particular to optimize energy consumption.

[0009] To solve this problem, the invention relates to a method for energy consumption forecasting comprising the following process steps. A first device prototype of a specific first series device is provided, wherein the device prototype and / or the series device comprises at least two or a plurality of different consumption states, which exhibit different energy consumptions. The first device prototype is also referred to as the test prototype.

[0010] The test sample is used within a test environment. The test sample is connected to a power source.

[0011] The different energy consumptions of the test specimen for the two or the multitude of consumption states are measured by successively placing the test specimen into the different consumption states and measuring the energy consumption of the test specimen within the test environment in the respective consumption state.

[0012] A consumption forecast is determined based on the measured energy consumption for each of the two or the multitude of consumption states.

[0013] A second unit of the same production model will be provided. This is therefore a second unit of the same production model. The second unit is also referred to as the production unit.

[0014] The defined consumption forecasts for the various consumption states are stored in the operating unit or in an external data set.

[0015] The production unit is used in an operating environment that differs from the test environment. The production unit is connected to a power source.

[0016] The consumption status and / or consumption forecast of the operating unit within the operating environment is recorded over a specific or indefinite period.

[0017] The energy consumption forecasting method thus allows, in particular, the establishment of a consumption forecast and the subsequent determination of energy consumption. Such a determination can therefore be described, from the perspective of the preceding establishment, as a forecast. However, it is also possible, for example, to speak of an estimate or approximation.

[0018] Further optional aspects for the energy consumption forecasting procedure are described below.

[0019] The energy consumption of the test specimen in the respective consumption state can be measured over a period of at least 0.1 seconds, preferably at least 1 second, and most preferably at least 1 minute.

[0020] The energy consumption of the test specimen in the respective consumption state can be measured using one or more measuring devices, in particular for measuring power or another quantity, especially current, voltage, resistance, or time.

[0021] Using a measuring device, the energy consumption or power output of a device, such as a test sample, can be measured directly. However, it is also possible to derive energy consumption or power output indirectly from other measured quantities (e.g., current, voltage, resistance, time) using a measuring device.

[0022] Establishing the consumption forecast based on the measured energy consumption may involve averaging the measured energy consumption over the measurement period for the respective consumption state or part of that period.

[0023] Establishing a consumption forecast based on measured energy consumption can involve calculating the square root of the measured energy consumption over the measurement period, or a portion thereof, for each of the different consumption states. This can have the advantage of taking both positive and negative power into account.

[0024] The defined consumption forecast for the various consumption states can include a defined consumption forecast value for each of the two or multiple consumption states. The defined consumption forecast for the various consumption states can include defined parameters for a mathematical formula to determine a consumption forecast value for each of the two or multiple consumption states.

[0025] The test sample and / or the operational sample may have one or more components that exhibit different operating states with varying energy consumption, in particular components that can be activated and deactivated, or that have active and inactive operating states. The energy consumption state of the test sample and / or the operational sample may depend on the operating states of the one or more components or on the number of activated components.

[0026] The various consumption states of the test copy and / or the operating copy can include at least a first consumption state in which the test copy and / or the operating copy or a component thereof is active, and a second consumption state in which the test copy and / or the operating copy or a component thereof is inactive.

[0027] The test sample and / or the production sample may be configured to capture properties of the test environment and / or the production environment. The consumption status of the test sample and / or the production sample may depend on the properties of the test environment and / or the production environment.

[0028] The test sample and / or the production sample may include a housing, a power supply unit located in the housing, a device socket on the housing for connecting a power supply unit and / or a connection cable permanently attached to the housing for connecting a power supply unit.

[0029] In one example, an external power supply can be connected to the device. In another example, the device can be battery-powered and include a power supply for voltage adjustment. The test sample and / or the production sample can have a network adapter for exchanging data with a data network.

[0030] The test sample and / or the production sample may have a data storage device. In this case, saving the defined consumption forecast to the production sample may involve saving it to the data storage device.

[0031] The external data set may be stored in a data storage system of a data processing system, in particular in a data processing system that is connected or connectable via a data network.

[0032] The data can be captured using a capture unit that is separate from the operating unit, in particular located separately from the operating unit in the operating environment.

[0033] Recording the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast over a specific or indefinite period can be done by repeatedly recording the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast, particularly at regular intervals.

[0034] The recording of the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast over a specific or indefinite period can be carried out in such a way that changes in the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast are recorded during the specific or indefinite period.

[0035] The regular time interval can be in the range of 0.1 seconds to 1 day, preferably in the range of 1 second to 1 hour.

[0036] The specified or indefinite period may, in particular, have a duration that includes at least one change, preferably a multitude of changes, in the consumption state and / or the consumption forecast of the operating unit. The specified or indefinite period may, in particular, have a duration of at least 1

[0037] exhibit a duration of at least one minute, preferably at least one hour, particularly preferably at least one day, and even more preferably at least one year.

[0038] The consumption status can be recorded by recording a consumption status provided by the operating unit.

[0039] The recording of the consumption forecast can be done by recording a consumption forecast provided by the operating unit.

[0040] The recording of the consumption status and the consumption forecast can also be carried out by recording the consumption status provided by the operational unit and by recording a consumption forecast contained in the external data set. In this case, the operational unit can, for example, only provide its consumption status. The corresponding consumption forecast can then be obtained, in particular, from the external data set.

[0041] The test sample and / or the operational sample may include a provisioning unit which is configured to provide the current consumption status and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during the operation of the test sample and / or the operational sample.

[0042] The provisioning unit can be configured to provide the current consumption status and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during the operation of the test sample and / or the operating sample in such a way that this can be read from the test sample and / or the operating sample, in particular by means of the network adapter via the data network, especially from the acquisition unit.

[0043] The provisioning unit can be configured to provide the current consumption status and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during the operation of the test unit and / or the production unit in such a way that this information is sent from the test unit and / or the production unit, in particular via the network adapter to the data network, especially to the data acquisition unit. Optionally, in the energy consumption forecasting method, one or more additional device units of the specified first production unit can be provided, with the additional device units serving as further production units.

[0044] The defined consumption forecast for the various consumption states can be stored in the other operating copies or in another external data set.

[0045] The additional operational units can also be used within the operating environment, which differs from the test environment, with each of the additional operational units also being connected to a power source.

[0046] The consumption status and / or consumption forecast of the other operating units can then also be recorded within the operating environment over a specific or indefinite period, in particular by means of the recording unit.

[0047] The invention further relates to a method for energy consumption calibration comprising the following process steps.

[0048] A device sample of a specific serial device is provided, wherein the device sample and / or the serial device comprises at least two or a multitude of different consumption states, which exhibit different energy consumptions.

[0049] The device sample is used within a test environment. The device sample is connected to a power source.

[0050] The different energy consumptions of the device for the two or the multitude of consumption states are measured by successively placing the device into the different consumption states and measuring the energy consumption of the device within the test environment in the respective consumption state.

[0051] A consumption forecast is determined based on the measured energy consumption for each of the two or multiple consumption states. The determined consumption forecast for the various consumption states is stored in the device unit, in another device unit of the same series, or in an external data record.

[0052] The energy consumption calibration process thus primarily involves storing a consumption forecast based on a previously taken measurement. From a functional perspective, this storage can therefore be described as calibration. However, it is also possible to refer to it as measurement or parameterization.

[0053] Further optional aspects of the energy consumption calibration procedure are described below.

