Solid-State Meter Automatic Data Collection via OLT Network
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for collecting load profiles or consumption data from electricity meters are slow and time-consuming, requiring manual data collection by technicians, which hampers efficient power distribution and usage analysis in smart grid systems.
Innovation Solution
A communication network system comprising a solid-state meter, an optical line terminal (OLT) based device, and a meter network management device, utilizing a serial communication interface like RS-232 to remotely access and transmit load profile data via a communications network, enabling automatic meter reading and real-time data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual data collection by technicians is used, then data can be collected from electricity meters, but the process is slow and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automatic meter reading where the solid-state meter automatically transmits its own load profile data through the communication network to the head end, eliminating the need for technician intervention and enabling continuous automated data collection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual reading process with an automated electronic communication system using a solid-state meter, communication network, and head end processor that automatically collects and processes data without physical technician presence
2Ease of operation
If technicians travel onsite to collect data, then meter readings can be obtained, but the process requires significant time and resources
Solution Approach 1:
The solid-state meter performs self-service by automatically transmitting its own data through the communication network, eliminating the need for technicians to travel to each meter location and significantly reducing operational time and resource requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The communication network acts as an intermediary between the solid-state meter and the head end, enabling automated data transmission without requiring physical presence of technicians at meter locations
3Extent of automation
If conventional meters with low power radio signals are used, then manual reading can be avoided, but technicians still need to drive to each neighborhood to collect data
Solution Approach 1:
The solid-state meter provides complete self-service by automatically transmitting data through the communication network to the head end, eliminating the need for technician travel entirely and achieving full automation of the data collection process
Solution Approach 2:
The solid-state meter integrates multiple functions including measurement, data storage, and communication capabilities in a single device, enabling it to automatically transmit data through various communication protocols without requiring separate reading equipment or technician intervention
Data Source
AI summary
A communication network system includes a solid-state meter, an optical line terminal (“OLT”) based device, and a meter network management device. In one embodiment, the solid-state meter, which can be an electricity meter or a gas meter, provides a measurement, and has a serial communication interface. The OLT based device transfers the information between network devices via a communication network. The meter network management device, which may be an optical network terminal (“ONT”), is capable of communicating with the solid-state meter using the serial communication interface via an RS-232 port.