Meter Load Forecasting Using Weather-Linked Cloud Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
The collection, storage, and viewing of meter data in the power industry are complex due to the large volume of data from multiple meters, security concerns, and network restrictions, which hinder efficient access and analysis, especially 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 using an intermediary data collector to facilitate data upload, enabling meters to register themselves and use arbitrary local Internet addresses, and integrating a machine learning system for predictive analytics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If meter data is stored in a central data server accessible from anywhere in the world, then data access and management is simplified, but security risks increase due to public Internet accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a secure protocol layer (HTTPS, VPNs, SSH) as an intermediary between the central data server and external users. This mediator enables public Internet access while filtering and protecting against malicious traffic, thus resolving the contradiction between accessibility and security.
2Adaptability or versatility
If meters push data outbound through firewalls, then network restrictions are overcome, but data integrity may be compromised during transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harm of unsecured data transmission through firewalls and public networks into a benefit by implementing encryption protocols. The encryption transforms vulnerable plain text into secure ciphertext, allowing data to traverse restrictive networks without compromising integrity or security.
3Productivity
If an intermediary data collector is introduced to facilitate data upload, then data collection efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediary data collector is designed to perform multiple functions: collecting data from multiple meters, validating data formats, encrypting information, and uploading to the central server. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be multiple separate components into a single versatile unit, improving efficiency while minimizing the increase in system complexity.
4Quantity of substance
If meters use arbitrary local Internet addresses, then device proliferation is accommodated, but network security and traffic management become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a virtualization approach where the central data server creates and manages virtual network identities for meters. Instead of each meter requiring a unique physical network address, the server uses software-based address assignment and routing, allowing unlimited meters to connect without proportionally increasing network management complexity.
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.