[0054] The energy consumption of the device in the respective consumption state can be measured over a period of at least 0.1 seconds, preferably at least 1 second, and particularly preferably at least 1 minute.

[0055] The energy consumption of the device in its respective operating state can be measured using one or more measuring instruments, in particular for measuring power or another quantity, especially current, voltage, resistance, or time.

[0056] Establishing the consumption forecast based on the measured energy consumption may involve averaging the measured energy consumption over the measurement period for the respective consumption state or part of that period.

[0057] Establishing the consumption forecast based on the measured energy consumption may involve determining, for each of the different consumption states, the square root of a mean square of the measured energy consumption over the measurement period or part of that period.

[0058] The defined consumption forecast for the various consumption states can include a defined consumption forecast value for each of the two or multiple consumption states. The defined consumption forecast for the various consumption states can include defined parameters for a mathematical formula to determine a consumption forecast value for each of the two or multiple consumption states.

[0059] The device can have one or more components that exhibit different operating states with varying energy consumption, in particular components that can be activated and deactivated, or that have active and inactive operating states. The energy consumption state of the device can depend on the operating states of the one or more components or on the number of activated components.

[0060] The various consumption states of the device instance can include at least a first consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is active, and a second consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is inactive.

[0061] The device sample can be configured to capture properties of the test environment. The device sample's consumption state can depend on the properties of the test environment.

[0062] The device may consist of a housing, a power supply unit located in the housing, a device socket on the housing for connecting a power supply unit and / or a connection cable permanently attached to the housing for connecting a power supply unit.

[0063] The device may have a data storage device. In this case, saving the defined consumption forecast to the device or to another device may involve saving it to the data storage device.

[0064] The external data set can be stored in a data storage device of a data processing system. The invention further relates to a device with at least two or a plurality of different operating states, each exhibiting different energy consumption. The device can, of course, also be referred to as a device.

[0065] The device includes a data storage unit with a stored data set containing a defined consumption forecast for two or multiple consumption states.

[0066] Optionally, the device unit also includes a provisioning unit which is configured to provide the current consumption status of the device unit and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the device unit.

[0067] Further optional aspects for the device sample are described below.

[0068] The device can have one or more components that exhibit different operating states with varying energy consumption, in particular components that can be activated and deactivated, or that have active and inactive operating states. The energy consumption state of the device can depend on the operating states of the one or more components or on the number of activated components.

[0069] The various consumption states of the device instance can include at least a first consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is active, and a second consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is inactive.

[0070] The device can be configured to capture characteristics of a usage environment. The device's state of use can depend on the characteristics of that environment.

[0071] The device may consist of an enclosure, a power supply unit located within the enclosure, a device socket on the enclosure for connecting a power supply unit, and / or a connection cable permanently attached to the enclosure for connecting a power supply unit. The device may include a network adapter for exchanging data with a data network.

[0072] The device sample may be a sample of a specific serial device.

[0073] The fixed consumption forecast contained in the stored data set may be based on a measurement of the various energy consumptions of another device copy of the specific series device, in particular on an energy consumption calibration in accordance with the above explanations.

[0074] The provisioning unit can be configured to provide the current consumption status of the device and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the device in such a way that this can be read from the device, in particular by means of the network adapter.

[0075] The provisioning unit can be configured to provide the current consumption status of the device copy and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the device copy in such a way that this is sent by the device copy, in particular by means of the network adapter.

[0076] The invention further relates to an external data set for a device instance with at least two or a plurality of different consumption states which exhibit different energy consumptions.

[0077] The external data set contains a defined consumption forecast for the two or the multitude of consumption states of the device unit.

[0078] The external data set can be stored, in particular, in a data storage device of a data processing system. The data processing system, of course, refers to a different device than the device itself. The invention further relates to a system comprising, on the one hand, a device with at least two or a plurality of different operating states exhibiting varying energy consumption, and, on the other hand, an external data set.

[0079] The device copy of the system includes a provisioning unit, which is configured to provide the current consumption status of the device copy during operation.

[0080] The system's external data set contains a defined consumption forecast for the two or multiple consumption states of the device unit.

[0081] The external data set can be stored, in particular, in a data storage device of a data processing system. The data processing system, of course, refers to a different device than the physical device itself.

[0082] Further optional aspects for the system with device copy and external data set are described below.

[0083] The device can have one or more components that exhibit different operating states with varying energy consumption, in particular components that can be activated and deactivated, or that have active and inactive operating states. The energy consumption state of the device can depend on the operating states of the one or more components or on the number of activated components.

[0084] The various consumption states of the device instance can include at least a first consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is active, and a second consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is inactive.

[0085] The device may be configured to capture characteristics of a usage environment. The device's state of charge may depend on these environment characteristics. The device may consist of an enclosure, a power supply unit located within the enclosure, a power supply socket on the enclosure, and / or a power supply cable permanently attached to the enclosure.

[0086] The device may have a network adapter to exchange data with a data network.

[0087] The device sample may be a sample of a specific serial device.

[0088] The fixed consumption forecast contained in the external data set may be based on a measurement of the various energy consumptions of another device copy of the specific series device, in particular on an energy consumption calibration in accordance with the above explanations.

[0089] The provisioning unit can be configured to provide the current consumption status of the device and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the device in such a way that this can be read from the device, in particular by means of the network adapter.

[0090] The provisioning unit can be configured to provide the current consumption status of the device copy and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the device copy in such a way that this is sent by the device copy, in particular by means of the network adapter.

[0091] The invention further relates to a firmware update for a device with at least two or a multitude of different consumption states which exhibit different energy consumption.

[0092] The firmware update includes a data set with a defined consumption forecast for the two or multiple consumption states of the device. Optionally, the firmware update can also be configured to provide the device's current consumption state and / or the consumption forecast for that state during operation.

[0093] The invention further relates to a method for energy consumption control comprising the following process steps.

[0094] A device sample of a specific first production unit is provided, wherein the device sample and / or the production unit comprises at least two or a multitude of different consumption states, which exhibit different energy consumptions.

[0095] The device instance includes a data storage device with a data record stored therein containing a defined consumption forecast for the two or the multitude of consumption states of the device instance, or the defined consumption forecast for the various consumption states is contained in an external data record.

[0096] The device includes a provisioning unit which is configured to provide the current consumption status of the device and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the device.

[0097] The device is used within an operating environment, and the device is connected to a power source.

[0098] The consumption status and / or consumption forecast of the device unit within the operating environment is recorded over a specific or indefinite period.

[0099] The energy consumption control procedure thus allows, in particular, the determination of energy consumption based on a consumption forecast. Such a determination can therefore be described as control in this context. However, it is also possible to refer to it as monitoring or surveillance. Further optional aspects of the energy consumption control procedure are described below.

[0100] The data can be acquired using a data acquisition unit that is separate from the device itself, in particular located separately from the device itself in the operating environment.

[0101] Recording the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast over a specific or indefinite period can be done by repeatedly recording the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast, particularly at regular intervals.

[0102] The recording of the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast over a specific or indefinite period can be carried out in such a way that changes in the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast are recorded during the specific or indefinite period.

[0103] The regular time interval can be in the range of 0.1 seconds to 1 day, preferably in the range of 1 second to 1 hour.

[0104] The specified or indefinite period may in particular have a duration which includes at least one change, preferably a multitude of changes, in the consumption state and / or the consumption forecast of the device unit.

