U.S. patent application number 10/383471 was filed with the patent office on 2003-12-04 for system and method for monitoring lighting systems.
This patent application is currently assigned to Ultrawatt Energy Systems, Inc.. Invention is credited to Notarianni, Joseph C., Riera, Orlando M., Russell, Clarence W., Yablonowski, Timothy M..
Application Number | 20030225640 10/383471 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23806032 |
Filed Date | 2003-12-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030225640 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yablonowski, Timothy M. ; et
al. |
December 4, 2003 |
System and method for monitoring lighting systems
Abstract
A method and system for charging a fee to an end user where a
service company services a lighting system of the end user's
facility. To determine the fee, an original power consumption of
the facility is determined before the lighting system is
retrofitted with at least one power savings device. Thereafter, the
lighting system is retrofitted with the at least one power saving
device. Then, a new power consumption is measured of the facility.
Finally, the fee is charged to the end user, such that the fee is a
function of a difference between the original power consumption and
the new power consumption.
Inventors: |
Yablonowski, Timothy M.;
(Naples, FL) ; Notarianni, Joseph C.; (Naples,
FL) ; Russell, Clarence W.; (Ft. Myers, FL) ;
Riera, Orlando M.; (Ft. Myers, FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Vincent J. Gnoffo
BRINKS HOFER GILSON & LIONE
P.O. BOX 10395
CHICAGO
IL
60610
US
|
Assignee: |
Ultrawatt Energy Systems,
Inc.
|
Family ID: |
23806032 |
Appl. No.: |
10/383471 |
Filed: |
March 6, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10383471 |
Mar 6, 2003 |
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09454775 |
Dec 3, 1999 |
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6535859 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/34 ;
705/14.34; 705/412 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/0234 20130101;
G06Q 30/04 20130101; G06Q 50/06 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/34 ; 705/14;
705/412 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method for charging a fee to an end user where a service
company services a lighting system of the end user's facility, the
method comprising: a) determining an original power consumption of
the facility before the lighting system is retrofitted with at
least one power savings device; b) retrofitting the lighting system
with said at least one power saving device; c) measuring a new
power consumption of the facility after retrofitting the lighting
system with said at least one power saving device; and d) charging
the fee to the end user, such that the fee is a function of a
difference between said original power consumption and said new
power consumption.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein said fee comprises the difference
between said original power consumption and said new power
consumption multiplied by actual hours of operation, multiplied by
a power rate, and multiplied by an air conditioning reduction
factor.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein said power rate is determined
through negotiation.
4. The method of claim 2, wherein said air conditioning reduction
factor is determined through negotiation.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein said charging of the fee occurs
according to a periodic billing cycle.
6. The method of claim 5, wherein said billing cycle occurs every
28 days.
7. The method of claim 5, wherein said fee is determined at the end
of each billing cycle according to actual power consumption.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein a) includes preparing a
pre-retrofit consumption report.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein c) includes preparing a
post-retrofit consumption report.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein d) includes maintaining the
lighting system at no fee.
11. The method of claim 1, further comprising: monitoring the
lighting circuitry of at least one customer; producing at least one
alarm signal as a function of the occurrence of a system fault;
transferring said alarm signal via a data transfer line to a
control center; receiving said alarm signal at a server located at
said control center; and coordinating service to the lighting
circuitry when said alarm signal indicates that a fault exists with
the lighting system.
12. The method of claim 11, said control center is located remote
from the lighting system.
13. A system for charging a fee to an end user where a service
company services a lighting system of the end user's facility,
comprising: at least one power savings device; at least one power
meter such that said at least one meter measures a new power
consumption of the facility after the lighting system is
retrofitted with said at least one power savings device; and a
processor that receives original power consumption and said new
power consumption as inputs and calculates the fee to be charged to
the end user as a function of a difference between said original
power consumption and said new power consumption.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein said fee comprises the
difference between said original power consumption and said new
power consumption multiplied by actual hours of operation,
multiplied by a power rate, and multiplied by an air conditioning
reduction factor.
