Multi-WAN Module Power Switching for Utility Metering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current utility metering systems lack a comprehensive design that efficiently supports advanced metering infrastructure and wide area network environments, requiring multiple configurations for different phases and processing capabilities, and there is no unified solution for reliable communications in utility metering technology.
Innovation Solution
A multi-WAN communications module with at least two radios, a power supply, and a switch that selectively directs power to one radio at a time, allowing for configuration as primary or failover, and optionally includes a controller and USB interface for external control, enabling reliable wireless transmission of utility consumption data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple radios are provided in the WAN module to support different network environments and communication protocols, then the adaptability and versatility of the metering system is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power distribution by providing separate power control paths for each radio, allowing independent power management. This segmentation enables the system to activate only the necessary radio(s) for current communication needs, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining multi-network adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic power control where the power supply can be selectively directed to different radios based on operational requirements. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt its configuration in real-time, activating only the necessary communication capabilities while keeping inactive radios powered down, thus managing complexity through flexibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If power is supplied to multiple radios simultaneously, then the availability of communication options is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic or selective power activation where radios are powered on only when needed for specific communication tasks. Instead of continuous power supply to all radios, the system uses periodic or event-driven power activation, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining communication availability when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts power supply from a common source and provides separate, controllable power paths to each radio. This extraction allows selective power distribution where only the necessary radio receives power at any given time, reducing overall energy consumption while preserving the ability to activate specific communication capabilities when needed.
3Loss of energy
If a switch is added to selectively direct power to one radio at a time, then the energy efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switch as an intermediary component between the power supply and the radios. This intermediary element provides controlled power distribution, enabling selective activation of radios while managing energy efficiency. The switch acts as a mediator that balances power delivery with system complexity by providing a simple, controllable interface for power management.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a wide area network (WAN) module including plural radios, a power supply, and a switch configured so that one and only one of the radios may receive power at any one time. The switch may be electronically or manually operable; if electronically operable, the module may include a processor and a universal serial bus (USB) port for receiving power switching instructions. The WAN module may be incorporated into utility consumption measuring (metering) devices which may correspond to components in a consumption measurement and reporting automatic meter reading (AMR) system.