Abstract

Systems and methods for collecting, analyzing, billing and reporting data from intelligent electronic devices are provided. Also, systems and methods for managing sensor data are provided. In some embodiments, a system for managing sensor data may include intelligent electronic devices, a server, a plurality of client devices, and a network. Each of the intelligent electronic devices is configured to obtain sensor data related to power parameters distributed to a load. The server is configured to receive the sensor data from the plurality of intelligent electronic devices and store the sensor data in a database. Each client device is configured to retrieve the sensor data from the database. The network enables communication among the server, the plurality of intelligent electronic devices, and the plurality of client devices.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 16/13 - File access structures, e.g. distributed indices
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• H04L 67/06 - Protocols specially adapted for file transfer, e.g. file transfer protocol [FTP]

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) is provided. The IED includes a metering sub-assembly and an input base module sub-assembly. The metering sub-assembly is hinged to the input base module sub-assembly, where when in an open position, various cables, connectors, and input/output cards/modules are accessible. Various input/output cards/modules are interchangeable to add/change functionality and/or communication capabilities to the IED. In one embodiment, a communication card is provided with at least one antenna disposed internal or external to a housing of the IED.

IPC Classes  ?

• H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
• G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
• H01Q 1/24 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles with receiving set
• H01Q 1/38 - Structural form of radiating elements, e.g. cone, spiral, umbrella formed by a conductive layer on an insulating support
• H01Q 21/28 - Combinations of substantially independent non-interacting antenna units or systems
• H02J 50/00 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power
• H02J 50/05 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using capacitive coupling
• H02J 50/10 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using inductive coupling

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) having a programmable display is provided. The present disclosure provides for defining screens of a display on a revenue based energy meter. The method utilizes Modbus registers and defines a programming technique wherein a user can custom make any desired screen for every application based on what a user needs. The programming utilizes Modbus registers maps to allow for the customizable screens. Moreover, the display interface allows for customized labeling to provide notice and information to users as to measured parameters other than electricity that the meter might be accumulating such as steam, water, gas or other type of commodity.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus

Abstract

The present disclosure provides for improving security in a meter or an intelligent electronic device (IED) through the use of a security key which is unique to each meter or IED. Such a key may be used to prevent password reuse among multiple meters. Such a key may also be used to encrypt critical components of the software, such that only when running on the correct meter can the components of the software be decrypted. Such a key may also be used to uniquely identify the device in a larger data collection and management system. The security key can also be used to prevent the direct copying of meters. The present disclosure also provides for a meter or IED that stores functional software separately from core software.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 21/12 - Protecting executable software
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 1/02 - General constructional details
• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• G06F 21/10 - Protecting distributed programs or content, e.g. vending or licensing of copyrighted material
• G06F 21/14 - Protecting executable software against software analysis or reverse engineering, e.g. by obfuscation
• G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
• G06Q 50/06 - Electricity, gas or water supply
• H04L 9/40 - Network security protocols
• H04L 67/06 - Protocols specially adapted for file transfer, e.g. file transfer protocol [FTP]
• H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for use in an IED that perform high resolution waveform capture to generate multi-rate waveform data in real-time. In one embodiment, high-resolution sampled data is dynamically pre-ordered into separate high resolution and low resolution data streams for presentation and storage. This pre-ordering of data is optimized so as to minimize the amount of data manipulation required to prepare the sampled data for eventual presentation and storage in the IED. Pre-ordering of data facilitates minimum performance impact so that continuous real-time data capture can be achieved.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques
• G01R 19/04 - Measuring peak values of ac or of pulses
• G01R 29/02 - Measuring characteristics of individual pulses, e.g. deviation from pulse flatness, rise time or duration
• G06F 7/76 - Arrangements for rearranging, permuting or selecting data according to predetermined rules, independently of the content of the data
• G06F 17/40 - Data acquisition and logging
• G16Z 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other main groups of this subclass

Abstract

A metering assembly, switchboard case, adapter cradle and method of use are provided. A metering assembly of the present disclosure includes an intelligent electronic device (IED) disposed in a switchboard case. The switchboard case includes an enclosure which is connected to an electrical distribution system and a cover. The IED is mounted in a cradle which is removable from the enclosure. The cradle, or adaptor, interconnects electronics of the IED with an electrical circuit of the electrical distribution system. The cover includes a sealing mechanism which prevents removal of the cover and indicates when the cover has been tampered with. The cover further includes a sealed input/output interface which interconnects with input/output means of the IED disposed with the switchboard case. The enclosure and/or the cover have a gasket to seal the cover to the enclosure to making the switchboard case water-tight and enabled for used in outdoor applications.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• H02G 3/08 - Distribution boxes; Connection or junction boxes

Abstract

Devices, systems and methods for authenticating a user of an intelligent electronic device (IED) using dual factor authentication is provided. The present disclosure provides for receiving user credentials at an IED, determining a user and a preferred mode of communication based on the user credentials, sending a code to the user via the preferred mode of communication and receiving the code entered at the IED. Upon matching the generated code to the received code, access is granted to features of the IED. Additionally, the present disclosure provides for receiving user credentials at a remote server, determining a user and a preferred mode of communication based on the user credentials, sending a code to the user via the preferred mode of communication, receiving the code entered at the remote server, and providing remote access via a network to an IED by authenticating a user remotely.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 7/18 - Closed-circuit television [CCTV] systems, i.e. systems in which the video signal is not broadcast
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• G06F 21/31 - User authentication
• G06F 21/32 - User authentication using biometric data, e.g. fingerprints, iris scans or voiceprints
• G06F 21/35 - User authentication involving the use of external additional devices, e.g. dongles or smart cards communicating wirelessly
• H04L 9/40 - Network security protocols
• H04N 1/00 - PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION - Details thereof

Abstract

Devices, methods and systems for meter setup verification are provided. In one aspect, a device is provided including a communication interface and at least one processor. The communication interface receives a wiring setup configuration of at least one electronic power meter and at least one measured and/or calculated parameter from the at least one electronic power meter. The at least one processor determines if the at least one electronic power meter is wired correctly based on the wiring setup configuration of the at least one electronic power meter and the at least one measured and/or calculated parameter from the at least one electronic power meter. The device may be implemented in a separate client device or in the at least one electronic power meter.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• G06F 1/3209 - Monitoring remote activity, e.g. over telephone lines or network connections