15. The system of claim 13, wherein said charging of the fee occurs
according to a periodic billing cycle.
16. The system of claim 15, wherein said billing cycle occurs every
28 days.
17. The system of claim 15, wherein said fee is determined at the
end of each billing cycle according to actual power
consumption.
18. A method for monitoring energy consumption of a lighting
system, the method comprising: a) controlling power consumption of
the lighting system with a lighting control unit connected with the
lighting system; b) producing power consumption data; c)
transferring said power consumption data via a data transfer line
to a control center; and d) receiving said power consumption data
at a server located at said control center.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein c) comprises transferring via
electronic-mail.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein c) comprises transferring via
an Internet service provider.
21. The method of claim 18, further comprising: e) determining a
total energy usage; and f) calculating a fee as a function of said
total energy usage.
22. The method of claim 21, further comprising retrofitting the
lighting system with a power savings device, such that said fee is
calculated as a function of the difference between said total
energy usage as measured before and after said power savings device
is retrofitted to the lighting system.
23. The method of claim 18, wherein b) comprises producing at least
one alarm signal as a function of the occurrence of a system fault,
c) comprises transferring said alarm signal via a data transfer
line to said control center, and d) comprises receiving said alarm
signal at a server located at said control center.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein c) further comprises
transferring data from said server to separate accounting
processors for each of said first facility location and said second
facility location.
25. The method of claim 18, further comprising: performing a)
through c) at a first facility location; and performing a) through
c) at a second facility location, wherein d) comprises receiving
said power consumption data at said server located at said control
center for both said first facility location and said second
facility location.
26. A system for monitoring energy consumption of a lighting
system, the system comprising: a) a lighting control unit connected
with the lighting system to control power consumption of the
lighting system; b) a power meter to produce power consumption
data; c) a data transfer line to transfer said power consumption
data to said control center; and d) at least one server located at
said control center to receive said power consumption data.
27. The system of claim 26, wherein c) is performed via
electronic-mail.
28. The system of claim 26, further comprising a processor, such
that a total energy usage is determined and said processor
calculates a fee charged by a service provider to an end user as a
function of said total energy usage.
29. The system of claim 28, wherein said processor calculates said
fee as a function of the difference between said total energy usage
as measured before and after a power savings device is added to the
lighting system.
30. The system of claim 26, wherein said lighting control unit
produces at least one alarm signal as a function of the occurrence
of a system fault, c) transfers said alarm signal to said control
center, and d) receives said power consumption data.
31. The system of claim 26, further comprising: a) through c)
located at a first facility location; and a) through c) located at
a second facility location, wherein d) receives said power
consumption data at said control center for both said first
facility location and said second facility location.
32. The system of claim 31, furthering comprising separate
accounting processors for each of said first facility location and
said second facility location.
33. A method for maintaining a lighting system which includes
lighting circuitry, the method comprising: monitoring the lighting
circuitry of at least one customer; producing at least one alarm
signal as a function of the occurrence of a system fault;
transferring said alarm signal via a data transfer line to a
control center; receiving said alarm signal at a server located at
said control center; and coordinating service to the lighting
circuitry when said alarm signal indicates that a fault exists with
the lighting system.
34. The method of claim 33 wherein said control center is located
remote from said lighting circuits.
35. The method of claim 33, further including transferring said
alarm signal to said control center via electronic-mail.
36. The method of claim 33, further comprising: determining a total
energy usage of the lighting system; and calculating a fee a
function of said total energy usage.
37. The method of claim 36, further comprising retrofitting the
lighting system with a power savings device, such that said fee is
calculated as a function of the difference between said total
energy usage as measured before and after said power savings device
is retrofitted to the lighting system.
38. A system for maintaining a lighting system which includes
lighting circuitry, the method comprising: at least one monitor to
monitor the lighting circuitry of at least one customer and to
produce at least one alarm signal as a function of the occurrence
of a system fault; a data transfer line to transfer said alarm
signal line to a control center; a server to receive said alarm
signal at said control center; and at least one operator to
coordinate service to the lighting circuitry when said alarm signal
indicates that a fault exists with the lighting system.
