Verfahren zur Untersuchung einer Messgröße

Bei einem Verfahren zur Untersuchung einer Messgröße (q, v) ist es bekannt, zwischen einer Untersuchungszentrale (2) und mindestens einem an einer dezentralen Messstelle angeordneten, autarken Detektionssystem (1), Daten mittels elektromagnetischer Wellen (3) zu übertragen und in der Untersuchungszentrale (2) für verschiedene Typen von Untersuchungszeiträumen (A, B, C) typischerweise zu erwartende Messdaten als Referenzdaten (Ref¶t¶A, Ref¶t¶B, Ref¶t¶C) bereitzustellen. Indem von der Untersuchungszentrale (2) an ein Detektionssystem (1) die Referenzdaten (Ref¶t¶) für einen vorgesehenen Untersuchungszeitraum gesendet werden, vom Detektionssystem (1) Messdaten (Mess¶t¶) erfasst werden, welche Messwerte der zu untersuchenden Messgröße (q, v) repräsentieren, im Detektionssystem (1) eine Abweichung der erfassten Messdaten (Mess¶t¶) von den gesendeten Referenzdaten (Ref¶t¶) ermittelt wird, bei Überschreitung eines vorgegebenen Grenzwertes (DELTA¶t¶) der Abweichung, die bis dahin im Untersuchungszeitraum ...

ARRANGEMENT FOR THE COLLECTION A GIVEN QUANTITY OF THE EXCEEDING AMOUNT OF A FLOWING MEDIUM BY QUANTITATIVE MEASUREMENT WITH THE HELP OF A PULSE GENERATOR COUNTER

Einrichtung zur Fernübertragung und Summierung der Registrierungen von Zählwerken.

Vorrichtung zur Herstellung eines Festmengendiagrammes in Abhängigkeit von zwei Zustandsgrössen.

Registriervorrichtung zur Überwachung zeitlich veränderlicher Vorgänge.

Verfahren zur Herstellung einer neuen Furanverbindung.

Arrangement for detecting, within a relatively long reading period, the number of measuring periods within which a limit value of measurement quantity is exceeded.

Einrichtung zur fortlaufenden Kenntlichmachung der Intensitaetshoechstwerte auf Festmengen-Registrierstreifen

Verfahren und Einrichtung zur stufenweisen UEberwachung von zeitlich in veraenderlicher Staerke geleisteter Arbeit

Improvements in or relating to commodity consumption meters

... 470,470. Meters. FERRANTI, Ltd., FERRANTI, D. Z. DE, and PRINCE, J. Feb. 13, 1936, No. 4416. [Class 106 (i)] A commodity. - consumption meter comprises means for making a record automatically of the amount due in respect of the quantity consumed during a lapsed period and means for delivering automatically such a record outside the meter. As shown applied to an electricity meter with the usual disc field magnets, and coils the disc 1, Figs. 1 and 2, drives a counting train 4 which is geared to a second counting train 5 for converting the meter reading into its monetary value. The last wheel of the train 5 drives a spindle 6, Fig. 4, having slots.' 7 7a, that co-operate with pins 28, 28a, projecting from a shaft 27 driven by worm reducing gear from a synchronous electric motor 8, the drive including a frictional coupling device 29. The reduction gearing is such that one of the shafts of the worm wheels rotates once in thirteen weeks. This quarterly shaft 23 carries a cam 30 engaged by a ...

ANORDNUNG ZUR ERFASSUNG DES EINE VORGEGEBENE MENGE UEBERSTEIGENDEN BETRTAGES EINES FLIESSENDEN MEDIUMS DURCH QUANTITATIVE MESSUNG MIT HILFE EINES IMPULSGEBERZAEHLERS

Precharging electric-meter with controller having no need of working power-supply

PRE-PAYMENT TYPE WATER METER SYSTEM USING MAGNETIC STRIPE CARD FOR EASILY CHECKING LEAKAGE OF WATER PIPE

PURPOSE: A pre-payment type water meter system using a magnetic stripe card is provided to allow a worker to forcibly cut-off a valve when it is necessary to forcibly cut-off water during water system construction work. CONSTITUTION: A pre-payment type water meter system includes an electronic meter for electronically measuring an amount of used water and an electronic cash terminal(22) for reading electronic cash cards, such as a magnetic card and a smart cart. A water shut-off control valve is provided to shut-off water when pre-payment is completely spent. A display section(21) is provided to notify a user of an operational state of an appliance and a recharge time. A switch input section(25) is provided to allow the user to input a control order. © KIPO 2005 ...

A system for monitoring the consumption of two or more utility resources incorporating user predefined thresholds for alerting purposes.

A system and associated method for monitoring at least two utility resources such as electricity, gas supplies or the like. The system comprises an input interface into which a data set associated with at least one aspect of the two or more utility resources plus a predetermined threshold criteria associated with the aspect of the at least two utility resources is provided. The monitoring apparatus as well as monitoring the consumption of the at least two utility resources, also provides a monitor output indicative of the monitored consumption. A processor uses the data set, the predetermined threshold criteria and the monitor output to generate a processor output that determines whether a predetermined threshold criteria is exceeded. When a predetermined threshold is exceeded, an alert mechanism sets an output to operate an alert signal. A data set and predetermined threshold criteria may be provided for each of the at least two utilities or may be provided for a collective level of the ...

ARRANGEMENT FOR THE COLLECTION OF THE EXCEEDING OF BETRTAGES OF A FLOWING MEDIUM BY QUANTITATIVE MEASUREMENT WITH THE HELP OF A PULSE GENERATOR COUNTER, A GIVEN QUANTITY

HIGH POWER AMR TRANSMITTER WITH DATA PROFILING

The invention provides a method and circuitry for transmitting signals in a frequency-hopping, spread-spectrum, AMR network using mobile receivers operating at greater than 1 milliwatt and providing data profiling data to be read out through an I/O port or transmitted over the RF network, which may use one-way or two-way communication.

Verfahren zur Erkennung eines Fluidverlusts in einem Fluidversorgungsnetz

Verfahren zur Erkennung eines Fluidverlusts in einem Fluidversorgungsnetz (16), wobei durch eine Zählereinrichtung (17) eine Fluidmenge eines dem Fluidversorgungsnetz (16) zugeführten Fuids erfasst wird, wobei über wenigstens einen Nutzungssensor (13 - 15) eine Nutzungsinformation erfasst wird, die angibt, ob durch wenigstens einen dem jeweiligen Nutzungssensor (13 - 15) zugeordneten Verbraucher (7 - 12) Fluid verbraucht wird, wonach in Abhängigkeit der Nutzungsinformation und der dem Fluidversorgungsnetz (16) zugeführten Fluidmenge ermittelt wird, ob eine Verlustbedingung erfüllt ist, deren Erfüllung einen Fluidverlust anzeigt.

Geraet zur Zaehlung von Leistungsstufen

HIGH POWER AMR TRANSMITTER WITH DATA PROFILING

The invention provides a method and circuitry for transmitting signals in a frequency-hopping, spread-spectrum, AMR network using mobile receivers operating at greater than 1 milliwatt and providing data profiling data to be read out through an I/O port or transmitted over the RF network, which may use one-way or two-way communication.

EXCESS QUANTITY MEASURING DEVICE

Verfahren zur Erkennung eines Fluidverlusts in einem Fluidversorgungsnetz

Verfahren zur Erkennung eines Fluidverlusts in einem Fluidversorgungsnetz (16), wobei durch eine Zählereinrichtung (17) eine Fluidmenge eines dem Fluidversorgungsnetz (16) zugeführten Fuids erfasst wird, wobei über wenigstens einen Nutzungssensor (13 - 15) eine Nutzungsinformation erfasst wird, die angibt, ob durch wenigstens einen dem jeweiligen Nutzungssensor (13 - 15) zugeordneten Verbraucher (7 - 12) Fluid verbraucht wird, wonach in Abhängigkeit der Nutzungsinformation und der dem Fluidversorgungsnetz (16) zugeführten Fluidmenge ermittelt wird, ob eine Verlustbedingung erfüllt ist, deren Erfüllung einen Fluidverlust anzeigt.

Vorrichtung nach dem Festmengenprinzip

Fuel dispensing and vehicle maintenance system

A method and apparatus for dispensing fuel has features to prevent theft of fuel and also control maintenance of authorized vehicles. The system includes a portable memory unit which remains with each vehicle. At the fuel dispensing site, a data processing unit receives the portable memory unit to read from it coded information. A central processing unit is located at a central records site and connected to the remote processing unit for record storage. The remote processing unit reads a vehicle identification number and checks it for validity. The remote processing unit also reads a last mileage at which fuel was dispensed, and compares it to a current mileage entered by the operator into the remote processing unit. A next service mileage is also read by the remote processing unit and compared to the current mileage. If the current mileage is less than the last mileage, this is an indication of error, and fuel will not be dispensed. If the current mileage exceeds a next sevice mileage, ...

System for tracking water usage by category

A system is provided for tracking, in a distributed water infrastructure, water usage by category. The system may comprise at least one processor configured to receive from at least one sensor associated with the distributed water infrastructure signals indicative of water usage in the distributed water infrastructure. The system may, based on the signals indicative of water usage, construct a plurality of profiles. The system may assign each profile to one of a plurality of water usage categories. The system may collect, from the at least one sensor, signals indicative of water usage for substantially all water delivered through the distributed water infrastructure in a time period. The system may construct a plurality of water usage profiles in the aggregate, encompassing substantially all water delivered through the distributed water infrastructure in the time period. The system may assign each constructed water usage profile to one of the plurality of water usage categories. The system ...

Anordnung zur Kostenabrechnung bei Verbrauchszaehlern, insbesondere bei Elektrizitaetszaehlern

Vorrichtung zur Gewinnung von Festmengen bei Zustandsgroessen

Registriervorrichtung zur UEberwachung zeitlich in veraenderlicher Staerke verlaufender Vorgaenge

ARRANGEMENT FOR USE IN DETECTING AN AMOUNT OF A FLOWING MEDIUM EXCEEDING A PRESET QUANTITY

If there is no transgression of limit value within a measuring period predetermined by a time base counter, the pulse counter (1) is reset to its starting position by the time base counter (5) at the end of the measuring period. If, however, the limit value is exceeded within the measuring period, the pulse counter (1) outputs a transgression pulse which increments a transgression counting mechanism (18) by one unit. At the same time, a new measuring period begins. The invention solves the problem of initiating a new measuring period if the limit value of the pulse counter (1) is already exceeded before the measuring period has elapsed. This is done by the fact that the pulse counter (1) and the time base counter (5) are reset to their starting position by the transgression pulse via a monostable flip flop (10). The resetting of the pulse counter (1) by the time base counter (5) at the end of a measuring period without transgression of limit value is also effected via a monostable flip ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING WATER USAGE BY CATEGORY

A system is provided for tracking, in a distributed water infrastructure, water usage by category. The system may comprise at least one processor configured to receive from at least one sensor associated with the distributed water infrastructure signals indicative of water usage in the distributed water infrastructure. The system may, based on the signals indicative of water usage, construct a plurality of profiles. The system may assign each profile to one of a plurality of water usage categories. The system may collect, from the at least one sensor, signals indicative of water usage for substantially all water delivered through the distributed water infrastructure in a time period. The system may construct a plurality of water usage profiles in the aggregate, encompassing substantially all water delivered through the distributed water infrastructure in the time period. The system may assign each constructed water usage profile to one of the plurality of water usage categories. The system ...

Auswertegeraet fuer Festmengen-Registrierstreifen

Current charge system for electrical power storage devices in electrically powered vehicles - contains two or more charging towers with energy meters and connected via signal lines to central terminal with computer

The system contains at least two current dispenser towers (1). The payment for the energy taken is derived separately for each tower from information signals produced by energy meters (4) in each tower. A central terminal (41) contains operating components such as security devices, a mains rectifier, mains monitor, safety switches, relays and displays. The terminal is connected to all towers for signal transmission and reception and contains a computer connected to all energy extraction meters. USE/ADVANTAGE - For charging electric vehicles. The arrangement is economical to set up and user-friendly.

UTILITY MONITORING SYSTEM

A system for monitoring consumption of a utility by a building unit is provided. The system includes a sensor disposed externally yet proximal to a meter for recording consumption of the utility and having an indicator which indicates an event whenever a predefined quantity of the utility is consumed by the building unit. The sensor is configured for detecting each event and is connected to a controller having a controller, the controller being situated within the building unit. The controller is programmable with the predetermined event quantity a s well as tariff information for the event and counts each event detected by t he sensor. Based on the events counted, the tariff information, and the predefined event quantity, the controller generates consumption information, including approximate consumption totals of the utility consumed and costs therefor. T he consumption information is selectively displayed on a display unit connected to the controller.

Remote valve reopening

An abnormal consumption detection system is provided with remote valve control for a distributed water infrastructure. The system may comprise an electronically controllable valve, a remote communication transmitter, a remote communication receiver, at least one sensor for measuring water flow information associated with the distributed water infrastructure, and at least one processor. The system may determine from the water flow information obtained from the at least one sensor a potential abnormal consumption associated with the distributed water infrastructure. The system may automatically close a valve, without human intervention, when the potential abnormal consumption is determined. The system may transmit, via the remote communication transmitter to a remote administrator, alert information about the potential abnormal consumption to enable an administrator to decide based on the transmitted information whether to reopen the valve. The system may receive from the administrator via ...

Device for measuring instruments which record periodically values of measurement emitted by impulses and accumulate the impulses which arrive during the operation of recording

Current sensor with switching device for energy storage and method for controlling appliances connected to a grid

A current measurement device comprises a current transformer 12 and a switch 16 that switches the output of the current sensor to either an energy storage device 18 such as a capacitor or to a current measurement circuit 20. When a measurement is not being made, the switch charges the capacitor to store energy to power the measurement circuit. The measurement circuit may include a wireless transmitter 22 and the current transformer may be of the type that clamps around a cable 32. In another aspect (figures 3 and 4 â not shown), the current sensor may be used in part of a monitoring system that measures energy consumption of appliances connected to a grid. If the appliance energy consumption is above a threshold then a control signal may switch off the appliance or alert the user. The monitoring system may be used to select the best tariff for a consumer.

Improvements in and relating to devices for use with counting mechanisms for registering excess above a limiting rate or value

... 313,601. Landis et Gyr Soc. Anon- June 16, 1928, [Convention date]. Counters affording several rates of actuation.- A delvice for ascertaining the registrations of counting mechanism above a limiting value or rate particularly the excess consumption of electricity meters comprises an excess counting mechanism controlled, through a differential gear, in the additive direction in accordance with the movements transmitted from the main counting mechanism and simultaneously in the subtractive direction by a constant speed device in dependence on the limiting value, means being provided for preventing deduction of an amount greater than the amount due to a predetermined number of transmitted movements. As shown applied to a device as described in Specification 250,552 for summing the impulses transmitted from a number of counting-mechanisms such as electricity meters the shaft 1 of the counting mechanism summing the simultaneous impulses is transmitted through gearing 17, 18 and the sun wheel ...

Online one-stage output quantity-time linited fee-precollecting device

Einrichtung zur UEberwachung von zeitlich in veraenderlicher Staerke geleisteter Arbeit

Verfahren und Einrichtung zur UEberwachtung von zeitlich in veraenderlicher Staerke gleisteter Arbeit

Meters Having Integrated Pressure Regulators and Related Methods and Systems

Gas meters are provided including a housing and a pressure regulator integrated with the housing. The pressure regulator is configured to adjust pressure of gas flowing through the gas meter responsive to a signal from a remote location or automatically based on a predetermined pressure threshold programmed into the gas meter. 1. A gas meter comprising:a meter housing;a radio module integrated in the meter housing; anda pressure regulator integrated with the housing and in communication with the radio module, wherein the pressure regulator adjusts pressure of gas flowing through the gas meter responsive to a signal received from a remote location using the radio module or automatically based on a predetermined pressure threshold programmed into the gas meter.2. The gas meter of claim 1 , further comprising a pressure sensor in the meter housing associated with the pressure regulator that senses pressure of gas flowing through the gas meter claim 1 , wherein the pressure regulator automatically adjusts the pressure of gas flowing through the gas meter based on a comparison of the sensed pressure of the gas flowing through the gas meter and the predetermined pressure threshold.3. The gas meter of claim 2 , further comprising a shut off valve integrated into the meter housing and coupled to the pressure sensor claim 2 , wherein the shut off valve configured turns the gas meter off and/or on remotely responsive to the sensed pressure or the signal from the remote location communicated using the radio module.4. The gas meter of claim 2 , further comprising:an electronics module integrated in the meter housing, wherein the electronics module receives sensor information including the sensed pressure and processes the received sensor information,wherein the radio module receives the processed sensor information from the electronics module, communicates the processed sensor information to the remote location and receives pressure adjustment information from the remote ...

Festmengen-Impulsgeber

Auswertungsgeraet fuer Festmengen-Registrierstreifen

Full-mechanical combustible gas meter with valve being autoclosed in purchase quantity

Intelligent heating feeing gauge

Abnormal consumption detection during normal usage

A system is provided for detecting abnormal consumption in one portion of a distributed water infrastructure while normal water usage occurs in another portion of the distributed water infrastructure. The system may comprise at least one processor. The system may receive from at least one sensor associated with the distributed water infrastructure indications of regular water usage. The system may determine, from a plurality of indications received over a time period, a plurality of baseline water usage profiles. The system may receive from the at least one sensor a current water usage profile. The system may compare the current water usage profile with the plurality of baseline water usage profiles. The system may determine an abnormal water consumption based on the comparison between the current water usage profile and the plurality of baseline water usage profiles. The system may generate an abnormal water consumption signal when abnormal water consumption is determined.

Verfahren und Einrichtung zur UEberwachung von zeitlich in veraenderlicher Staerke geleisteter Arbeit

Vorrichtung zum Registrieren eines beim UEberschreiten einer Leistungsgrenze entnommenen Gesamtverbrauchs, insbesondere an elektrischer Energie

VETSKEMENGDMETARE

Verfahren und Einrichtung zur Sollwertueberwachung von Messgroessen

LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS DISPENSING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

A liquefied petroleum gas dispensing management system(10), including for each gas dispensing location(52A): a camera(18A, 18E) for reading a counter(20A) or a gas switch indicator(30A); a controller(22A), for determining a reading, and for selecting times for the reading; and a transmitter(24A, 24E), for transmitting information based on the reading to a control center(28), wherein the controller(22A) is configured to reduce time periods of which the camera(18A,18E) and the transmitter(24A,24E) are turned on, thereby reducing power consumption.

Meters having integrated pressure regulators and related methods and systems

Gas meters are provided including a housing and a pressure regulator integrated with the housing. The pressure regulator is configured to adjust pressure of gas flowing through the gas meter responsive to a signal from a remote location or automatically based on a predetermined pressure threshold programmed into the gas meter.

Household energy management system utilizing multiple scales of time

An electricity management system for a residential setting includes a controller that is coupled with a plurality of appliances. A plurality of sensors are coupled with the controller and respectively coupled to the plurality of appliances. The controller cooperates with the sensors and the appliances to generate a demand response plan for delivering electrical power to the plurality of appliances. The demand response plan includes a shifting strategy that regulates a delivery of electrical power based upon a regional pattern of electrical consumption, a shedding strategy that maintains a household consumption of electrical power below a household upper consumption limit and a modulating strategy based upon the respective operating cycles of the plurality of appliances that prevents a simultaneous peak electrical event within more than one appliance of the plurality of appliances. The shifting strategy, the shedding strategy and the modulating strategy are implemented contemporaneously.

Einrichtung zur UEberwachung von zeitlich in veraenderlicher Staerke geleisteter Arbeit (gelieferter Energie, verbrauchter Menge)

Nach dem Impulsfrequenzverfahren arbeitende Messanlage, insbesondere fuer Fernmessung

Speed reducer for presetting and control

Anordnung zur UEberwachung von zeitlich in veraenderlicher Staerke geleisteter Arbeit (gelieferter Energie, verbrauchter Menge)

Heat supply system

In a system for supplying a heat by a heat medium, a heat discharged from a customer requiring only a high temperature heat is effectively utilized, and respective prices paid by the customer requiring only the high temperature heat and a customer requiring only a low temperature heat are reduced. In this system, a heat medium discharged by the customer requiring only the high temperature heat is recovered so as to be fed to the customer requiring only the low temperature heat. At this time, a temperature, an amount of flow and the like of the heat medium at an access port of the customer are measured by measuring devices, an amount of heat used by the customer is comprehended, a unit value of the amount of heat is set to be higher in accordance that an arithmetic average of a specific enthalpy of the heat medium at the access port of the customer is higher, and a unit value of the amount of heat of the customer that does not recover the heat medium is set on the basis of an arithmetic ...

