IEC 61968-9 Schema Compression for Smart Metering
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing IEC 61968-9:2013 standards for utility communications are cumbersome and resource-intensive, particularly for computationally constrained devices, and do not adequately support the configuration and control of smart meters, leading to inefficiencies in data transmission and device operation.
Innovation Solution
The extension of Reading Type identifiers in the IEC 61968-9:2013 schema to support EndPoint configurability, allowing for the serialization of meter data and events, and enabling the transmission of configuration parameters within the same schema, reducing the number of bytes required for message transmission and simplifying communication between HeadEnd and EndPoint devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the existing IEC 61968-9:2013 schema is used for communications, then meter reading and control operations can be performed, but the computational burden and cost for devices increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of data representation from detailed string formats with multiple fields to compressed integer codes. Reading type identifiers are transformed from descriptive strings to compact integer values, and enumeration values are used to represent configuration parameters efficiently. This parameter change reduces the computational resources required for processing while maintaining all necessary functionality.
2Loss of information
If the existing IEC 61968-9:2013 schema is used for communications, then meter data can be transmitted, but the number of bytes required for transmission increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming the format of transmitted data from verbose string representations to compact integer encodings. Reading types are encoded as integers rather than descriptive strings, and configuration parameters use enumeration values. This dramatically reduces the quantity of data transmitted while preserving all information necessary for complete meter data representation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the data representation scheme that maps essential information into compact integer formats. Instead of transmitting full descriptive strings, the system transmits compressed integer codes that can be decoded at the receiving end, maintaining information completeness while minimizing transmission volume.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the existing IEC 61968-9:2013 schema is used for device configuration, then device configurability is limited, but support for additional specialized schemas is required increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by extending the existing Reading Type identifier schema to serve multiple functions. The same schema infrastructure that handles meter readings is extended to also handle device configuration parameters through enumeration values. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate specialized schemas, reducing overall system complexity while enhancing device configurability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple separate schemas into a unified schema structure. Configuration parameters are integrated into the existing reading type framework using enumeration values, combining what were previously separate communication protocols into a single cohesive system. This reduces the number of schemas from 28 to a more manageable set while maintaining all necessary functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Improvements to IEC 61968-9:2013 meter reading schemas. These include significantly compressing messages into a single integer number which, when transmitted over a utility's communication system, is used to configure meters at utility user locations, obtain meter data, command and control operations at a utility location, and expand messaging capabilities. A method is disclosed for simplifying the IEC 61968-9:2013 schema for communications between a HeadEnd utility communications facility and the meter at an EndPoint so to enable use of the schema for operations it could not previously perform. While providing this enhanced capability, the IEC 61968-9:2013 schema's ability to function for its intended purpose; i.e., meter reading and control, is not compromised or impeded.