39. The system of claim 38 wherein said control center is located
remote from said lighting circuits.
40. The system of claim 39, wherein said alarm signal is
transferred to said control center via electronic-mail.
41. The system of claim 39, wherein said alarm signal is
transferred between said facility and said control center via an
internet service provider.
42. The system of claim 38, further comprising a processor to
determine a total energy usage of the lighting system and calculate
a fee a function of said total energy usage.
43. The system of claim 42, wherein said processor calculates the
fee as a function of the difference between said total energy usage
as measured before and after said power savings device is
retrofitted to the lighting system.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention generally relates to electrical
lighting systems. More particularly, the present invention relates
to systems and methods for maintaining the lighting systems and for
monitoring energy consumption of the lighting systems.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Energy consumption in the United States has grown in
alarming proportions. One concern is that indiscriminate use of
energy and other resources will leave the environment and those
that live in it wanting. That concern has existed at least since
the oil crisis of the 1970's, and since then American consumers and
businesses have focused their attention to the current usage and
future supply of energy. The government increased its demand for
energy efficient systems when, in the late 1980's and early 1990's,
the Department of Energy and the Public Utility Commission provided
a financial incentive for utilities to offer Demand Side Measures
(DSM) to their customers. End customers took advantage of DSM in
the form of utility funded rebates used to purchase more energy
efficient motors, variable frequency drives, lighting systems, and
occupancy sensors. Despite the prevalence of DSM programs offered
by local utilities, however, not all building managers were aware
of the programs, and a small percentage of all buildings
participated.
[0003] To encourage the nation's top corporations to upgrade their
facility floor space to more energy efficient lighting, the United
States Environmental Protection Agency launched the Green Lights
initiative in 1991. Even with the Green Lights initiative, by the
end of 1996 only a small percentage of pledged space for lighting
retrofit had been upgraded with new lighting technologies Further
initiatives include the Energy Policy Act (EPACT 1992), the
President's Climate Change Initiative (1993) and an Executive Order
on Energy Efficiency in Federal Facilities by the year 2005.
Increased market demand for energy efficient lighting products has
also been stimulated by performance based contracting programs
offered by energy service companies.
[0004] Accordingly, there is a need for improved facility lighting
systems. The method and systems should provide an incentive for
facility owners to use the improved lighting systems. Thus, the
method and system of the preferred embodiments may provide for
energy monitoring and maintenance of lighting systems at reduced
costs to the facility owner.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0005] The present invention is defined by the following claims,
and nothing in this section should be taken as a limitation on
those claims. By way of introduction, the preferred embodiment
described below includes a method and system for servicing,
monitoring and maintaining lighting systems.
[0006] A first aspect is described for charging a fee to an end
user where a service company upgrades and services a lighting
system of the end user's facility. To determine the fee, an
original power consumption of the facility is determined before the
lighting system is retrofitted with at least one power savings
device. Thereafter, the lighting system is retrofitted with the at
least one power saving device. Then, a new power consumption value
is measured. Finally, the fee is charged to the end user, such that
the fee is a function of a difference between the original power
consumption and the new power consumption.
[0007] A second aspect is described for monitoring energy
consumption of a lighting system. Power consumption of the lighting
system is controlled with a lighting control unit connected with
the lighting system. The lighting control unit collects power
consumption data and transfers the power consumption data via a
data transfer line to a control center. The power consumption data
is received at a server located at the control center. The received
power consumption data may then be used to calculate the fee
charged to the customer.
