AMI Meter Route Optimization System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility meter reading systems are inefficient, particularly when transitioning from conventional to advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) meters, as they often require manual route planning and do not account for both AMI and conventional meters, leading to suboptimal route design and increased time for meter reading.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for generating and optimizing meter reading routes using geospatial tools, which involve assigning streets to premises, selecting candidate premises based on proximity and travel cost, and optimizing routes to minimize travel time and prevent unnecessary turns, allowing for visual analysis of AMI meter deployment and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional meter reading routes are used with sequential lists, then all meters can be read, but the routes become lengthy and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts AMI meters from the conventional meter reading route, separating them into a distinct category. AMI meters are identified and removed from the manual reading sequence, allowing the route to focus only on conventional meters that require physical reading, thereby reducing overall route time and improving efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The meter reading system is segmented into two distinct operational modes: automated remote reading for AMI meters and manual reading for conventional meters. This segmentation allows each type of meter to be handled through its most efficient method, with AMI meters read remotely and conventional meters read during optimized physical routes
2Extent of automation
If AMI meters are deployed, then remote reading capability is improved, but route design becomes ineffective if drivers follow traditional geographic routes
Solution Approach 1:
The routing system dynamically adapts to the presence of AMI meters by automatically adjusting route sequences. The system dynamically identifies AMI meters in the route and modifies the reading sequence to prioritize remote reading of these meters, making the route design flexible and effective for mixed meter environments
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter for AMI meters from manual reading to remote automated reading. By detecting which meters are AMI type, the system automatically switches the reading method parameter, enabling effective utilization of remote reading capability while maintaining operational simplicity
3Ease of manufacture
If manual route planning is used, then routes can be created, but the process is time-consuming and suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The routing system performs self-service by automatically generating optimized routes without requiring manual intervention. The system takes existing geographic routes and meter locations as input, then autonomously sequences the meters and optimizes the route path, eliminating time-consuming manual route planning while maintaining ease of route creation
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary analysis of meter locations, types, and geographic routes before final route generation. By pre-processing the route data and identifying AMI versus conventional meters in advance, the system prepares optimized routing sequences that can be deployed immediately, reducing the time required for route creation
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes a method for sequencing a meter route. The method may include a step for adding routes or premises to a map. This step may be implemented as a user initiated action with the operator creating a new route based on preexisting routes as a starting point. The premises or existing routes may correspond to a particular zip code. In one embodiment, every premise may be tied to a route.