Meter Data Cloud Centralizes Power Grid Analytics
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Solution Overview
Problem
The collection, storage, and viewing of meter data in the power industry are hindered by the sheer volume of data points from multiple meters, security concerns, and network restrictions, including interception and alteration of data by malicious hosts, as well as the difficulty in accessing data across public networks and private firewalls.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a Meter Data Cloud for centralized data storage and management, allowing meters to push data directly to the cloud using secure protocols, and using an intermediary data collector within private networks to facilitate data upload, while enabling meters to register themselves and use arbitrary local Internet addresses for secure communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If meter data is stored in distributed locations across multiple servers, then data security and network autonomy are improved, but data accessibility and management simplicity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates distributed meter data storage into a centralized cloud-based data lake, merging multiple data sources into a single accessible repository. This allows users to access all meter data from any location through a unified interface, resolving the contradiction between distributed security and centralized accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary cloud platform that sits between the metering devices and end users. This intermediary handles data collection, storage, and distribution, allowing meters to push data securely to the cloud while enabling users to access data globally without direct connections to individual meters.
2Ease of operation
If client software is installed on user devices to access meter data, then data viewing capabilities are improved, but network security restrictions and installation complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service web-based interface where users can access meter data through standard web browsers without installing any client software. The system automatically handles data retrieval, processing, and presentation, eliminating the need for users to configure or install specialized applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of installing client software on user devices with a web-based interface that runs in standard browsers. This substitution eliminates installation complexity while maintaining full data viewing capabilities through HTTP/HTTPS protocols.
3Ease of operation
If meters communicate through public networks, then global data accessibility is improved, but data interception and malicious host attacks worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a secure communication environment by implementing end-to-end encryption and authentication protocols between meters, the cloud platform, and users. This encrypted 'inert atmosphere' protects data from interception and tampering while maintaining global accessibility through public networks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent acknowledges that public networks inherently have security risks, but converts this challenge into a benefit by implementing robust encryption and authentication that actually enhances security. The public network's openness allows global access while the cryptographic layers prevent unauthorized interception, turning the network's openness into a feature rather than a vulnerability.
4Reliability
If firewalls restrict network traffic for security, then network security is improved, but meter data collection and upload capabilities worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary data collector within the private network that acts as a gateway between meters and the external cloud platform. This intermediary handles data collection from meters using allowed protocols, then uploads to the cloud through controlled firewall rules, maintaining security while enabling data collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal data collection architecture where the cloud platform can receive data from multiple meters through a single intermediary interface. This multi-functional approach allows the system to handle various data types and protocols through one standardized entry point, simplifying firewall configuration while maintaining comprehensive data collection.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a machine learning system for use with a power distribution system. The machine learning system includes a data library, a machine learning module, and an action module. The data library stores a plurality of data samples, where at least a portion of the data samples are associated with one or more intelligent electronic devices (IEDs). The machine learning module processes data samples from the data library using at least one machine learning algorithm and outputs at least one recommendation and/or prediction based on the data samples received. The action module receives the at least one recommendation and/or prediction and performs at least one action based on the recommendation and/or prediction. The at least one action includes outputting at least one communication signal and/or at least one control signal to at least one client or at least one of the one or more IEDs.