[0008] A third aspect is described for maintaining a lighting
system which includes lighting circuitry At least one monitor
monitors the lighting circuitry of at least one customer and
produces at least one alarm signal as a function of the occurrence
of a system fault. A data transfer line transfers the alarm signal
to a control center. A server receives the alarm signal at the
control center, and at least one operator coordinates service to
the lighting circuitry when the alarm signal indicates that a fault
exists with the lighting system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] Other features and advantages of the invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art with reference to the detailed
description and the drawings, of which:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of
exemplary costs to a facility before utilization of the service
program;
[0011] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing one preferred embodiment
of exemplary costs to a facility after utilization of the service
program;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing one preferred embodiment
of a lighting monitoring system;
[0013] FIGS. 4A-4D are detailed wiring schematics showing one
preferred embodiment for wiring the lighting monitoring system
shown in FIG. 3;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a flow chart representing one preferred embodiment
on the lighting system service program;
[0015] FIGS. 6A-6F show one preferred embodiment of exemplary
lighting system audit sheets for use before the lighting system is
operated in a power savings mode;
[0016] FIGS. 6G-6I show one preferred embodiment of exemplary
lighting system audit sheets for use after the lighting system is
operated in a power savings mode; and
[0017] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing one preferred embodiment
of lighting system maintenance.
TABLE OF ACRONYMS
[0018] The following table aids the reader in determining the
meaning of the several acronyms used to describe the
embodiments:
1 C/T = current transformer. HID = high intensity discharge. I/O =
input/output. ISDN = integrated services digital network. ISP =
internet service provider. Kwh = kilowatt hours. LCU = lighting
control unit. PC = personal computer. THD = total harmonic
distortion. UPS = uninterrupted power source.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0019] To preserve the environment by reducing energy consumption,
the below described embodiments utilize 1) a lighting monitoring
system and method, 2) a service program system and method, and 3) a
lighting maintenance system and method for energy consuming
facilities. As used herein, facilities include office buildings,
warehouse buildings, banks, schools, federal and state buildings,
private residences, and others. The three aspects of the preferred
embodiments may be used separately or together.
[0020] Referring to the drawings, and particularly FIG. 1, a
typical lighting system includes at least one ballast 4 and
lighting fixture 5. The lighting fixture 5 includes a lamp 6,
powered from an end user panel 7 which connects with an electric
utility 8. The electric utility 8 uses, for example, an electric
utility meter 9 to monitor the end user's power consumption to
determine an amount the end user should be charged.
[0021] Referring now to FIG. 2, the lighting system is modified
according to the preferred embodiments to include a lighting
control unit (LCU) 10. A preferred LCU is an ULTRAWATT power
savings unit as described in commonly owned patents to Walker, U.S.
Pat. No. 5,754,036 and Bangerter 5,583,423, the disclosures of
which are incorporated herein by reference. Those skilled in the
art will appreciate that other equipment light produces energy
reduction may be used, such as other electronically controlled
power reduction devices, transformers, switch based power reducers
or dimmer switches. Of course, with dimmer switches, unlike with
the ULTRAWATT power savings unit, high lighting quality may not be
maintained.
[0022] The preferred LCU is utilized to regulate alternating
current (AC) power to a wide range of complex capacitive and
inductive loads to provide reduction in power consumption and may
also provide a leading or lagging power factor. The LCU adjustable
for a wide range of loads and may reduce power consumption by 25
percent or more in lighting loads while producing minimal reduction
in light output. Alternatively, the LCU implements a predetermined
energy reduction. The LCU uses a main switch which is initially
turned off slightly in advance of the load current zero crossing.
The turn-off time is advanced gradually to reduce power to a target
level, and optionally a load phase angle is measured and maintained
to control the power savings ratio. This in combination with a
capacitor bank or parallel capacitor allows power reduction in a
low noise fashion.
[0023] The LCU 10 sends signals to a control center 12, for
example, relating to power consumption, via a communication port.
These signals allow the control center 12 to diagnose the operation
of the lighting system and to monitor power consumption. The
modified system may include current transformers (C/T's) 14 with
power monitoring capabilities. An exemplary C/T unit is Model
Number Hawkeye 8036 manufactured by Veris Industries (Square D),
but other C/Ts may be used. The unit includes three C/T's, and at
least one of the C/T's contains power monitor circuitry for logging
energy data, such as, Amperage, Voltage, power and Kwh. In
alternative embodiments, the LCU 10 performs the consumption and/or
fault monitoring.
