VVO Evaluation Method Using Rapid On-Off Cycling

The patent applies preliminary action by collecting and analyzing baseline data during normal VVO operation before conducting the actual evaluation. The system pre-processes data from multiple sources (SCADA, weather stations, customer usage patterns) to establish expected energy consumption patterns, so that when the evaluation period begins, the comparison can be made immediately without requiring a long baseline period. This allows for a shortened evaluation window while maintaining statistical significance.

The patent introduces an intermediary computational model that acts as a mediator between the limited evaluation data and the required measurement precision. The model uses machine learning algorithms to interpolate and extrapolate energy consumption patterns, filling gaps in the shortened evaluation period data. This intermediary processing layer enables accurate evaluation results to be derived from a compressed time frame that would otherwise be insufficient for direct measurement.

The patent implements universality by designing an evaluation system that performs multiple functions within a single integrated platform. The system simultaneously collects operational data, weather data, customer usage patterns, and evaluation metrics while executing the evaluation algorithm and generating reports. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems for data collection, analysis, and reporting, reducing overall complexity despite the sophisticated evaluation methodology.

The evaluation system applies self-service by automatically collecting data from connected sources, processing the information through the evaluation algorithm, and generating results without requiring external manual intervention. The system self-calibrates using baseline data and automatically adjusts for confounding variables such as weather changes and customer behavior patterns, eliminating the need for manual data collection and analysis teams that would increase system complexity.

The patent applies periodic action by implementing a evaluation schedule that interrupts VVO operation only during brief, predetermined intervals rather than on alternate days. The system collects evaluation data during these short periodic windows when VVO is temporarily disabled, then immediately resumes normal operation. This periodic sampling approach provides sufficient data for accurate measurement while minimizing the total time VVO is offline, thereby reducing lost energy benefits compared to extended alternate-day shutdowns.

The evaluation methodology uses partial action by disabling VVO for only the minimum necessary duration and scope required to collect statistically significant data. Rather than turning off the entire system for long periods, the patent selectively disables specific VVO functions or specific feeders for brief evaluation windows, collecting sufficient data to assess overall system effectiveness while keeping the majority of VVO operations active and delivering energy benefits throughout the evaluation period.