Power Meter Self-Calibration via Current Transformer RFID
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power meter systems lack efficient methods for calibration and configuration, leading to inaccuracies in power monitoring and billing.
Innovation Solution
A power monitoring system that includes a current transformer with a machine-readable apparatus encoding calibration information, and a power meter that can read and utilize this information to calibrate itself and determine power monitor parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual calibration methods are used for power meters with current transformers, then calibration can be performed, but the process is time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-calibration through automated detection. The power meter automatically detects the current transformer, retrieves its unique identifier and calibration parameters, and configures itself without manual intervention. This eliminates human error and reduces calibration time while maintaining high accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical calibration processes with automated electronic detection and configuration. A detection device automatically identifies the current transformer and retrieves calibration data from machine-readable storage, substituting manual operations with electronic automation to improve both speed and accuracy.
2Extent of automation
If traditional calibration methods are used, then power meters can be calibrated, but the process lacks automation and requires manual configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The power meter performs self-configuration by automatically detecting the current transformer and retrieving its unique identifier and calibration parameters from machine-readable storage. This automated self-service process eliminates manual configuration steps, thereby improving both automation extent and configuration reliability by removing human error sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements automated feedback mechanisms where the detection device retrieves calibration data from the current transformer's machine-readable storage and automatically configures the power meter. This closed-loop feedback process ensures reliable configuration without manual intervention, enhancing both automation and reliability.
3Measurement precision
If calibration information is not properly associated with the current transformer, then the system remains simple, but measurement inaccuracies occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses machine-readable storage (such as RFID tags or barcodes) on the current transformer that contains calibration information. This creates a copy of the calibration data that can be automatically read and associated with the specific current transformer, ensuring accurate measurement without significantly increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection device serves as an intermediary that automatically retrieves calibration information from the current transformer's machine-readable storage and transmits it to the power meter. This intermediary mechanism ensures accurate association of calibration data with the correct current transformer while keeping the overall system architecture relatively simple.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves accurate power monitoring and billing by ensuring precise calibration of the power meter with the current transformer, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of power measurement.
Implementation Method 1
a winding for sensing a measure of current in a conductor that supplies power to a load
Data Source
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AI summary
A power monitoring system includes a current transformer and a power meter. The current transformer includes a winding for sensing a measure of current in a conductor that supplies power to a load and a machine-readable apparatus that is secured relative to the current transformer and that encodes calibration information that is specific to the current transformer. The power meter includes a first input for receiving the measure of current and a second input for receiving a measure of voltage. A controller configured to receive the calibration information encoded in the machine-readable apparatus, calibrate the controller with the current transformer based on the calibration information and determine a number of power monitor parameters based at least in part on the calibration information, the measure of current sensed in the conductor by the current transformer and the measure of voltage of the conductor.