[0105] The specified or indefinite period may in particular have a duration of at least 1 minute, preferably at least 1 hour, particularly preferably at least 1 day, and even more preferably at least 1 year.

[0106] The consumption status can be recorded by recording a consumption status provided by the device unit.

[0107] The consumption forecast can be captured by recording a consumption forecast provided by the device itself. Alternatively, the consumption status and the consumption forecast can be captured by recording a consumption status provided by the device itself and by capturing a consumption forecast contained in the external dataset.

[0108] The device can have one or more components that exhibit different operating states with varying energy consumption, in particular components that can be activated and deactivated, or that have active and inactive operating states. The energy consumption state of the device can depend on the operating states of the one or more components or on the number of activated components.

[0109] The various consumption states of the device instance can include at least a first consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is active, and a second consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is inactive.

[0110] The device can be configured to detect properties of the operating environment. The device's state of consumption can depend on the properties of the operating environment.

[0111] The device may consist of a housing, a power supply unit located in the housing, a device socket on the housing for connecting a power supply unit and / or a connection cable permanently attached to the housing for connecting a power supply unit.

[0112] The device may have a network adapter to exchange data with a data network.

[0113] The defined consumption forecast contained in the stored data set or in the external data set may be based on a measurement of the various energy consumptions of another device unit of the first serial device, in particular on an energy consumption calibration in accordance with the above explanations. The external data set may be stored in a data storage device of a data processing system, in particular in a data processing system connected or connectable via a data network.

[0114] The provisioning unit can be configured to provide the current consumption status of the device and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the device in such a way that this can be read from the device, in particular via the network adapter over the data network, especially by the acquisition unit.

[0115] The provisioning unit can be configured to provide the current consumption status of the device copy and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the device copy in such a way that this is sent by the device copy, in particular via the network adapter into the data network, especially to the acquisition unit.

[0116] Optionally, in the energy consumption control procedure, one or more additional units of the first specified series device or one or more additional units of a second or further series device can be provided and used.

[0117] The other device(s) can also each exhibit at least two or a multitude of different consumption states with varying energy consumption.

[0118] The additional device(s) may each also include a data storage device with a data record stored therein containing a defined consumption forecast for the two or the multitude of consumption states of the respective additional device, or the defined consumption forecast for the various consumption states of the respective additional device(s) may also be contained in an external data record.

[0119] The additional device(s) may each also include a provisioning unit configured to provide the current consumption status and / or the consumption forecast of the respective device during operation. The consumption status and / or consumption forecast of the additional device(s) may also be recorded, particularly by means of the data collection unit, especially to perform comprehensive energy consumption monitoring.

[0120] Further possible embodiments relating to the various objects of the invention described above are given below.

[0121] As described, a device sample, which can be referred to as a test sample, can be used within a test environment. This test environment could be, for example, an accredited laboratory and / or one that ensures traceability of the measuring instruments. For instance, work can be carried out according to defined documentation and / or the test results can be documented, e.g., with calibration certificates and test reports.

[0122] The test environment or laboratory can be, for example, a testing laboratory that also performs at least one of the following testing tasks: material testing (e.g., tensile strength, hardness, corrosion resistance), functional testing (e.g., electrical tests, mechanical stress tests), environmental testing (e.g., temperature, humidity, vibration, UV resistance), safety testing (e.g., electrical safety, fire protection), conformity testing (e.g., CE marking, ISO standards, DIN, IEC).

[0123] The test environment or laboratory may include, in particular, at least one of the following devices: a test bench, a measuring device, a climate chamber, an X-ray system, a microscope, and software for data acquisition and analysis. The test environment or laboratory may also include, in particular, personnel with at least one qualified engineer or technician, especially with knowledge of standards and testing methods.

[0124] The test environment can also be located after the development phase, i.e., after the development and verification of the device design has been finalized. It could, for example, be an industrial laboratory. As described, within the test environment, the device sample, especially the test sample, is successively placed under various operating conditions, and the corresponding energy consumption is measured in each case. In this way, the power loss can be determined in particular.

[0125] Measuring the associated energy consumption can take place during or, in particular, after the development phase. The device sample, especially the test sample, can also be taken from series production. It may also be planned to use multiple samples, including multiple samples from series production, and to successively put them into different consumption states in order to measure their energy consumption.

[0126] The consumption forecast can then be based on measured consumption values ​​for the majority of consumption conditions and for the majority of vehicles. For example, an averaging or other calculation can be performed for the majority of vehicles; outliers can also be excluded.

[0127] It may also be provided that, as part of the series production of the serial device, a device sample is measured in a test environment as described and the resulting consumption forecast is stored in the same device sample itself.

[0128] It is also possible to measure multiple units of the device as described during series production. For example, a separate consumption forecast can be derived for each of these multiple units and stored in the respective device.

[0129] If this process is performed for each unit in series production, it can be both highly precise and time-consuming. However, it is also possible to perform the described measurement process on multiple units and then store the resulting consumption forecast identically in all of them. For example, a unit can be taken from series production at regular intervals and measured, and a consumption forecast can be established based on these measurements, which is then used for multiple units. Establishing the consumption forecast can also involve adjusting an existing forecast and / or deriving a consumption forecast from measurements taken on multiple units.

[0130] In general, a defined consumption forecast for the various consumption states can include a defined consumption forecast value for each of the two or multiple consumption states, which may, in particular, be a value for energy consumption. However, it is also possible that the consumption forecast for each of the two or multiple consumption states includes associated information, such as a consumption forecast value and / or a CO2 equivalent and / or other values. Such associated information, e.g., a CO2 equivalent, can also be changed or modified, for example, due to different energy variants or their different CO2 / kWh ratios.

[0131] If, as described, energy consumption is measured sequentially in the various operating states within the test environment, settings for a customer application can also play a role. For example, the connected load can be taken into account and measured for an analog output.

[0132] It may therefore be intended, in particular, that a device sample, especially a test sample, is measured in a test environment that at least partially replicates the differing operating environment. For example, it may be intended that the test environment is set up according to a first configuration that influences the measurements, and that a sample is measured in this first configuration; and furthermore, that the test environment is set up according to a second configuration that differs from the first configuration, which in turn influences the measurements, and that the sample(s) are measured in this second configuration. The first and / or the second configuration of the test environment can each be set up depending on a first or second operating environment, respectively.

[0133] As described, a device sample, in particular an operating sample, is connected within an operating environment and a corresponding recording of the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast is carried out over a specific or indefinite period.

[0134] The operating environment can be, in particular, a real industrial environment, such as one used for the industrial production of goods. The operating environment can be characterized by at least one of the following features: harsh environment, continuous operation, low adaptability, robustness, reliability, scalability, or predefined safety requirements.

[0135] The operating environment can be configured as or encompass one of the following environments: Automotive industry, e.g., production line, robot control, quality assurance, e.g., machine-to-machine (M2M) communication in production; Mechanical and plant engineering, e.g., control and monitoring of complex machines, e.g., remote maintenance and condition monitoring; Chemical and process industry, e.g., process automation in refineries, chemical plants, etc., e.g., explosion-proof network components (e.g., in ATEX zones); Energy and utilities industry, e.g., smart grids, substations, power plants, communication between sensors, actuators, and control centers; Food and beverage industry, e.g., hygienic automation solutions, real-time temperature and quality monitoring; Pharmaceutical industry, e.g., validated automation systems, traceability, and documentation; Water and wastewater management, e.g.,Remote monitoring of pumping stations and wastewater treatment plants; SCADA systems for process control; mining and raw material extraction, e.g.