[0024] Referring to FIG. 3, another preferred embodiment of the
modified lighting system is shown according to the preferred
embodiments. The C/T's 14 preferably connect in daisy chain fashion
with an input/output (I/O) card 16. Preferably, one C/T 14 is
utilized for each phase of the electrical system. An exemplary I/O
card is manufactured by Veris Industries, but other I/O cards may
be used. The I/O card 16 connects with the LCU's communication
port. For example, the communications port is a standard 15-pin
connector which is rated for nominal 5 Volt, 10 milliamp dry
contact operation. Other communication ports may be used. The I/O
card 16 includes a protocol platform so that a device, such as the
E-server 18, may read the signals sent via the communications port
of the LCU 10. Preferably, the protocol platform identifies each
LCU 10 with a unique address so that an operator can determine from
which LCU 10 a signal originated.
[0025] The I/O card 16 integrated at least one LCU 10 with an
E-server unit 18. An exemplary E-Server unit 18 is Model Number
Series H8800 manufactured by Veris Industries. Other communication
devices may be used, such as personal computers, processors, or
general servers. The E-Server 18 is an energy information server
which contains an onboard converter, a microprocessor and a modem.
The E-Server 18 preferably includes software that is configurable
so that the E-Server may adapt to different lighting system
configurations, but may be hard wired. The E-Server 18 logs energy
information, like Kwh usage of the lighting system, and signals,
like alarm signals, from the LCU 10, and automatically transfers
this information, for example, via e-mail. Those skilled in the art
will appreciate that the E-Server can send messages to the control
center 12 using other methods such as via a telephone line with a
modem, via a T1 line, or by cable.
[0026] Optionally, the E-Server 18 connects with a first
uninterrupted power source (UPS) 20 for continuous operation in the
case of a power failure. The UPS 20 allows operators at the control
center 12 to communicate with the E-Server 18 to diagnose alarms
during power failure. An internet service provider (ISP) 22
connects with the E-Server 18. The ISP 22 allows operators at the
control center 12 to connect with any LCU 10. The ISP 22 also
allows messages to be sent from the E-Server 18 to the control
center 12 from anywhere in a region or globally. A domain name 24
is preferably set-up, for example, ULTRAWATT-LINK.com, to allow the
control center 12 to receive the messages from the E-Server 18 and
other E-servers.
[0027] Optionally, a concentrator 26 connects the ISP 22 with the
control center 12 via an integrated services digital network (ISDN)
high speed dataline or other data transfer mechanism. The
concentrator 26 allows multiple computers to connect with and
simultaneously run from a single ISDN line. Other communication
configurations may be used such as using multiple dedicated lines
and modems, T1 or cable. The ISDN transmits data digitally and
preferably provides two simultaneous connections over a single
line. In addition, multiple devices may attach to the line in a
network fashion. Typically, the ISP 22 provides the concentrator 26
which houses a high speed ISDN Modem expansion card. Preferably,
the concentrator 26 connects with a second UPS 28.
[0028] The concentrator 26, ISP 22, LCU 10, C/T 14 or I/O 16
connects with a network server 30 at the control center 12. Those
skilled in the art will appreciate that the concentrator 26 may
also be located away from the control center 12. The network server
30 facilitates message delivery to a server processor 32, for
example, a personal computer (PC), and transfers logging data
between the PCs and an accounting department, described below. The
network server 28 preferably connects with an internal backup 34
and a third UPS 36 with a generator 38, to safeguard against the
loss and corruption of received consumption and alarm data.
