Meter Data Cloud Architecture for Secure Load Prediction Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The collection, storage, and viewing of meter data in the power industry are hindered by the vast number of data points, network security restrictions, and the risk of data interception and alteration, particularly when traversing public networks like the Internet.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a Meter Data Cloud for centralized data storage and management, allowing meters to push data outbound through firewalls using secure protocols, and utilizing an intermediary data collector to facilitate data upload, while enabling meters to register themselves and use arbitrary local Internet addresses for secure data interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If meters push data outbound through firewalls using secure protocols, then network security is enhanced and data accessibility is improved, but network traffic restrictions and firewall configurations become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary between meters and users. The server receives pushed data from meters through firewalls using secure protocols (HTTPS, VPN), and makes it accessible to users via web browsers. This intermediary approach simplifies firewall configuration since only the server needs outbound access, not individual meters.
2Ease of operation
If a centralized Meter Data Cloud is implemented for data storage and management, then data accessibility from anywhere is improved and client software installation is eliminated, but network security restrictions and data interception risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harm of public network access into a benefit by implementing multiple security layers. While the Meter Data Cloud is accessible from anywhere via public networks, it protects data through encrypted protocols (HTTPS, VPN), authentication mechanisms, and architectural design where meters only push data outbound. The public accessibility is maintained while security risks are mitigated through these protective measures.
3Device complexity
If meters use arbitrary local Internet addresses and register themselves with the Meter Data Cloud, then device complexity for data collection is reduced, but network security management becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where meters automatically register themselves with the Meter Data Cloud using arbitrary local Internet addresses. Meters push their own data without requiring manual configuration or client software installation. This self-service approach reduces device complexity for data collection while the server handles security management centrally, mitigating the worsening of network security management.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems and methods for predicting future consumption values of load(s) in power distribution systems are provided. The present disclosure provides for receiving a request for a load prediction for at least one meter; extracting time series data relating to the at least meter; retrieving future weather conditions for a particular location based on the at least one meter; and providing the extracted data and the future weather conditions to a prediction model that predicts load usage for the at least one meter. Additionally, the present disclosure provides for performing at least one action based on the prediction, wherein the action includes outputting at least one of a communication signal and/or at least one control signal to at least one client or at least one meter.