[0136] Robust networks for harsh environments, automated conveyor and safety systems.

[0137] In general, the device prototype, in particular the text prototype and / or the operational prototype, can be designed as an industrial network component or an industrial terminal device. Such a device prototype can, in particular, have at least one industrial interface and / or an industrial protocol.

[0138] In general, the device copy, in particular the text copy and / or the operating copy, can preferably be configured for an industrial network. Such an industrial network includes, in particular, special components that work together to enable reliable, secure, and efficient communication between machines, controllers, and IT systems in industrial environments.

[0139] The device sample, in particular the text sample and / or the operational sample, may therefore, for example, possess at least one of the following characteristics: real-time communication capability, a service life of at least 10 years, preventive or planned maintenance, high robustness against vibration or temperature, and redundancy of at least one component. Furthermore, the sample may have at least one industrial certificate or at least one industrial approval.

[0140] Furthermore, the device, in particular the text sample and / or the operating sample, may have at least one of the following interfaces: RJ45, M12, SPE (Single Pair Ethernet), RS-232, RS-485. It may also be compatible with at least one of the following protocols: HTTPS, OPC UA, PROFINET, EtherCAT, Ethernet / IP, Modbus.

[0141] The device example, in particular the text example and / or the operational example, may include or be configured as one of the following network devices: Industrial switch (unmanaged, managed), e.g., for distributing data packets within a network, especially robustly built for harsh environments; Industrial router, e.g., for connecting different networks, e.g., production network and company network; Industrial gateway, e.g., for translating between different protocols (e.g., from Modbus to OPC UA); Industrial access point, e.g., for wireless communication (e.g., WLAN in production); Industrial firewall, e.g., for protecting the network from unauthorized access, e.g., to support industrial protocols.

[0142] The device, in particular the text version and / or the operating version, may, for example, include or be configured as one of the following end devices: PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), e.g., for controlling machines and processes; HMI (Human Machine Interface), e.g., for visualizing processes for operators; sensor or actuator, e.g., for acquiring data or executing actions; industrial PC, e.g., for complex control or analysis tasks. The device, in particular the text version and / or the operating version, may, for example, include one of the following communication media: copper cable (e.g., Ethernet); fiber optic cable; wireless technologies (e.g., WLAN, 5G, LoRaWAN).

[0143] The device copy, in particular the text copy and / or the operating copy, may include, for example, one of the following protocols or standards: Ethernet / IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP, EtherCAT; OPC UA, e.g. for platform-independent communication and data modeling; MQTT, e.g. as a lightweight protocol for IoT applications.

[0144] The device copy, in particular the text copy and / or the operating copy, may, for example, include or be configured as one of the following security or management systems: Network Management System (NMS), e.g., for monitoring and managing a network; Intrusion Detection / Prevention Systems (IDS / IPS), e.g., for detecting and preventing attacks; Access Management, e.g., for regulating who is allowed to access which components.

[0145] The device instance, in particular the text instance and / or the operational instance, may, for example, include or be configured as one of the following cloud or edge components: Edge Device, e.g., for processing data locally before sending it to the cloud; Cloud Platform, e.g., for analysis, visualization, and remote maintenance.

[0146] Advantageously, in some embodiments, it may be provided that not only the consumption state of the device unit, in particular the operating unit, is recorded within the operating environment over a specific or indefinite period, but also the consumption forecast itself. As described, the consumption forecast can, in particular, include an associated consumption forecast value or associated information for each of the two or multiple consumption states. This value or information can, for example, include the corresponding energy consumption and / or a CO2 equivalent.

[0147] In such embodiments, it is therefore possible to assign the states to an assigned value or assigned information in the device itself, so that no further control device is necessary for energy consumption monitoring.

[0148] In other embodiments, it is also conceivable that the data acquisition is carried out by means of a data acquisition unit that is separate from both the operational unit and the external data set. In such a case, for example, it may be provided that a consumption forecast with an associated value or associated information is located neither in the operational unit nor in a separate data acquisition unit.

[0149] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments and the figures. These figures show:

[0150] Fig. 1: A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method for

[0151] Energy consumption forecast,

[0152] Fig. 2: A schematic of an embodiment of a method for

[0153] Energy consumption calibration,

[0154] Fig. 3: A schematic of a further embodiment of a method for

[0155] Energy consumption calibration,

[0156] Fig. 4: A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method for

[0157] Energy consumption control,

[0158] Fig. 5: A schematic of a further embodiment of a method for

[0159] Energy consumption control,

[0160] Fig. 6: A diagram of an exemplary operating environment,

[0161] Fig. 7: A diagram of another exemplary operating environment, Fig. 8: A diagram of an exemplary device with several different consumption states.

[0162] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a method for energy consumption forecasting.

[0163] In this embodiment, in step 10, a first device prototype of a specific series device, designated as a test prototype, is provided, wherein the device exhibits various operating states with different energy consumption levels. These different states can also be referred to as consumption states. The device can, for example, be a field device.

[0164] In step 20, the device, i.e., the test sample, is used in a test environment. In this environment, the device is connected to a power source and put into operation. The device then assumes a specific operating state, in which it exhibits a certain energy consumption.

[0165] In step 30, the device is successively switched to its various consumption states, for example, by external or internal software that controls this process. While the device is in a specific consumption state, a physical measurement is taken to determine its energy consumption in that current state. This measurement can be carried out over a certain period so that a representative average energy consumption value can be obtained. The test environment therefore includes a laboratory and / or suitable measuring instruments for the physical measurement of relevant quantities to determine energy consumption.

[0166] The various consumption states into which the device is successively placed can depend on the test environment. For example, the number of different consumption states can depend on the characteristics of the test environment, such as which other devices are present or active. Similarly, the energy consumption itself in a specific consumption state can also depend on the characteristics of the test environment, such as which other devices are present or active. In step 40, a consumption forecast is determined based on the measurements for the various consumption states. This forecast includes data on the different consumption states the device can operate in, such as a list of these states.On the other hand, the consumption forecast includes data that assigns a state-specific consumption forecast to each of the different consumption states. This state-specific consumption forecast is based on the previously conducted measurement for that consumption state.

[0167] The state-specific consumption forecast can, for example, be based on a representative average value over a specific measurement period for that consumption state. The assignment of the state-specific consumption forecast to the various consumption states can be done via a further list, such that each entry in the list of different consumption states is assigned an entry in another list with a corresponding consumption forecast value. However, it is also possible for the assignment to be made via a functional relationship, for example, by assigning one or more parameters to each of the different consumption states, and using these parameters and a functional relationship for these parameters, the state-specific consumption forecast can be determined.

[0168] In step 50, a second device of the same specific series, designated as an operating sample, is provided. This second device thus exhibits the same various possible consumption states as the first device.

[0169] In step 60, the defined consumption forecast, which includes data on the various consumption states and the respective state-specific consumption forecasts, is stored in the operating instance. Alternatively, the defined consumption forecast can also be stored in an external data set, i.e., outside the operating instance.

[0170] In step 70, the device, designated as the production sample, is used in an operating environment that differs from the test environment and is located at a different site. In this environment, the production sample is connected to a power source and put into operation. The device then assumes a specific operating state, in which it exhibits a certain energy consumption.

[0171] In step 80, the consumption status and / or consumption forecast of the operating unit is recorded over a specific or indefinite period, in order to log the energy consumption of the operating unit over that period.