Zentrale Wassersicherung

Vorrichtung zur UEberwachung des Sollwertes von Messgroessen nach dem Festmengen-Messprinzip

Method for analyzing a measurement value

Bei einem Verfahren zur Untersuchung einer Messgröße (q, v) ist es bekannt, zwischen einer Untersuchungszentrale (2) und mindestens einem an einer dezentralen Messstelle angeordneten, autarken Detektionssystem (1), Daten mittels elektromagnetischer Wellen (3) zu übertragen und in der Untersuchungszentrale (2) für verschiedene Typen von Untersuchungszeiträumen (A, B, C) typischerweise zu erwartende Messdaten als Referenzdaten (ReftA, ReftB, ReftC) bereitzustellen. Indem von der Untersuchungszentrale (2) an ein Detektionssystem (1) die Referenzdaten (Reft) für einen vorgesehenden Untersuchungszeitraum gesendet werden, vom Detektionssystem (1) Messdaten (Messt) erfasst werden, welche Messwerte der zu untersuchenden Messgröße (q, v) repräsentieren, im Detektionssystem (1) eine Abweichung der erfassten Messdaten (Messt) von den gesendeten Referenzdaten (Reft) ermittelt wird, bei Überschreitung eines vorgegebenen Grenzwertes (?t) der Abweichung, die bis dahin im Untersuchungszeitraum erfassten ...

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Erfassen ausgetauschter Arbeit in Abhaengigkeit von Leistungsstufen, Durchflussgeschwindigkeiten od. dgl., z. B. in elektrischen Anlagen

Stromladeanlage mit mehreren Stromzapfsäulen zum Aufladen von elektrischen Energiesammlern von elektrogetriebenen Fahrzeugen mit elektrischer Energie

Verfahren zur Gewinnung nach Intensitaetsstufen auswertbarer Festmengen-Registrierungen bei sehr schnell verlaufenden Vorgaengen

UTILITY METER AND METHOD OF OPERATION

Utility meter for monitoring, recording and communicating commodity consumption data at a customer site, comprising: a meter unit (9, 10) for recording said consumption data and generating a meter output signal being representative of said consumption data; a processor unit (4, 17) for processing said meter output data and for providing at least one evaluation value; a memory unit (6) for storing said meter output data and/or said at least one evaluation value; a communications unit (7, 8, 15) for transmitting said evaluation value to a utility supplier and for receiving evaluation parameters from said utility supplier, characterized by a power supply converter unit (3, 12) for converting external electric power into internal electric power for the supply of said meter unit, processor unit, memory unit and communications unit, which power supply converter unit is self-adjusting to an external electric power input voltage.

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zur Erfassung ausgetauschter Arbeit nach Leistungsstaffeln

Einrichtung zur Bildung des Zeitintegrals bei Zustandsgroessen, insbesondere zur Gewinnung von Festmengen

Electronic monthly ticket tariff-metering device

Method For Locating Water Resources

A method of locating a water resource includes taking a first electronic device within a predetermined radius of a water resource; and associating owner contact information and coordinate location data of the water resource to the water resource. An online database stores the coordinate location data of the water resource, the owner of the water resource, and the owner contact information received from the first electronic device. A second electronic device displays on an electronic map the coordinate location data of the water resource within an area of the electronic map. The user of the second electronic device is informed, after selection of the water resource, the name of the owner of the water resource, the owner contact information of the water resource, and the coordinate location data of the water resource.

IC card pipeline purified water fee-prepayment device

세대 열사용량 관리 방법 및 그 서버, 난방제어기, 미터

... 본 명세서는, 일정 주기로 세대 열사용량을 관리하기 위한 열 요금 또는 열사용량의 목표값을 설정하고, 미터를 통해 실제 열사용량을 모니터링하고, 모니터링한 실제 열사용량과 목표값을 비교하여 난방 분배기를 제어하는 세대 열사용량 관리 방법 및 그 서버, 난방제어기, 미터를 개시한다.

RECORDING DEVICE

PURPOSE: To enable grasping of the changes after load control is performed by a method wherein the data of a prescribed quantity of electricity are compared with a set value and, when a prescribed comparison signal is outputted, subsequent various data are recorded up to a prescribed time at fixed time intervals. CONSTITUTION: The set value 12 and a value given by a demanded electric power counter 13 which counts transmission pulses 11 according to the quantities of electricity including voltage, current, power, quantity of power, etc. are compared 14 with each other, and when both values are in accord, the comparison signal 21 is delivered, whereby a one-minute counter 18 is started. Simultaneously, an output signal 15 is outputted from the output terminal of the one-minute counter 18 to make an output control device 16 and an output apparatus 17 operate, whereby recording is performed. Afterwards, the output signal 15 is delivered from the one- minute counter 18 every one minute and thereby ...

Einrichtung zur Aufnahme und Weitergabe von Impulsen fuer nach der Impulsmethode in Kaskadenschaltung arbeitende Fernsummieranlagen zur Fernzaehlung von Messgroessen

ANORDNUNG ZUR ERFASSUNG DES EINE VORGEGEBENE MENGE UEBERSTEIGENDEN BETRAGES EINES FLIESSENDEN MEDIUMS DURCH QUANTITATIVE MESSUNG MIT HILFE EINES IMPULSGEBERZAEHLERS

Einrichtung zur Fernuebertragung und Summierung der Registrierungen von Zaehlwerken

IC card charged watermeter

Low flow detection during period of no flow

A system is provided for detecting abnormal consumption in a distributed water infrastructure. The system may comprise at least one processor. The system may receive from at least one sensor associated with the distributed water infrastructure indications of regular water usage, wherein the distributed water infrastructure includes a plurality of water appliances. The system may determine from the indications received over a time period, at least one recurring time period of expected diminished water usage. The system may determine for the at least one recurring time period of expected diminished water usage at least one expected diminished water usage profile. The system may receive from the at least one sensor during a current time period of expected diminished water usage, real time indications of water usage, which may constitute a current water usage profile. The system may compare the current water usage profile during the expected period of diminished water usage with the at least ...

Water profile used to detect malfunctioning water appliances

A system is provided for determining whether a specific water appliance is malfunctioning. The system may comprise at least one processor configured to detect, from at least one sensor in a distributed water infrastructure upstream of the plurality of water appliances, a plurality of normal water usage profiles; associate at least one of the plurality of profiles with each of the plurality of appliances; detect at least one current water usage profile; and compare the at least one current profile with at least one of the stored profiles to determine a corresponding identity of an associated appliance and to determine if a deviation exists between the stored profile for the identified appliance and the at least one current profile. The deviation may be reflective of a potential malfunction in the associated appliance. The system may initiate remedial action if the deviation, reflective of a potential malfunction, is determined.

Excess demand meter

Building monitoring

Ein Verfahren zur Überwachung eines Objekts, das mit einem Versorgungsnetz zur Versorgung mit einem Vorsorgungsgut verbunden ist, umfasst Schritte des Erfassens einer Aufnahme von Versorgungsgut durch das Objekt zu einem Messzeitpunkt, des Bestimmens eines Vergleichswerts auf der Basis von Aufnahmen des Versorgungsguts durch eine Vielzahl vergleichbarer Objekte zum Messzeitpunkt, des Vergleichens der erfassten Aufnahme mit dem Vergleichswert, und des Ausgebens eines Alarmsignals, falls die Aufnahme um mehr als ein vorbestimmtes Maß vom Vergleichswert abweicht.

Method for registering and locating water resources

A method of registering and locating a water resource includes incentivizing an owner for registering the water resource and associating owner contact information and coordinate location data of the water resource to the water resource. An online database stores the coordinate location data of the water resource, the owner of the water resource, and the owner contact information received from the first electronic device. A second electronic device displays on an electronic map the coordinate location data of the water resource within an area of the electronic map. The user of the second electronic device is informed, after selection of the water resource, the name of the owner of the water resource, the owner contact information of the water resource, the coordinate location data of the water resource, and an account of the owner is credited if the water resource is used.

PREPAID-SYSTEM GAS SUPPLY CONTROL METHOD AND GAS SUPPLY CONTROL SYSTEM, AND GAS RESIDUAL AMOUNT DISPLAY DEVICE

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a prepaid-system gas supply control system in which device cost is reduced without needing provision of a new communication line at the time of installation. SOLUTION: A home display device 3 connected to a gas meter 2 is installed in each gas consumption place 6. When transmitting a gas purchase request to a server 5 from a communication terminal 12 such as a cellphone and performing a money payment procedure, the server 5 performs settlement processing of a gas purchase price, and issues a rewriting code effective in only the home display device 3 storing and holding an in-subtraction-counter-start point based on the in-subtraction-counter-start point and a gas purchase amount received from the communication terminal 12. The home display device 3 collates a generated collation code with the input rewriting code based on the stored in-subtraction-counter-start point, decides whether or not it is an effective rewriting code, and adds the gas purchase amount ...

Long-distance recording meter giving integrated values

UTILITY METER AND METHOD OF OPERATION

PROCEDURE AND JETON APPLIED IN PREPAYMENT SYSTEM FOR ELECTRICAL ENERGY

System and method for tracking water usage by category

A system is provided for tracking, in a distributed water infrastructure, water usage by category. The system may comprise at least one processor configured to receive from at least one sensor associated with the distributed water infrastructure signals indicative of water usage in the distributed water infrastructure. The system may, based on the signals indicative of water usage, construct a plurality of profiles. The system may assign each profile to one of a plurality of water usage categories. The system may collect, from the at least one sensor, signals indicative of water usage for substantially all water delivered through the distributed water infrastructure in a time period. The system may construct a plurality of water usage profiles in the aggregate, encompassing substantially all water delivered through the distributed water infrastructure in the time period. The system may assign each constructed water usage profile to one of the plurality of water usage categories. The system ...

Method of intelligent data analysis to detect abnormal use of utilities in buildings

Outlier identification is employed to detect abnormally high or low energy use in a building. The utility use is measured periodically throughout each day and the measurements are grouped according to days that have similar average utility consumption levels. The data in each group is statistically analyzed using the Generalized Extreme Studentized Deviate (GESD) method. That method identifies outliers which are data samples that vary significantly from the majority of the data. The degree to which each outlier deviates from the remainder of the data indicates the severity of the abnormal utility consumption denoted by that outlier. The resultant outlier information is readily discernable by the building operators in accessing whether the cause of a particular occurrence of abnormal utility usage requires further investigation.

digital meter gas with automatic dialer

Precharging water meter, gas meter without working power source

REMOTE VALVE REOPENING

An abnormal consumption detection system is provided with remote valve control for a distributed water infrastructure. The system may comprise an electronically controllable valve, a remote communication transmitter, a remote communication receiver, at least one sensor for measuring water flow information associated with the distributed water infrastructure, and at least one processor. The system may determine from the water flow information obtained from the at least one sensor a potential abnormal consumption associated with the distributed water infrastructure. The system may automatically close a valve, without human intervention, when the potential abnormal consumption is determined. The system may transmit, via the remote communication transmitter to a remote administrator, alert information about the potential abnormal consumption to enable an administrator to decide based on the transmitted information whether to reopen the valve. The system may receive from the administrator via ...

HEAT SUPPLY SYSTEM

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a heat supply system, in which the heat discharged by a client who requires solely a high-temperature heat is effectively utilized, and costs paid by the client requiring solely a high-temperature heat, and a client requiring solely a low-temperature heat are reduced respectively. SOLUTION: Heating medium discharged from a client 2' requiring solely high temperature heat is recovered, and the collected heating medium is supplied to a client 2" who requires solely low temperature heat. In this case, heating medium temperature and a flow rate, etc. at heat inflow/outflow ports of the client 2' are measured by measuring instrument 4', 4" to obtain a heat quantity consumed by the client 2". The higher an arithmetic average of a specific enthalpy of the heating medium is at the ports of the client 2', the higher is set the heat quantity unit price. As for the heat-quantity unit price of a client 2", from whom the heat medium discharged by him is not recovered ...

Health and lifestyle prediction

A detection system is provided for a distributed water infrastructure to determine a human health or lifestyle state from detected water usage patterns. The system receives signals indicative of water usage from at least one sensor upstream of a plurality of appliances, and determines from the signals a current water usage pattern. The system accesses a database of a plurality of stored water usage patterns, associated with a human health or lifestyle state, compares the pattern with stored water usage patterns and, based on the comparison, identifies a human health or lifestyle condition reflected by the current water usage pattern.

Method for analysing data to detect abnormal use of utilities in buildings

Outlier identification is employed to detect abnormally high or low energy use in a building. The utility use is measured periodically throughout each day and the measurements are grouped according to days that have similar average utility consumption levels. The data in each group is statistically analyzed using the Generalized Extreme Studentized Deviate (GESD) method. That method identifies outliers which are data samples that vary significantly from the majority of the data. The degree to which each outlier deviates from the remainder of the data indicates the severity of the abnormal utility consumption denoted by that outlier. The resultant outlier information is readily discernable by the building operators in accessing whether the cause of a particular occurrence of abnormal utility usage requires further investigation.

HOUSEHOLD ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM UTILIZING MULTIPLE SCALES OF TIME

An electricity management system for a residential setting includes a controller that is coupled with a plurality of appliances. A plurality of sensors are coupled with the controller and respectively coupled to the plurality of appliances. The controller cooperates with the sensors and the appliances to generate a demand response plan for delivering electrical power to the plurality of appliances. The demand response plan includes a shifting strategy that regulates a delivery of electrical power based upon a regional pattern of electrical consumption, a shedding strategy that maintains a household consumption of electrical power below a household upper consumption limit and a modulating strategy based upon the respective operating cycles of the plurality of appliances that prevents a simultaneous peak electrical event within more than one appliance of the plurality of appliances. The shifting strategy, the shedding strategy and the modulating strategy are implemented contemporaneously.

Method for analysing data to detect abnormal use of utilities in buildings

Outlier identification is employed to detect abnormally high or low energy use in a building. The utility use is measured periodically throughout each day and the measurements are grouped according to days that have similar average utility consumption levels. The data in each group is statistically analyzed using the Generalized Extreme Studentized Deviate (GESD) method. That method identifies outliers which are data samples that vary significantly from the majority of the data. The degree to which each outlier deviates from the remainder of the data indicates the severity of the abnormal utility consumption denoted by that outlier. The resultant outlier information is readily discernable by the building operators in accessing whether the cause of a particular occurrence of abnormal utility usage requires further investigation.

Differentiating between multiple overlapping water events

A system is provided for differentiating between overlapping water events in a distributed water infrastructure including a plurality of water appliances. The system may comprise at least one processor. The system may repeatedly measure at least one overall water usage indicator of the distributed water infrastructure, the at least one water usage indicator including at least one of an overall flow rate and an overall flow volume in the distributed water infrastructure. The system may detect, in the repeated measurements, a first sustained increase. The system may store in memory a first indicator of the first sustained increase. The system may attribute in memory the first sustained increase to a first water event in the distributed water infrastructure. The system may, during the first sustained increase, detect in the overall measurements a second sustained increase. The system may store in memory a second indicator of the second sustained increase. The system may attribute, in memory ...

Fuel dispensing and vehicle maintenance system

A method and apparatus for dispensing fuel has features to prevent theft of fuel and also control maintenance of authorized vehicles. The system includes a portable memory unit which remains with each vehicle. At the fuel dispensing site, a data processing unit receives the portable memory unit to read from it coded information. A central processing unit is located at a central records site and connected to the remote processing unit for record storage. The remote processing unit reads a vehicle identification number and checks it for validity. The remote processing unit also reads a last mileage at which fuel was dispensed, and compares it to a current mileage entered by the operator into the remote processing unit. A next service mileage is also read by the remote processing unit and compared to the current mileage. If the current mileage is less than the last mileage, this is an indication of error, and fuel will not be dispensed. If the current mileage exceeds a next sevice mileage, ...

Method of intelligent data analysis to detect abnormal use of utilities in buildings

Outlier identification is employed to detect abnormally high or low energy use in a building. The utility use is measured periodically throughout each day and the measurements are grouped according to days that have similar average utility consumption levels. The data in each group is statistically analyzed using the Generalized Extreme Studentized Deviate (GESD) method. That method identifies outliers which are data samples that vary significantly from the majority of the data. The degree to which each outlier deviates from the remainder of the data indicates the severity of the abnormal utility consumption denoted by that outlier. The resultant outlier information is readily discernable by the building operators in accessing whether the cause of a particular occurrence of abnormal utility usage requires further investigation.

Networked central heating system constant temperature charge meter

Method for analyzing a measurement value

Method for investigation of a measurement value in a field system comprising an investigation center and distributed autonomous detection devices with a wireless network, whereby data traffic is minimized The method in which an investigation center (2) and detection systems (2) communicate in a wireless manner, reference data is sent from the center to a detection system. The latter measures a measurement value (q,v) over time and compares it with the reference data. If the difference between them exceeds a threshold the detection device transmits its measurement data to the center. The latter determines if has reference data that more closely matches the sent data and if so transmits it to the detection system. An Independent claim is included for a system in which the method is implemented.

Energy metering system, energy metering method and watt hour meter of supporting dynamic time-varying energy pricing

The present disclosure is disclosed to record in detail and manage information on energy use history of a user under various energy pricing systems where energy prices are changed in time. To this end, an energy meter receives time-based energy price information from a remote server, and time-sequentially records a record including time information of relevant unit time for each unit time, energy price information applied to relevant unit time and energy consumption information at the relevant unit time, whereby the information on how much, when and at what price the user has used the energy can be accurately and quite obviously managed. The energy use history can be used in various fields as data for promoting reasonable energy use, and as a base for calculating energy use charge.

Platform, system and method for energy profiling

An energy usage management platform is provided for remotely managing energy usage of multiple end user devices or appliances, including a smart grid network with an energy data server adapted to manage multiple electric device energy usage profiles, and an electric meter for transmitting electricity usage data to the energy data server, thereby enabling the energy data server to monitor energy usage of identified electric devices, wherein there is substantially no requirement to install an electricity usage sensor on the specific electric devices.

Integrated security system

An integrated security system for oil-field and gas-field sites is disclosed. The system utilizes state-of-the-art technologies including “logical QR emblems” and powerful, advanced RFID tags. The system is particularly valuable for emergency responders, since it facilitates immediate, secure display of critical site data-according to predetermined classifications, e.g., emergency triage for an accident or terrorist event.

Power usage calculation system

According to an embodiment, in a power usage calculation system, a data management system connected to electric power meters adding up power usage of electric apparatuses and an energy management system are interconnected through a network. Plural pieces of the first partial information are calculated by using the power usage added up by the electric power meters. The plural pieces of the first partial information are stored in storage servers. Each storage server calculates second partial information by using a plurality of pieces of the first partial information of the power usage added up by the electric power meters and transmits the calculated second partial information to the energy management system. The energy management system receives the second partial information respectively transmitted from the storage servers and calculates a total amount of the power usage added up by the electric power meters by using the received second partial information.

Utility bill audit

A system, computer-implemented method, and a computer program product are provided for a utility bill audit. Measured data is input from meters. Utility provider information is input. The utility provider information includes utility provider sub-costs and utility provider variables. System data is generated based on the measured data. The system data includes system sub-costs and system variables. If a utility provider sub-cost differs from a corresponding system sub-cost by more than a selected sub-cost error threshold, whether a utility provider variable differs from a corresponding system variable by more than a selected variable error threshold is determined. A user interface outputs a notice regarding whether utility provider information differs from corresponding system data.

Data collection method and data collection system

A data collection system that collects information indicating a status of a battery mounted on a vehicle from the vehicle after shipment from a factory, includes a battery information collection server that is configured to periodically receive information of the battery and identification information, with which it is possible to identify the vehicle, that are transmitted wirelessly from a computer that is mounted on the vehicle and is configured to acquire and store the information of the battery mounted on the vehicle. The data collection system may further include a battery information analysis section that is configured to display a result of associating the information of the battery received by the battery information collection server with each vehicle using the identification information.