[0029] The server processor 32 is located at the control center 12
and is preferably a dedicated stand alone PC with a live connection
to the network server 30. The server processor 32 automatically
sends alarm messages, for example, via e-mail, to at least one
customer processor 40a-40c, for example, a PC. Preferably, each end
user account, per facility, has a dedicated customer processor
40a-40c which performs the logging of energy information for
service program fee charging purposes, as discussed above, and
receiving alarm messages for the lighting system maintenance
program, as discussed below. Each customer processor 40a-40c is
network via the network server 30 and connects with dedicated
accounting processors 42a-42c, for example, PCs, one for each
monitored facility, for ease of transferring logged alarm signals
and energy consumption information. The accounting processors
42a-42c are used to determine charged fees under the service
program, as discussed below. Dedicated processors or PCs are used
per facility for convenience purposes, but one PC could be used for
all facilities.
[0030] Preferably, all processors are interconnected by the network
and have constant connection to the Internet through ISP 22 for
receiving information. In addition, the server processor 32
connects with a redundant server processor 44 and the customer
dedicated processors 40a-40c connect with data backups 46a-46c and
UPSs 48a-48c. Non-redundant or different redundant systems may be
used.
[0031] Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4D, exemplary detailed wiring
schematics are shown for differing lighting monitoring systems.
Other electrical systems may use the method and systems of the
preferred embodiments. Referring to FIG. 4A, a 277/480 Volt system
is shown. A lighting load 50, such as HID fluorescent and
incandescent, of the lighting system and electrical panel 52 are
shown connected with the LCU 10, the I/O 16, the C/T's 14 and the
E-Server 18. The LCU 10 connects in series with the load 50. One
C/T 14 is used per phase for each load 50. The C/Ts 14 preferably
snap fit around a line 54 from the lighting load 50. As discussed
above, the C/T 14 connects with the I/O 16 which connects with C/Ts
from other panels and the E-server 18 is a daisy wheel
configuration. The I/O 16 connects to the E-server 18 through a
socket connector, for example, a RS-45 connector. To obtain the 120
Volts or other voltages necessary to power the E-server 18 or other
component, a transformer 56 is used. Other power sources may be
provided. Referring to FIG. 4B, an exemplary wiring diagram is
shown for a 120/277 Volt system. Referring to FIG. 4C, a wiring
diagram is shown for a 208 Volt system. Referring to FIG. 4D, a
wiring diagram is shown for a 240 Volt system. Other wiring
arrangements are possible for each system or other voltage
systems.
[0032] Turning now to the service program of the preferred
embodiments, one or more of the above-described monitoring systems
or another system are used to provide power reduction and/or energy
charge savings. The LCU 10 is preferably provided by at least one
member of an alliance of service providers. The service providers
also preferably include an Engineering Firm/Project Manager,
Construction Manager/Contractor, a wholesale fixture company,
and/or a lighting service company. Those skilled in the art should
appreciate that that the alliance may be any combination of these
providers and may include other types of providers as well. Since
the LCU 10 provides for power reduction and thus costs savings to
facilities, the LCU 10 is preferably used with the service program
to attract potential customers, for example, owners or managers of
facilities with lighting systems, i.e., end users.
[0033] The service providers use at least three basic avenues to
introduce the service program to potential customers. First, the
service providers market the alliance to potential customers.
Through the years, alliance members have developed a customer base
to sell products and services. Alliance members have numerous
accounts that are dealt with on a regular basis and existing
contracts with these customers. To introduce the service program to
potential customers, marketing personnel of the alliance members
are preferably trained to identify potential customers and present
the service program to such customers. Second, the alliance
preferably has an internal marketing force to introduce the service
program to potential customers. The potential customers are
selected as a result of leads generated by support groups that the
alliance has developed or other leads. The support groups
preferably have strong contacts at the highest levels of major
corporations to reduce the time normally required to determine and
reach the correct upper management personal at the highest levels
of the potential customer's corporate structure. Third, as projects
are completed, the alliance preferably requests testimonials from
satisfied customers to explain their satisfaction with the results
of the service program for their particular facilities. These
testimonials may be in the form of videos, letters of
recommendation and verbal recommendations.