[0172] This allows for an advantageous energy consumption analysis of the control gear without the need for physical measurements of the operating device's energy consumption. Assuming that the control gear behaves similarly to the test device within the operating environment, a measurement of the operating device's energy consumption can be replaced by a predefined consumption forecast based on measurements of the test device. Even if the control gear behaves somewhat differently from the test device in the operating environment, this substitution generally provides an excellent estimate of the actual energy consumption. Such a forecast or estimate can often be even more accurate than a physical measurement of the control gear itself, because it allows for better elimination of certain sources of error.For example, a very precise measurement can be carried out in the test environment, which is not suitable in typical operating environments due to the complexity, the associated costs and, last but not least, the energy consumption incurred for the measurement itself.

[0173] It is possible to subject the hardware and / or firmware to intensive testing during the development process. This allows for the simulation of diverse real-world use cases and / or device configurations in test environments.

[0174] Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of a method for energy consumption calibration.

[0175] In step 90, a test unit of a specific production device is used in a test environment. For example, a customer scenario is simulated at the manufacturer's facility. The test unit is connected to a power source. Precise, external measuring equipment, also connected to a power source, is connected to the test unit. This equipment measures the energy consumption of the test unit under various operating conditions.

[0176] In order to successively put the test specimen into the different consumption states and measure the energy consumption in each state, communication can take place, e.g. via a data line, to put the test specimen into the respective consumption state and / or to activate the external measuring technology for measuring the respective consumption state.

[0177] In this embodiment, data is acquired using a data processing system. Furthermore, various consumption states and their corresponding consumption forecast values ​​are defined, which are designated as A, B, and C for example. Alternatively or additionally, parameters and / or a mathematical formula can be used. For the consumption states and their associated state-specific consumption forecasts, a consumption forecast is then calculated for the entire device unit, taking into account all the different consumption states.

[0178] In step 100, this defined consumption forecast is subsequently stored in a plurality of identical operating units of the same specific series device.

[0179] Fig. 3 shows a further embodiment of a method for energy consumption calibration, in which some aspects correspond to the embodiment shown in Fig. 2. In particular, in step 110, which is similar to step 90 in Fig. 2, a defined consumption forecast for a test sample of a specific serial device is derived within a test environment.

[0180] In contrast to Fig. 2, this defined consumption forecast is stored externally in a further step 120, in this example as an external data set in a virtual component in a cloud.

[0181] The virtual component can, for example, also include information about which serial device it is, thus representing a virtual counterpart to a specific serial device. Such a virtual component can be stored, for example, in an operating environment or outside of it in a data storage system.

[0182] To generate the consumption forecast, the consumption status of the operational unit can be provided. Optionally, information about the specific serial device can also be provided or obtained externally. This allows the corresponding virtual component for that serial device to be assigned, and the consumption forecast for the current consumption status can then be derived from this information.

[0183] Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of a method for energy consumption control.

[0184] In step 130, a production unit of a specific serial device is used in an operating environment, e.g., a network device in a network, whereby other components or serial components may be connected to the network. The production unit is connected to a power source.

[0185] The operating unit comprises a data storage device with a data set stored therein containing a defined consumption forecast for the various consumption states, which may in particular be based on a method for energy consumption calibration according to the previous explanations.

[0186] In step 140, the consumption forecast is recorded, whereby the operating device takes its configuration / operating status into account and provides a corresponding consumption forecast based on this, e.g., a stored energy value. The consumption forecast can be specific to the individual scenario.

[0187] The consumption forecast can be recorded over a certain period, during which the operating unit goes through various consumption states. For each sub-period in which the operating unit is in a specific consumption state, the corresponding state-specific consumption forecast can be used.

[0188] This allows, for example, continuous recording of energy consumption over several partial periods in which the operating unit is in different operating states. The energy consumption can then be summed over a period encompassing several such partial periods.

[0189] Fig. 5 shows a further embodiment of a method for energy consumption control, in which some aspects correspond to the embodiment shown in Fig. 4. In particular, in step 150, which is similar to step 130 in Fig. 4, a device unit of a specific series device is put into operation in an operating environment.

[0190] In contrast to Fig. 4, the defined consumption forecast is retrieved in a further step 160 from an external data set, which in this example is stored by the user in a virtual component in a cloud. The consumption state of the operating instance itself is known, which the operating instance can, for example, provide independently.

[0191] In this example, the operational instance does not need to include a stored consumption forecast. Rather, the defined consumption forecast, which is based in particular on a method for energy consumption calibration as described above, and which contains the state-specific consumption forecasts associated with the consumption states, is stored in the external data set, here in the virtual component in the cloud.

[0192] In this embodiment as well, energy consumption can be recorded over a certain period during which the operating unit goes through various consumption states. For each sub-period in which the operating unit is in a specific consumption state, its current state, i.e., its configuration or system structure, is known.

[0193] Together with the external consumption forecast for the various states, continuous energy consumption monitoring can be performed using software, which may be included in a data acquisition unit, over several sub-periods in which the operating unit is in different operating states. The energy consumption can then be summed over a period encompassing several such sub-periods. Fig.Figure 6 shows an exemplary operating environment 170 with six machines, where machine 1 is in a state with a consumption forecast of 690W, machine 2 is in a state with a consumption forecast of 90W, machine 3 is in a state with a consumption forecast of 2590W, machine 4 is in a state with a consumption forecast of 3490W, machine 5 is in a state with a consumption forecast of 66790W, and machine 6 is in a state with a consumption forecast of 20W.

[0194] Thus, a large number of device units (here, machines 1-6) of a specific type, or even several different specific series devices, can be in use in the operating environment. Data can then be collected for all of these devices over a specific or indefinite period using a single data collection unit (referred to here as a collection point).

[0195] Fig. 7 shows another exemplary operating environment 180 with two systems 1 and 2, where each system can be in an active or inactive state. When system 1 is active, it has a fixed consumption forecast of 100W in this example. When system 2 is active, it has a fixed consumption forecast of 200W in this example.

[0196] A consumption forecast can be generated, for example, by recording the active time (on-time) of systems 1 and 2, thus enabling energy data acquisition in conjunction with the associated fixed consumption forecast. The fixed consumption forecast can be stored, for example, in an external data set, such as a data acquisition unit.

[0197] Fig. 8 shows an exemplary device 190 with several different consumption states. Device 190 is, in particular, a sample of a series production unit.

[0198] The device has a base load, which in this example is 300mW. This base load could include, for example, the power consumption of a USB-C microcontroller and a USB-C power supply. In addition, the device has several other components that can have different operating states with varying power consumption, or that can be activated and deactivated. These components have, for example, active and inactive operating states, where an active state means that the respective optionally active component is actually active.

[0199] The device 190 can include a housing in which the various components, or some of them, are housed.

[0200] In summary, the present invention allows, for example, the precise recording of a product's energy consumption for each test scenario during the development phase of a device. The collected energy data can then be linked to the respective test scenario as a data set (or as a function) in the subsequent series production product or stored in an external data set. An external data set can be stored, for example, in a cloud and / or in a digital twin. It is assumed, for example, that products used in real-world customer scenarios will exhibit the same or sufficiently similar energy consumption values ​​as the corresponding identical electronic prototypes from the test environment in which the customer scenarios were previously tested.

[0201] When the customer configures the operating device and / or the operating status changes from X to Y, the stored measured values ​​for the respective scenario can be made available by the device or the external data set. In some embodiments, it can therefore be said that the device projects the measured values ​​from the prototype device in the test environment into a real system without any actual external or internal measurement taking place.