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for providing security in an intelligent electronic device (IED) are provided. In one aspect of the present disclosure, an IED is provided including at least one processor that receives a communication via a communication interface, the communication including an unencrypted file and a digital signature. The at least one processor decrypts the digital signature to obtain a first value, executes a hash function on the unencrypted file to obtain a second value, determines if the first value and second value match, and updates at least one firmware package stored in at least one memory of the IED with the unencrypted file if it is determined that the first value and the second value match.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
• G06F 8/65 - Updates
• G06F 21/57 - Certifying or maintaining trusted computer platforms, e.g. secure boots or power-downs, version controls, system software checks, secure updates or assessing vulnerabilities

Abstract

The present disclosure provides for enterprise security in intelligent electronic devices such as electric power meters. In accordance with the present disclosure, enterprise security is a security system in which each individual device, instead of configuring and storing security configurations locally, use a security server for security verifications. Such a security server of the present disclosure may be a dedicated computer on a network, that is used to manage the security configuration for all users. This makes it simpler for administrators to configure users and devices, which in turn improves security by encouraging security to be properly configured.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 9/40 - Network security protocols
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
• H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
• H04L 9/36 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols with means for detecting characters not meant for transmission
• H04L 12/18 - Arrangements for providing special services to substations for broadcast or conference
• H04L 61/4523 - Network directories; Name-to-address mapping using standardised directory access protocols using lightweight directory access protocol [LDAP]

Abstract

Devices, systems and methods for a cloud-based meter management system are provided. The present disclosure includes a meter cloud server, a plurality of IEDs or meters, and one or more clients 608 (e.g., a web browser client), which are coupled together via a network (e.g., via various wireless and/or hardwired communication networks). The various components and modules of the present disclosure provide a plurality of functions to enable one or more users to manage a plurality of IEDs or meters via the at least one client device.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks
• H04L 67/133 - Protocols for remote procedure calls [RPC]

Abstract

Devices, systems and methods for predicting future consumption values of load(s) in power distribution systems are provided. The present disclosure provides for receiving a request for a load prediction for at least one meter; extracting time series data relating to the at least meter; retrieving future weather conditions for a particular location based on the at least one meter; and providing the extracted data and the future weather conditions to a prediction model that predicts load usage for the at least one meter. Additionally, the present disclosure provides for performing at least one action based on the prediction, wherein the action includes outputting at least one of a communication signal and/or at least one control signal to at least one client or at least one meter.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05B 19/4155 - Numerical control (NC), i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by programme execution, i.e. part programme or machine function execution, e.g. selection of a programme
• H04Q 9/02 - Automatically-operated arrangements

Abstract

A power meter or other electrical device is provided having two independent and communicatively isolated Ethernet ports. The first Ethernet port is addressable by a first unique identifier and is configured for enabling full access to the power meter via an internal LAN. This enables a LAN operator to remotely access the power meter via the internal LAN for performing metering functions, such as full telemetry, control and programming. The second Ethernet port is addressable by a second unique identifier and is configured for being connected to the Internet. Since the second Ethernet port is communicatively isolated from the first Ethernet port, a user can access the power meter via the Internet, but cannot access the internal LAN by connecting to the power meter via the Internet.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus

Abstract

A phasor measurement unit (PMU) of the present disclosure measures phasor, i.e., magnitude and phase angle of voltage and current, and related data from a specific location on the electrical gird synchronized to a common time source. The time-synchronized phasor is called a synchrophasor. In a system of the present disclosure, a plurality of PMUs transmit the synchrophasors and related data to a phasor data concentrator (PDC), which aggregates and time-aligns the data for real time and post analysis. The PMU of the present disclosure further functions as a power quality meter determining at least one of symmetrical components' phasor, frequency, rate of change of frequency, high-speed digital inputs, analog fundamental power and/or displacement power factor.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05F 1/625 - Regulating voltage or current wherein it is irrelevant whether the variable actually regulated is ac or dc
• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
• H02J 3/08 - Synchronising of networks
• H02J 3/40 - Synchronising a generator for connection to a network or to another generator
• H02J 3/34 - Arrangements for transfer of electric power between networks of substantially different frequency
• H02J 3/42 - Synchronising a generator for connection to a network or to another generator with automatic parallel connection when synchronism is achieved
• G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
• G05F 1/66 - Regulating electric power

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for managing software scripts. One system comprises one or more meters, each configured to measure parameters of a commodity. The system also comprises a server and a plurality of client devices. The server is in communication with the one or more meters by way of a communication network and is configured to receive and store the measured parameters from the one or more meters. The client devices communicate with the server via the communication network. Also, the system includes a base device in communication with the client devices. The base device is configured to store one or more functional chains, each of the one or more functional chains comprising software code defining a plurality of functional actions to be performed in a specific sequence. The base device comprises an interface that allows the plurality of client devices to reference the functional chain.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 12/26 - Monitoring arrangements; Testing arrangements
• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus

Abstract

A metering assembly, switchboard case, adapter cradle and method of use are provided. A metering assembly of the present disclosure includes an intelligent electronic device (IED) disposed in a switchboard case. The switchboard case includes an enclosure which is connected to an electrical distribution system and a cover. The IED is mounted in a cradle which is removable from the enclosure. The cradle, or adaptor, interconnects electronics of the IED with an electrical circuit of the electrical distribution system. The cover includes a sealing mechanism which prevents removal of the cover and indicates when the cover has been tampered with. The cover further includes a sealed input/output interface which interconnects with input/output means of the IED disposed with the switchboard case. The enclosure and/or the cover have a gasket to seal the cover to the enclosure to making the switchboard case water-tight and enabled for used in outdoor applications.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• H02G 3/08 - Distribution boxes; Connection or junction boxes
• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique

Abstract

Devices, systems and methods for coupling sensors to intelligent electronic devices (IED's), e.g., an electrical power meter, via various communication media for electrical utility submetering are provided. The present disclosure provides a mechanism for coupling an IED to another desired device, e.g., a circuit breaker, using modular connectors (e.g., a RJ-45 connector, fiber optic connectors, etc.) and fiber-optic cables. The present disclosure also provides for coupling devices using modular connectors via wired or wireless connectivity.

IPC Classes  ?

