Networked Energy Management Adaptor for Device-Level Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy management systems are inefficient due to limited visibility and control at the device level, relying on obsolete metering methods and manual control, leading to increased energy consumption and costs.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based energy management system using adaptors with sensors and logic to receive commands, collect energy usage data, and transmit control commands to energy devices, enabling real-time monitoring and control down to the device level through a networked system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional metering methods are used to measure energy usage at the facility level, then billing can be performed periodically, but visibility and control at the device level are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments energy measurement and control from the facility level down to the individual device level. Each energy device is equipped with its own controller that can independently measure and report energy consumption, enabling granular visibility while maintaining manageable system architecture through modular decomposition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces energy management controllers as intermediary devices between the energy devices and the billing system. These controllers aggregate data from multiple devices and communicate with the utility company, simplifying the overall system complexity while providing detailed device-level information.
2Ease of operation
If manual control devices are used for energy devices, then pre-wiring and simple control is achieved, but tighter control and management over actual energy devices is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control devices with electronic controllers that communicate through digital networks. This substitution enables precise control and monitoring capabilities while reducing the need for complex pre-wiring, as controllers can be configured and controlled remotely through software.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control capabilities where energy device controllers can adjust their operation based on real-time conditions, occupancy data, and utility pricing signals. This dynamic adjustment enables tighter control over energy consumption while maintaining ease of operation through automated decision-making.
3Productivity
If device-level monitoring and control is implemented, then energy optimization and cost savings are achieved, but system complexity and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs energy device controllers with multi-functionality, enabling them to perform measurement, control, communication, and local decision-making tasks. This universal design reduces the need for separate specialized devices, optimizing energy management while controlling system infrastructure complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service capabilities where energy device controllers autonomously monitor their own performance, detect anomalies, and adjust operation without constant external intervention. This self-service approach improves energy management efficiency while reducing the complexity of centralized control infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects include an adaptor and a method for providing computer based energy management. Commands specifying a control device from energy management host software located on a host system are received at an adaptor via a server network. The commands include control instructions and requests for energy usage data. Energy usage data are received from the control device in response to a command including a request for energy usage data. The energy usage data includes energy usage for one or more energy devices. The energy usage data are transmitted to the energy management host software. Sensor data are received from one or more sensors and transmitted to the energy management host software. Control commands are received from the energy management host software. The control commands are transmitted to the control device to alter a function of at least one of the one or more energy devices.