Systems and Methods for Energy Management Between a Utility Provider and a Consumer

Embodiments of the invention can provide systems and methods for energy management between a utility provider and a consumer. According to one embodiment of the invention, a system can be provided. The system can include a computer processor. The system can also include a memory operable to store computer-executable instructions operable for receiving a readable code associated with a utility meter, and further receiving a unique identifier associated with a mobile device; verifying that the readable code is associated with the unique identifier; and authorizing a consumer associated with the mobile device to access account information associated with the at least one utility meter.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A PHOTOVOLTAIC PLANT MARKET EXCHANGE

Systems and methods for providing a photovoltaic market exchange that permits registered users to create a request for quote (RFQ) for photovoltaic plant services, receive current RFQs, or submit a bid on an RFQ are disclosed. In one embodiment, the market exchange provides a contract management system. In one embodiment, the market exchange is integrated with a plant asset management platform that is configured to evaluate various aspects of a photovoltaic plant ecosystem. 1. A market exchange system comprising:at least one memory component storing a software program;at least one database, wherein the database includes service provider information; wherein the processor is configured to execute the software program,', 'the software program comprising:', 'a first module operable to register service providers that provide services to a solar industry and entities requiring services related to the solar industry;', 'a second module operable to receive a request for quote (RFQ) from one of the entities requiring services and distributing the RFQ to at least a subset of the service providers., 'a processor coupled among the memory component and the database,'}2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the software program executed by the processor further comprises a third module operable to compare service provider criteria provided by the one of the entities to information provided by the service providers during registration to select the subset of the service providers to send the RFQ to.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the service provider criteria include certification by a certifying authority for solar industry-related services.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second module is further operable to receive a quote for the RFQ from one of the subset of the service providers and send the quote to the one of the entities.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the software program executed by the processor further comprises a fourth module operable to perform contract ...

UTILITY CONSUMPTION DISAGGREGATION USING LOW SAMPLE RATE SMART METERS

Utility meter readings generated at low sampling rates are disaggregated to identify consumer usage activities. Time intervals between readings can include a plurality of consumer usage activities. By employing a model which recognizes associations among consumer usage activities, effective disaggregation is possible using only aggregated consumption data and interval start times. Consumers and utility managers can design and assess conservation programs based on the disaggregated consumption usage activities. 1. A method comprising:obtaining an activity sequence model correlating utility consumption patterns with particular utility consumption activities;transmitting aggregated utility consumption data from a utility meter at time intervals;obtaining a sequence of the aggregated utility consumption data collected at the time intervals, anddisaggregating the sequence of aggregated utility consumption data into consumption activities using the activity sequence model.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the utility consumption patterns are based on fixture usage patterns claim 1 , household dependent patterns and time dependent patterns.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the activity sequence model comprises a hidden Markov model.4. The method of claim 2 , wherein the activity sequence model comprises a Gaussian mixture model.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of disaggregating the sequence comprises the steps of detecting anomalous events within the time intervals and detecting parallel consumption activities in the time intervals from the anomalous events.6. The method of claim 2 , wherein the time dependent patterns comprise utility consumption activities associated with each other.7. The method of claim 1 , further including generating utility meter readings comprising the utility consumption data at time intervals of fifteen minutes or more.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the step of disaggregating the sequence comprises the step of detecting parallel ...

METHODS, APPARATUS AND SYSTEMS FOR GENERATING SEARCHABLE ELECTRONIC RECORDS OF UNDERGROUND FACILITY MARKING OPERATIONS AND ASSESSING ASPECTS OF SAME

Assessing at least one aspect relating to a marking operation performed by a locate technician, based on an electronic representation of the marking operation. The marking operation comprises identifying, using at least one physical locate mark, a presence or an absence of at least one underground facility within a dig area, wherein at least a portion of the dig area may be excavated or disturbed during excavation activities. The physical locate mark(s) is/are digitally represented on a display device so as to generate an electronic visual representation of the marking operation. A length associated with at least a portion of the digitally represented physical locate mark(s) is determined and, based on the determined length, one or more aspects relating to the marking operation is/are automatically assessed. Exemplary aspects include a cost of the marking operation, a productivity of the locate technician, and/or a competence of the locate technician. 1. A method for assessing at least one aspect relating to a marking operation performed by a locate technician , the method based on an electronic representation of the marking operation , the method comprising: the at least one physical locate mark includes at least one of non-white paint and a non-white flag; and', 'the at least one physical locate mark is applied during the marking operation, the marking operation being performed after generation of and pursuant to a locate request ticket relating to a dig area that is planned to be excavated or disturbed during prospective excavation activities, the marking operation comprising, in response to the locate request ticket, providing at least one visible warning to an excavator performing the prospective excavation activities, using the at least one physical locate mark, of a presence or an affirmative absence of at least one underground facility at the dig area specified in the locate request ticket;, 'A) digitally representing, on a display device, at least one ...

SYSTEM, METHOD AND CONTROLLER FOR MANAGING AND CONTROLLING A MICRO-GRID

A system, method and controller for managing and controlling a micro-grid network. The system includes a plurality of energy resources including at least one dispatchable energy resource and at least one intermittent energy resource, wherein the at least one of the energy resources is an energy storage element and at least one of the intermittent energy resources is responsive to environmental conditions to generate power, a controller configured to record operational constraints of the energy resources, obtain an environmental condition prediction and generate a component control signal based on the environmental condition prediction and the operational constraints corresponding to the energy resources. The controller is further configured to receive a network disturbance signal and generate a dynamic control signal based on such disturbances. 1. A method of controlling a micro-grid network , wherein the network includes a plurality of distributed energy resources including at least one dispatchable energy resource and at least one intermittent energy resource , wherein at least one of the energy resources is an energy storage element and at least one of the intermittent energy resources is responsive to environmental conditions to generate power , the method comprising: 'obtaining an environmental condition prediction; and', 'recording at least one operational constraint corresponding to each energy resource;'}generating a component control signal for at least some of the energy resources, including the energy storage element, based on the environmental condition prediction and the operational constraints corresponding to the energy resource.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the environmental condition prediction relates to a time period and the component control signals are generated for the time period.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein obtaining the environmental condition prediction includes receiving at least one environmental condition variable and ...

NETWORK SYSTEM

A component in a network system includes an energy consumption component capable of communicating with a home area network and capable of consuming an energy generated from an energy generation unit of a utility area network, and the energy consumption component including at least one control unit to drive the energy consumption component; and a communication module to allow communication between the energy consumption component and an external component constituting the utility area network or the home area network, wherein the communication module is disposed on a path through which a power is supplied to the at least one control unit. 1. A component for a network system comprising:an energy consumption component capable of communicating with a home area network and capable of consuming an energy generated from an energy generation unit of a utility area network, and the energy consumption component including at least one control unit to drive the energy consumption component; anda communication module to allow communication between the energy consumption component and an external component constituting the utility area network or the home area network,wherein the communication module is disposed on a path through which a power is supplied to the at least one control unit.2. The component according to claim 1 , wherein the communication module is coupled to the control unit.3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. The component according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit includes a control panel claim 1 , and the control panel is equipped at a front part of the energy consumption component; and the communication module is disposed inside the control panel.6. (canceled)7. The component according to claim 2 , wherein the communication module is wire-connected or wirelessly-connected to the control unit.8. The component according to claim 1 , wherein the energy consumption component comprises;a case forming an external appearance;a door disposed at one side of the case and ...

NETWORK SYSTEM

Provided is a network system. The network system includes: at least one unit selected from an energy receiving unit receiving energy and an energy management unit managing the energy receiving unit. An energy usage amount or energy usage rate of the energy receiving unit is adjusted; an energy usage amount or usage rate when the unit is controlled based on information relating to at least an energy rate is less than that when the unit is controlled without the base of information relating to at least an energy rate; the energy receiving unit comprises a plurality of components; and an operation of one component among the plurality of components is controlled based on the energy rate related information. 1. A network system comprising:at least one unit selected from an energy receiving unit receiving energy and an energy management unit managing the energy receiving unit,whereinan energy usage amount or energy usage rate of the energy receiving unit is adjusted;an energy usage amount or usage rate when the unit is controlled based on information relating to an energy rate is less than that when the unit is controlled without the base of information relating to at least an energy rate;the energy receiving unit comprises a plurality of components; andan operation of one component among the plurality of components is controlled based on the information relating to an energy rate.2. The network system according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of components operate based on a specific priority.3. The network system according to claim 2 , wherein the information relating to an energy rate is high-price information claim 2 , an operation of at least one component having a low priority among the plurality of components is limited.4. The network system according to claim 3 , wherein the high-price information comprises one of recognitions of an on-peak time interval relating to the energy rate claim 3 , an energy reduction signal claim 3 , a under-frequency lower than a ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COLLECTING, ANALYZING, BILLING, AND REPORTING DATA FROM INTELLIGENT ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Systems and methods for collecting, analyzing, billing and reporting data from intelligent electronic devices are provided. The intelligent electronic devices include at least one sensor configured to measure at least one parameter of an electrical distribution system and output a signal indicative of the measured at least one parameter; at least one analog-to-digital converter configured to receive the output signals and convert the output signal to a digital signal; and at least one processing device configured to execute a plurality on instructions to implement a general purpose operating system for executing at least two applications, each application configured to implement a predetermined functionality based on the at least one parameter of the electrical distribution system, wherein each of the applications is independent of the other application. In one aspect, the intelligent electronic devices include a network discovery module configured to detect communication settings of a network. 1. An intelligent electronic device comprising:at least one sensor configured to measure at least one parameter of an electrical distribution system and output a signal indicative of the measured at least one parameter;at least one analog-to-digital converter configured to receive the output signals and convert the output signal to a digital signal; andat least one processing device configured to execute a plurality on instructions to implement a general purpose operating system for executing at least two applications, each application configured to implement a predetermined functionality based on the at least one parameter of the electrical distribution system, wherein each of the applications is independent of the other application.2. The intelligent electronic device as in claim 1 , further comprising a common data interface configured to provide measured data to each of the at least two applications.3. The intelligent electronic device as in claim 2 , wherein the common ...

ENERGY CONTROL METHOD FOR ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

An energy control method for an energy management system provides an operation plan for the energy management system for monitoring and controlling an energy charging and discharging state according to an energy storage type, since energy self-sufficiency at home is enabled through association between an energy storage system (ESS) such as an electric vehicle charging station and home as a renewable energy power supply in the form of a distributed energy resource (DER) is constructed at home. The energy control method adds functions of a home energy management system (HEMS) managing and controlling a renewable energy power supply, the ESS, and the electric vehicle charging station that may be constructed at home afterwards, thereby providing consumers with a control order of various facilities not considered before. Therefore, information on settlements caused by energy supply and demand procedures and energy trading details and management evaluation functions may be provided. 1. An energy control method of an energy management system , the energy control method comprising:determining availability of energy generation by a renewable energy based on data measured by an environmental sensor;obtaining real time rates provided by an electricity company when energy generation by the renewable energy is available;performing comparison with previous real time rates stored in the energy management system and analysis of the obtained real time rates;selecting whether to supply the renewable energy according to the analyzed real time rates;storing energy in an energy storage system (ESS) and an electric vehicle charging station when the real time rates are lower than electricity rates; andreceiving supply of energy from a grid when energy supply using the renewable energy is less than energy demanded by home.2. The energy control method of claim 1 , further comprising:selling surplus energy generated by the renewable energy through inverse transmission to the grid.3. The ...

RESOURCE MONITORING DEVICE

A resource monitoring system that includes at least one resource monitoring device. The resource monitoring device is integrated in, connected to and/or interconnected to at least one resource consuming device. A remote monitoring location can optionally be provided to receive information from one or more resource monitoring device and to provide information concerning and/or related to at least one resource consuming device. 116-. (canceled)17. A resource monitoring system that includes a resource monitoring device and a remote resource monitoring location , said resource monitoring device including a circuit that is a) integrated in a resource consuming device , said remote resource monitoring location in communication with said resource monitoring device and providing information to a user concerning a resource being consumed by said resource consuming device , said resource monitoring device including a transmitter that communicates with said remote resource monitoring location a) wirelessly , b) via a wire or cable connection , c) via the existing electrical wiring of a structure , or combinations thereof , said resource consuming device is a household device that includes one or more devices selected from the group consisting of an oven , a stove , a cooking hood , a warming drawer , a food mixer , a food steamer , a juicer , a deep fryer , a toaster , a toaster oven , a crock pot , a tea maker , a food slicer , a popcorn maker , a fondue pot , an ice cream maker , a bread maker , an electric grill , an electric skillet , a clothes iron , a clothes steamer , a towel warmer , a sauna , a shower steamer , a heating light , an electric can opener , a coffee grinder , a floor steamer , a floor cleaner , a washing machine , a dryer , an air conditioner , a microwave , a coffee maker , a dishwasher , a wine cooler , a refrigerator , a freezer , a cable receiver , a satellite receiver , a wireless router , a heater , a fan , a ceiling fan , a dehumidifier , an ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETECTING STATUSES OF ENERGY SOURCE CONSUMPTION DEVICES

Embodiments of the invention disclose a method and apparatus for detecting the statuses of energy source consumption devices, relate to the field of energy source auditing and are intended to improve the efficiency and accuracy of detecting the statuses of the energy source consumption devices. In an inventive solution, mapping relationships between status combinations of respective energy source consumption devices measured by an energy meter and total energy consumption values of the respective energy source consumption devices in the status combinations are generated and stored in advance, and when the statuses of the respective energy source consumption devices are detected, the mapping relationships are directly searched for in each of which the difference between the included total energy consumption value and a total energy consumption value measured by the energy meter is below a predetermined threshold, and the current statuses of the respective energy source consumption devices are determined in the status combination in one of the found mapping relationships. With the invention, the efficiency and accuracy of detecting the statuses of the energy source consumption devices can be improved significantly. 1. A method for detecting the statuses of energy source consumption devices , comprising:reading a total energy consumption value measured by an energy meter and a set of status combinations preset for the energy meter, wherein the set of status combinations include mapping relationships between status combinations and total energy consumption values, the status combinations in the respective mapping relationships include status information of respective energy source consumption devices measured by the energy meter, and the total energy consumption values in the respective mapping relationships are total energy consumption values of the respective energy source consumption devices pre-estimated in the corresponding status combinations;searching the set of ...

FACILITATING REVENUE GENERATION FROM WHOLESALE ELECTRICITY MARKETS USING AN ENINEERING-BASED ENERGY ASSET MODEL

The disclosure facilitates generation of energy-related revenue for an energy customer of an electricity supplier. The disclosure herein can be implemented to generate suggested operating schedules for energy assets that include a controllable energy asset, using an objective function. The objective function is determined based on a dynamic simulation model of the energy profile of the energy assets. The dynamic simulation model is adaptive to physical changes in the energy assets based at least in part on a physical model of the thermodynamic property of the at least one energy asset and at least in part on data representative of an operation characteristic of the controllable energy asset, a thermodynamic property of the energy assets, and/or a projected environmental condition. Energy-related revenue available to the energy customer is based at least in part on a wholesale electricity market or on a regulation market. 1. An apparatus for generating a day-ahead building asset model to determine operation parameters and/or operating schedules for at least one building asset , the apparatus comprising:at least one communication interface;at least one memory to store processor-executable instructions and a day-ahead building asset model; andat least one processing unit communicatively coupled to the at least one communication interface and the at least one memory, wherein, upon execution of the processor-executable instructions, the at least one processing unit:A) determines the operation parameters and/or operating schedules for at least one building asset using the day-ahead building asset model; wherein the day-ahead building asset model is an engineering-based model based at least in part on physical attributes of the building asset that relate to electricity use and/or electricity generation; and wherein the day-ahead building asset model is used to generate operation parameters and operating schedules for at least one building asset based at least in part on at ...

Fuel Dispensing Environment Utilizing Mobile Payment

A mobile payment system for effecting payment for a contemporaneous transaction comprises a payment terminal having a proximity reader configured to detect an identifier associated with a wireless communication device. A central server is in operative communication with the payment terminal and the wireless communication device. At least one database, accessible by the central server, contains an association between the identifier and the wireless communication device. The central server is further operative to send transaction information to the wireless communication device. 1. A mobile payment system for use in a fuel dispensing environment to effect payment for a contemporaneous transaction involving purchase of fuel , said system comprising:a payment terminal integrated into a fuel dispenser, said payment terminal having a proximity reader configured to detect an identifier associated with a wireless communication device;a central server in operative communication with said payment terminal and said wireless communication device;at least one database accessible by said central server, said database containing an association between said identifier and said wireless communication device; andsaid central server being further operative to send transaction information to said wireless communication device.2. A mobile payment system as set forth in claim 1 , wherein said transaction information sent by said central server to said wireless communication device includes real-time fueling information.3. A mobile payment system as set forth in claim 1 , wherein said central server further sends at least one coupon to said wireless communication device.4. A mobile payment system as set forth in claim 1 , wherein said central server further sends at least one promotional message to said wireless communication device.5. A mobile payment system as set forth in claim 1 , wherein said central server further sends an electronic receipt regarding the transaction to said ...

COMMUNITY ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Systems and methods for distributed control and energy management of one or more communities of energy-consuming units may include aggregation of consumption data from units, and determining per-unit electricity consumption based thereon, including consumption of backup power provided by a community during periods of time of poor quality (brownouts) or blackouts of a utility. A system may calculate and assess to respective units per-unit costs for such backup power. A system may also issue a command or alert to units to carry out one or both of community electricity usage objectives and electricity quotas required by the utility, which may be determined through execution of rules. 1. A method executable using at least one computer having at least one processor and memory located within a community energy management system (CEMS) , the method comprising:monitoring, using a sensor of the CEMS, electricity supplied to a community by monitoring a feeder line from a local utility, the community comprising a plurality of consuming units, the community being a subset of a power grid;detecting a reduction or loss in electricity supplied by the local utility during one or more time periods for which backup power will have to be provided;monitoring, using at least one sensor of the CEMS, electricity consumption at the plurality of units;determining, using the at least one processor, backup power consumed on a per-unit basis during the one or more time periods; andcalculating, using the at least one processor, costs to respective units based on per-unit consumption of the backup power during the one or more time periods.2. The method of claim 1 , where calculating the costs to respective units includes applying a cost-charging scheme comprising a percentage of consumption of the backup power in relation to total backup power consumed by the community claim 1 , the method further comprising:charging owners of respective units for the backup power according to the calculated ...

BROADCAST ENERGY DEMAND SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A decision support system for energy use demand management manages energy consumption and costs. A one way broadcast communications capability transmits energy management data to a population of energy consumers. A receiver-controller changes the energy consumption of an apparatus in response to receiving the energy management data. An energy consumption monitor determines energy consumption information related, at least in part, to the energy consumption of the apparatus, and provides energy consumption information through a feedback path that can be correlated with the energy management data. The receiver-controller changes the energy consumption of the apparatus in response to an analysis of the energy consumption information. 1. A system to manage energy consumption and costs , comprising:a receiver configured to obtain energy management data transmitted within a wideband digital subcarrier operating within the licensed frequency spectral mask of a terrestrial wireless VHF broadcasting station;a control module that is configured to change the energy consumption of one or more apparatus in response to receiving the energy management data; andan energy consumption monitor configured to determine energy consumption information related, at least in part, to the energy consumption of the apparatus, wherein the energy consumption monitor is further configured to provide energy consumption information;wherein the control module is further configured to change the energy consumption of the apparatus in response to an analysis of the energy consumption information.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the wideband digital subcarrier of licensed terrestrial wireless VHF broadcasting station has a data throughput of at least 12 kbits/second.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the energy management data is based at least in part on the analysis of the energy consumption information.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the control module is configured to perform the analysis of ...

COMPONENT FOR NETWORK SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SAME

Provided are a component for network system and a method of controlling the same. The method includes: inputting a driving factor of the component or the other component; and predicting result information when the component or the other component is driven based on the inputted driving factor. 1. A method of controlling a component for a network system , which communicates with another component , the method comprising:inputting a driving factor of the component or the other component; andpredicting result information when the component or the other component is driven based on the inputted driving factor.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the predicted result information comprises at least one of a predicted power usage amount claim 1 , a predicted energy usage rate claim 1 , a predicted driving performance claim 1 , and a predicted function performance completion.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the predicted result information comprises at least one of an operation start time and an operation end time.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein a memory unit of the component or the other component stores basic information for predicting result information when the component is driven based on the driving factor inputted through the input unit.5. The method according to claim 4 , wherein the basic information comprises power information relating to the inputted driving factor.6. The method according to claim 4 , wherein the driving factor comprises a driving course of the component or the other component.7. The method according to claim 6 , wherein the memory unit stores a predicted power usage amount corresponding to the driving course of the component or the other component.8. The method according to claim 4 , wherein the driving factor comprises at least one of whether to drive claim 4 , the number of driving claim 4 , a driving condition claim 4 , a driving time claim 4 , and a target value according to driving of at least one energy ...