• H05B 45/14 - Controlling the intensity of the light using electrical feedback from LEDs or from LED modules
• H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
• G01R 19/145 - Indicating the presence of current or voltage
• H01H 71/02 - Housings; Casings; Bases; Mountings

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) is provided. The IED includes a metering sub-assembly and an input base module sub-assembly. The metering sub-assembly is hinged to the input base module sub-assembly, where when in an open position, various cables, connectors, and input/output cards/modules are accessible. Various input/output cards/modules are interchangeable to add/change functionality and/or communication capabilities to the IED.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• H04Q 9/14 - Calling by using pulses

Abstract

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.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 50/06 - Electricity, gas or water supply
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• H04W 4/38 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for collecting sensor information
• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure

Abstract

A digital power metering system with serial peripheral interface (SPI) multimaster communications is provided. A digital power meter is provided that includes at least one sensor that senses analog electrical parameters on electricity transmission lines from an electrical power distribution system, at least one analog-to-digital converter that receives the analog electrical parameters from the at least one sensor and converts the analog electrical parameters to sampled data; at least one processing device that performs calculations to determine power usage based on the sampled data and control overall operation of the meter, and a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI), wherein the at least one processing device includes a plurality of processing devices, the SPI allowing one of the plurality of processing devices to become a master and the other processing devices of the plurality of processing devices to become slaves.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G01R 23/20 - Measurement of non-linear distortion
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques
• G01R 35/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass
• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) is provided. The IED includes a metering sub-assembly and an input base module sub-assembly. The metering sub-assembly is hinged to the input base module sub-assembly, where when in an open position, various cables, connectors, and input/output cards/modules are accessible. Various input/output cards/modules are interchangeable to add/change functionality and/or communication capabilities to the IED. In one embodiment, a communication card is provided with at least one antenna disposed internal or external to a housing of the IED.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 1/16 - Constructional details or arrangements
• H02J 50/40 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using two or more transmitting or receiving devices
• H01Q 1/24 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles with receiving set
• H01Q 1/38 - Structural form of radiating elements, e.g. cone, spiral, umbrella formed by a conductive layer on an insulating support
• H01Q 21/28 - Combinations of substantially independent non-interacting antenna units or systems
• H01Q 1/22 - Supports; Mounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles
• H02J 50/10 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using inductive coupling
• H02J 50/05 - Circuit arrangements or systems for wireless supply or distribution of electric power using capacitive coupling

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) includes an image capture module configured for capturing images or video in a location of the IED. The IED may also include a heat sensor for sensing heat inside or outside a housing of the IED. In one application, these techniques are implemented in IEDs such as electrical power and energy meters and used to control access to reset, configuration, billing, communication, and data acquisition/processing functions of the meters. Additionally, image processing techniques are employed by the IED to detect events in an electrical distribution system and implement control functions thereof.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 50/06 - Electricity, gas or water supply
• H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
• G06F 21/35 - User authentication involving the use of external additional devices, e.g. dongles or smart cards communicating wirelessly
• G06F 21/34 - User authentication involving the use of external additional devices, e.g. dongles or smart cards
• G06F 21/32 - User authentication using biometric data, e.g. fingerprints, iris scans or voiceprints
• G06F 21/31 - User authentication
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) having a gain control unit adapted to selectively regulate operating ranges of output signals of a sensing circuit of the device is described. In one embodiment, the IED is a digital electric power and energy meter, which operating ranges for supply voltages and supply currents of electrical services may be adjusted to match pre-determined ranges for input signals of a data acquisition system or a data processing module of the meter.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED), e.g., an electrical power meter, having at least one removable memory device for storing data sensed and generated by the intelligent electronic device is provided. The IED includes a housing; at least one sensor; at least one analog-to-digital converter; at least one processing unit coupled to the at least one analog-to-digital converter configured to receive the digital data and store the digital data in a removable memory; and at least one device controller coupled to the at least one processing unit, the at least one device controller including an interface disposed on the housing for interfacing with the removable memory, wherein the at least one device controller is operative as a USB master or USB slave device controller.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 13/12 - Program control for peripheral devices using hardware independent of the central processor, e.g. channel or peripheral processor
• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) is provided. The IED includes a metering sub-assembly and an input base module sub-assembly. The metering sub-assembly is hinged to the input base module sub-assembly, where when in an open position, various cables, connectors, and input/output cards/modules are accessible. Various input/output cards/modules are interchangeable to add/change functionality and/or communication capabilities to the IED.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• H04Q 9/14 - Calling by using pulses

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and method for validating and upgrading firmware in an intelligent electronic device (IED) are provided. In one aspect of the present disclosure, an IED is provided including at least one processor and at least one memory. The at least one memory includes at least a first firmware and a second firmware, where the second firmware is a version of the first firmware. The at least one processor determines if there is an error associated with the first firmware. If the processor determines there is no error associated with the first firmware, the processor executes first firmware. If the processor determines there is an error associated with the at least one firmware, the processor executes the second firmware.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 11/00 - Error detection; Error correction; Monitoring
• G06F 11/07 - Responding to the occurrence of a fault, e.g. fault tolerance
• G06F 11/14 - Error detection or correction of the data by redundancy in operation, e.g. by using different operation sequences leading to the same result
• G06F 8/654 - Updates using techniques specially adapted for alterable solid state memories, e.g. for EEPROM or flash memories
• G06F 11/10 - Adding special bits or symbols to the coded information, e.g. parity check, casting out nines or elevens
• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure

Abstract

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for providing security in an intelligent electronic device (IED) are provided. In one aspect of the present disclosure, an IED is provided including at least one processor that receives a communication via a communication interface, the communication including an unencrypted file and a digital signature. The at least one processor decrypts the digital signature to obtain a first value, executes a hash function on the unencrypted file to obtain a second value, determines if the first value and second value match, and updates at least one firmware package stored in at least one memory of the IED with the unencrypted file if it is determined that the first value and the second value match.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
• H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
• G06F 8/65 - Updates
• G06F 21/57 - Certifying or maintaining trusted computer platforms, e.g. secure boots or power-downs, version controls, system software checks, secure updates or assessing vulnerabilities

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to an intelligent electronic device (IED) configured for use in an Internet of Things (IoT) environment. The IoT environment of the present disclosure may include one or more objects or things in addition to the IED coupled together via a network, where each device is configured for IoT communication.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
• G05B 19/042 - Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers using digital processors
• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) is provided. The IED includes a metering sub-assembly and an input base module sub-assembly. The metering sub-assembly is hinged to the input base module sub-assembly, where when in an open position, various cables, connectors, and input/output cards/modules are accessible. Various input/output cards/modules are interchangeable to add/change functionality and/or communication capabilities to the IED. In one embodiment, a communication card is provided with at least one antenna disposed internal or external to a housing of the IED.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom

