Secure Token Generation for AMI Meter Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) faces limitations in secure and accurate payment mechanisms for meters in resource distribution networks, relying on third-party services that are prone to errors and security issues, and lacks backup features for network infrastructure failures or customer payment difficulties.
Innovation Solution
The system generates and applies device-specific payment-based, time-based, and global tokens to meters, using a headend system and mesh networks to ensure secure and accurate payment processing, with tokens being broadcast via distinct networks to prevent errors and maintain resource access during emergencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If third-party online payment services are used for meters in resource distribution network, then payment processing capability is provided, but security control and accuracy are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the payment verification process by introducing device-specific tokens that are generated and verified within the metering network itself, rather than relying on external third-party services. Each meter receives unique tokens from the headend system, enabling localized payment verification that eliminates dependency on external payment processors while maintaining security and accuracy.
2Reliability
If third-party payment mechanisms are implemented, then payment processing is enabled, but security control is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling the headend system and meters to autonomously generate, distribute, and verify device-specific tokens within the resource distribution network. This internal token verification mechanism eliminates the need for external payment service providers, giving the utility company full security control over the payment process while reducing external dependencies.
3Reliability
If no backup payment features are provided, then system simplicity is maintained, but reliability during network failures is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning by providing multiple token types (device-specific tokens, global tokens, and time-based tokens) that serve as backup mechanisms. When network infrastructure fails or customers face payment difficulties, these pre-established token types enable alternative payment paths, ensuring service continuity without requiring complex real-time decision-making systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts to different operational conditions by switching between various token types based on network status and customer needs. The headend system can issue different token types responsive to changing conditions, such as using global tokens during network outages or time-based tokens for customers needing payment extensions, thereby maintaining reliability while managing complexity through flexible, condition-based responses.
4Measurement precision
If device-specific tokens are used for each meter, then payment accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional token system where a single headend system can generate and manage multiple types of tokens (device-specific tokens, global tokens, time-based tokens) using the same underlying infrastructure. This allows the system to maintain high payment accuracy through device-specific tokens while avoiding excessive complexity by using a unified token management framework that handles multiple token types through consistent processes.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for generating and applying a secure token in a resource distribution network is provided. For example, a headend system generates a global token based on a time duration specified for multiple meters that are in communication with the headend system through at least a mesh network in a normal condition. The global token is associated with the time duration and is applicable to the multiple meters. The headend system causes the global token to be broadcast via a broadcast network. After receiving the global token, the meter verifies the global token and determines the time duration associated with the global token. The meter further connects premises associated with the meter to a resource distribution network for at least the time duration associated with the global token.