[0202] Basically, the devices have several different or at least two different consumption states with different energy consumptions, whereby a consumption forecast is defined for each of these different intended consumption states.

[0203] In a further development, it may even be possible to provide that, if the operating unit assumes an unforeseen consumption state in the operating environment, which in particular does not belong to the two or the multitude of different consumption states, a state-specific consumption forecast for this unforeseen consumption state is recorded. Such a state-specific consumption forecast for an unforeseen consumption state could, for example, be derived from the state-specific

[0204] Consumption forecasts for one or more of the different consumption states can be derived computationally, e.g. in the operating unit itself or in an external recording unit.

[0205] It is also possible that a consumption state is defined, meaning it belongs to one of two or more different consumption states, but no specific measurement value is assigned to this consumption state. This is because it is sufficient that a state-specific consumption forecast is assigned or assignable to the consumption state. This can be achieved, for example, through a functional relationship, such as an approximation based on one or more other consumption states with a correspondingly assigned state-specific consumption forecast.

[0206] In one example, a customer scenario might not have been previously recorded in the test lab, meaning no measurement data is available. In this case, a precise approximation can be calculated from other measurements. This calculation can be performed within the device itself, especially with high-performance products. Alternatively, particularly if the necessary processing power is not available in the product, it can be performed externally by another computer, such as a PC or a cloud service. Depending on the product, instead of numerous measurements, a memory-saving mathematical function (formula) can be used to derive the energy consumption for each specific situation.

[0207] The virtual approach allows for the provision of "real-time" energy values, which correspond to or closely approximate the actual value, particularly at very low cost. This eliminates the need for additional measurement technology in or before the electronic product. This can offer a competitive advantage, especially for price-sensitive products.

[0208] Another advantage, particularly for the product manufacturer, is that a precise energy reference value or consumption forecast can be provided for each specific application, especially by the product manufacturer for the customer. The defined consumption forecast can therefore, in one example, include consumption states and corresponding state-specific consumption forecasts for a specific operating environment, such as a customer-specific one. A further advantage, especially for the product manufacturer, is that the manufacturer does not need to integrate additional measuring electronics into the device. This can save on manufacturing costs, particularly for price-sensitive devices.

[0209] Another advantage, especially for the product manufacturer, is that older products that previously could not provide energy consumption information can be retrofitted via a firmware upgrade. In the test environment, older devices can be measured accordingly, and the consumption forecast can then be made available in a future firmware update.

[0210] Another advantage, especially for the product manufacturer, is that even with the simplest products, without an external communication interface, energy data can be specified precisely if the data is stored in an external dataset, e.g., within the test environment, in a digital twin, and / or in a cloud. For example, a corresponding structure can also be planned, simulated, or retrieved using a software engineering tool.

[0211] Another advantage, especially for customers, is that the need for an external energy meter can often be avoided. For example, depending on their individual application scenario, customers can receive a precise "real-time" energy reference value or a consumption forecast that closely approximates the actual value.

[0212] Another advantage, especially for customers, is that if a firmware update (e.g., a security patch) is installed on the device during its lifespan, it's possible to query before and after whether the new firmware update has a positive or negative impact on the device's energy consumption in the specific usage scenario, particularly for the customer. Here, too, an additional before-and-after energy comparison measurement is no longer necessary. Such measurements are becoming increasingly important because, for industrial products that are often in use for decades, energy consumption during the "product in use" phase can represent the largest share and should therefore be monitored accordingly. A further advantage, especially for customers, is that older products that previously did not provide energy consumption information can be modified via a firmware upgrade.Older products therefore do not need to be upgraded with additional measuring technology or replaced with new devices.

[0213] The invention enables a higher-level software, e.g. an engineering or monitoring tool, to retrieve the stored energy data in real time and

[0214] This can be used to better estimate, control, and optimize the real-time total energy consumption of a system without requiring specialized energy measurement technology. The system accesses the stored energy values ​​of the reference product. These values ​​are available in the standard device, in a digital twin, or via the cloud.

[0215] The invention enables the recording of energy consumption, whereby the devices in a machine know their configuration and current operating state and provide the corresponding virtual energy measurement value, which is based on or corresponds to the value of the reference product from the test laboratory. The user does not need to install any additional external or internal energy measurement technology.

[0216] The invention enables dynamic energy monitoring, whereby individual devices change their operating state, e.g., by entering standby mode. The electronic component then updates its energy data information. For example, it makes the value from the laboratory prototype available in a real network. A monitoring system can process this change accordingly in real time. The number of external or internal energy measuring devices can thus be significantly reduced.

[0217] The invention enables the dynamic management of energy sources and consumers (smart grid), whereby a higher-level software queries the respective "virtual" energy values ​​of the electronic components and can control corresponding energy flows and switch energy networks, energy sources, and / or energy consumers on or off. This allows for optimal energy utilization (smart grid, smart device). At the same time, the number of external or internal energy meters can be significantly reduced. The invention is based in particular on the fact that current Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) analyses show that the greatest energy consumption for industrial electronic components sometimes occurs during the "product in use" phase, especially for products with a long lifespan, which can sometimes extend to decades.

[0218] Based on current knowledge, it will be many years before renewable energies are available in sufficient quantities and at affordable prices for all companies. It therefore remains crucial to continue using (renewable) energies sparingly. Energy data collection is a key building block for achieving this.

[0219] The invention makes it possible to acquire energy data, particularly at the lower electronic component level, and thus avoids the otherwise sometimes necessary widespread use of energy measuring devices.

Claims

1. A method for forecasting energy consumption, comprising the following procedural steps: Providing a first device prototype of a specific first production device with at least two or a multitude of different operating states which exhibit different energy consumptions, wherein the first device prototype serves as a test prototype, Use of the test sample within a test environment where the test sample is connected to a power source, Measuring the different energy consumptions of the test specimen for the two or the multitude of consumption states by successively placing the test specimen into the different consumption states and measuring the energy consumption of the test specimen within the test environment in the respective consumption state. Establishing a consumption forecast based on the measured energy consumption for each of the two or the multitude of consumption states, Providing a second device copy of the specified first serial device, the second device copy serving as the working copy, Saving the defined consumption forecast for the various consumption states to the operational copy or to an external data set, Use of the production sample within an operating environment that differs from the test environment, where the production sample is connected to a power source, Recording the consumption status and / or consumption forecast of the operating unit within the operating environment over a specific or indefinite period.

2. A method for energy consumption forecasting according to the preceding claim, wherein the measurement of the energy consumption of the test specimen in the respective consumption state is carried out over a period of at least 0.1 seconds, preferably at least 1 second, particularly preferably at least 1 minute, and / or wherein the measurement of the energy consumption of the test specimen in the respective The state of consumption is determined by means of one or more measuring instruments, in particular for measuring power or another quantity, especially current, voltage, resistance, or time.

3. A method for energy consumption forecasting according to any of the preceding claims, wherein determining the consumption forecast based on the measured energy consumption comprises averaging the measured energy consumption over the measurement period for the respective consumption state or a part thereof, and / or wherein determining the consumption forecast based on the measured energy consumption comprises calculating, for each of the different consumption states, the square root of the measured energy consumption over the measurement period or a part thereof, and / or wherein the determined consumption forecast for the different Consumption states for each of the two or the plurality of consumption states include a defined consumption forecast value, and / or wherein the defined consumption forecast for the different consumption states includes defined parameters for a mathematical formula for determining a consumption forecast value for each of the two or the plurality of consumption states.