Abstract

Devices, systems and methods for coupling sensors to intelligent electronic devices (IED's), e.g., an electrical power meter, via various communication media are provided. The present disclosure provides a mechanism for coupling an IED to another desired device, e.g., a current sensor, using modular connectors (e.g., a RJ-45 connector) and fiber-optic cables. The present disclosure also provides for coupling devices using modular connectors via wired or wireless connectivity.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques
• H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water

Abstract

Intelligent electronic devices (IEDs), systems and methods for communicating messages over a network is provided. The IED of the present disclosure implements an alarm and notification message feature to send messages to a client or server when selected events occur regarding power usage and power quality for any metered point within a power distribution system. The IED of the present disclosure may be configured to monitor user-selected events according to user-selected settings stored in the IED. In one aspect of the present disclosure, the messages sent by the IED are emails. The IED of the present disclosure may be configured to encrypt the messages sent. The IED of the present disclosure may also be configured to send messages to a logging server via secure messaging.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
• H04L 12/58 - Message switching systems
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• G06Q 50/06 - Electricity, gas or water supply
• H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) is provided. The IED includes a metering sub-assembly and an input base module sub-assembly. The metering sub-assembly is hinged to the input base module sub-assembly, where when in an open position, various cables, connectors, and input/output cards/modules are accessible. Various input/output cards/modules are interchangeable to add/change functionality and/or communication capabilities to the IED.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• H04Q 9/14 - Calling by using pulses

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) having a gain control unit adapted to selectively regulate operating ranges of output signals of a sensing circuit of the device is described. In one embodiment, the IED is a digital electric power and energy meter, which operating ranges for supply voltages and supply currents of electrical services may be adjusted to match pre-determined ranges for input signals of a data acquisition system or a data processing module of the meter.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques

Abstract

Systems and method for synchronizing power generators with a power grid are provided. One system among various implementations includes a plurality of synchronization modules, wherein each synchronization module corresponds to one power generator. The synchronization modules are configured to output a control signal to adjust a frequency of the respective power generator to correspond with the frequency of the existing power grid. The system also includes a central controller in communication with the plurality of synchronization modules. The central controller is configured to determine a propagation delay with respect to each synchronization module. The propagation delay is a measure of time for a signal to propagate from the respective synchronization module to the central controller. The central controller is further configured to send a control signal to each synchronization module to control when each synchronization module connects the respective power generator to the existing power grid.

IPC Classes  ?

• H02J 3/08 - Synchronising of networks
• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
• H02J 3/40 - Synchronising a generator for connection to a network or to another generator
• H02J 3/42 - Synchronising a generator for connection to a network or to another generator with automatic parallel connection when synchronism is achieved
• G05B 15/02 - Systems controlled by a computer electric
• G05B 23/02 - Electric testing or monitoring
• G05F 1/66 - Regulating electric power
• H05B 47/19 - Controlling the light source by remote control via wireless transmission
• H02J 3/34 - Arrangements for transfer of electric power between networks of substantially different frequency
• G05F 1/625 - Regulating voltage or current wherein it is irrelevant whether the variable actually regulated is ac or dc
• H02J 3/06 - Controlling transfer of power between connected networks; Controlling sharing of load between connected networks
• H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
• H05B 37/02 - Controlling

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device is provided including, inter alia, a processing unit configured to calculate energy consumed by at least one load and accumulate the calculated energy in a first volatile memory; the processing unit being configured to iteratively copy the accumulated energy from the first volatile memory to a first non-volatile memory after a first predetermined time period and copy the accumulated energy from the first volatile memory to a second non-violate memory after a second predetermined time period, wherein the first predetermined time period is longer than the second predetermined time period. The processing unit is further configured to copy the accumulated energy from the second non-violate memory to the first volatile memory upon startup or reset of the intelligent electronic device to avoid loss of data.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique

Abstract

The present disclosure provides for improving security in a meter or an intelligent electronic device (IED) through the use of a security key which is unique to each meter or IED. Such a key may be used to prevent password reuse among multiple meters. Such a key may also be used to encrypt critical components of the software, such that only when running on the correct meter can the components of the software be decrypted. Such a key may also be used to uniquely identify the device in a larger data collection and management system. The security key can also be used to prevent the direct copying of meters. The present disclosure also provides for a meter or IED that stores functional software separately from core software.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 21/12 - Protecting executable software
• G06F 21/14 - Protecting executable software against software analysis or reverse engineering, e.g. by obfuscation
• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G06Q 50/06 - Electricity, gas or water supply
• H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
• G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• G01R 1/02 - General constructional details

Abstract

A dynamic webpage interface for an intelligent electronic device (IED) and method thereof are provided. The present disclosure provides for separating a webpage into multiple discrete resources, and to customize the resources returned by a web server based on the contents of a request. In one embodiment, such a custom request is implemented by a Web Services interface, such as content based API's like SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol), or address and command based API's like REST (Representational State Transfer). In another embodiment, such a custom request may also be implemented by server side processing, such as CGI (Common Gateway Interface), PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor), or other server side engines.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 3/0484 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] for the control of specific functions or operations, e.g. selecting or manipulating an object, an image or a displayed text element, setting a parameter value or selecting a range
• H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
• H04B 3/54 - Systems for transmission via power distribution lines
• H04L 12/26 - Monitoring arrangements; Testing arrangements

Abstract

A method and apparatus provides high-accuracy measurements of an electrical parameter across a broad range of parameter input values. In one embodiment, an intelligent electronic device (IED), e.g., a digital electrical power and energy meter, with a plurality of independently-adjustable gain factors measures a parameter, and calculates and stores calibration factors associated with known values of the measured parameter. The IED or meter applies the stored calibration factors when measuring unknown values of the measured parameter, to improve the accuracy of the measurement.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 35/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• H05K 7/14 - Mounting supporting structure in casing or on frame or rack
• G01R 21/00 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor
• G01D 18/00 - Testing or calibrating apparatus or arrangements provided for in groups

