Two-Phase Shutoff Thresholds for Sensor-Coupled Utility Meters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices in computer networks, such as gas and electrical utility systems, face challenges in balancing real-time monitoring and responsive control with the need to extend battery life, as they require frequent manual intervention for shutoffs, which are costly and inefficient, especially when distinguishing between normal and abnormal pressure conditions.
Innovation Solution
A two-phase shutoff system with sensors coupled to integral shutoff systems, where a first threshold triggers enhanced communication and diagnostic actions without activating the shutoff, and a second threshold activates the shutoff system, allowing for autonomous and efficient disruption of gas or electricity supply in dangerous conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single threshold is used for automatic shutoff, then safety response is simplified, but it causes either excessive shut-offs (if threshold is low) or insufficient safety protection (if threshold is high)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single threshold into two distinct thresholds: a first threshold that triggers enhanced communication and diagnostic actions, and a second threshold that activates the shutoff system. This segmentation allows the system to differentiate between minor anomalies requiring monitoring and critical conditions requiring immediate intervention, thereby reducing unnecessary shut-offs while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
When the first threshold is met, the system performs preliminary actions including enhanced communication with the head-end system and diagnostic measurements before reaching the second threshold. This preliminary action allows for early intervention and potential prevention of full shutoff, reducing the frequency of costly service reconnects while maintaining safety.
2Reliability
If real-time monitoring and responsive control are continuously activated, then safety and responsiveness are improved, but battery life is depleted too quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions between different operational states based on threshold conditions. During normal operation, monitoring occurs at standard intervals. When the first threshold is met, the system enters an enhanced monitoring state with more frequent communications and diagnostic measurements. This periodic adjustment of monitoring intensity extends battery life while maintaining safety responsiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational mode based on sensor readings. It operates in a low-power state during normal conditions and transitions to enhanced monitoring and communication modes only when thresholds are approached or exceeded. This dynamic behavior optimizes battery usage while maintaining real-time monitoring capability when needed.
3Reliability
If manual inspection and reactivation are required for shutoffs, then safety verification is ensured, but operational efficiency and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-diagnosis and self-monitoring through automated sensor measurements and communication with the head-end system. When the first threshold is met, the system automatically enhances communication and performs diagnostic actions without requiring immediate manual intervention. This self-service capability reduces the frequency and time of manual inspections while maintaining safety verification through automated means.
Data Source
AI summary
An implementation is for a two-phase shutoff of a device having a sensor coupled to an integral shutoff system. One example includes a metering system with a sensor coupled to an integral shutoff system, wherein the sensor is used to perform a measurement which indicates that a first threshold has been met, a first response system configured to perform at least one action with respect to receiving the indication that the first threshold was met, the at least one action occurring while the integral shutoff system remains inactivated, a second response system configured to receive an indication from the metering system, wherein the sensor is used to perform a second measurement which indicates that a second threshold has been met, and a second response system configured to perform at least one additional action.