[0034] Thereafter, potential customers are preferably reviewed to
determine whether the customer's financial position is solid and to
determine whether the customer's facilities fall within the
guidelines of the service program. Alliance personnel pre-qualify
the potential customer by gathering general information about the
potential customer's facilities. For example, hours of operation,
kilowatt hours (Kwh) rates, and existing lighting system component
information is obtained. Preferably, a questionnaire provides
general information about the existing lighting systems in all or a
subset of the customer's facilities.
[0035] Gathered information also includes whether operating hours
vary in different areas of the facility. The audit reflects the
operating hours by area and whether or not the area has air
conditioning. If lights are switched on/off, the switching method
is verified. Switching methods include energy management system,
time clock, photocell, and occupancy sensors. If some fixtures are
switched by wall switches, the average hours of operation for these
fixtures is noted. These fixtures may be excluded from the base
program and may be included under separate negotiations with the
customer. Alternatively, such fixtures are included in the program
The type and number of fixtures and lamps, their wattage and
voltage, and the type of reflectors, if any are identified. Broken
and discolored lenses are noted, as is the type of bell of the
fixture. The approximate age of ballasts is also recorded for use
during the design phase of the project. Any obvious code violations
are noted, and new lighting control equipment is considered for any
lighting circuits to achieve additional energy savings.
[0036] Gathered information is then used to run a computer model,
for example, to determine the financial feasibility of the project
for the alliance, i.e., the margin of profit. The higher the Kwh
costs, for example, greater than seven cents, and the longer the
operating hours, the greater the potential for profit. In addition,
particular applications, for example warehouses, distribution
centers, retail, and industrial buildings have a greater potential
for using high wattage lamps than residential buildings, and thus
have the potential for higher energy consumption. After reviewing
the feasibility of the project, including possible fixture
retrofitting or replacement, the alliance either accepts or rejects
the project.
[0037] Once the project is accepted, the alliance introduces the
service program to the customer and the customer receives a copy of
all agreement. According to the preferred embodiments, the service
program directly generates at least one stream of revenue for the
service providers, i.e., the alliance. The revenue is based on cost
avoidance funds as determined by costs to the facility both before
and after the facility is upgraded. The facility is typically
upgraded with, for example, the LCU, energy efficient lamps and
lighting fixtures, new ballasts, energy meters, and/or
communications hardware and software. The service providers
typically install the LCU and upgrade the facilities lighting
system at no cost. Additional changes may be provided. Thereafter,
the service providers gain a stream of revenue in at least one or
two ways described below. The upgrades provide for more energy
efficient facilities which in turn reduces facility energy costs
and is better for the environment.
[0038] A first source of revenue comprises a fee based on savings
in energy costs. Referring FIG. 5, to determine a fee charged by
the service provider, the electric utility cost for the original
lighting system is determined to create a baseline figure (block
70). For example, the original power consumption may be determined
using the book value of the existing fixtures, as determined within
the industry. Thereafter, the lighting system is retrofitted with
at least one power savings device (block 72) and optionally other
electrical equipment. After the power savings device is installed,
new power consumption data is measured (block 74). Finally, a fee
is charged as a function of the difference between the power
consumption of the original lighting system and the power
consumption for the new lighting system (block 76). Preferably, the
service provider maintains the lighting system at no, or a reduced,
cost to the end user.
[0039] More particularly, the cost for the original lighting system
is preferably determined from the Kwh usage of the original system
as measured by the service provider and physically verified by the
end user. Referring again to FIG. 1, exemplary lighting system
costs are shown for an original lighting system, i.e., prior to
operation in the power savings mode. As an example, electric
utility costs are one dollar and end user maintenance costs total
twenty cents; ten cents for ballast maintenance, two cents for
light fixture maintenance, and eight cents for spot re-lamp.
