IoT Gateway Policy Control for Automated Demand Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automated demand response (ADR) systems lack customer control over energy management decisions and are not integrated with IoT devices, leading to inefficiencies in energy management and energy consumption decisions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for managing energy consumption and pricing decisions by integrating IoT devices with energy management systems, allowing customers to control energy consumption based on real-time pricing signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional automated demand response (ADR) systems are used to manage energy consumption, then energy management automation is improved, but customer control over energy decisions is lost and device integration is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a gateway device as an intermediary between the utility provider's ADR system and the customer's IoT devices. This gateway receives automated control signals from the utility provider and translates them into device-specific commands, while also allowing customers to configure policies and thresholds. The gateway acts as a mediator that preserves customer control and granularity while maintaining automation benefits.
2Reliability
If discrete ADR systems are installed for single loads, then automated control signaling is improved, but system integration with IoT devices is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The gateway device is designed with multi-functionality to handle various IoT devices and protocols. It can translate automated control signals into device-specific commands for different types of connected devices (lights, appliances, HVAC systems, etc.). The system universally manages multiple devices through a single gateway interface, enabling both reliable automated control and broad system integration.
3Productivity
If real-time energy pricing data is collected and analyzed, then energy consumption optimization is improved, but data privacy and security concerns increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by processing and analyzing energy consumption data locally at the customer's premises through the gateway device, rather than centralizing all data collection at the utility provider. The gateway analyzes real-time pricing data and device consumption patterns locally to generate optimized control decisions. This local processing minimizes the transmission of sensitive personal data while still achieving energy optimization benefits.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to systems and methods for managing data generated by connected systems and/or devices in connection with energy usage and/or management decisions. In certain embodiments, a gateway device in communication with one or more connected devices may be configured to receive energy management signal information and apply one or more policies in connection with the management of the connected devices. Responses generated in connection with such energy management decisions may be reported securely in a manner that respects various stakeholder concerns relating to transparency, confidentiality, privacy, auditability, and/or affirmation of data provenance.