Bi-directional Utility Meter Collar for Real-time Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility metering technologies are limited to one-way communication and focus primarily on meter reading, neglecting real-time monitoring and control of electric service quality, which hinders energy efficiency and customer engagement.
Innovation Solution
A collar-based device capable of bi-directional communication through various platforms, including Ethernet, RF, and power line carrier, providing real-time metering data, power quality analysis, and remote control of utility services, allowing customers to access and manage their energy usage effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If one-way communication methodology is used for meter reading, then device complexity is reduced, but information feedback capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional one-way communication model by implementing bi-directional communication between the collar device and utility meters. This allows the collar to not only receive meter readings but also send control commands and diagnostic information back to the utility system, thereby improving information feedback capability while managing device complexity through this role reversal approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar device is designed with multi-functional communication capabilities, supporting multiple communication protocols and methods (RF, Ethernet, power line carrier). This universal communication interface allows the single device to perform both data collection and control functions, improving information feedback while avoiding the need for separate specialized devices for each function.
2Reliability
If traditional meter reading technologies are used, then device cost is reduced, but real-time monitoring capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The collar device serves as an intermediary between the utility meter and the monitoring system. It collects real-time data from the meter, processes it locally, and transmits it to the utility system or customer interface. This intermediary approach enables real-time monitoring capability while managing device complexity by distributing processing functions across multiple components rather than requiring all functionality in a single complex device.
3Loss of information
If broadband technologies are implemented for real-time communication, then diagnostic capability is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the collar device to adapt its communication method based on available infrastructure and requirements. It can switch between different communication protocols (RF, Ethernet, power line carrier) and adjust data transmission parameters to optimize diagnostic capability while managing device cost and complexity through flexible parameter configuration rather than requiring always-on broadband infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for monitoring, controlling, and displaying utility information is provided. A collar communicatively connected to the utility meter monitors power usage and provides usage data, power quality data, and other data to the utility and the customer. The system provides for pre-pay power, and the collar relay can automatically connect or disconnect power to a customer as required. The system provides intelligent remote control of utility meters via wireless or other communications means. A display unit communicatively coupled to the collar displays customer utility usage data. In one embodiment, the system allows reconnect after disconnect upon receiving a confirmation to restore power from a customer input device at the customer premises.