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device for monitoring and determining an amount of electrical power usage by a consumer, or end user, and for providing broadband Internet access to the consumer. The intelligent electronic device includes at least one sensor coupled to an electric circuit configured for measuring at least one power parameter of the electrical circuit and generating at least one analog signal indicative of the at least one power parameter; at least one analog to digital converter coupled to the at least one sensor configured for receiving the at least one analog signal and converting the at least one analog signal to at least one digital signal; a processor configured for receiving the at least one digital signal and calculating energy consumption in the electrical circuit; and a gateway configured for receiving data transmissions imposed on the electrical circuit and for demodulating the imposed data transmission for providing data communications.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 11/32 - Watt-hour meters
• G01R 21/00 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor
• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
• H04B 3/54 - Systems for transmission via power distribution lines
• H04L 12/18 - Arrangements for providing special services to substations for broadcast or conference
• H04L 12/58 - Message switching systems

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) includes an image capture module configured for capturing images or video in a location of the IED. The IED may also include a heat sensor for sensing heat inside or outside a housing of the IED. In one application, these techniques are implemented in IEDs such as electrical power and energy meters and used to control access to reset, configuration, billing, communication, and data acquisition/processing functions of the meters. Additionally, image processing techniques are employed by the IED to detect events in an electrical distribution system and implement control functions thereof.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04N 7/18 - Closed-circuit television [CCTV] systems, i.e. systems in which the video signal is not broadcast
• H04N 1/00 - PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION - Details thereof
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• G06F 21/31 - User authentication
• G06F 21/32 - User authentication using biometric data, e.g. fingerprints, iris scans or voiceprints
• G06F 21/35 - User authentication involving the use of external additional devices, e.g. dongles or smart cards communicating wirelessly
• H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) has enhanced power quality and communications capabilities. The power meter can perform energy analysis by waveform capture, detect transient on the front end voltage input channels and provide revenue measurements. The power meter splits and distributes the front end input channels into separate circuits for scaling and processing by dedicated processors for specific applications by the power meter. Front end voltage input channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for transient detection, waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively. Front end current channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques
• G01R 19/00 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof
• G01R 13/00 - Arrangements for displaying electric variables or waveforms
• G06F 17/40 - Data acquisition and logging
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques
• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G16Z 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other main groups of this subclass

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device IED has enhanced power quality and communications capabilities. The IED can perform energy analysis by waveform capture, detect transient on the front-end voltage input channels and provide revenue measurements. The IED splits and distributes the front-end input channels into separate circuits for scaling and processing by dedicated processors for specific applications by the IED. Front-end voltage input channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for transient detection, waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively. Front-end current channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques
• G01R 19/00 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof
• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G06F 17/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific functions

Abstract

A system and a method is provided for the detection and capture, and in particular for an ultra high speed detection and capture, of transients in input voltages by an intelligent electronic device. The system and method detects transients for input voltages in either phase to phase or phase to neutral measurements and permits a user to set threshold levels for detecting transients in input voltages. In an embodiment, the system and method further provides a field programmable gate array as a controller for managing transient detection. The field programmable gate array includes a state machine for determining the state of the sampled signal with respect to a threshold level at a specified waveform sample period.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 19/04 - Measuring peak values of ac or of pulses
• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques
• G01R 1/40 - Modifications of instruments to indicate the maximum or the minimum value reached in a time interval, e.g. by maximum indicator pointer
• G06F 17/40 - Data acquisition and logging
• G06F 11/30 - Monitoring
• G01R 29/02 - Measuring characteristics of individual pulses, e.g. deviation from pulse flatness, rise time or duration
• G16Z 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other main groups of this subclass

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) having a touch sensitive user interface is provided. The intelligent electronic device includes a housing; at least one sensor coupled to the electric circuit and configured to measure at least one parameter of the electrical circuit and generate at least one analog signal indicative of the at least one parameter; at least one analog to digital converter coupled to the at least one sensor and configured to receive the at least one analog signal and convert the at least one analog signal to at least one digital signal; at least one processor configured to receive the at least one digital signal and calculate at least one power parameter of the electrical circuit; and an user interface configured to receive input from a user, the user interface including at least one touch sensitive sensor configured to detect the user input.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) includes a user authentication module configured for authenticating authorized users of the IED and preventing an access by non-authorized personnel to a user-selectable portion of operational features of the IED. In exemplary embodiments, the user authentication module includes a database of information authenticating an authorized user and a sensor acquiring user-identifying information (e.g., a biometric sensor, a reader of magnetic, holographic, RFID, or smart ID cards, or a keypad). In one application, these techniques are implemented in IEDs such as electrical power and energy meters and used to control access to reset, configuration, billing, communication, and data acquisition/processing functions of the meters.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• G06F 21/31 - User authentication
• G06F 21/32 - User authentication using biometric data, e.g. fingerprints, iris scans or voiceprints
• G06F 21/34 - User authentication involving the use of external additional devices, e.g. dongles or smart cards
• G06F 21/35 - User authentication involving the use of external additional devices, e.g. dongles or smart cards communicating wirelessly
• G06Q 50/06 - Electricity, gas or water supply

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) having a gain control unit adapted to selectively regulate operating ranges of output signals of a sensing circuit of the device is described. In one embodiment, the IED is a digital electric power and energy meter, which operating ranges for supply voltages and supply currents of electrical services may be adjusted to match pre-determined ranges for input signals of a data acquisition system or a data processing module of the meter.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques

Abstract

An electrical metering system capable of performing multiple metering functions, collecting data, and wirelessly provides the collected metering data to a utility operator. In the electrical metering system, at least one computing device for initiating a request for data. A first modem connects the computing device to an infrastructure. A wireless embedded modem for wirelessly connects an electric meter to an infrastructure, and the wireless electric modem receives a request from the computing device and wirelessly transmits the metering data to the computing device, thereby initiating the request.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques
• G06Q 50/06 - Electricity, gas or water supply

