Power Line Bridge Dual-Mode Communication for AMI Data Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional metering systems in power systems face limitations in data transmission, including restricted data collection and unstable signal transmission due to reliance on single communication methods, and high costs associated with data concentrator units.
Innovation Solution
The advanced metering infrastructure system employs power line bridges with both narrowband and broadband over power line communication modules, allowing parallel connection to transformers and high-voltage switches, enabling extended data transmission distance and increased data collection capacity, while the data concentrator unit operates and analyzes power-consuming data to provide real-time monitoring and alerts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If broadband over power line communication is used for data transmission, then data collection capacity increases, but signal transmission stability deteriorates due to interference with power signals
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the communication function into two separate modules: a narrowband power line communication module for stable data collection from smart meters, and a broadband over power line communication module for transmitting data to the data concentrator unit. This segmentation allows each module to optimize for its specific function, resolving the contradiction between data collection capacity and transmission stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The power line bridge acts as an intermediary device between the smart meter and the data concentrator unit. It receives data via narrowband communication from the smart meter and then transmits it via broadband communication to the data concentrator unit, thereby isolating the smart meter from broadband interference while enabling high-capacity data collection.
2Reliability
If radio frequency communication or narrowband power line communication is used, then signal transmission stability is maintained, but data collection capacity is restricted to only nearby meters
Solution Approach 1:
The system extends data collection beyond the immediate local area by introducing a two-stage communication architecture. The narrowband module collects data from nearby smart meters, while the broadband module transmits this data over longer distances to the data concentrator unit, effectively adding a spatial dimension to the data collection capacity.
3Quantity of substance
If multiple data concentrator units are deployed to increase data collection capacity, then data collection capacity improves, but system cost increases considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The power line bridge is designed with dual communication capabilities (narrowband and broadband modules) in a single device. This multi-functionality allows one bridge to perform both local data collection and long-distance data transmission, replacing the need for multiple specialized data concentrator units and reducing overall system cost.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) system, used in a power system that comprises a high-voltage power supplying switch, at least one transformer and at least one smart meter. Each transformer has one end connected to at least one smart meter and has another end connected to the high-voltage power supplying switch or at least another transformer. The AMI system comprises a plurality of power line bridges and at least one data concentrator unit (DCU). Each power line bridge is connected to the transformer in parallel. The DCU has one end electrically connected to the power line bridge. The power line bridge has one end electrically connected to the smart meter, and another end electrically connected to the DCU. The power line bridge communicates with the smart meter via the narrowband power line communication (NPLC), and communicates with the DCU via the broadband over power line communication (BPLC).