Energy meters and energy monitoring systems and methods

The patent implements a universal energy meter design that can handle multiple service configurations (single-phase, three-phase, 3-wire, 4-wire) through a single device platform. The system uses interchangeable voltage sensor modules and configurable wiring patterns to adapt to different electrical service types, eliminating the need for multiple specialized transducer designs while maintaining measurement accuracy through calibrated measurement patterns for each configuration.

The patent divides the voltage sensing function into separate interchangeable modules that can be attached to the current sensor based on the specific service configuration needed. This segmentation allows the core current measurement component to remain universal while only the voltage sensing portion needs to be changed, reducing overall device complexity compared to completely customized transducers for each service type.

The patent employs a single current sensor design that can accurately measure across a wide current range (1 Amp to 1000 Amps) by changing measurement parameters and calibration settings rather than using multiple physical transducers. The system adjusts its measurement pattern and scaling factors based on the detected current magnitude, maintaining precision across different ranges without requiring multiple specialized components.

The current sensor is designed as a universal component that can handle all current ranges and service configurations when combined with appropriate voltage sensor modules. This multi-functional approach replaces the need for multiple specialized transducers, reducing component quantity while maintaining measurement precision through software-based adaptation.

The patent segments the poly-phase measurement system into independent but coordinated single-phase measurement units. Each unit measures its phase independently with proper time-stamping, and the system reconstructs synchronized poly-phase measurements through software coordination. This approach maintains synchronized sampling accuracy while dramatically simplifying installation, as each phase can be measured independently without complex inter-phase wiring and configuration.

The patent introduces a time-stamping and coordinate transformation mechanism that acts as an intermediary between independent phase measurements and the final synchronized poly-phase power calculation. This mediator ensures accurate time-correlation of measurements from different phases while allowing simple independent installation of each measurement unit, resolving the conflict between synchronization precision and installation ease.

The patent creates a universal sub-metering platform that can be manufactured as a single standard design, then adapted to different service configurations through software configuration and interchangeable voltage sensor modules. This approach greatly simplifies manufacturing compared to producing customized equipment for each service type, while maintaining full adaptability through configurable measurement patterns and module attachments.

The system uses dynamic configuration capabilities where the meter can be programmed and configured for different service types (single-phase, three-phase, 3-wire, 4-wire) after manufacture. This dynamic adaptability through software and modular components replaces the need for manufacturing different hardware variants, making the manufacturing process simpler while maintaining versatility.