4. A method for energy consumption forecasting according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the test specimen and / or the operating specimen comprises one or more components which have different usage states with different energy consumptions, in particular which are activatable and deactivatable or which have active and inactive usage states, and wherein the consumption state of the test specimen and / or the operating specimen depends on the usage states of the one or more components or on the number of activated components, and / or wherein the different consumption states of the test specimen and / or the operating specimen comprise at least a first consumption state in which the test specimen and / or the operating specimen or a component thereof is active, and a second consumption state in which the test specimen and / or the operational instance or a component thereof is inactive, and / or wherein the test instance and / or the operational instance is configured to capture properties of the test environment and / or the operational environment, and the consumption state of the test instance and / or the operational instance depends on the properties of the test environment and / or the operational environment.

5. A method for energy consumption forecasting according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the test specimen and / or the operating specimen comprises a housing, a power supply unit located in the housing, a device socket on the housing for connecting a power supply unit, and / or a connecting cable permanently attached to the housing for connecting a power supply unit, and / or wherein the test specimen and / or the operating specimen comprises a network adapter for exchanging data with a data network, and / or wherein the test specimen and / or the operating specimen comprises a data storage device and the storage of the defined consumption forecast in the operating specimen comprises storage in the data storage device, and / or wherein the external data record is stored in a data storage device of a data processing system, in particular in a data processing system connected or connectable via a data network.

6. A method for energy consumption forecasting according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the acquisition is carried out by means of a acquisition unit which is separate from the operating unit, in particular is arranged separately from the operating unit in the operating environment, and / or wherein the acquisition of the consumption state and / or the consumption forecast over the specified or indefinite period is carried out in such a way that the consumption state and / or the consumption forecast is repeatedly acquired, in particular at regular time intervals, and / or wherein the acquisition of the consumption state and / or the consumption forecast over the specified or indefinite period is carried out in such a way that changes in the consumption state and / or the consumption forecast are acquired during the specified or indefinite period, wherein the regular time interval is in the range of 0.1 seconds. up to 1 day, preferably in the range of 1 second to 1 hour, wherein the definite or indefinite period in particular has a duration which includes at least one change, preferably a plurality of changes, of the consumption state and / or the consumption forecast of the operating unit, wherein the definite or indefinite period in particular has a duration of at least 1 minute, preferably at least 1 hour, particularly preferably at least 1 day, and even more preferably at least 1 year.

7. Method for energy consumption forecasting according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recording of the consumption status is carried out in such a way that a value is derived from the The consumption status provided by the operating unit is recorded, and / or the recording of the consumption forecast is carried out in such a way that a consumption forecast provided by the operating unit is recorded, and / or the recording of the consumption status is carried out in such a way that a consumption status provided by the operating unit is recorded, and the recording of the consumption forecast is carried out in such a way that a consumption forecast contained in the external data set is recorded.

8. Method for energy consumption forecasting according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the test sample and / or the operating sample is a The provisioning unit comprises a unit configured to provide the current consumption status and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the test unit and / or the operating unit, wherein the provisioning unit is configured to provide the current consumption status and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the test unit and / or the operating unit in such a way that this information can be read from the test unit and / or the operating unit, in particular via the network adapter over the data network, especially from the acquisition unit, and / or wherein the provisioning unit is configured to provide the current consumption status and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the test unit and / or the operating unit in such a way that this information can be read from the test unit and / or the operating unit, in particular via the network adapter over the data network, in particular from the acquisition unit, and / or wherein the provisioning unit is configured to provide the current consumption status and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status during operation of the test unit and / or the operating unit in such a way that this information can be read from the test unit and / or the operating unit. to ensure that this is sent from the test sample and / or the operational sample, in particular via the network adapter into the data network, especially to the acquisition unit.

9. Method for energy consumption forecasting according to one of the preceding claims, Providing one or more additional units of the specified first production unit, the additional units serving as further operational units, and / or Saving the defined consumption forecast for the various consumption states to the other operational copies or to another external data set, and / or Deployment of the additional operational units within an operating environment that differs from the test environment, wherein the additional operational units are each connected to a power source, and / or Recording, in particular by means of the recording unit, the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast of the other operating units within the operating environment over the specified or indefinite period.

10. Energy consumption calibration procedure, comprising the following procedural steps: Providing a device sample of a specific series device with at least two or a multitude of different operating states which exhibit different energy consumptions, Use of the device sample within a test environment, where the device sample is connected to a power source, Measuring the different energy consumptions of the device for the two or the multitude of consumption states by successively placing the device into the different consumption states and measuring the energy consumption of the device within the test environment in the respective consumption state. Establishing a consumption forecast based on the measured energy consumption for each of the two or the multitude of consumption states, Saving the defined consumption forecast for the various Consumption states are transferred to the device copy, to another device copy of the specific serial device, or to an external data record.

11. Method for energy consumption calibration according to the preceding claim, wherein the energy consumption of the device copy in the respective consumption state is measured over a period of at least 0.1 seconds, preferably at least 1 second, particularly preferably at least 1 minute, and / or wherein the energy consumption of the device copy in the respective consumption state is measured by means of one or more measuring devices, in particular for measuring power or another quantity, in particular current, voltage, resistance, time.

12. A method for energy consumption calibration according to any of the preceding claims, wherein determining the consumption forecast based on the measured energy consumption comprises averaging the measured energy consumption over the measurement period for the respective consumption state or part thereof, and / or wherein determining the consumption forecast based on the measured energy consumption comprises determining, for each of the different consumption states, the square root of the measured energy consumption over the measurement period or part thereof, and / or wherein the determined consumption forecast for the different Consumption states for each of the two or the plurality of consumption states include a defined consumption forecast value, and / or wherein the defined consumption forecast for the different consumption states includes defined parameters for a mathematical formula for determining a consumption forecast value for each of the two or the plurality of consumption states.

13. Method for energy consumption calibration according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device instance has one or more components which have different usage states with different energy consumptions, in particular which can be activated and deactivated or which have active and inactive usage states, and wherein the consumption state of the device instance depends on the usage states of the one or more components or on the number of activated components, and / or wherein the different consumption states of the device instance include at least a first consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is active, and a second consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is inactive, and / or wherein the device instance is configured to detect properties of the test environment and the consumption state of the device instance depends on the properties of the test environment.

14. A method for energy consumption calibration according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises a housing, a power supply located in the housing, a device socket located on the housing for connecting a power supply and / or a connecting cable permanently attached to the housing for connecting a power supply, and / or wherein the device comprises a data storage device and the storage of the defined consumption forecast in the device or in the further device comprises storage in the data storage device, and / or wherein the external data record is stored in a data storage device of a data processing system.

15. Device with at least two or a multitude of different consumption states which exhibit different energy consumption, comprising a data storage device with a data set containing a defined consumption forecast for the two or the multitude of consumption states, and optionally a provisioning unit which is configured to operate the To provide the current consumption status of the device and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status.

16. Device according to the preceding claim, wherein the device comprises one or more components which have different usage states with different energy consumptions, in particular which are activatable and deactivatable or which have active and inactive usage states, and wherein the consumption state of the device comprises the usage states of the one or more components or the number of activated components, and / or wherein the different consumption states of the device comprise at least a first consumption state in which the device or a component of the device is active, and a second consumption state in which the device or a component of the device is inactive, and / or wherein the device is configured toTo capture the characteristics of a usage environment, and the consumption state of the device unit depends on the characteristics of the usage environment.

17. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises a housing, a power supply located in the housing, a device socket on the housing for connecting a power supply and / or a connecting cable permanently attached to the housing for connecting a power supply, and / or wherein the device comprises a network adapter for exchanging data with a data network, and / or wherein the device is a device of a specific serial device, and / or wherein the fixed consumption forecast contained in the stored data set is based on a measurement of the various energy consumptions of another device of the specific serial device, in particular on an energy consumption calibration according to any one of the preceding claims.

18. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the provisioning unit is configured to provide the current consumption state of the device and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption state during operation of the device in such a way that this can be read from the device, in particular by means of the network adapter, and / or wherein the provisioning unit is configured to provide the current consumption state of the device and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption state during operation of the device in such a way that this is sent by the device, in particular by means of the network adapter.

19. External data set for a device with at least two or a plurality of different consumption states which exhibit different energy consumptions, wherein the external data set contains a defined consumption forecast for the two or the plurality of consumption states of the device, wherein the external data set is in particular stored in a data storage device of a data processing system.

20. System comprising a device with at least two or a plurality of different consumption states which exhibit different energy consumption and comprising an external data set, wherein the device includes a provisioning unit which is configured to provide the current consumption state of the device during operation, wherein the external data set contains a defined consumption forecast for the two or the plurality of consumption states of the device, wherein the external data set is in particular stored in a data storage device of a data processing system.

21. System according to the preceding claim, wherein the device embodiment comprises one or more components which have different usage states with different energy consumptions, in particular which are activatable and deactivatable or which have active and exhibit inactive, and wherein the consumption state of the device instance depends on the usage states of one or more components or on the number of activated components, and / or wherein the various consumption states of the device instance include at least a first consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is active, and a second consumption state in which the device instance or a component of the device instance is inactive, and / or wherein the device instance is configured to capture properties of a usage environment and the consumption state of the device instance depends on the properties of the usage environment.

22. System according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises a housing, a power supply located in the housing, a device socket located on the housing for connecting a power supply and / or a connecting cable permanently attached to the housing for connecting a power supply, and / or wherein the device comprises a network adapter for exchanging data with a data network, and / or wherein the device is a device of a specific serial device, and / or wherein the fixed consumption forecast contained in the external data set is based on a measurement of the various energy consumptions of another device of the specific serial device, in particular on an energy consumption calibration according to any one of the preceding claims.

23. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the provisioning unit is configured to provide, during operation of the device copy, the current consumption state of the device copy and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption state in such a way that this can be read from the device copy, in particular by means of the network adapter, and / or wherein the provisioning unit is configured to provide, during operation of the to provide the device copy with the current consumption status of the device copy and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status in such a way that this is sent by the device copy, in particular by means of the network adapter.

24. Firmware update for a device with at least two or a multitude of different consumption states which exhibit different energy consumptions, wherein the firmware update provides a data set with a defined The firmware update optionally configures the device to provide the current consumption state of the device and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption state during operation.

25. The procedure for energy consumption control comprises the following procedural steps: Providing a device instance of a specific first series device with at least two or a plurality of different consumption states which exhibit different energy consumptions, wherein the device instance comprises a data storage device with a data record stored therein containing a defined consumption forecast for the two or the plurality of consumption states of the device instance, or wherein the defined consumption forecast for the different consumption states is contained in an external data record, wherein the device instance comprises a provisioning unit which is configured to provide, during the operation of the device instance, the current consumption state of the device instance and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption state. Use of the device within an operating environment where the device is connected to a power source, Recording the consumption status and / or consumption forecast of the device unit within the operating environment over a specific or indefinite period.

26. A method for monitoring energy consumption according to the preceding claim, wherein the recording is carried out by means of a recording unit which is separate from the device, in particular is arranged separately from the device in the operating environment, and / or wherein the recording of the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast over the specified or indefinite period is carried out in such a way that the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast is recorded repeatedly, in particular at regular intervals, and / or wherein the recording of the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast over the specified or indefinite period is carried out in such a way that changes in the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast are recorded during the specified or indefinite period, wherein the regular interval is in particular in the range of 0.1 seconds to 1 day, preferably in the range of 1 second to 1 hour.wherein the definite or indefinite period has in particular a duration which includes at least one change, preferably a plurality of changes, of the consumption state and / or the consumption forecast of the device, wherein the definite or indefinite period has in particular a duration of at least 1 minute, preferably of at least 1 hour, particularly preferably of at least 1 day, and more preferably of at least 1 year.

27. Method for energy consumption control according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the recording of the consumption state is carried out in such a way that a consumption state provided by the device is recorded and / or wherein the recording of the consumption forecast is carried out in such a way that a consumption forecast provided by the device is recorded, and / or wherein the recording of the consumption state is carried out in such a way that a consumption state provided by the device is recorded and wherein the recording of the consumption forecast is carried out in such a way that a consumption forecast contained in the external data set is recorded.

28. A method for energy consumption control according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device has one or more components which have different usage states with different energy consumptions, in particular which are activatable and deactivatable or which have active and inactive usage states, and wherein the consumption state of the device depends on the usage states of the one or more components or on the number of activated components, and / or wherein the different consumption states of the device comprise at least a first consumption state in which the device or a component of the device is active, and a second consumption state in which the device or a component of the device is inactive, and / or wherein the device is configured toTo capture the characteristics of the operating environment, and the consumption state of the device unit depends on the characteristics of the operating environment.

29. A method for energy consumption control according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises a housing, a [missing element] located in the housing power supply, a device socket located on the housing for connecting a power supply and / or a connection cable permanently attached to the housing for connecting a power supply, and / or wherein the device has a network adapter for exchanging data with a data network, and / or wherein the fixed consumption forecast contained in the stored data set or in the external data set is based on a measurement of the various energy consumptions of another device of the first serial device, in particular on an energy consumption calibration according to one of the preceding claims, and / or wherein the external data set is stored in a data storage device of a data processing system, in particular in a data processing system connected or connectable via a data network.

30. Method for energy consumption control according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the provisioning unit is configured to provide the current consumption state of the device and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption state during operation of the device in such a way that this can be read from the device, in particular by means of the network adapter via the data network, in particular from the acquisition unit, and / or wherein the provisioning unit is configured to provide the current consumption state of the device and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption state during operation of the device in such a way that this is sent from the device, in particular by means of the network adapter into the data network, in particular to the acquisition unit.

31. Method for energy consumption control according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: Provisioning and deployment of one or more additional units of the specified first serial device and / or provisioning and deployment of one or more additional units of a second or further serial device, wherein the additional unit(s) also each have at least two or a plurality of different consumption states with different energy consumptions, wherein the additional unit(s) also each include a data storage device with a data record stored therein containing a defined consumption forecast for the two or the plurality of consumption states of the respective additional unit, or wherein the defined consumption forecast for the different consumption states of the respective additional unit(s) is also contained in an external data record, wherein the additional unit(s) also each include a provisioning unit which is configured toto provide the current consumption status of the respective device and / or the consumption forecast of the current consumption status of the respective device during operation, and wherein, in particular by means of the recording unit, both the consumption status and / or the consumption forecast of the device as well as the, The consumption status and / or the consumption forecast of the other device(s) is recorded, in particular to carry out a comprehensive energy consumption control.

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