NETWORK SYSTEM

A network system is provided. The network system includes: at least one component selected from an energy receiving unit receiving energy and an energy management unit managing the energy receiving unit. The energy receiving unit or the energy management unit receives energy rate related information; an energy usage amount or a usage rate of when the component is controlled on the basis of at least the energy rate related information is less than that of when the component is controlled without the basis of at least energy rate related information; if the energy rate related information is high cost information, a function of one component constituting the energy receiving unit is limited; and an operating time or an output of the energy receiving unit is adjusted in correspondence to the limited function of one component. 1. A network system comprising:one or more of an energy receiving component receiving energy and an energy management component controlling the energy demanding component; andwhereinthe energy receiving unit or the energy management unit receives information related to energy cost;an energy usage amount or a usage cost of when the component is controlled on the basis of at least information related to energy cost is less than that of when the component is controlled without the basis of at least information related to energy cost;wherein the network system further comprises:an energy storage unit for storing energy to be supplied to one of the energy receiving component and the energy management component.2. The network system of claim 1 , wherein the energy stored in the energy storage unit is used to drive one or more components constituting the energy receiving component when power supplied to the energy receiving component is restricted.3. The network system of claim 2 , further comprising an energy supply component supplying the energy to the energy receiving component claim 2 ,wherein the supplying energy of the energy supply component ...

METHOD FOR COMPUTER-AIDED CONTROL OF THE ELECTRICAL POWER CONSUMPTION OF A PLURALITY OF POWER CONSUMERS IN AN ELECTRICAL POWER GRID

In a method for controlling the electrical power consumption of a plurality of power consumers in an electrical power grid, the power consumers represent network nodes of a distributed communication network made of a plurality of network nodes, in which the power consumers communicate with each other. The network nodes estimate the total power consumption of the network nodes based on the exchange of information with one other network node. Each network node, the power demand of which increases by a required amount of power, compares the total power consumption estimated by same plus the required amount of power to a predefined total power demand of the network nodes and initiates a delivery of the required amount of power from a power provider if the estimated total power demand thereof plus the required amount of power is less than the predefined total power demand by a threshold value. 120-. (canceled)21. A method for computer-aided control of electrical power consumption of a plurality of power consumers in an electrical power grid , the power consumers representing network nodes of a distributed communication network made up of a plurality of network nodes , in which the power consumers communicating with each other , which method comprises the steps of:a) estimating, via the network nodes, a total power consumption of the plurality of network nodes on a basis of an exchange of information with at least one other of the network nodes; andb) each of the plurality of network nodes, a power demand of which increases by a required amount of power, comparing the total power demand estimated by the network node plus the required amount of power to a predefined total power demand of the plurality of network modes and initiates a procurement of the required amount of power from a power provider if the network node estimate of the total power consumption plus the required amount of power is less than the predefined total power demand by at least a predetermined ...

Method of Home Performance Evaluation, Improvement and Verification

A dynamic, fully-integrated computer-server-based platform (platform) provides users with tools for making informed decisions about available energy upgrades and for implementing desired home energy upgrades. In various embodiments, the platform provides various combinations of: (i) a variety of educational and assessment tools, including a Virtual Home Energy Audit (VHEA), which provides users with a customized home energy-savings plan detailing the financial and/or environmental impact of each upgrade alternative on a relative and absolute basis, (ii) product selection and purchase, (iii) access to arrangement and scheduling of in-home services through a network of professionals, (iv) financing solutions, and (v) a data registry that verifies completed upgrades and associated savings. The platform takes a holistic view of energy solutions, and provides tools across a broad spectrum of energy-related products and/or services. 1. A method comprising:a networked server receiving from a communication device a home-energy audit request associated with a home of a user, the server comprising a communication interface, a processor, and instructions executable by the processor; generating an energy-savings plan for the home based at least in part on data pertaining to the home, wherein the data pertaining to the home includes data from at least one of (i) information from a utility company and (ii) from a utility meter associated with the home, the energy-savings plan listing at least one energy-savings upgrade available for implementation with respect to the home and further listing, with respect to at least one listed upgrade, information related to at least one of (i) an environmental impact and (ii) a financial impact of making the respective upgrade; and', 'sending the generated energy-savings plan to the communication device;, 'responsive to receiving the home-energy audit request, the serverafter sending the generated energy-savings plan, the server receiving from ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD TO RECORD ENCRYPTED CONTENT WITH ACCESS CONDITIONS

A secure detachable utility monitoring device is disclosed, to be appended to a utility metering apparatus for controlling at least one utility usage consumption. A detachable metering monitoring device of at least one embodiment includes: a usage reading interface to acquire a utility consumption value metered by the utility meter; a first memory to store at least a unique identifier ID and a personal key, both pertaining to the device; a crypto processor to generate a cryptogram from information data comprising at least the utility consumption value, the cryptogram being encrypted with the personal key; a message generator to generate an information message including at least the cryptogram and the unique identifier ID; and a communication network interface including a sending unit to send the information message to a remote management center. 1. A detachable metering monitoring device , connectable with a utility meter , to control at least one utility consumption metered by the utility meter , the detachable metering monitoring device comprising:a usage reading interface to acquire a utility consumption value metered by said utility meter,a first secure memory to store at least a unique identifier ID and a personal key, both pertaining to said detachable metering monitoring device,a crypto processor to generate a cryptogram from information data comprising at least the utility consumption value, said cryptogram being encrypted with said personal key,a message generator to generate an information message including at least said cryptogram and the unique identifier ID, anda communication network interface including a sending unit to send said information message to a remote management center.2. The detachable metering monitoring device of claim 1 , wherein said information data further comprises a predefined complementary data.3. The detachable metering monitoring device of claim 1 , wherein said information data further comprises the unique identifier ID.4. The ...

CAMPUS ENERGY MANAGER

An energy management system serves an arbitrary collection of loads via interfacing with related field devices and external information sources and responding to events including pricing events, demand response events, and carbon reduction events by managing the loads and local generation. 1. A campus energy management method comprising the steps of:providing a campus electric power infrastructure including a campus electric power distribution system;providing an energy manager for managing electrical loads interconnected with the campus electric power infrastructure;providing field devices interfacing with campus loads and local generating resources;providing field devices sensing load related environmental variables;providing energy manager interface modules including bidirectional interface modules for translating field device data into a common format acceptable to the energy manager;an energy manager processor receiving information from field devices via the interface modules; and,the energy manager processor issuing commands to field devices via the interface modules.2. The campus energy management method of further comprising the steps of:making first and second energy consumption forecasts;making the first energy consumption forecast based on at least data from a baseline year and degree day data;making the second energy consumption forecast based on at least data from a baseline year and hourly profile data;comparing first and second energy consumption forecasts; and,utilizing the comparison to determine whether the second energy consumption forecast will be recalculated using an adjusted hourly profile.3. The campus energy management method of further comprising the steps of:determining from a plurality of operating modes a particular operating mode; evaluating a potential for building load reduction BLR,', 'if BLR>=RLR then issuing building load reduction command(s),', 'if RLR>BLR then determining if RLR>dispatchable local generation DLG, and', 'if RLR> ...

Continuous Optimization Energy Reduction Process in Commercial Buildings

The invention provides a method for optimizing energy usage in commercial buildings. Energy consumption data is used, along with occupant data, to determine appropriate adjustments in energy, and for ongoing monitoring and reporting of energy savings. According to the inventive method, the building of interest is characterized, including calculation of lag parameters—temperature lag, solar gain lag, solar strength lag, and, in some instances, humidity lag, which inform a thermal energy equation particular to the building of interest. Mechanical heating lag and mechanical cooling lag are used for on-going energy use optimization. An outside temperature index may also be used. The resulting accuracy of the thermal energy equation is over 90% for both heat and chilling input, once the building has been optimized according to the inventive method. 2. The method as in claim 1 , further including in said thermal energy equation a fourth variable claim 1 , where said fourth variable is humidity claim 1 , and where claim 1 , respecting said fourth variable claim 1 , said fourth variable claim 1 , lag is determined by carrying out a single linear regression analysis on the two variables—energy used (response variable) and external humidity (regressor) claim 1 , where the data window of up to four hours is examined in 15 minute intervals and the humidity window is stepped back in time claim 1 , and for each analysis claim 1 , a value of the Pearson coefficient of determination is derived claim 1 , and where the largest value of R-Sq represents the best lag where the energy use dependence is strongest when compared to past humidity values.3. The method as in further including improvement in the step of optimization of said building claim 2 , where said improvement comprises the additional sub steps of:calculating the lag associated with mechanical heating and mechanical cooling, and where, according to said thermal energy equation, the building management system may ...

POWER PROFILE MANAGEMENT

A power profile management method and system. The method includes retrieving by a computer processor input data associated with a user of power consumption devices at a specified location. The computer processor retrieves power consumption data comprising power consumption levels for the power consumption devices. The computer processor generates and transmits a mobile usage portfolio associated said user and the power consumption devices. The computer processor generates a load usage prediction report associated with the user and the power consumption devices. The load usage prediction report is generated based on the mobile usage portfolio and said power consumption data. The computer processor transmits the load usage prediction report to a power provider utility for analysis. 1. A power usage prediction method comprising:retrieving, by a computer processor of a mobile computing system, first input data associated with a first user of a first plurality of power consumption devices at a first specified location, wherein said first input data comprises location data indicating a current location of said first user, and wherein said current location differs from said first specified location;retrieving, by said computer processor, first power consumption data comprising a power consumption level for each power consumption device of said first plurality of power consumption devices;transmitting, by said computer processor to said first specified location, a first mobile usage portfolio associated said first user and said first plurality of power consumption devices;monitoring, by said computer processor, usage of electrical fixtures at said first specified location;determining, by said computer processor based on results of said monitoring, an electrical usage deviation value indicating that at least one electrical fixture of said electrical fixtures has not been used for a specified time period;generating, by said computer processor based on said first mobile usage ...

SYSTEM, METHOD AND COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR ENERGY CONSUMPTION MANAGEMENT

Energy demand in an entire community including multiple demanders is properly predicted and energy consumption thereof is properly controlled. Every day, some demanders are selected from the community and a request to adjust energy consumption for the following day is sent to the selected demanders. To decide a content of the request, energy demand for the following day is predicted. In this case, demanders which did not receive a request on past days are specified, and demand in the community for the following day is predicted based on the actual energy consumption by those demanders on the past days. 1. A system for managing energy consumption in a community including multiple demanders , comprisingat least one computer having a storage device which stores a computer program and a microprocessor which executes the computer program,wherein the computer program includes commands to carry out the following processing A), B), C) and D):A) predicting energy demand in the community at a specific time in the future;B) generating a consumption adjustment request for the specific time in the future, based on the prediction of energy demand at the specific time in the future;C) selecting one or more demanders which are a part of the community, as a destination demander for the specific time in the future; andD) sending the energy consumption adjustment request for the specific time in the future to the destination demander for the specific time in the future, andthe command to carry out the processing A) includes commands to carry out the following processing AA), AB) and AC):AA) specifying one or more demanders which are a part of the community other than a destination demander for a specific time in the past selected in the processing C) in the past, as a non-destination demander for the specific time in the past;AB) grasping actual energy consumption at the specific time in the past, by the non-destination demander for the specific time in the past; andAC) predicting the ...

SYSTEM FOR MANAGING VEHICLE ENERGY, AND METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SAME

The present invention relates to a method for managing vehicle energy, and particularly relates to a system for managing vehicle energy, and a method and apparatus for same, which can calculate the amount of electric power needed for operating a vehicle, can sell a surplus amount of electric power that is the current amount of battery power less the calculated amount of electric power, or adjust a number of received location information signals according to the current battery power. 136-. (canceled)37. A vehicle energy management system comprising:a vehicle management apparatus configured to calculate electric power required for vehicle operation, to transmit an electric power transaction request to a service apparatus, the electric power transaction request including information about surplus electric power that corresponds to current battery power minus the electric power required for vehicle operation, and if electric power transaction information is received from the service apparatus, to sell the surplus electric power according to the electric power transaction information; andthe service apparatus configured to monitor information about power rates and power demand, if the electric power transaction request is received from the vehicle management apparatus, to create the electric power transaction information for selling the surplus electric power on optimal condition in view of the information about power rates and power demand, and to transmit the electric power transaction information to the vehicle management apparatus,wherein the electric power required for vehicle operation is calculated on the basis of at least one of vehicle operation pattern and weather information.38. A vehicle energy management system comprising:a vehicle management apparatus configured to monitor a state of a vehicle, to create current battery power information by checking current battery power, and to provide the current battery power information to a terminal;the terminal ...

SATELLITE SIGNAL-BASED UTILITY GRID CONTROL

Satellite signal-based control and management of utility grids is provided. Satellite signal measurements at one or more remote receiver devices may be utilized, for example, to determine an actual or estimated amount of cloud disruption in a given area. The cloud disruption data may then be utilized, in some embodiments, to predict solar generation output and/or grid demand levels, and/or modify electrical grid settings to accommodate for such solar generation levels. 1. A method , comprising:receiving, by a central controller device and from a remote satellite signal receiver device, information descriptive of a signal strength of a satellite signal sent to the remote satellite signal receiver device;determining, by the central controller device and based on the information, an estimated magnitude of cloud disruption in an area associated with the remote satellite signal receiver device; andproviding, by the central controller device and based on the estimated magnitude of cloud disruption in the area associated with the remote satellite signal receiver device, an indication of an estimated amount of electrical grid power demand.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the indication of the estimated amount of electrical grid power demand comprises the estimated magnitude of cloud disruption in the area associated with the remote satellite signal receiver device.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:determining, by the central controller device and based on the estimated magnitude of cloud disruption in the area associated with the remote satellite signal receiver device, the estimated amount of electrical grid power demand.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the determining of the estimated amount of electrical grid power demand claim 3 , comprises:determining a capacity of available photovoltaic power in the area associated with the remote satellite signal receiver device;determining, based on the estimated magnitude of cloud disruption in the area associated ...

METHOD FOR LOCATING A LEAK IN A FLUID NETWORK

Methods and systems are described for providing cost effective leak detection in a fluid network. Step testing procedures are represented by decision trees and associated expected costs are calculated. Selection of step testing procedures is optimized for low expected cost. The total expected cost rate for a network configuration may be calculated from the rate of leak occurrence and the optimal expected costs associated therewith. Network configuration changes may be recommended by optimizing for total expected cost rate for a fluid network. 1. A computer implemented method for providing expected cost for locating a leak in a fluid network , the method comprising:{'sub': 'loc', 'for each leaf node of a decision tree of a step testing procedure, computing a probability probof a leak being located in an associated section of the fluid network;'}{'sub': 'loc', 'for each leaf node of the step testing procedure decision tree, computing a cost fof locating the leak in the associated section of the fluid network; and'}{'sub': loc', 'loc, 'calculating the sum of the products of proband ffor all leaf nodes of the step testing procedure, said sum being the expected cost of locating the leak in the fluid network.'}2. The method of wherein the step of determining the cost fof locating a leak in a section of the fluid network comprises at least one of:{'sub': 'valves', 'determining a valve configuration cost fdue to closing and reopening valves during the step testing procedure;'}{'sub': 'shut', 'determining a shutdown costs fdue to shutting down service during the step testing procedure;'}{'sub': 'loss', 'determining a loss cost fdue to expenses incurred as a result of the leak itself during the step testing procedure; and'}{'sub': 'inspect', 'determining an inspection cost fincurred by the inspection of the associated section of the fluid network.'}3. The method of wherein said probability probof a leak being located in an associated section of the fluid network is determined ...

RESOURCE COST OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM, METHOD, AND PROGRAM

Apparatus and method use a Markov decision process (MDP) to reduce the cost of variations in electric power usage. The user notifies a power company of a predicted value for a period. The period is divided into subsections. For each subsection, on the basis of a MDP including a state that depends on an electric power usage amount error, charge amount, and set target, the amount of charging and discharging of a storage battery as an action at any given time is optimally decided depending on the electric power usage amount error, charge amount, time, and set target at that time. A predetermined time in a subsection is a target setting time, at which a future target is further set as the action. The action includes deciding the charging and discharging amount in that subsection and deciding a future target in a subsection whose target should be set. 1. A computer implemented method for optimizing a cost of a resource under a cost structure , the method comprising:retaining a policy generated based on a Markov decision process and the cost structure, the policy indicating when to store the resource in a storage device and when to release the resource from the storage device;deciding an action of storing or releasing the resource based on the policy and a state of the Markov decision process, the state including a usage amount error, an amount of resource available in the storage device, a specification of a current section among a plurality of sections during which the policy applies, and a target value.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the resource comprises electric power claim 1 , and the storage device is a battery.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the cost structure comprises a piecewise linear function.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the target value is a target charge or discharge amount for a next section when the current section is a target section and the target value is null otherwise.5. The method according to claim 4 , ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR COMPETITIVE SOLICITATION AND BIDDING

A method and apparatus for providing secure, online centralized control over a solicitation and bidding process and more particularly the method and apparatus for the procurement of services and commodities, such as for example, procuring electricity to meet capacity for an electric generating plant, the method and apparatus providing screening and rejection of unqualified applicants, transparency exceeding governmental guidelines, options to aggregate offers among bidders that meet criteria, and facilitate automated, real time bid evaluation and ranking. 1. A procurement management system , comprising:an authentication interface accessible to one or more isolated data structures;application software and at least one database installed on a computer system having an internet connection accessible through the authentication interface; a configure solicitation module to set bid qualification parameters;', 'a pre-qualification bid form;', 'a map site interface;', 'a bid submission form;', 'a document management module;', 'an electronic messaging module; and, 'the application software comprising;'}wherein bid submission data entered within the procurement management system is automatically ranked based on at least one selected bid qualification parameter.2. The procurement management system of wherein the isolated data structure prevents cross storing of bid submission data.3. The procurement management system of wherein the configure solicitation module having auto-transposable data fields.4. The procurement management system of wherein the configure solicitation module having product specific proposal forms with range and threshold requirements for bid submission data entry.5. The procurement management system of wherein the pre-qualification bid form has restrictive data entry fields to prevent access to bidders that do not meet bid pre-qualification parameters.6. The procurement management system of wherein the map interface displays location information related to ...

Method for determining and/or controlling an operating time of a consumer coupled to a power station, in particular a photovoltaic power station, and to an energy storage device, and method for operating an energy storage device coupled to a power station

A device for determining an operating time of a consumer coupled to a power station and energy/storage device, having a first determining device to determine energy production from the station during a time, a second determining device to determine energy consumption of the consumer during a time, a third determining device to determine energy stored in the storage device for operating the consumer, and a prediction device to determine/display, considering the determined energy production, the determined stored energy, and the determined energy consumption, an operating time that the consumer is operatable by the energy from the station and by the stored energy, and/or having a control device to determine a consumer operating time and to adapt stored energy for operating the consumer, considering the determined energy production, the determined stored energy, and the determined energy consumption, the adaptation occurring so that the consumer is operatable for the operating time. 1. A device for determining and/or controlling an operating time of a consumer , which is coupled to a power station and to an energy storage device , comprising;a first determining device to determine an energy production quantity that was produced by the power station during a past time interval;a second determining device to determine the energy consumption of the consumer during a past time interval;a third determining device to determine the quantity of energy currently stored in the energy storage device and provided for an operation of the consumer; and a prediction device to determine and display, taking into account the determined energy production quantity, the determined quantity of stored energy, and the determined energy consumption of the consumer, an operating time in which the consumer can be operated using the quantity of energy produced by the power station and using the quantity of energy currently stored in the energy storage device; and', 'a control device to determine ...

Utility meter system

A system includes a utility head end and a utility meter. The utility meter is configured to communicatively couple to the utility head end. The utility meter includes a metrology processor and a head end communications module. The metrology processor is configured to read a measurement. The head end communications module is configured to communicate with the utility head end to transmit the measurement to the utility head end.