Abstract

There is provided an intelligent electronic device for responding to user data and information requests regarding power usage and power quality for any metered point within a power distribution system. The intelligent electronic device includes a first network interface which receives client side information and data requests, which are processed in accordance with a network protocol and forwarded to a network interface via a network socket interface translator which translates management signals to facilitate the eventual data transfer. Protocol routines process the requests by constructing an internal data request in certain cases and forwards the internal data request to a data interface for translation from an internal data request format of the protocol routine format to a native database format. The database receives the translated request, and retrieves the requested data from a measuring unit of the electric power meter, and forwards the data back to the requesting client.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED), e.g., an electrical power meter, having wireless communication capabilities, e.g., Bluetooth connectivity, for transmitting and receiving data without a hardwire connection is provided. A system and method for retrieving revenue metering data from at least one IED, e.g., a revenue meter, are also provided. The system includes at least one intelligent electronic device including a transceiver configured for receiving calculated energy consumption data from a processor and transmitting the calculated energy consumption data via a spread-spectrum frequency hopping technique; and a data collection device configured for receiving the calculated energy consumption data from the at least one intelligent electronic device in response to supplying a pairing passkey to the intelligent electronic device.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• H04W 76/02 - Connection set-up
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device having an audible and visual interface for providing audible and visual instructions to a user in an event of an alarm or trouble indication in the electrical power system. The intelligent electronic device includes at least one sensor configured for measuring at least one power parameter of an electrical circuit and generating at least one analog signal indicative of the at least one power parameter; at least one analog to digital converter for receiving the at least one analog signal and converting the at least one analog signal to at least one digital signal; a processor configured for receiving the at least one digital signal and detecting at least one event occurring in the electrical circuit; and an interface configured for providing instructions associated to the at least one detected event. The instructions may be in the form of text, audio and/or video.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05B 11/01 - Automatic controllers electric
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G05B 23/02 - Electric testing or monitoring

Abstract

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 signal and convert the output signal to a digital signal; and at least one processing device configured to execute a plurality of instructions to implement a general purpose operating system for executing at least two applications, each application configured to implement 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.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06Q 50/06 - Electricity, gas or water supply
• H04W 4/38 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for collecting sensor information
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for managing software scripts. One system comprises one or more meters, each configured to measure parameters of a commodity. The system also comprises a server and a plurality of client devices. The server is in communication with the one or more meters by way of a communication network and is configured to receive and store the measured parameters from the one or more meters. The client devices communicate with the server via the communication network. Also, the system includes a base device in communication with the client devices. The base device is configured to store one or more functional chains, each of the one or more functional chains comprising software code defining a plurality of functional actions to be performed in a specific sequence. The base device comprises an interface that allows the plurality of client devices to reference the functional chain.

IPC Classes  ?

• H04L 12/26 - Monitoring arrangements; Testing arrangements
• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G06Q 50/06 - Electricity, gas or water supply
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• H04W 4/38 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for collecting sensor information

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device with constant calibration capabilities for high accuracy measurements and method thereof are provided. The intelligent electronic device presented herein constantly samples the output of at least one signal from a sensor and at least three reference signals, where the reference signals include a high reference signal, a low reference signal, and a medium reference signal. Using the constant calibration implementations provided, the intelligent electronic device can calibrate and compensate a signal from a sensor in real time. The constant calibration implementations provided are independent of time and temperature, and are advantageous in a rapidly changing environment. Furthermore, the constant calibration implementations provided enable the intelligent electronic device to track changes in an applied correction factor for traceability in the error correction process. The intelligent electronic device can determine, when the correction factor is applied, how often, and temporary drifts in accuracy.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 35/00 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device IED has enhanced power quality and communications capabilities. The IED can perform energy analysis by waveform capture, detect transient on the front-end voltage input channels and provide revenue measurements. The IED splits and distributes the front-end input channels into separate circuits for scaling and processing by dedicated processors for specific applications by the IED. Front-end voltage input channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for transient detection, waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively. Front-end current channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/00 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor
• G01R 21/06 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by measuring current and voltage
• G01R 19/00 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) has enhanced power quality and communications capabilities. The power meter can perform energy analysis by waveform capture, detect transient on the front end voltage input channels and provide revenue measurements. The power meter splits and distributes the front end input channels into separate circuits for scaling and processing by dedicated processors for specific applications by the power meter. Front end voltage input channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for transient detection, waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively. Front end current channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 17/40 - Data acquisition and logging
• G01R 19/00 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof
• G01R 13/00 - Arrangements for displaying electric variables or waveforms
• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques
• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques

Abstract

Systems and method for synchronizing power generators with a power grid are provided. One system among various implementations includes a plurality of synchronization modules, wherein each synchronization module corresponds to one power generator. The synchronization modules are configured to output a control signal to adjust a frequency of the respective power generator to correspond with the frequency of the existing power grid. The system also includes a central controller in communication with the plurality of synchronization modules. The central controller is configured to determine a propagation delay with respect to each synchronization module. The propagation delay is a measure of time for a signal to propagate from the respective synchronization module to the central controller. The central controller is further configured to send a control signal to each synchronization module to control when each synchronization module connects the respective power generator to the existing power grid.

IPC Classes  ?

• G05B 23/02 - Electric testing or monitoring
• H02J 3/06 - Controlling transfer of power between connected networks; Controlling sharing of load between connected networks
• H02J 3/08 - Synchronising of networks
• H02J 3/34 - Arrangements for transfer of electric power between networks of substantially different frequency
• H02J 3/38 - Arrangements for parallelly feeding a single network by two or more generators, converters or transformers
• H02J 3/40 - Synchronising a generator for connection to a network or to another generator
• H02J 3/42 - Synchronising a generator for connection to a network or to another generator with automatic parallel connection when synchronism is achieved
• H05B 37/02 - Controlling

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) having a gain control unit adapted to selectively regulate operating ranges of output signals of a sensing circuit of the device is described. In one embodiment, the IED is a digital electric power and energy meter, which operating ranges for supply voltages and supply currents of electrical services may be adjusted to match pre-determined ranges for input signals of a data acquisition system or a data processing module of the meter.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 19/00 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof

Abstract

A method and apparatus provides high-accuracy measurements of an electrical parameter across a broad range of parameter input values. In one embodiment, an intelligent electronic device (IED), e.g., a digital electrical power and energy meter, with a plurality of independently-adjustable gain factors measures a parameter, and calculates and stores calibration factors associated with known values of the measured parameter. The IED or meter applies the stored calibration factors when measuring unknown values of the measured parameter, to improve the accuracy of the measurement.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 11/32 - Watt-hour meters
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device for monitoring and determining an amount of electrical power usage by a consumer, or end user, and for providing broadband Internet access to the consumer. The intelligent electronic device includes at least one sensor coupled to an electric circuit configured for measuring at least one power parameter of the electrical circuit and generating at least one analog signal indicative of the at least one power parameter; at least one digital to analog converter coupled to the at least one sensor configured for receiving the at least one analog signal and converting the at least one analog signal to at least one digital signal; a processor configured for receiving the at least one digital signal and calculating energy consumption in the electrical circuit; and a gateway configured for receiving data transmissions imposed on the electrical circuit and for demodulating the imposed data transmission for providing data communications.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 11/32 - Watt-hour meters
• G01R 21/00 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor
• G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
• H04L 29/08 - Transmission control procedure, e.g. data link level control procedure
• H04B 3/54 - Systems for transmission via power distribution lines
• H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
• H04L 12/58 - Message switching systems
• H04L 12/18 - Arrangements for providing special services to substations for broadcast or conference

