Smart Metering System with Modular Event and Connection Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current power metering systems lack advanced capabilities for remote monitoring, data transmission, and automated control, particularly in managing power connections and handling conditions like over-voltage and over-current, which limits their efficiency and reliability in modern power transmission networks.
Innovation Solution
A metering system equipped with a communication module, request manager, event manager, connection manager, and schedule manager, which enables remote data transmission, automated response to events, and controlled power connection management, including disconnecting power during over-voltage conditions and reconnecting when conditions are met, using a relay system and IP-based data communication over power lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a meter is equipped with multiple functional modules (communication module, relay, request manager, event manager, connection manager), then the automation and monitoring capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The meter device is divided into multiple functional modules including communication module, relay, request manager module, event manager module, and connection manager module. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the system to achieve high automation capability while managing complexity through modular architecture. The segmentation enables independent development, testing, and maintenance of each module.
Solution Approach 2:
The meter is designed as a universal device that performs multiple functions: monitoring power usage, communicating with head end, managing connections, handling events, and controlling relay switches. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate devices into a single integrated meter, improving automation while the modular design keeps complexity manageable.
2Reliability
If the relay is controlled to disconnect power during over-voltage conditions, then the reliability and safety is improved, but the loss of time for power restoration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection manager module continuously monitors voltage levels and receives feedback from the meter module about power conditions. When over-voltage conditions are detected, the system automatically triggers relay disconnection and can restore power when conditions normalize, creating a closed-loop feedback system that improves reliability while minimizing downtime through rapid response.
Solution Approach 2:
The meter includes pre-configured voltage thresholds and automated relay control logic that is prepared in advance. When over-voltage conditions occur, the system can immediately execute pre-planned disconnection procedures without delay, and similarly quickly restore power when conditions improve, reducing the perceived loss of time while maintaining high reliability.
3Productivity
If real-time data transmission is enabled through the communication module, then the productivity and monitoring efficiency is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication module transmits data periodically rather than continuously, balancing monitoring efficiency with energy consumption. The system can configure transmission intervals to send real-time data when needed while remaining silent during stable periods, maintaining productivity while reducing overall energy usage compared to continuous transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The meter includes an energy management capability that monitors its own power consumption and adjusts communication activity accordingly. The system can detect when battery power is low and automatically reduce transmission frequency or enter power-saving modes, allowing real-time monitoring to continue at acceptable energy levels without external intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a meter for monitoring usage of power provided by a power transmission system to a site. The meter comprises: a communication module to generate communications carried over the transmission system; a relay having a first position connecting power from the transmission system to the site and a second position disconnecting power; a request manager module to process messages from a head end associated with the transmission system; a meter module connected to a power feed associated with the transmission system to provide readings relating to the power used at the site; an event manager module to evaluate new events queued in a message queue received by the meter and after evaluating the new events to send a message to the head end relating to the earliest event in the message queue; a connection manager module managing the power connection to the transmission system.