POWER DEMAND PLAN ADJUSTING DEVICE, POWER DEMAND PLAN ADJUSTING METHOD AND PROGRAM

The economical load distribution adjusting device acquires an optimal hydroelectric output, optimal demand, and optimal power price from the supply-demand planning device , acquires the planned hydroelectric output planned by the water level planning devices , and acquires a planned demand planned by the charge control devices . The economical load distribution adjusting device reduces the power price of the time at which the planned hydroelectric output exceeds the optimal output and makes the water level planning devices replan the hydroelectric output, and raises the power price of the time at which the planned demand exceeds the optimal demand and makes the charge control devices replan the amount of demand. 1. A device for adjusting a plan of demand for power to charge rechargeable batteries , communicatively connected to each of a supply-demand planning device and a demand planning device , the supply-demand planning device calculating an optimal value of demand for power per unit time as well as calculating an optimal value of power price per the unit time , and the demand planning device planning demand for power to charge the rechargeable batteries in accordance with the power price , the device comprising:an optimal supply-demand plan acquiring unit configured to acquire from the supply-demand planning device an optimal value of the demand for power and an optimal value of the power price per the unit time;an optimal demand acquiring unit configured to control the demand planning device to plan the amount of demand according to the optimal value of the acquired power price and acquire a planned value of the amount of demand from the demand planning device;a group determining unit configured to divide the rechargeable batteries into a plurality of groups;a demand plan statistical computing unit configured to compute a statistical value, for each of the groups, by statistically computing a plan value of the amount of demand of the rechargeable batteries; ...

DYNAMIC SOURCE BALANCING METHODS AND SYSTEMS

Dynamic source balancing methods and systems are provided. Power may be provided to a user from one or multiple energy sources. At any time point, the multiple energy sources may have different LMPs and power flow among the energy sources may be controlled such that a user's energy costs are reduced or minimized. Energy arbitrage may be realized for a user by taking into account of various factors related to the energy sources, the power grid, the power market, and/or the user. 1. A computer-implemented method of supplying power to a user from energy sources , comprising:receiving a set of inputs describing a set of energy sources, a power system, a power market, and the user;defining a cost function; anddetermining an amount of power supplied from each energy source of the set of energy sources according to the set of inputs and the cost function.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the set of inputs comprises a real-time locational marginal pricing (“LMP”) for each energy source of the set of energy sources claim 1 , a forecasted LMP for each energy source at a time point claim 1 , a load consumption history for each energy source claim 1 , a LMP price history for each energy source claim 1 , a real-time user's power consumption claim 1 , a forecasted user's power consumption at a time point claim 1 , a power consumption history for the user claim 1 , a user's power quality range claim 1 , or a set of constraints.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the set of constraints comprises a line capacity for each feeder of a set of feeders claim 2 , a ramp rate limit for each energy source claim 2 , a demand tariff for each energy source claim 2 , a peak demand for each energy source claim 2 , or a market rule claim 2 , wherein each feeder of the set of feeders is configured to be coupled to an energy source of the set of energy sources.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising controlling the power supplied to the user such that each energy source supplies the amount ...

METHOD FOR DETERMING AND USING A CLIMATE ENERGY INDEX

A system and method for determining at least one climate energy index, comprising: at least one server and/or at least one client coupled to at least one application, the at least one application capable of: identifying at least one geographic location; identifying at least one human comfort zone; performing at least one energy calculation for weather ordinates associated with the at least one geographic location and the at least one human comfort zone; summing the at least one energy calculation for at least one time period; combining all the energy calculations to produce at least one energy total for the at least one geographic location; and determining at least one first index value associated with delivered energy based on the at least one energy total for the at least one geographic location. 1identifying, using at least one application coupled to at least one computer, at least one geographic location;identifying, using the at least one application, at least one human comfort zone; andperforming, using the at least one application, at least one energy calculation for weather ordinates associated with the at least one geographic location and the at least one human comfort zone.. A computerized method for determining at least one climate energy index, comprising: This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application No. 12/770,232, filed Apr. 29, 2010, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 61/174,365 fled on Apr. 30, 2009 and U.S. Provisional Application 61/186,145 filed on Jun. 11, 2009. All of the foregoing are incorporated by reference in their entireties. In addition, the entire contents of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/461,557 are incorporated by reference.is a high-level block diagram of an integrated analysis and design environment, according to an embodiment.is a block diagram of the index comparison module, according to an embodiment.is a high-level flow diagram illustrating the use of the index comparison module, according to an ...

Optimized Load Management

For optimizing a chronological development of consumption of electric power by a group of different consumers with regard to a supply of electric power including electric power from at least one wind or solar power generator, characteristic time curves of the consumption of electric power are determined at a high temporal resolution. A prognosis is made of a chronological development of the supply of electric power from the at least one power generator for a future period of time, and a plan for apportioning electric power to the individual consumers within the future period of time is made based on the characteristic time curves of the consumption of electric power by the individual consumers, the prognosis, and user goal setting by a user of the consumers resulting in different weightings of consumption of electric power by different consumers and supply of electric power by different power sources. 1. A method of optimizing a chronological development of consumption of electric power by a group of different consumers with regard to a supply of electric power including electric power from at least one wind or solar power generator , comprising:measuring a consumption of electric power by the individual consumer at a sample rate of at least 0.1 Hz;determining characteristic time curves of the consumption of electric power by the individual consumers;making a prognosis of a chronological development of the supply of electric power from the at least one power generator for a future period of time;making a plan for apportioning electric power to the individual consumers within the future period of time based on the determined characteristic time curves of the consumption of electric power by the individual consumers and adapted to the prognosis; andapportioning electric power to the individual consumers according to the plan within the future period of time.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the consumption of electric power by the individual consumers is measured at ...

FACILITATING THE OWNERSHIP OF SOLAR-POWERED ELECTRICITY-GENERATING SYSTEMS

Methods of facilitating a party's purchase of an electricity-generating solar power system are disclosed. The methods may comprise entering into, by the lender, an agreement with the party whereby, in exchange for a payment amount paid by the lender to a seller of the solar power system, the lender owns and is to sell up to 100% of the electricity generated by the party's solar power system after installation for a contract time period defined by the agreement. The methods may also comprise paying, by the lender, the payment amount to the seller for the solar power system. The contract time period may extend, for example, until sales of the electricity by the lender after installation generate an aggregate payment amount that meets or exceeds a specified level. The contract time period or unit quantity might also be fixed. The lender may also receive environmental attributes from the party. 167-. (canceled)68. A system for financing an electricity-generating solar power system , the system comprising:a processor; [ determining a cumulative price of electricity generated by the solar power system;', 'comparing the cumulative price of electricity generated by the solar power system to an aggregate payment level; and, 'calculate a contract period, wherein the contract period is defined by an agreement between a property owner and a third party, whereby the third party owns and is to sell at least a portion of electricity generated by the solar power system during the contract time period, and wherein calculating the contract time period comprises, receiving from the solar power system an indication of an amount of electricity generated by the solar power system; and', 'applying a price per unit of electricity., 'when the contract period has not expired, pricing a portion of the electricity generated by the solar power system that is owned by the third party, wherein the pricing comprises], 'a storage device in communication with the processor and storing instructions ...

ENERGY SMART SYSTEM

Apparatus and method for managing energy of a home or other structure are disclosed. An energy management system for a home network comprises a central device controller configured to communicate with energy consuming devices, energy generation devices and storage devices at a home. Power/energy measuring devices provide consumption measurements for the home and each device to the controller. A user interface has a client application configured to provide information to a user/consumer and to an energy provider/utility about energy consumption, energy generation and storage. An energy profile and a carbon footprint of an individual's home are generated along with recommendations for energy savings and/or possible addition of on site generation or energy storage. 110-. (canceled)11. A method for an energy smart management system for providing advice and recommendations to an energy consumer regarding energy use in a home that has a controller with at least one processor , transceiver , and memory for storing data including executable instructions for the method comprising:upon retrieving home data about the home, storing the data in a home database;determining an energy profile and carbon footprint of the home based on the home data;compiling the home database into an aggregate home database having home data for multiple homes respectively;making a comparison with the home data of the home in relation to the multiple homes; andpresenting the comparison of the home in a web browser for the consumer.12. The method of wherein the energy profile has a carbon footprint scheme presented to provide a current carbon footprint of the home and a comparison to a carbon footprint of the multiple homes that are similar to the home to provide a recommendation to reduce the carbon footprint of the home that comprises at least one of a cost claim 11 , a benefit claim 11 , and an efficiency for upgrading the home for on-site energy generation and/or storage means.13. The method of ...

PAYMENT MODULE, PAYMENT METHOD, PROGRAM AND INFORMATION RECORDING MEDIUM

Provided is a payment module capable of making a payment with a total amount of money recharged for one or more electronic values. An IC chip () stores balances of the one or more electronic values and a utility electronic value exchangeable from each of the one or more electronic values. The IC chip () subtracts an amount of money that is equal to or more than a difference between a payment amount and the balance of the utility electronic value as a total from the balances of the one or more electronic values, and adds the subtracted amount of money to the balance of the utility electronic value. The IC chip () subtracts the payment amount from the balance of the utility electronic value after the addition. 1. A payment module , comprising:one or more balance change means for changing balances of one or more stored electronic values, respectively;storage means for storing a balance of a utility electronic value;reload amount acquisition means for acquiring a reload amount required for deducting a required amount, which is specified in balance change information input for the utility electronic value from an external, from the balance of the utility electronic value;balance change information generation means for generating, in order that a total amount of money deducted from the balances of the one or more stored electronic values equals the acquired reload amount, at least one piece of balance change information for decreasing a balance of at least one electronic value of the one or more stored electronic values, respectively; andpayment means for increasing, when in response to the generated at least one piece of balance change information the balance of the corresponding at least one electronic value is changed by corresponding at least one of the one or more balance change means, respectively, the balance of the utility electronic value by the reload amount and deducting the required amount from the balance of the utility electronic value in the storage means.2 ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND ENERGY DEMAND MANAGEMENT

Various of the disclosed embodiments contemplate a computer-implemented method of energy consumption and energy demand management in a building. In accordance with some embodiments, interval energy data of a specific building may be collected with a fixed time interval and paired with local historical weather data and other forms of operational data, as well as financial data including historical utility bills, utility rate structures and billing cycle dates. Paired energy interval data and the local historical weather data may be analyzed according to one or more analytic algorithms. 1. A computer-implemented method comprising:collecting energy interval data associated with a building at a time interval;collecting local historical weather data associated with the building;creating a statistical model for predicting energy use as a function of weather and operational inputs, the statistical model created based on the energy interval data and upon the local historical weather data;analyzing paired energy interval data and local historical weather data according to one or more analytic algorithms, using the model; andproviding one or more options to reduce energy bills of the building based on the analysis.2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising collecting additional operational data claim 1 , the additional operational data including at least one of occupancy claim 1 , building hours claim 1 , manufacturing output claim 1 , and economic activity claim 1 , and wherein the statistical model is created at least in part based on the additional operational data.3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising collecting energy financial data claim 1 , the energy financial data including at least one of a tariff claim 1 , historical bills claim 1 , and historical bill cycle information.4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein providing one or more options to reduce energy bills of the building comprises: ...

METHOD, SYSTEM AND APPARATUS FOR LOAD SHAVING OF A POWER GRID AND A TANGIBLE COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM

The present disclosure provides a system, method and apparatus for load shaving of a power grid, and a tangible computer readable medium. The system may comprise at least one processor; and at least one memory storing computer executable instructions. The at least one memory and computer executable instructions may be configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the system to profile behavior data for power customers to divide the power customers into at least one group; define, based on usage characteristic of each of the at least one group, a possible load shaving strategy for each of the at least one group; and perform load shaving analysis at least under constraint of the possible load shaving strategy for each of the at least one group, to provide a recommended load shaving strategy for each of the power customers. 1. A system for load shaving of a power grid , comprising:at least one memory storing computer executable instructions;at least one processor configured to be in communication with the memory; and profile behavior data for power customers by dividing the power customers into at least one group;', 'define, based on usage characteristic of each of the at least one group, a possible load shaving strategy for each of the at least one group; and', 'perform load shaving analysis for each of the at least one group based on the defined possible load shaving strategy, to provide a recommended load shaving strategy for each of the power customers., 'wherein the at least one processor executes the computer executable instructions, causing the system to2. The system of claim 1 , wherein executing the computer executable instructions causes the system to profile behavior data for the power customers by:analyzing the behavior data for the power customers to obtain customer load profiles and representative load curves; anddividing the power customers into at least one group based on the customer load profiles and the representative load curves.3. The ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRANSFERRING ELECTRICAL ENERGY BETWEEN VEHICLES

A central location may facilitate negotiation and exchange of electrical energy between motor vehicles that need to exchange electrical energy. The central location may identify vehicles to exchange electrical energy and may determine exchange terms. The central location may store member information from which it determines exchange terms. The central location may update the member information based on data reported from the exchange. The central location may also authorize transactions, which may comprise confirming identities of one or both vehicles, validating payment information, and/or the like. The vehicles may be members of an affinity group or common fleet. The central location may manage the affinity group or common fleet, such as by prequalifying vehicles to join the group, ensuring vehicles have sufficient energy to reach a destination, and/or the like. 1. A system for negotiating exchange of electrical energy between motor vehicles , the system comprising:a communication subsystem configured to receive a request for electrical energy from a first vehicle;a source identification subsystem configured to identify a second vehicle with excess electrical energy; anda negotiation subsystem configured to determine exchange terms for transferring electrical energy from the second vehicle to the first vehicle.295-. (canceled)96. The system of claim 1 , wherein the communication subsystem is further configured to receive a first post-exchange report from one of the first vehicle and the second vehicle.97. The system of claim 96 , further comprising an accounting subsystem configured to update member information in an information storage subsystem for at least one of the first and second vehicles based on the first post-exchange report.9899-. (canceled)100. The system of claim 97 , wherein the accounting subsystem is configured to update the member information by updating an indication of average transfer efficiency for at least one of the first and second vehicles ...

Semi-Tractor Trailer for Distribution of Natural Gas and System and Method for Use of Same

A semi-tractor trailer for distribution of natural gas and a system and method for use of the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a semi-tractor trailer supported fuel receptacle has a plurality of metered fuel dispensers along the sides thereof to permit customers to park along side the semi-tractor trailer and fuel their vehicles with clean natural gas, which may be compressed natural gas or liquid natural gas, for example. The semi-tractor trailer is filled at a central filling location and transported by a tractor to a convenient retail location. A volume monitor monitors the volume of clean natural gas in the in the semi-tractor trailer and transmits this information to the central filling location, which may dispense a replacement semi-tractor trailer upon the volume of clean natural gas reaching a pre-determined threshold and retrieve the spent semi-tractor trailer in one trip. 1. A semi-tractor trailer for distributing clean natural gas comprising:a plurality of wheels supporting an undercarriage of the semi-tractor trailer, the plurality of wheels configured to move the semi-tractor trailer between a location at which the clean natural gas is dispensed to vehicles and a fuel container refilling location;a fuel container disposed on the undercarriage, the fuel container configured to hold the clean natural gas;a volume monitor located within the fuel container, the volume monitor configured to monitor the volume of clean natural gas in the fuel container;a plurality of fuel metering and dispensing units coupled to the container for simultaneously dispensing metered quantities of clean natural gas to a plurality of vehicles;a plurality of point-of-sale transaction units associated with the plurality of fuel metering and dispensing units, the plurality of point-of-sale transaction units configured to accept credit cards to enable credit card clean natural gas purchasing transactions;a driver side digital display mounted to the driver-side of the fuel ...

CHARGING AND BILLING SYSTEM AND BILLING DEVICE

A charging and billing system, which can be installed in a space-saving manner and at low cost when installed in a parking lot where multiple electric vehicles park, is provided. The charging and billing system has: multiple charging devices that performed charging by supplying electricity; a vending machine, which is separate to the charging devices, and which performs billing according to the amount of electricity supplied during charging; and a transmission line that connects the charging devices to the vending machine so as to enable information to the transmitted. The vending machine has: a touch panel that displays on a fee on a screen according to the amount of electricity supplied during charging; a settlement unit for settling the fee according to the amount of electricity supplied during charging; a fee calculation unit that calculates the fee corresponding to the amount of electricity supplied by a charging device; and a charging initiation unit that causes the charging device to begin charging, by transmitting initiation information for causing the charging device to begin charging to the charging device via the transmission line. 1. An charging and billing system for performing billing according to an amount of electric power supplied upon charging , the system comprising:a plurality of charging devices each for performing charging by supplying electric power to a subject;a billing device provided separately from the charging devices; anda transmission path for connecting the plurality of charging devices and the billing device in a manner that allows transmission of information,wherein the billing device comprises:a charging initiator that makes the charging device to initiate charging the subject by transmitting initiation information for making the charging device to initiate charging to the charging device via the transmission path;a bill calculating unit for calculating bill corresponding to the amount of electric power to be supplied to the ...

Aggregation and Billing for Metering

A protocol to provide security, privacy and robustness in the context of distributed metering statistics is described herein. Blinded readings may be produced by a subset of meters. A service provider receives a subset of blinded readings and calculates to uncover their weighted sum. To achieve this, a de-blinding value may also be requested by the service provider from a set of aggregation authorities. The service provider may determine the aggregate statistics based at least in part on the blinded readings and the de-blinding values, while the privacy of individual readings is preserved

IN-CABLE CONTROL BOX MOUNTED ON ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING CABLE AND METHOD FOR CHARGING ELECTRIC VEHICLE USING THE SAME

An in-cable control box (ICCB) mounted on an electric vehicle (EV) charging cable, which performs conductive charging for an EV as connected to a power outlet and an inlet of the EV, includes at least one processor, a first communication module, a second communication module, and a memory storing instructions executed by the at least one processor. Also, the instructions are configured to cause the first communication module to collect information on an EV by communicating with an electric vehicle communication controller (EVCC) of the EV; and cause the second communication module to transmit the information on the EV to a supply equipment communication controller (SECC). As such, it is possible to charge the EV in an economical manner as compared to a standard defining conductive charging process. 1. An in-cable control box (ICCB) mounted on an electric vehicle (IN) charging cable , comprising at least one processor , a first communication module , a second communication module , and a memory storing instructions executed by the at least one processor , wherein the instructions are configured to:cause the first communication module to collect information on an EV by communicating with an electric vehicle communication controller (EVCC) of the EV; andcause the second communication module to transmit the information on the EV to a supply equipment communication controller (SECC).2. The ICCB according to claim 1 , further comprising a watt-hour meter for cumulatively measuring an amount of electric power charged into the EV3. The ICCB according to claim 1 , wherein the first communication module performs a power line communication (PLC).4. The ICCB according to claim 1 , wherein the second communication module performs a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) communication.5. The ICCB according to claim 3 , wherein the PLC conforms to a protocol according to an international standardization organization (ISO) 15118-3 or an ISO 12139.6. The ICCB according to claim 4 , wherein the ...

DETERMINING THE PERFORMANCE OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEM USING A PREDICTIVE MODEL

Disclosed herein are systems and methods for predicting an energy savings resulting from the replacement of existing equipment with new equipment. In the example embodiments, the energy saving prediction is utilized to create a customized warranty for an individual customer of an HVAC system or subcomponent thereof. Historical energy usage, historical climate data, old and new equipment parameters, and customer use data is input to a predictive modeling algorithm, which determines an energy savings prediction. Alternative models may be employed and a weighting factor applied to each to arrive at an improved energy savings prediction. The energy savings prediction is utilized to warranty to the customer an estimated dollar savings that will result from the installation of the new equipment. The warranty provides that, in the event the predicted energy savings is not realized, the customer is entitled to receive a dollar amount representing the shortfall in warranted energy savings. 1. A computer-implemented method for predicting an efficiency improvement in an environmental system wherein a first device is replaced by a second device , comprising:receiving, at a processor, first energy usage data corresponding to a first time period in which the first device is included in the environmental system;receiving, at a processor, a first efficiency rating corresponding to the first device;receiving, at a processor, a second efficiency rating corresponding to the second device;receiving, at a processor, climate data corresponding to the first time period; andapplying, by a processor, a predictive model to the first energy usage data, the first efficiency rating, the second efficiency rating, and the climate data to determine an efficiency improvement resulting from the replacement of the first device by the second device.2. The method in accordance with claim 1 , further comprising:receiving second energy usage data corresponding to a second time period in which the second ...

Unusual usage alerts

Techniques for unusual usage alerts without smart meter data are provided. The computing device can determine a set of climate control disaggregation coefficients and obtain weather data corresponding to at least a portion of a billing period. In turn, the computing device can determine first forecasted usage data for the at least a portion of the billing period based on the set of climate control disaggregation coefficients and the weather data, and determine second forecasted usage data for a length of the billing period based at least in part on the first forecasted usage data. In some aspects, the computing device can project unusual energy usage for the billing period based on the second forecasted usage data determined to be greater than usage data for a prior time period. The computing device can generate an alert notification including an indication of the unusual energy usage projection.