Abstract

A metering device includes a first transformer that receives an analog waveform and generates a first stepped-down output signal; a second transformer that receives the analog waveform and generates a second stepped-down output signal; first biasing circuitry that receives the first output signal from the first transformer and generates a first digital signal within a first range, wherein the first biasing circuitry includes a switching device for switching between a first and second operational sub-range; second biasing circuitry that receives the second output signal from the second transformer and generates a second digital signal within a second range; and a processor assembly in communication with the first biasing circuitry, wherein if the first digital signal saturates the first operational sub-range, the processor assembly controls the switching device to process the first output signal in the second operational sub-range.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 15/08 - Circuits for altering the measuring range
• G06F 11/30 - Monitoring
• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED), e.g., an electrical power meter having circuitry for an input voltage structure with an adjusting voltage divider, resulting in a highly accurate power measurement, is provided. The IED includes a first voltage input for receiving a sensed voltage from a first phase of an electrical distribution system, the first voltage input being coupled to a first voltage divider; a second voltage input for receiving a sensed voltage from a neutral phase of the electrical distribution system, the second voltage input being coupled to a second voltage divider; and an inverting operational amplifier (op amp) coupled to the first and second voltage inputs for providing an output proportional to the voltage of the first phase referenced to the neutral phase, wherein the first voltage divider is adjustable to match a ratio of the first voltage divider to a ratio of the second voltage divider.

IPC Classes  ?

• H03M 1/12 - Analogue/digital converters

Abstract

A system and method for providing an additional option function to existing functionality of a meter device configured for measuring parameters of energy is provided. The meter device is coupled with an option device for exchanging data between the meter and the option devices along at least one data path, including exchanging initialization data provided by the option device between the meter device and the option device, wherein the initialization data is useable by the meter device for configuring the meter device to be in condition to operate with the option device. The data exchanged between the meter device and the option devices are processed by at least one processor. Upon the coupling of the devices and the exchanging of the initialization data, the meter device is operated with the option device for adding the option function to existing functionality of the meter device.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
• G01R 21/00 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor
• G01D 4/04 - Resetting-mechanisms, e.g. for indicating members
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus

Abstract

A method and apparatus measures electrical power usage and quality, while mitigating the effects of noise on measured signals or parameters. Specifically, a digital electrical power and energy meter employs a method in which a processor averages a parameter, such as voltage or current, over a plurality of cycles of a time-varying signal, such as an AC electrical signal. The method employed by the meter samples a parameter over the plurality of cycles and computes the average of the samples corresponding to the same phase angle of the signal to produce an average signal.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)

Abstract

There is provided herein methods and apparatus for apparatus for controlling the interconnection of an auxiliary AC generator with an electrical system, such as an electrical distribution system, e.g., a utility grid. A measuring circuit measures the frequency of an auxiliary AC generator and the phase angle between one voltage phase of the generator and the correspondent voltage phase of the electric utility's electricity supply lines, i.e., the grid, each of which are averaged and filtered. The measured frequency of the auxiliary AC generator is matched to the frequency of the electrical system and the measured phase angle of the generator is matched to the electric utility's electricity supply lines. Once matching is achieved to within a defined tolerance, interconnecting contactors are closed.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)

Abstract

A system and method for providing easy access to an internal file structure of an intelligent electronic device (IED), e.g., a power meter, not presently defined or supported directly by legacy protocols used in metering industry, such as the Modbus protocol.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 7/00 - Methods or arrangements for processing data by operating upon the order or content of the data handled
• G06F 17/30 - Information retrieval; Database structures therefor
• G01D 4/00 - Tariff metering apparatus
• G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) includes a user authentication module configured for authenticating authorized users of the IED and preventing an access by non-authorized personnel to a user-selectable portion of operational features of the IED. In exemplary embodiments, the user authentication module includes a database of information authenticating an authorized user and a sensor acquiring user-identifying information (e.g., a biometric sensor, a reader of magnetic, holographic, RFID, or smart ID cards, or a keypad). In one application, these techniques are implemented in IEDs such as electrical power and energy meters and used to control access to reset, configuration, billing, communication, and data acquisition/processing functions of the meters.

IPC Classes  ?

• G08C 19/00 - Electric signal transmission systems

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED) has enhanced power quality and communications capabilities. The power meter can perform energy analysis by waveform capture, detect transient on the front end voltage input channels and provide revenue measurements. The power meter splits and distributes the front end input channels into separate circuits for scaling and processing by dedicated processors for specific applications by the power meter. Front end voltage input channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for transient detection, waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively. Front end current channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 29/00 - Arrangements for measuring or indicating electric quantities not covered by groups
• G01R 1/00 - MEASURING ELECTRIC VARIABLES; MEASURING MAGNETIC VARIABLES - Details of instruments or arrangements of the types covered by groups  or
• G01R 13/00 - Arrangements for displaying electric variables or waveforms
• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
• G06F 17/40 - Data acquisition and logging

Abstract

A system and method for data transmission between an intelligent electronic device (IED) and a device, such as a remote display or input/output (I/O) device, are provided. Each data line of the IED is input into a serializer and transmitted over a serial link to a deserializer and then provided to the inputs of remote device, such as a remote display or input/output (I/O) device. The serial link can be made of any media such as copper, fiber optics, etc. The serial link can be formed as one, two or more channels.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01J 1/42 - Photometry, e.g. photographic exposure meter using electric radiation detectors
• H04B 10/20 - Arrangements for networking, e.g. bus or star coupling

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device having a terminal assembly for coupling the IED, e.g., a revenue meter, to a meter mounting socket. The assembly includes a housing including a generally planar, rigid base, the base including at least one opening and at least one circuit board having at least one electrically conducting terminal surface mounted thereon, the at least one electrically conducting terminal extending through the at least one opening of the base to mate with at least one matching jaw of a detachable meter mounting device coupled to the electrical circuit.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 1/00 - MEASURING ELECTRIC VARIABLES; MEASURING MAGNETIC VARIABLES - Details of instruments or arrangements of the types covered by groups  or

