IP Message Routing Over AMI Wireless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) systems that operate with different communications protocols face challenges in routing Internet Protocol (IP) messages to network devices designed for IP protocols, limiting the integration and utilization of existing investments in these systems.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that enable IP message routing over an AMI system by using a server to communicate with wireless metering devices through a first communications protocol, determining the unique identifier of the node, writing IP messages to ANSI C12.19-compliant tables, and transmitting them via a second interface in accordance with the IP protocol, allowing for bidirectional communication between the server and IP-enabled edge devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an AMI system uses a proprietary communications protocol for metering devices, then the system can efficiently manage energy measurement and collection, but it cannot directly communicate with IP-enabled network devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a protocol translation gateway that acts as an intermediary between the AMI system's proprietary protocol and IP-enabled network devices. This gateway receives messages in the AMI protocol format, translates them into IP protocol format, and forwards them to the destination network device, enabling communication between incompatible systems without requiring changes to either the AMI infrastructure or the IP devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system enhances the AMI infrastructure by adding multi-functionality to existing components. The metering devices and communication infrastructure are extended to handle both the original proprietary protocol communications and IP protocol communications, allowing the same physical infrastructure to serve dual purposes and connect to different types of networks
2Adaptability or versatility
If the AMI system maintains its existing protocol structure, then the current infrastructure investment is preserved, but integration with IP-based networks is limited
Solution Approach 1:
A message translation layer is introduced that preserves the original AMI message structure and content while adding IP protocol encapsulation. This intermediary translation mechanism ensures that the semantic meaning and data integrity of original AMI messages are maintained while enabling their transmission over IP networks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested message structure where the original AMI protocol message is encapsulated within an IP protocol packet. The inner AMI message retains its complete structure and formatting, while the outer IP layer provides network routing and delivery capabilities, allowing both protocols to coexist without mutual interference
3Ease of operation
If IP messages are routed through the AMI wireless network, then connectivity to metering devices is achieved, but message transmission efficiency may be reduced due to protocol conversion
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary protocol translation and message preparation at the gateway before messages enter the wireless network. By pre-processing messages and establishing translation rules in advance, the system minimizes real-time conversion delays during actual message transmission, improving overall routing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous translation rule caching and persistent connection maintenance between the gateway and network devices. This allows the translation process to operate continuously without repeated setup overhead, maintaining steady-state efficiency once the initial connection and translation framework are established
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus are provided for routing Internet Protocol (IP) messages over a network of an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) system that employs a different communications protocol.