PRODUCT-DISTRIBUTION STATION OBSERVATION, REPORTING AND PROCESSING

A computer-readable medium on which are stored computer-executable executable instructions that, when executed in at least one electronic system coupled to a display device and a network, enable the at least one system to perform a method comprising at least the steps of determining the geo-location of the system, determining at least one on-sale retail product associated with the determined geo-location of the system, recording a data set indicating a current price of the determined on-sale retail product, and electronically transferring the data set and an indication of the determined geo-location over the network to a processing device. 1. A computer-readable medium on which are stored computer-executable instructions that , when executed in at least one electronic system coupled to a display device and a network , enable the at least one system to perform a method comprising at least the steps of:determining the geo-location of the system;determining at least one on-sale retail product associated with the determined geo-location of the system;recording a data set indicating a current price of the determined on-sale retail product; andelectronically transferring the data set and an indication of the determined geo-location over the network to a processing device.2. The medium of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises the step of generating at least one graphical user interface to the display device claim 1 , the at least one user interface being configured to present to a user of the system a listing of a plurality of retail product types claim 1 , wherein determining at least one on-sale retail product comprises receiving from the user of the system a selection from the listing.3. The medium of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises the step of electronically transferring an identifier of the determined on-sale retail product to the processing device.4. The medium of claim 1 , wherein the method further comprises the step of generating at least ...

COMBINED METHOD FOR DETECTING ANOMALIES IN A WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

A method for the detection of anomalies in a networked water distribution system is provided. It improves detection methods based on an iterative modification of control variables of the network, by determining a reduced set of entities of the water distribution network on which control variables should be iteratively modifier. The invention increases the computing costs, and the reliability of such methods of detecting anomalies in a water distribution system. 1. A method for detecting anomalies in a water distribution system composed of a network of nodes , said method comprising:parametrizing a hydraulic model of the water distribution system with a set of values of control variables comprising the network and its output at the nodes;using sensors on the network to acquire observations of a subset of state variables at first time references;identifying at least one target entity where to change the values of control variables based on at least said observations;changing the set of values of control variables using a stepwise adjustment of the control variables and a break criterion based on residue values of the state variables;performing a classification of at least one entity of the network in a state according to the set of control variables.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising identifying at least one control variable to change based on at least said observations.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein identifying at least one target entity where to change the values of control variables based on at least said observations comprises:using the hydraulic model to calculate predicted values of a set of state variables comprising at least a water velocity and pressure at the nodes, said predicted values being associated to second time references;computing residue values of the subset of the state variables as a difference between predicted values and observations at the second time references;performing a statistical analysis of residue values at an entity of ...

APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING DEVICE PARTICIPATION IN AN ENERGY MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

A mechanism for determining device participation in an energy management program is provided. The mechanism includes a network operations center (NOC) and a device accountability system. The (NOC) commands one or more energy control devices to change one or more states responsive to energy management program events, where the one or more energy control devices respond to the NOC to indicate changed one or more states. The device accountability system is coupled to the NOC, and intercepts commands/responses from/to the NOC, and creates a time-correlated model comprising program participation parameters for each of the one or more energy control devices, where the time-correlated model is based upon message characteristics for the commands/responses, device data for the one or more energy control devices, and NOC data corresponding to the energy management program events and operator intervention events. 1. A mechanism for determining device participation in an energy management program , comprising:a network operations center (NOC), that commands one or more energy control devices to change one or more states responsive to energy management program events, wherein said one or more energy control devices respond to said NOC to indicate changed one or more states; anda device accountability system, coupled to said NOC, that intercepts commands/responses from/to said NOC, and that creates a time-correlated model comprising program participation parameters for each of said one or more energy control devices, wherein said time-correlated model is based upon message characteristics for said commands/responses, communications network and transport layer operating characteristics, device data for said one or more energy control devices, and NOC data corresponding to said energy management program events and operator intervention events.2. The mechanism as recited in claim 1 , wherein said device accountability system generates one or more reports indicating said program ...

COMPUTERIZED METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING DATA RELATED TO ESTABLISHMENT OF ENERGY SOURCES

A computer system for processing data relating to establishment of energy supply sources includes data storage devices storing data for potential customers of an energy supply source and one or more potential providers of an energy supply source, and one or more computer processors configured to access the data indicative of the one or more potential customers of an energy supply source; determine, based on the data indicative of the potential customers of an energy supply source, whether a trigger condition for establishment of an energy supply source by the one or more potential providers has been met; and, responsive to determining that the trigger condition has been met, provide an outgoing communication via a computer network to systems of the customers and the one or more potential providers that the trigger condition has been met. 1. A computer system for processing data relating to establishment of energy supply sources , comprising:one or more data storage devices storing data indicative of a plurality of potential customers of an energy supply source of at least one type and one or more potential providers of an energy supply source of the at least one type;one or more computer processors configured to access the one or more data storage devices; and access the data indicative of the plurality of potential customers of an energy supply source;', 'determine, based on the data indicative of the plurality of potential customers of an energy supply source, whether a trigger condition for establishment of an energy supply source by the one or more potential providers has been met; and', 'responsive to determining that the trigger condition has been met, provide an outgoing communication via a computer network to systems of the plurality of potential customers and systems of the one or more potential providers that the trigger condition has been met., 'one or more memory devices storing computer-readable program instructions, which instructions, when executed by ...

System, method, and apparatus for settlement for participation in an electric power grid

Systems, methods, and apparatus embodiments for electric power grid and network registration and management of physical and financial settlement for participation of active grid elements in supply and/or curtailment of power, wherein Internet Protocol (IP)-based messages including IP packets are generated by transforming raw data content into settlement grade content. Settlement is provided for grid elements that participate in the electric power grid following initial registration of each grid element with the system, preferably through network-based communication between the grid elements and a coordinator, either in coordination with or outside of an IP-based communications network router. Messaging related to settlement is managed through a network by a Coordinator using IP messaging for communication with the grid elements, with the energy management system (EMS), and with the utilities, market participants, and/or grid operators. 1. A method for market-based financial settlement of transactions within an electric power grid comprising:a settlement processor for market-based financial transactions, and a legacy settlement processor, each comprising a server and/or a processor operatively coupled with a memory, and a database constructed and configured for electrical connection and internet protocol (IP)-based communication via a network with at least one coordinator;each of the at least one coordinator communicating IP-based network messages to the settlement processor from at least one active grid element that is registered to participate within the electric power grid, wherein the IP-based network messages include revenue grade metrology for the at least one active grid element;the settlement processor generating information for the market-based financial settlement for each of the at least on active grid element using the revenue grade metrology for the at least one active grid element;transmitting a settlement message via IP-based messaging to the legacy ...

Method for Wireless Charging Authentication and Related Wireless Charging System

A method of wireless charging authentication for a wireless charging device includes receiving an authentication information from an electronic device for authentication of charging; determining whether the authentication succeeds or not according to the authentication information; and supplying wireless power to the electronic device for charging if the authentication succeeds or stopping to supply wireless power to the electronic device if the authentication fails. 1. A method of wireless charging authentication for a wireless charging device , comprising:receiving an authentication information from an electronic device for authentication of charging;determining whether the authentication succeeds or not according to the authentication information; andsupplying wireless power to the electronic device for charging if the authentication succeeds or stopping to supply wireless power to the electronic device if the authentication fails.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:sending a first response to the electronic device to indicate whether the authentication is needed in response to a query received from the electronic device.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of determining whether the authentication succeeds or not according to the authentication information comprises:determining that the authentication fails if the wireless charging device does not receive the authentication information for a predefined duration.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:sending a second response to the electronic device to indicate whether the authentication succeeds or fails.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the wireless charging device starts supplying wireless power or keeps on supplying wireless power if the authentication succeeds.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the wireless charging device stops supplying wireless power or releases a warning signal if the authentication fails.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the wireless charging device receives ...

TIME AND EXPENSE TRACKING SYSTEM

A computer-implemented method and system that operates on a server includes a time and expense management interface for obtaining crew specific information for crews maintaining a utility distribution system. The server is coupled to a wireless communication infrastructure for receiving crew specific information. A portable electronic device receives a selection of a crew with members. The portable electronic device receives the identifier of the at least one or more members of the crew. Once verified, the portable device receives time entries and expense entries, for the at least one or more members of the crew. Business rules are applied to the time entries and expense entries. Once the business rules are satisfied, the time entries and expense entries are stored on the portable electronic device. When the portable electronic device is in proximity to the wireless communication infrastructure, the crew specific information is transmitted to server. 1. A computer-implemented method for time and expense management , the method comprising:operating on a server, a time and expense management interface for obtaining crew specific information for a plurality of crews maintaining a utility distribution system, wherein the crew specific information includes an identifier of at least one or more members of a crew in the plurality of crews and at least one or more of time entries and expense entries, the identifier is one of i) biometric data and ii) a personal identifier of the at least one or more members of the crew and wherein the server is coupled to a wireless communication infrastructure for receiving the crew specific information;receiving, by a portable electronic device, a selection of a crew with the at least one or more members, wherein the portable electronic device includes at least one transmitter for transmitting collected data to the server over the wireless communication infrastructure;receiving, by the portable electronic device, the identifier of the at ...

Operating smart utility meters using distributed ledgers

A distributed ledger based utility system architecture may be configured to enable secure payments, data transmission, and meter configuration of smart sensors. The utility system architecture may be a tiered architecture including multiple nodes at different levels of the architecture where each level may contain a different portion of the distributed ledger. As information is added to the distributed ledger, each portion of the distributed ledger may be updated based on whether the information is relevant to that node. The information may include rate contract transactions, meter configuration data transactions, payment transactions, or the like. 1. A method implemented by a broker node , the method comprising:receiving a transmission from a master node;determining that the transmission indicates an update to a distributed ledger associated with the broker node, the update to the distributed ledger including an activity instruction;based at least in part on receiving the transmission, updating the distributed ledger that is local to the broker node;sending, to a smart utility meter, a transmission indicating an update to the distributed ledger that is local to the broker node.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the activity instruction comprises a rate contract having an address representing a location in the distributed ledger claim 1 , at least one payee claim 1 , and at least one payer.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the rate contract specifies a bill rate based on at least one of:a time of day;a forward consumption of a resource;a reverse consumption of a resource;a peak demand;a power factor;a class of customer; ora type of payee.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the activity instruction includes meter configuration data configured to cause the smart utility meter to perform at least one of:updating software on the smart utility meter;setting a channel hopping sequence;setting a data rate used by the smart utility meter;changing metrology channels ...

Battery Control Apparatus

A battery control apparatus includes a reduced electricity cost analysis unit that obtains a discharge electric power cost at a discharge time and a charge electric power cost at a charge time of a battery, based on a basic cost and a unit cost of an electricity bill, and obtains a reduced electricity cost in which the charge electric power cost is subtracted from the discharge electric power cost for every discharge depth of the battery; an introduction cost analysis unit that calculates an introduction cost of the battery for every discharge depth of the battery; and a charge and discharge depth optimization unit that obtains a difference of the reduced electricity cost and the introduction cost for every discharge depth of the battery, and determines a charge and discharge depth of the battery based. on the difference. The discharge of the battery is performed at the determined charge and discharge depth. 1. A battery control apparatus comprising:a reduced electricity cost analysis unit that obtains a discharge electric power cost at a discharge time and a charge electric power cost at a charge time of a battery, based on a basic cost and a unit cost of an electricity bill, and obtains a reduced electricity cost in which the charge electric power cost is subtracted from the discharge electric power cost for every discharge depth of the battery;an introduction cost analysis unit that calculates an introduction cost of the battery for every discharge depth of the battery; anda charge and discharge depth optimization unit that obtains a difference of the reduced electricity cost and the introduction cost for every discharge depth of the battery, and determines a charge and discharge depth of the battery based on the difference,wherein the discharge of the battery is performed in the determined charge and discharge depth.2. The battery control apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein the difference is a value obtained by subtracting the introduction cost from the ...

POWER IDENTIFICATION DEVICE, POWER IDENTIFICATION METHOD, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM STORING POWER IDENTIFICATION PROGRAM

A power identification device at least includes a measurement information acquisition unit for acquiring the amount of power generation by a power producer and the amount of power consumption by a consumer respectively as measurement information, a rule management unit for managing a generation rule for generating attribute information, a distribution rule and a loss rule for distributing the attribute information to the consumer, the attribute information containing a primary attribute related to each of the amount of power generation and the amount of power consumption and an additive attribute related to the amount of power generation, an attribute computation unit for generating the attribute information from the measurement information based on the generation rule and distributing the attribute information from the power producer to the consumer based on the distribution rule and the loss rule, and an attribute output (visualization) unit for outputting the attribute information to the outside. 1. A power identification device that identifies performance of power supply from a power producer to a consumer , at least comprising:at least one memory storing instructions, andat least one processor configured to execute the instructions to;acquire an amount of power generation by the power producer and an amount of power consumption by the consumer from a power generation unit and a consumption unit, respectively, as measurement information at predetermined intervals;manage a generation rule for generating attribute information, a distribution rule for distributing the attribute information to the consumer through a transmission line in accordance with the consumer's preference, and a loss rule for specifying a loss on the transmission line, the attribute information containing a primary attribute related to each of the amount of power generation and the amount of power consumption and an additive attribute related to the amount of power generation;generate the ...

Electric Radiator Using Calculating Processors as a Heat Source

This invention includes a device which produces heat from calculating processors which may support a distributed trust protocol. The invention also includes business models which use the claimed device to provide heat, electronics, or processing power in various ways. 1. An electric radiator comprising:A) An onboard controller that can respond to a signal that heat is needed and independently control processors to support certain distributed trust protocols, such as certain blockchain protocols, for network security and/or profit.B) A heat source formed by at least one processing circuit whereon at least one computing processor is provided, matched to the needs of the embodiment.C) A heating body meeting the needs of the embodiment.D) An electric power supply capable ofE) A communication interface enabling the device to contact an external computer network2. A business method wherein the device in may be employed to provide no- or reduced-cost heat.3. A business method wherein the device in may be employed to provide full claim 1 , no- or reduced-cost devices claim 1 , equipment claim 1 , and other associated costs.4. A business method wherein the device in may utilize recycled claim 1 , reused claim 1 , or repurposed electronic components.5. A business method wherein the device in may be employed to provide an individual claim 1 , group claim 1 , or corporation with control over processing power. This disclosure relates to the field of electric heating. More specifically, it relates to electric heating generated by processors providing hash power to distributed trust protocols for data security and/or profit. This function is also known as verifying activity/transactions on a distributed trust protocol, such as a blockchain protocol. This process, when for profit, is commonly referred to as “cryptocurrency mining”.One method to heat buildings is known as electrical heating. Electrical heating generally uses electric radiators located in different rooms, each ...

Wind-solar-gas complementary and coupled power generation system and method

The present invention relates to a wind-solar-gas complementary and coupled power generation system and method. A complementary and coupled power generation control platform, a wind or solar power generation device, and a gas power generation device of the wind-solar-gas complementary and coupled power generation system are connected to one another through a power line. The complementary and coupled power generation control platform performs complementary coupling on the power generated by the wind or solar power generation device and the gas power generation device, and transmits the power generated by the wind or solar power generation device and the gas power generation device to a regional power grid. The wind or solar power generation device comprises at least one of a wind power generation device and a solar power generation device. 1. A wind-solar-gas complementary and coupled power generation system , comprising: a complementary and coupled power generation control platform , a wind or solar power generation device , and a gas power generation device , wherein the complementary and coupled power generation control platform , the wind or solar power generation device , and the gas power generation device are connected to one another through a power line , the complementary and coupled power generation control platform performs complementary coupling on the power generated by the wind or solar power generation device and the gas power generation device , and transmits the power generated by the wind or solar power generation device and the gas power generation device to a regional power grid , and the wind or solar power generation device comprises at least one of a wind power generation device or a solar power generation device.2. The wind-solar-gas complementary and coupled power generation system according to claim 1 , wherein the gas power generation device comprises at least one of a gas turbine generator claim 1 , a gas internal combustion engine ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OPTIMIZING SELF-POWER CONSUMPTION OF AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE

A device and method are disclosed for optimizing self-power consumption. The device may sense one or more operating conditions of the device. The device may further select one or more operating parameters associated with at least one of the one or more operating conditions. The device may also estimate a power consumption associated with executing an algorithm to generate at least one updated value for at least one of the one or more operating parameters as well as estimate a power savings associated with operating using the updated value. The device may compare the estimated power consumption to the estimated power savings and determine whether to execute the algorithm based on the comparing. 1. A method of reducing self-power consumption of an electronic device , the method comprising:selecting an operating parameter of the electronic device to update;estimating a first estimated power consumed by the electronic device when executing a first algorithm, wherein the first algorithm generates a first updated value for the selected operating parameter;estimating a second estimated power consumed by the electronic device when executing a second algorithm, wherein the second algorithm generates a second updated value for the selected operating parameter;estimating a first estimated power saved resulting from operating the electronic device using the first updated value;estimating a second estimated power saved resulting from operating the electronic device using the second updated value;calculating a first power difference and a second power difference, wherein the first power difference is a difference between the first estimated power saved and the first estimated power consumed, and wherein the second power difference is a difference between the second estimated power saved and the second estimated power consumed;selecting the first algorithm on a condition that the first power difference is greater than the second power difference and selecting the second algorithm ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD OF COMPILING AND ORGANIZING POWER CONSUMPTION DATA AND CONVERTING SUCH DATA INTO ONE OR MORE USER ACTIONABLE FORMATS

A method and system for use in creating a profile of, managing and understanding power consumption in a premise of a user, wherein said premise comprises two or more power consuming devices comprises measuring, via at least one sensor, aggregate energy consumption at the premise, receiving at a mobile computing device comprising a data processor, said aggregated signal from the sensor, collecting and recording the aggregate signal over a plurality of time resolutions and frequencies, therein to create a predicted aggregate signal for each time x and frequency y, detecting changes in the predicted aggregate signal at time x an frequency y (detected consumption pattern changes) and conveying to at least one of the user, a utility company, and other third party a notification of detected consumption pattern changes. 130-. (canceled)31. A system for use in creating a profile of , managing and understanding power consumption in a home of a user , wherein said home comprises two or more power consuming devices which system comprises:a) at least one sensor configured to measure aggregate energy consumption at the home;b) a mobile computing device comprising a data processor;c) computer readable memory including computer readable instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the following steps: i) receive said aggregated signal from the sensor; ii) collect and record the aggregate signal over a plurality of time resolutions and frequencies, iii) create a predicted aggregate signal pattern for each time x and frequency y; vi) to detect changes in the predicted aggregate signal pattern at time x an frequency y (detected consumption pattern changes); andd) a communication interface operably connected to the mobile computing device and configured for conveying to a user notification of detected consumption pattern changes.32. A system for use in creating a profile of , managing and understanding power consumption in a home , wherein said ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAIN DISTRIBUTION NETWORK GRAPH/MODEL/DATA INTEGRATION BASED ON REMOTE ACCESS AND INFORMATION INTERACTION

The present invention discloses a system and a method for main distribution network graph/model/data integration based on remote access and information interaction. The system integrates graph information, model information, and real-time data of a main power transmission and transformation system into an application system by using processing methods such as remote access, SVG graphic file import, CIM model file import, an event service mechanism, and a message mechanism, to minimize mutual information dependence when the application system imports the model information, the graph information, and the real-time data in the main network power transmission and transformation system. 1. A system for main distribution network graph/model/data integration based on remote access and information interaction , comprising an application system , wherein the application system comprises a data center , a database , a main network power transmission and transformation system graph import unit , a main network power transmission and transformation system model import unit , and a main network power transmission and transformation system real-time data import unit , wherein:the data center comprises a functional module, an interface server, and a hardware server for implementing main network graph/model/data integration in the application system; the data center centralizes graph/model/data information of a main network power transmission and transformation system into the data center by using the main network power transmission and transformation system graph import unit, the main network power transmission and transformation system model import unit, and the main network power transmission and transformation system real-time data import unit, and the graph/model/data information is processed by the data center and then updated into the database of the application system;for a main network power transmission and transformation system that supports the remote access, the main ...