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED), e.g., an electrical power meter, having at least one removable memory device for storing data sensed and generated by the intelligent electronic device is provided. The IED includes a housing; at least one sensor; at least one analog-to-digital converter; at least one processing unit coupled to the at least one analog-to-digital converter configured to receive the digital data and store the digital data in a removable memory; and at least one device controller coupled to the at least one processing unit, the at least one device controller including an interface disposed on the housing for interfacing with the removable memory, wherein the at least one device controller is operative as a USB master or USB slave device controller.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques
• G06F 1/26 - Power supply means, e.g. regulation thereof
• G06F 13/10 - Program control for peripheral devices
• G01R 21/133 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by using digital technique

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device for monitoring and determining an amount of electrical power usage by a consumer, or end user, and for providing broadband Internet access to the consumer. The intelligent electronic device includes at least one sensor coupled to an electric circuit configured for measuring at least one power parameter of the electrical circuit and generating at least one analog signal indicative of the at least one power parameter; at least one digital to analog converter coupled to the at least one sensor configured for receiving the at least one analog signal and converting the at least one analog signal to at least one digital signal; a processor configured for receiving the at least one digital signal and calculating energy consumption in the electrical circuit; and a gateway configured for receiving data transmissions imposed on the electrical circuit and for demodulating the imposed data transmission for providing data communications.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 11/32 - Watt-hour meters
• G01R 21/00 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device IED has enhanced power quality and communications capabilities. The IED can perform energy analysis by waveform capture, detect transient on the front-end voltage input channels and provide revenue measurements. The IED splits and distributes the front-end input channels into separate circuits for scaling and processing by dedicated processors for specific applications by the IED. Front-end voltage input channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for transient detection, waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively. Front-end current channels are split and distributed into separate circuits for waveform capture analysis and revenue measurement, respectively.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/00 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor
• G01R 21/06 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor by measuring current and voltage
• G01R 19/00 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof

Abstract

A system and method for providing an additional option function to existing functionality of a meter device configured for measuring parameters of energy is provided. The meter device is coupled with an option device for exchanging data between the meter and the option devices along at least one data path, including exchanging initialization data provided by the option device between the meter device and the option device, wherein the initialization data is useable by the meter device for configuring the meter device to be in condition to operate with the option device. The data exchanged between the meter device and the option devices are processed by at least one processor. Upon the coupling of the devices and the exchanging of the initialization data, the meter device is operated with the option device for adding the option function to existing functionality of the meter device.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 21/00 - Arrangements for measuring electric power or power factor
• G06F 17/40 - Data acquisition and logging

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED), e.g., an electrical power meter, having circuitry for an input structure of an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) that reduces noise of a signal from a sensor in the device, resulting in a highly accurate power measurement, is provided. The circuitry includes a first single-ended analog-to-digital converter with an input from a voltage signal and a second single-ended analog-to-digital converter with an input that is the reference voltage used by the voltage signal. A programmable device subtracts the digital output of the second single-ended analog-to-digital converter from the digital output of the first single-ended analog-to-digital converter to produce a digital result of the voltage signal that is free from common-mode noise.

IPC Classes  ?

• H03M 1/12 - Analogue/digital converters

Abstract

An intelligent electronic device (IED), e.g., an electrical power meter, having circuitry for reducing the burden placed on at least one current sensor of the device resulting in a highly accurate measurement by the at least one current sensor is provided. The circuitry of the present disclosure reduces the burden on the current sensor while providing amplification, e.g., gain control, to the input signal. The circuitry includes at least one current sensor outputting a signal to an operational amplifier (op amp) having a controlled variable feedback resistance. By employing an operational amplifier in the circuitry, the output of the current sensor will be at a near zero volts condition at all times thus reducing the burden on the current sensor.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 15/18 - Adaptations providing voltage or current isolation, e.g. for high-voltage or high-current networks using inductive devices, e.g. transformers
• G01R 1/20 - Modifications of basic electric elements for use in electric measuring instruments; Structural combinations of such elements with such instruments
• G01R 15/20 - Adaptations providing voltage or current isolation, e.g. for high-voltage or high-current networks using galvano-magnetic devices, e.g. Hall-effect devices
• G01R 19/20 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using conversion of dc into ac, e.g. with choppers using transductors

Abstract

There is provided herein methods and apparatus for apparatus for controlling the interconnection of an auxiliary AC generator with an electrical system, such as an electrical distribution system, e.g., a utility grid. A measuring circuit measures the frequency of an auxiliary AC generator and the phase angle between one voltage phase of the generator and the correspondent voltage phase of the electric utility's electricity supply lines, i.e., the grid, each of which are averaged and filtered. The measured frequency of the auxiliary AC generator is matched to the frequency of the electrical system and the measured phase angle of the generator is matched to the electric utility's electricity supply lines. Once matching is achieved to within a defined tolerance, interconnecting contactors are closed.

IPC Classes  ?

• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for use in an IED that perform high resolution waveform capture to generate multi-rate waveform data in real-time. In one embodiment, high-resolution sampled data is dynamically pre-ordered into separate high resolution and low resolution data streams for presentation and storage. This pre-ordering of data is optimized so as to minimize the amount of data manipulation required to prepare the sampled data for eventual presentation and storage in the IED. Pre-ordering of data facilitates minimum performance impact so that continuous real-time data capture can be achieved.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01R 13/00 - Arrangements for displaying electric variables or waveforms
• G01R 13/02 - Arrangements for displaying electric variables or waveforms for displaying measured electric variables in digital form
• G06F 19/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific applications (specially adapted for specific functions G06F 17/00;data processing systems or methods specially adapted for administrative, commercial, financial, managerial, supervisory or forecasting purposes G06Q;healthcare informatics G16H)
• G06F 17/40 - Data acquisition and logging

Abstract

A system and method for communicating between serially connected electrical devices of a network is provided. The network includes a series of electrical devices, and fiber optic connectors between electrical devices of the series of electrical devices forming a closed communication ring in which output of each electrical device is communicatively connected to input of a subsequent electrical device of the series of electrical devices.

IPC Classes  ?

• G01J 1/42 - Photometry, e.g. photographic exposure meter using electric radiation detectors
• H04B 10/20 - Arrangements for networking, e.g. bus or star coupling