WATER UTILITY METER WITH SMART RECONNECT FUNCTION

A water utility meter arranged to register the volume of water delivered to a consumption site through a distribution network and connect or disconnect the consumption site from the utility distribution network is disclosed. The water utility meter comprises: a flow sensor arranged to measure a flow rate and/or a volume of water delivered to the consumption site; a valve for connecting and disconnecting the consumption site from the distribution network; an actuator for opening and closing the valve; and a controller unit arranged to control the actuator. The controller unit is configured to connect the consumption site to the distribution network by operating the actuator to open the valve. After opening the valve the controller unit analyses flow rate and/or volume measurements from the flow sensor to determine if a reference profile is violated. If the reference profile is violated the controller unit will disconnect the consumption site from the distribution network by closing the valve. 1. A water utility meter arranged to register a volume of water delivered to a consumption site through a distribution network , the water utility meter comprising:a flow sensor arranged to measure a flow rate and/or a volume of water delivered to the consumption site;a valve for connecting and disconnecting the consumption site from the distribution network;an actuator for opening and closing the valve; and connect the consumption site to the distribution network by operating the actuator to open the valve,', 'analyze flow rate and/or volume measurements from the flow sensor to determine if a reference profile is violated, and', 'if the reference profile is violated disconnect the consumption site from the distribution network by closing the valve., 'a controller arranged to control the actuator, the controller further being configured to2. A water utility meter according to claim 1 , wherein the water utility meter further comprises a communication interface and the water ...

SYSTEMS, DEVICES, AND METHODS FOR ENERGY ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT

A method for tracking a quantity of a utility supplied to a device connected to a utility supply associated with a first account of the utility is disclosed. The method may include determining if the device is associated with a second account, and associating the quantity of the utility consumed by the device to the second account if the device is associated with the second account. 1. A method for tracking a quantity of a utility supplied to a device connected to a utility supply associated with a first account of the utility , comprising:determining if the device is associated with a second account; andassociating the quantity of the utility consumed by the device to the second account if the device is associated with the second account.2. The method of claim 1 , further including sending data representing the quantity of the utility consumed from the utility supply and associated with both the first and second accounts to a utility provider.3. The method of claim 1 , further including transferring funds from a holder of the second account to a holder of the first account if the device is associated with the second account.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein:the utility supply is controlled by a first account holder;utility consumed through the power supply is associated with the first account by default; andthe device is controlled by a second account holder.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the device is an electric-powered vehicle and the utility is electrical energy.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein determining if the quantity of the utility consumed by the device is associated with the second account further includes receiving information about at least one of the device claim 1 , the second account claim 1 , or a user of the device.7. The method of claim 6 , further including receiving information about the device claim 6 , the second account claim 6 , or the user of the device transmitted by a manual input.8. The method of claim 6 , further including ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DESIGNING AN ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION NETWORK

A system and method for designing an electricity distribution network in a geographic area includes receiving design inputs that include data indicative of locations of one or more substations a location of at least one zone substation, how much power is required by the substations, a supply capacity of the zone substation, and data indicative of a maximum allowed number of outgoing feeders that can be supported by the zone substation; receiving or accessing architecture rules dictating minimum requirements of the electricity distribution network; electronically generating design outputs by determining a plurality of paths using the design inputs, the architecture rules and a linear optimisation function subject to linear and integer constraints, such that a total length of the paths is minimized, wherein the design outputs include the plurality of paths; and electronically outputting the design outputs. 128.-. (canceled)29. A computer-implemented method of designing an electricity distribution network for a geographic area , the method comprising:electronically receiving design inputs comprising data indicative of locations of one or more substations for serving electricity to the geographic area, data indicative of a location of at least one zone substation for serving electricity to the substations, data indicative of how much power is required by the substations, data indicative of a supply capacity of the zone substation, data indicative of a maximum allowed number of outgoing feeders that can be supported by the zone substation, and street network inputs specifying where cables may be laid or strung;electronically receiving or accessing architecture rules dictating minimum requirements of the electricity distribution network;electronically generating design outputs by determining a plurality of paths for laying or stringing cables to implement the electricity distribution network, at least one of the paths being between the zone substation and one or more of ...

BID-PRICE DETERMINATION APPARATUS, BID-PRICE DETERMINATION METHOD, AND NON-TRANSITORY COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM

A bid-price determination apparatus includes an acquirer, an extractor, a predictor, a determiner, and an output device. The acquirer acquires a price history of a product before a current time in an electric power continuous session. The extractor extracts, from the acquired price history, a first feature quantity which is a feature quantity of the price history of the product. The predictor predicts, based on the extracted first feature quantity, a second feature quantity which is a feature quantity of price changes of the product after the current time. The determiner determines, based on the predicted second feature quantity, a transaction standard value which is a standard for a transaction of the product after the current time. The output device outputs the determined transaction standard value. 1. A bid-price determination apparatus comprising:an acquirer configured to acquire a price history of a product before a current time in an electric power continuous session;an extractor configured to extract, from the acquired price history, a first feature quantity which is a feature quantity of the price history of the product;a predictor configured to predict, based on the extracted first feature quantity, a second feature quantity which is a feature quantity of price changes of the product after the current time;a determiner configured to determine, based on the predicted second feature quantity, a transaction standard value which is a standard for a transaction of the product after the current time; andan output device configured to output the determined transaction standard value.2. The bid-price determination apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the extractor extracts claim 1 , as the first feature quantity claim 1 , an opening price claim 1 , the highest price claim 1 , the lowest price claim 1 , and a closing price in a predetermined period in the price history of the product.3. The bid-price determination apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the ...

ENERGY PERFORMANCE EVALUATION METHOD AND DEVICE

A method to evaluate energy performance of a second lighting system in a building. Training-data of a first lighting system in the building is obtained () and used to train () an energy-use prediction model for the first lighting system from the training-data. Use-data of the second lighting system is obtained () in the building. Energy-use prediction-data is computed () by evaluating the energy-use prediction model for use-data and compared to energy-use use-data. 1. A method to estimate energy performance of a second lighting system in a building compared to a first lighting system in the building , the method comprising:obtaining training-data of the first lighting system in the building, the training-data being obtained from using the first lighting system in the building over a training period, the training-data comprising:energy-use training-data indicating the energy-use of the first lighting system, andat least one of: occupancy training-data obtained from occupancy sensors in the building, the occupancy training-data at least indicating the presence or absence of a user at multiple locations in the building, and daylight level training-data obtained from light sensors in the building, the daylight level training-data indicating an amount of incident daylight at multiple locations in the building, andtraining an energy-use prediction model for the first lighting system from the training-data,obtaining use-data of the second lighting system in the building, the use-data being obtained from using the second lighting system in the building over a use period, the use period being after the training period, the use-data comprising:energy-use use-data indicating the energy-use of the second lighting system, andat least one of: occupancy use-data obtained from occupancy sensors in the building, the occupancy use-data at least indicating the presence or absence of a user at the multiple locations in the building, and daylight level use-data obtained from light ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONSTRUCTING MOBILE ELECTRIC ENERGY INTERCONNECTION, DATA TESTING METHOD AND DEVICE

Provided is a system for constructing mobile electric energy interconnection. The system includes at least one mobile electric energy exchange device, a mobile electric energy interconnection management platform and at least one stationary electric energy interconnection device. The mobile electric energy interconnection management platform is configured to match the at least one mobile electric energy exchange device with the at least one stationary electric energy interconnection device, and push a matching result to the at least one mobile electric energy exchange device and the at least one stationary electric energy interconnection device. Also provided is a method for constructing mobile electric energy interconnection, a data testing method and device, and a computer readable storage medium. 1. A system for constructing mobile electric energy interconnection , comprising: at least one mobile electric energy exchange device , a mobile electric energy interconnection management platform and at least one stationary electric energy interconnection device;wherein the at least one mobile electric energy exchange device and the at least one stationary electric energy interconnection device both are in communication connection with the mobile electric energy interconnection management platform;the at least one mobile electric energy exchange device is configured to provide a real time position, a first available output electric energy and a first available input electric energy to the mobile electric energy interconnection management platform;the at least one stationary electric energy interconnection device is configured to provide a working position, a second available output electric energy and a second available input electric energy to the mobile electric energy interconnection management platform;the mobile electric energy interconnection management platform is configured to match the at least one mobile electric energy exchange device with the at least one ...

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING POWER OF ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND SERVER THEREFOR

Disclosed is a server comprising: at least one processor; a communication circuit electrically connected to the at least one processor and transmitting or receiving a signal to/from an external device; and a memory electrically connected to the at least one processor and storing group information and control information, the group information representing at least one group including a group comprising a first electronic device and a second electronic device, and the control information being associated with each of the at least one group, wherein the at least one processor is configured so as to acquire demand response (DR)-associated information, and as a response to the DR-associated information, transmit the control information associated with the group to the first electronic device and the second electronic device. In addition, various embodiments are possible as identified in the specification. 1. A server , comprising:at least one processor;a communication circuit configured to be electrically connected with the at least one processor and transmit or receive a signal with an external device; anda memory, electrically connected with the at least one processor, for storing group information indicating at least one group including a group including a first electronic device and a second electronic device and control information associated with the at least one group, obtain information associated with a demand response (DR); and', 'transmit the control information associated with the group to the first electronic device and the second electronic device, in response to the information associated with the DR., 'wherein the at least one processor is configured to2. The server of claim 1 ,wherein the at least one group includes another group including a third electronic device, andwherein the at least one processor is configured to transmit control information associated with the another group to the third electronic device, in response to the information ...

ARRANGEMENT FOR COMMUNICATING DEMAND RESPONSE RESOURCE INCENTIVES

An approach for influencing demand response event performance through a variable incentive signal. Automated demand response programs may achieve an energy demand reduction by signaling participating consumers to curtail energy usage for a certain period of time, referred to as an “event”. Customers may be free to “opt-out” and withdraw their participation from DR events, on a per-event basis. When a participant opts out, the quantity of energy savings of the event may be reduced. Participating customers may be sent a message offering an incentive to tolerate an ongoing DR event. As the event progresses, the DR operator may dynamically monitor and modulate the rate of opt-outs. The present approach may be different in that instead of modulating the number of participants that are included in the event, it may modulate an incentive signal to keep already-included participants from opting out. 1. An energy management arrangement comprising:a mobile device;a utility information system; andan energy management system; andwherein:the mobile device has a wireless connection with the utility information system and the energy management system for communicating incentives to not opt out or to opt in an energy management arrangement, data and commands for managing consumption of energy;the utility information system is incorporated by a utility;the energy management system is incorporated by a facility; andthe facility can consume energy provided by the utility.2. The arrangement of claim 1 , wherein:the mobile device is operated by a manager of the facility;the mobile device receives incentives to not opt out or to opt in an energy management arrangement from the utility information system and the energy management system;the manager reviews the incentives to not opt out or to opt in an energy management arrangement;the manager provides commands and/or data to the energy management system via the mobile device; andthe manager provides commands and/or data to the utility ...

LINE DROP COMPENSATION METHODS AND SYSTEMS

This disclosure is directed to regulating electric power at a node of a system for distribution of electricity. A voltage controller can identify properties of branch structures in a system that includes a voltage regulation device that controls a voltage source supplying electricity to nodes via the branch structures. The voltage controller can receive information on voltage and current associated with electricity provided by the voltage source. The voltage controller can receive, from a metering devices at nodes in the system, primary voltage information. The voltage controller can select one of the nodes based on the primary voltage information. The voltage controller can determine, based on the properties, an impedance for a branch structure corresponding to the selected node. The voltage controller can control the voltage regulation device based on the impedance for the branch structure corresponding to the selected node and the information on the voltage and the current. 1. A method of regulating electric power of a system for distribution of electricity , comprising:selecting, by a voltage controller, a node of a plurality of nodes of a system based on voltage information determined via a metering device at each of the plurality of nodes;determining, by the voltage controller based on one or more properties of branch structures associated with the plurality of nodes, an impedance for a branch structure corresponding to the identified node; andcontrolling, by the voltage controller, a characteristic of electricity supplied by a voltage source to the plurality of nodes based on the impedance for the branch structure corresponding to the identified node and one or more characteristics of electricity supplied to the plurality of nodes.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:receiving, by the voltage controller, the one or more properties of branch structures comprising at least one of a size of the branch structures, a material of the branch structures, or ...

CHARGE STATION QUEUE MANAGEMENT

There is disclosed a method and a system for management of electric vehicle charging station queues. The method includes maintaining a plurality of requests to utilize the electric vehicle charging station in a queue defining an order of electric vehicles to be charged at the electric vehicle charging station and sensing that a charging vehicle at an electric vehicle charging station and associated with a first vehicle operator has completed a charging process. The method further includes notifying the first vehicle operator that the charging process is completed and providing an allotted vacation time period in which the first vehicle operator may vacate the charging vehicle from the electric vehicle charging station and increasing the cost associated with continued charging of the charging vehicle if the charging vehicle is not vacated from the electric vehicle charging station within the allotted vacation time.

METHODS OF ALLOCATING ENERGY GENERATED BY A COMMUNITY SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM

Implementations of the disclosed subject matter may provide a method of retrieving a data record including historic utility bill statements of a customer, determining a historic energy usage rate of the customer based on the retrieved data record, and determining whether the customer is eligible to subscribe to a community solar energy generating system based on geographic location of the community solar energy generating system, the determined historic energy usage rate of the customer, and the customer's geographic location. The method may determine an allocation of energy produced by the community solar energy generating system when the eligible customer is enrolled in a subscription to the community solar energy generating system. The method may generate a customer data record for the user based on credits for the allocation of energy of the community solar energy generating system and receiving energy from another energy generating system. 1. A method comprising:retrieving, from a database communicatively coupled to a server, a data record including at least one historic utility bill statement of a customer;determining, at the server, a historic energy usage rate of the customer based on the retrieved data record;determining, at the server, whether the customer is eligible to subscribe to a community solar energy generating system based on a geographic location of the community solar energy generating system, the determined historic energy usage rate of the customer, and the geographic location of the customer;determining, at the server, an allocation of energy produced by the community solar energy generating system when the eligible customer is enrolled in a subscription to the community solar energy generating system;generating, at the server, a customer data record based on one or more credits for the allocation of energy from the community solar energy generating system and receiving energy from another energy generating system; andtransmitting, from the ...

DATA ANALYZING SYSTEM AND METHOD

Proposed is a data analyzing system and method capable of performing highly reliable analytical processing which matches the actual situation. In a data analyzing device and method in which load data is classified into a plurality of clusters in consumer units based on the load data representing the power usage of each consumer for each unit time and the attribute information of each consumer, a diagnostic decision tree is generated for classifying the consumer into one of the clusters based on the attribute information of that consumer. 1. A data analyzing system , comprising:a server device which collects load data representing power usage of each consumer for each unit time, and manages attribute information of each of the consumers; anda data analyzing device which classifies the load data into a plurality of clusters in consumers units based on the load data of each of the consumers for each unit time that is periodically notified from the server device and the attribute information of each of the consumers,wherein the data analyzing device:generates a diagnostic decision tree for classifying the consumers into one of the clusters based on the attribute information of each of the consumers.2. The data analyzing system according to claim 1 ,wherein the data analyzing device:calculates an intra-cluster relevance representing a degree of unity of the load data in each of the clusters when assuming that a cluster number is respectively 1 to M (M is number of the consumers), and an inter-cluster average degree of separation representing a degree of separation of the clusters; anddecides the cluster number to be used upon classifying the load data based on the calculation result.3. The data analyzing system according to claim 2 ,wherein the data analyzing device:calculates, as a relevance optimal cluster number, a minimum cluster number in which a ratio of a variation of the intra-cluster relevance relative to a variation of the cluster number is equal to or less ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ESTIMATING PRODUCTION OF AN ENERGY COMMODITY BY A SELECTED PRODUCER

A method and system for estimating production of an energy commodity for a selected producer includes the steps of: identifying a producer-associated region, including an identification of transaction points within the producer-associated region; storing transfer datasets associated with the identified transaction points, such as natural gas pipeline nominations or crude oil transfer datasets, in a database; choosing a subset of transfer datasets from the database; determining an aggregated value for overall production activity from the subset of transfer datasets; and correlating the aggregated value for overall production activity against historical production data to establish a model for estimating production of the energy commodity by the producer. When transfer datasets are subsequently received, those transfer datasets are input into the model to estimate production of the energy commodity by the producer. The estimated production of the energy commodity by the producer is then reported to a market participant. 1. A method for estimating production of an energy commodity , comprising the steps of:selecting a producer;identifying a producer-associated region for the producer, including an identification of transaction points within the producer-associated region;storing transfer datasets associated with the identified transaction points within the producer-associated region in a database;choosing a subset of transfer datasets from the database;determining an aggregated value for overall production activity from the subset of transfer datasets for a predetermined time period;correlating the aggregated value for overall production activity for the predetermined time period against historical production data to establish a model for estimating production of the energy commodity by the producer;subsequently receiving transfer datasets for a particular time period, and inputting those transfer datasets into the model to estimate production of the energy commodity ...

Group infrastructure components

There is provided a computer-implemented method, system and software for grouping components of an infrastructure. This involves obtaining ( 510 ) historical data representing previous working events of the components of the infrastructure, the historical data being associated with a plurality of attributes of the components of the infrastructure; constructing ( 520 ), based on the historical data, a likelihood function to characterise the previous working events of the components of the infrastructure; and identifying ( 530 ), based on the likelihood function, two or more groups each comprised of one or more components of the infrastructure with reference to one or more attributes of the plurality of attributes of the components of the infrastructure.

UTILITY MONITORING AND ANALYTICS SECURITY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD

A utility monitoring and analytics security management and method for businesses provides these businesses with a comprehensive understanding of their utility security strategy goals, utility security projects, and security metrics including the environmental and societal impacts of their business with the ability to manage and report on these parameters in a way that makes sense for the security of their business. 1. A business utility monitoring and analytics security system , comprising:one or more computing devices;a utility monitoring and analytics security management unit that is capable of communicating with the one or more computing devices over a link;a plurality of utility meters located adjacent a property that perform real time capturing of utility data for the property; andthe utility monitoring and analytics security management unit capturing property profile data of the property and receiving the utility data over the link from the plurality of utility meters, performing an analysis of the property profile data and utility data to benchmark the utility usage of the property, generating a utility security benchmark report for the property and delivering the utility security benchmark report to a user who manages the property.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the utility usage of the property is one of a comparison of the utility usage of the property against a building of a similar size and use and a score of the utility usage of the property.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein a desired utility usage levels and a desired utility usage costs are set as thresholds for alerts usage claim 2 , costs or rates cross these thresholds.54. The system of claim claim 2 , wherein the utility monitoring and analytics security management unit generates an alert report based on the thresholds.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the utility monitoring and analytics security management unit generates an alert.7. The system of claim 6 , wherein a set of recommended best ...

LOCATION AND MARKING SYSTEM AND SERVER

A novel location and marking system is configured to provide a seamless in-the-field access to resource and asset information databases with automated functionality that effectively and more efficiently manages, controls, and distributes data according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, such systems can enable utilities to manage assets in real-time, provide map asset status, and provide automatic ticket routing, dispatching and management. For example, in some embodiments, the system is configured to generate maps with identifiers or components of an active division including tickets of one or more assets of an active division. These assets include sites of residential and business gas, electrical, and/or water and sewer conduits and metering systems, as well as related underground infrastructure that can be susceptible to earthquakes, ground disturbances, and other emergency situations according to some embodiments. 1. A method comprising:providing one or more computers comprising one or more processors and one or more non-transitory computer readable media, the one or more non-transitory computer readable media including instructions stored thereon that when executed by the one or more processors implement the following steps:receiving, by the one or more computers, location information data associated with one or more assets;generating, by the one or more computers, one or more maps based on the location information data;displaying, by the one or more computers, the one or more maps through a graphical user interface provided by the computing device, each map covering at least a portion of the one or more assets;receiving, by the one or more computers, an input to select one or more map types based on the one or more assets; anddisplaying, by the one or more computers, the one or more selected map types.2. The method of claim 1 ,wherein the one or more maps include one or more representations of the one or more assets based at least in part on ...

DATA ASSOCIATION UNDER RECOMMISSIONING

A method of performing analytics relating to energy management or space utilization in an environment of a lighting system, the method comprising: accessing a database of data reported by the devices, the data comprising values of one or more types of data reported by each respective one of the devices; depending on whether the analytics are to characterize location, device, or both, selecting between: i) using a designation of the location but not the ID as a selection criterion, ii) using a designation of the ID but not the location as a selection criterion, iii) using a designation of both the location and ID as a selection criterion, retrieving the values of data types reported by devices with the specified designation, and performing at least part of the analytics based thereon; and adapting one or more features of the environment and/or lighting system based on the performed analytics. 1. A method of performing analytics relating to energy management or space utilization in an environment of a lighting system , wherein the analytics comprise a data enabled analysis of data collected from a plurality of devices of the lighting system and stored at a cloud or backend with the purpose of providing data enabled services around energy management or space utilization in the environment and wherein the plurality of devices each comprising an illumination source and/or sensor; the method comprising:accessing a database at the cloud or backend comprising data reported by the devices and stored therein, the data comprising values of one or more types of data reported by each respective one of the devices, wherein the values of at least some of the data types reported by at least some of the devices are stored in association with a location of the respective device, the values of at least some of the data types reported by at least some of the devices are stored in association with an ID of the respective device, and the values of at least some of the data types reported ...

INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD, STORAGE MEDIUM, PORTABLE ELECTRIC POWER SUPPLY APPARATUS, AND RENTAL SYSTEM

An information processing apparatus comprises an acquisition unit configured to acquire information according to the usage circumstances of an portable electric power supply apparatus; an estimation unit configured to estimate a type of an electrical device that is connected, based on a measurement result with respect to a voltage and a current when the portable electric power supply apparatus supplied electric power that is included in the information according to the usage circumstances; a determination unit configured to determine whether or not an electrical device that is estimated by the estimation unit is a predetermined designated device; and a decision unit configured to decide on a user treatment with respect to a user that rented the portable electric power supply apparatus, in accordance with a determination result obtained by the determination unit. 1. An information processing apparatus managing usage circumstances at a rental destination of a portable electric power supply apparatus supplying electric power to a detachably connected electrical device , comprising:an acquisition unit configured to acquire information according to the usage circumstances of the portable electric power supply apparatus;an estimation unit configured to estimate a type of an electrical device that is connected, based on a measurement result with respect to a voltage and a current when the portable electric power supply apparatus supplied electric power that is included in the information according to the usage circumstances;a determination unit configured to determine whether or not an electrical device that is estimated by the estimation unit is a predetermined designated device; anda decision unit configured to decide on a user treatment with respect to a user that rented the portable electric power supply apparatus, in accordance with a determination result obtained by the determination unit.2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein claim 1 ...

Method to Identify Heating and Cooling System Power-Demand

Methods and computer systems are disclosed for identifying the power-demand of a climate-control system at a premises to reduce usage of energy at the premises. A computer system receives energy usage data and run-time data of the climate-control system. The operational data includes an on-time and/or off-time associated with the climate-control system. The computer system determines a power-draw of the climate-control system using the energy usage data and the run-time data and outputs the power-draw to be used to reduce the energy usage at the premises. 1. A computer-implemented method of determining power-demand of a climate-control system at a premises to reduce energy usage at the premises , the computer-implemented method comprising:receiving energy usage data of the premises including energy usage of the climate-control system, the energy usage data corresponding to a usage time period;receiving run-time data of the climate-control system, the runtime data including at least one of an on-time and an off-time associated with the climate-control system and corresponds to the usage time period;determining a power-draw of the climate-control system using the energy usage data and the run-time data; andoutputting the determined power-draw of the climate-control system.2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , wherein determining the power-draw includes:correlating at least two energy usage datum of the energy usage data at a first and second time to at least two run-time datum at the first and second time; anddetermining a trend between the energy usage datum and the runtime datum, wherein the trend is associated to the power-draw.3. The computer-implemented method of claim 2 , wherein the trend is determined based on at least one of a least-square estimation claim 2 , a generalized least-square estimation claim 2 , an iteratively reweighted least-square estimation claim 2 , a total least-square estimation claim 2 , a maximum-likelihood estimation claim 2 , ...

Distributed Methods and Software For Balancing Supply and Demand In An Electric Power Network

Methods and software for managing electric power networks in a distributed manner. A supply and demand balancing scheme is used across a network of agents to facilitate agreement on the optimal incremental price for energy provision in an electric power network subject to the constraint that the total generation in the electric power network matches the total network demand. A multi-step optimization approach is provided that incorporates inter-temporal constraints, allowing for optimal integration of flexible power loads and power storage entities and taking into account power generation ramp rate constraints at individual generation entities. The approach is extended to cope with line flow constraints imposed by the physical system topology and transmission line limits/capacities. 1. A method of balancing supply and demand to achieve a chosen performance in an electric power network that includes a plurality of electrical entities and a plurality of agents , wherein each of the plurality of electrical entities is one of 1) an electrical load entity , 2) an electric power generating entity , and 3) an energy storage entity , the method comprising:receiving, at a first agent, one or more sets of first balancing parameters from at least one second agent of the plurality of agents, the one or more sets of first balancing parameters comprising electricity pricing parameters and electrical grid parameters;executing, by the first agent, a set of balancing algorithms using the one or more sets of first balancing parameters and a first performance-based quantity to generate one or more second balancing parameters; andproviding, by the first agent, the one or more second balancing parameters to at least one third agent of the plurality of agents.2. A method according to claim 1 , wherein the third agent is the second agent.3. A method according to claim 1 , further comprising:receiving, at the first agent, one or more third balancing parameters from one or more of the ...

DEMAND RESPONSE AUTOMATED LOAD CHARACTERIZATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Demand response automated load characterization systems and methods are described herein. One method includes identifying a plurality of load models that include a variable that influences an energy demand, normalizing the plurality of load models, aggregating the normalized plurality of load models to generate an aggregated model for the variable. 1. A computer implemented method for demand response automated load characterization , comprising:identifying a plurality of load models that include a variable that influences an energy demand;normalizing the plurality of load models; andaggregating the normalized plurality of load models to generate an aggregated model for the variable.2. The method of claim 1 , comprising transforming the plurality of load models from a first constraint to an input constraint.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the first constraint is a state constraint determined by a user.4. The method of claim 1 , comprising categorizing the plurality of load models based on model properties of the plurality of load models.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein categorizing the plurality of load models includes utilizing a number of load dynamic features of the plurality of load models.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein normalizing the plurality of load models includes utilizing a standardized method for normalizing the plurality of load models.7. The method of claim 1 , comprising implementing the aggregated model with a control strategy of a utility company.8. A non-transitory computer readable medium claim 1 , comprising computer readable instructions stored thereon that are executable by a processor to:identify a plurality of load models, wherein each of the plurality of load models include a variable that influences an energy demand;normalize each of the plurality of load models;categorize each of the plurality of normalized load models based on the variables; andaggregate each of the normalized plurality of load models to generate an aggregated ...

Charging Facility Notification Method and Information Presentation Device

A method for guiding a user of an electric vehicle to a charging facility includes: searching for charging facilities existing within a predetermined distance from the current position of the electric vehicle; when a high-output charging facility and a low-output charging facility in a predetermined positional relationship with the high-output charging facility are searched, calculating the estimated value of a remaining charged capacity of a battery of the electric vehicle; calculating the estimated value of a charging time if charging the battery of the electric vehicle from the estimated value of the remaining charged capacity of the battery to a predetermined charged capacity at each of the searched charging facilities; and when the difference between the estimated value of the charging times at the high-output charging facility and the low-output charging facility is a predetermined value or less, presenting the low-output charging facility to the user of the electric vehicle. 1. A method of guidance to a charging facility for guiding a user of an electric vehicle to the charging facility , comprising:searching for charging facilities existing within a range of a predetermined distance from a current position of the electric vehicle;when a first charging facility and another charging facility having lower output power than that of the first charging facility are searched, calculating an estimated value of a remaining charged capacity of the electric vehicle if traveling to each of the searched charging facilities, the other charging facility being in a predetermined positional relationship with the first charging facility;calculating an estimated value of a charging time if charging the electric vehicle from the estimated value of the remaining charged capacity to a predetermined charged capacity at each of the searched charging facilities; andwhen a difference between the estimated value of the charging time at the first charging facility and the estimated ...

SMART METERING DEVICE PROVIDING ADAPTIVE SERVICE LEVEL

The present invention describes a smart metering device being part of an advanced metering infrastructure. The smart metering device might comprise one or more sub devices such as: metering devices, actuator devices, sensor devices etc. The smart metering device includes a valve arranged to limit the delivery of a utility to the consumer. Moreover the smart metering devices includes a communication device including a transmitter and a receiver for wireless communication with a collector, utilizing a listen after talk mechanism to perform a two way communication to the head end system through a collector. The presented invention is especially beneficial for battery supplied smart metering devices. The advanced metering infrastructure will provide a given service level for communication between the meter and the head end system. The service level will be changed dynamically in order to meet the adequate service level at all times. 1. A smart metering device comprising:a valve arranged to, when in a first mode, limit the delivery of a utility and, when in a second mode, not limit the delivery of the utility;a communication device having a transmitter and a receiver for wireless communication with a collector, and utilizing a listen after talk mechanism for establishing a two way session by opening at least one reception window after transmission of a data frame; anda battery arranged to supply energy supply at least to the communication device;wherein the smart metering device is arranged to autonomously transmit data frames with a configured transmission interval, and to continuously determine its present state to be critical or non-critical;wherein at least the mode of the valve is a parameter for distinguishing between critical states and non-critical states; andwherein the smart metering device is further arranged to change the transmission interval according to the present state such that the transmission interval is shorter when the state is critical than when ...

Systems and Methods of Diagnosing Root Causes of Anomalous AMI Information

An example embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method of diagnosing root causes of anomalous AMI meter data. The method can include receiving meter data, identifying anomalous data in the meter data, comparing the anomalous data to a database of known root causes, and generating a work order if there is a known root causes of the anomalous data. The method can also include requesting manual review of anomalous data without a known root cause and receiving input indicating a discovered root cause. The method can add the discovered root cause to the database of known root causes. 1. A method for diagnosing issues in an electricity service network comprising:receiving, from each of a plurality of meters, raw meter data;identifying anomalous data that exists in the raw meter data, wherein anomalous data is indicative of raw meter data that is outside of a predetermined range of acceptable values;comparing the anomalous data to a root cause database, the root cause database comprising known root causes and anomalous data associated with the known root causes;for anomalous data that has a known root cause, generating a work order;for anomalous data that does not have a known root cause, submitting a first request for a manual review of the anomalous data;receiving input indicating findings of the manual review; andadding the findings of the manual review to the root cause database.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the raw meter data comprises:billing data indicative of electrical usage measured by a meter;communication data indicative of the meter's communication ability;voltage data indicative of voltage levels measures by the meter; andmeter malfunction data indicative of the meter's functionality.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein anomalous data comprises at least one of:billing data that falls outside of a predetermined range of acceptable billing values;communication data that falls outside of a predetermined range of acceptable communication values; ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EMULATING A FUEL PUMP AND MARKETING ON A MOBILE DEVICE

A method for emulating a fuel pump interface on a mobile device and for marketing on a mobile device. The user of a mobile device is presented with a user interface such that the user receives information from and interacts with the mobile device to carry out certain functions as if the user is at the fuel pump and is interacting with the fuel pump directly. The mobile device may be used to present marketing information on the mobile device. 1. (canceled)2. A method for emulating a fuel transaction at a mobile device of a user , the method comprising:establishing, by the mobile device, a communication link between the mobile device and a fuel pump; a display region configured to display emulation data received from the fuel pump during a fueling transaction via the communication link between the mobile device and the fuel pump,', 'a fuel pump activation icon configured to cause the fuel pump to start pumping fuel or stop pumping fuel,', 'two or more payment method icons representing different payment methods for paying for the fueling transaction, and', 'at least one loyalty reward program icon representing at least one loyalty rewards program,, 'emulating, by the mobile device, the fuel pump via presentation of graphical user interface elements at a graphical user interface displayed at the mobile device, wherein the graphical user interface is configured to emulate the fuel pump and the graphical user interface elements are configured to control operation of the fuel pump as a part of emulation of the fuel pump, and wherein the graphical user interface elements comprisereceiving, by the mobile device, inputs via the graphical user interface associated with a selection of a payment method corresponding to one of the two or more payment method icons and a selection of the fuel pump activation icon;transmitting, by the mobile device, payment information and information indicating selection of the activation icon to the fuel pump, wherein the fuel pump is activated in ...

ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION METER WITH PIGGY BACKED E-COMMERCE SYSTEM AND METHOD

An electricity consumption meter with piggy backed e-commerce is disclosed wherein a wide area network (WAN) and an application on a smartphone or the like can be used to retrieve a measured electricity consumption from an electricity consumption meter while accessing an e-commerce system. The application displays the retrieved electricity consumption together with at least one product, and further wherein the at least one product may be purchased from the e-commerce system using the application. 1. An electricity consumption metering system with piggy backed e-commerce , comprising:an electricity utility comprising an electricity consumption data collection server comprising circuitry for communicating via a Wide Area Network (WAN);an e-commerce system selling at least one product and comprising circuitry for communicating via said WAN;an electricity transmission system comprising transmission lines supplying electricity to a plurality of locations of electricity consumption;a plurality of electricity consumption meters, one of said electricity consumption meters attached along said transmission lines at each of said locations of electricity consumption, each of said electricity consumption meters comprising a meter for measuring electricity consumption, circuitry for communicating via a near field network, circuitry for communicating via said wide area network and a controller, wherein said measured electricity consumption is transferred from time to time to said electricity consumption data collection server via said wide area network; anda plurality of hand held user devices each comprising circuitry for communicating via said wide area network and an application for communicating with an accessible one of said electricity consumption meters using said wide area network;wherein, using said wide area network, said application retrieves said measured electricity consumption of said accessible electricity consumption meter and accesses said e-commerce system via ...

EXPANDABLE COMBINATION ELECTRIC METER

An expandable combination electric meter comprises a first electric meter and a second electric meter. The first electric meter includes a processing unit, a first electricity measuring unit, a power supply unit and an expansion connecting unit. The processing unit is coupled with the first electricity measuring unit, the power supply unit and the expansion connecting unit. The power supply unit outputs a working power to the processing unit, the first electricity measuring unit, and the expansion connecting unit. The second electric meter is connected with the first electric meter through the expansion connection unit. The working power is transmitted to the second electric meter through the expansion connection unit for enabling the second electric meter. 1. An expandable combination electric meter , comprising:a first electric meter comprising a processing unit, a first electricity measuring unit, a power supply unit and an expansion connecting unit, wherein the processing unit is coupled with the first electricity measuring unit, the power supply unit and the expansion connecting unit, and the power supply unit outputs a working power to the processing unit, the first electricity measuring unit, and the expansion connecting unit; anda second electric meter connected with the first electric meter through the expansion connection unit;wherein the working power is transmitted to the second electric meter through the expansion connection unit for enabling the second electric meter.2. The expandable combination electric meter of claim 1 , wherein the first electricity measuring unit comprises a first voltage conversion subunit and a first current conversion subunit claim 1 , the first voltage conversion subunit converts an external input voltage to a first voltage signal claim 1 , and the first current conversion subunit converts a first external input current to a first current signal.3. The expandable combination electric meter of claim 2 , wherein the first ...

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A TECHNICAL APPARATUS

The invention relates to a method for controlling a technical apparatus in which a time profile (E(t)) for a power requirement (E) for the technical apparatus is ascertained over at least one period and an operating state of the technical apparatus is matched to the ascertained power requirement (E) on the basis of time. 110-. (canceled)11. A method for controlling a technical apparatus , comprising:determining a time profile (E(t)) of an energy demand (E) of the technical apparatus from at least one period; andadapting an operating state of the technical apparatus to the determined energy demand (E) as a function of time.12. The method as claimed in claim 11 , furthering comprising:prescribing an energy demand interval (ΔE) and assigning a specific operating state of the technical apparatus;determining at least one regularly recurring time interval (Δt) in which the determined energy demand (E) is permanently within the prescribed energy demand interval (ΔE); andautomatically placing the technical apparatus into that operating state which is assigned to the respective energy demand interval (ΔE) at a beginning of the time interval (Δt).13. The method as claimed in claim 12 , wherein an energy-saving operation of the technical apparatus is assigned to the energy demand interval (ΔE) as the operating state.14. The method as claimed in claim 12 , wherein a shutdown state of the technical apparatus is assigned to the energy demand interval (ΔE) as the operating state.15. The method as claimed in claim 11 , further comprising:assigning an operating state to be set to an event;monitoring whether the event occurs; andautomatically placing the technical apparatus into the operating state assigned to the event upon the occurrence of the event.16. The method as claimed in claim 15 , wherein the event is a varying energy consumption of a device connected to the technical apparatus.17. The method as claimed in claim 15 , wherein the event is a prescribed signal which is ...

LOAD PREDICTION METHOD, APPARATUS, AND ENERGY-SAVING CONTROL COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the field of energy-saving technologies and disclose a load prediction method, an apparatus, and an energy-saving control communications system, so as to improve accuracy in load prediction and achieve a better effect in energy saving. The method includes: acquiring load information of a local load entity; acquiring load information of a load entity adjacent to the local load entity; and predicting load of the local load entity in a next period according to the load information of the local load entity and the load information of the load entity adjacent to the local load entity. The embodiments of the present disclosure are mainly applied to energy-saving scheduling for a device on a communications network. 1. A load prediction method , comprising:acquiring load information of a local load entity;acquiring load information of a load entity adjacent to the local load entity; andpredicting load of the local load entity in a next period according to the load information of the local load entity and the load information of the load entity adjacent to the local load entity.2. The load prediction method according to claim 1 , wherein the load entity adjacent to the local load entity comprises: a mutual-aid load entity claim 1 , an upper-layer load entity claim 1 , and a lower-layer load entity claim 1 , and acquiring load information of a load entity adjacent to the local load entity comprises:receiving a mutual-aid neighbor notification message sent by a mutual-aid load entity in a load entity dynamic power manager DPM address coding table, and obtaining load information of the mutual-aid load entity by processing the mutual-aid neighbor notification message, wherein the load information comprises: actual current load, predicted load, a prediction error, and time information;receiving an upper-layer neighbor notification message that is sent by an upper-layer load entity in the load entity DPM address coding table and ...

SYSTEM, METHOD, AND APPARATUS FOR SETTLEMENT FOR PARTICIPATION IN AN ELECTRIC POWER GRID

Systems, methods, and apparatus embodiments for electric power grid and network registration and management of physical and financial settlement for participation of active grid elements in supply and/or curtailment of power, wherein Internet Protocol (IP)-based messages including IP packets are generated by transforming raw data content into settlement grade content. Settlement is provided for grid elements that participate in the electric power grid following initial registration of each grid element with the system, preferably through network-based communication between the grid elements and a coordinator, either in coordination with or outside of an IP-based communications network router. Messaging related to settlement is managed through a network by a Coordinator using IP messaging for communication with the grid elements, with the energy management system (EMS), and with the utilities, market participants, and/or grid operators. 1. An electronic message for market-based financial settlement of transactions within an electric power grid network comprising: a settlement message including an internet protocol (IP) packet having information required for generating a market-based financial settlement for participation for providing power supplied to an electric power grid and/or for load consumed by at least one grid element in the electric power grid , wherein the IP packet further includes at least one kilowatt packet (KWP) unit , wherein the at least one KWP unit comprises measured data transformed into settlement grade data for market financial settlement for load and/or supply corresponding to each of the active grid element(s) participation in the electric power grid for load or supply , and the at least one KWP unit provides a quantifying market rate for monetization for any unit of kilowatts with respect to time.2. (canceled)3. The message of claim 1 , wherein the IP packet further includes revenue grade metrology related to the participation of the grid ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TRACKING PROJECT IMPACTS, EVENT IMPACTS, AND ENERGY SAVINGS

A method assesses an energy impacting event at a facility using an energy management system. One or more energy consuming endpoints of the facility are sub-metered and data from the sub-metered endpoints is transmitted to the energy management system. A project is created within the EMS by entering project definition attributes including at least a site name, a project name, and a start date. Data from one or more sub-metered channels and a project indicator is displayed. The displayed project indicator is located at a point corresponding to its project start time. A further method tracks the progress of energy saving project at a facility using an energy management system. The project definition attributes further include one or more sub-metered channels, baseline usage data, and an energy related goal. An energy impact value is calculated by subtracting the actual sub-metered usage data from the baseline data and a determination is made whether the energy impact value meets or exceeds the energy goal. The baseline usage data, the energy goal data, the actual sub-metered data, and an indication of whether the energy goal was met are displayed. A further method tracks the financial progress of energy saving project at a facility using an energy management system. The project definition attributes further include one or more capital investment outflow values, a discount rate, and an energy cost rate. Net actual project cash flows and the net project goal cash flows are both plotted against a time scale and periodically displayed. An estimated net present value and net present value are periodically calculated and displayed. 19.-. (canceled)10. A method of tracking progress of an energy impacting event at a facility using an energy management system , wherein one or more energy consuming endpoints of the facility are sub-metered and time series channel data from the one or more sub-metered energy consuming endpoints is transmitted to the energy management system , the ...