[0040] Also referring to FIGS. 6A-6I, exemplary sheets are shown
for collecting information relating to total cost figures that are
determined before and after the lighting system is operating in the
power savings mode. The described sheets are for example purposes
only and other sheet formats may be used. Referring to FIG. 6A, an
exemplary first sheet contains general information about the end
user including the address of the end user's facility. Preferably,
the audit is performed by an alliance member such as the
Engineering Firm/Project Manager and/or Construction
Manager/Contractor personnel. Referring to FIGS. 6B-6D,
measurements are taken before the LCU or other power reduction
equipment are installed. Using a meter, measurements are made for
main panel feeders and all neutrals. All total harmonic distortion
(THD) readings are taken from the Amp scale of the meter.
Preferably, to allow for burn in time, new fluorescent lamps are
operated for a minimum of one hour and high intensity discharge
(HID) lamps are operated for a minimum of seventy two hours prior
to recording any power measurements. Referring to FIGS. 6C and 6D,
measurements are taken of the circuits before and after the
circuits are retrofitted.
[0041] Referring to FIGS. 6E and 6F, measurements are taken after
the LCU is installed and the LCU is operating in the power savings
mode off. Operation in this bypass mode allows the fixtures to
stabilize, preferably for fifteen to thirty minutes, and the
neutral lines are verified to meet code. Referring to FIGS. 6G-6I,
the LCU is switched to the savings mode and the fixtures are
allowed to stabilize for about fifteen to thirty minutes.
Thereafter, lighting circuit measurements are recorded at the panel
for the circuits connected to the LCU units.
[0042] Light level recordings are also performed before the
retrofit and LCU units are installed and after the retrofit is
completed and the LCU units are installed to allow for a light
level comparison. Light level readings are preferably performed
using the same light meter and at the same points in the facility.
Also, the readings preferably occur without interference from
outside light. Pictures may be taken of the areas where the light
level readings are taken. The light level before and after the
lighting system is operating in the power savings mode is
preferably within a certain percentage as negotiated by the end
user and the service provider.
[0043] Referring again to FIG. 2, exemplary costs to the facility
after utilization of the service program are shown according to a
preferred embodiment. The fee is charged to the end user, such that
the fee is a function of a difference between the original power
consumption and the new power consumption. For example, the fee
from the end user to the service company is forty cents where the
original electric utility cost was one dollar (see FIG. 1) and the
new electric utility cost is sixty cents. Notice that the end user
has received an upgraded system with no out of pocket expenses and
saves twenty cents on maintenance costs (see FIG. 1) where
maintenance is provided without cost.
[0044] Alternatively, the fee is the difference between the
original power consumption and the new power consumption multiplied
by actual hours of operation, multiplied by a power rate, and
multiplied by an air conditioning reduction factor. The hours of
operation, the power rate and the air conditioning reduction factor
may be determined through negotiation. Other calculations may be
used to suit the specific requirements of the end user and the
service provider, such as a fee comprising only a portion of the
reduction.
[0045] Preferably, the direct fee is charged with a periodic
billing cycle, for example, every 28 days, to allow for the same
number of Saturdays and Sundays in each cycle. Instead of charging
a fixed fee, the fee is preferably determined at the end of each
billing cycle according to actual power consumption, the data of
which is logged according to the method and system described above,
for that billing period. Thus, the end user pays a fee as a
function of the power savings for that particular billing period.
The fee is determined automatically at the control center based on
information communicated from the end user's facility.
Alternatively, those skilled in the art will appreciate that a
fixed fee may be used. Accordingly, careful monitoring and
maintenance of the power consumption is accomplished to insure that
the power saving devices continue to function properly. If power
consumption increases, the service provider may dispatch
maintenance personnel, and collective measures are automatically
taken, as described with regard to the lighting system maintenance
described below.
[0046] The service program of the preferred embodiments may also
generate an indirect stream of revenue in the form of additional
products and services from the service provider. Funds normally
spent on lighting costs may be redirected into equipment and
services from the service providers business. In turn, the service
provider's gross sales are increased.
[0047] Referring now to lighting system maintenance as shown in
FIG. 7, as stated above, the E-Server 18 sends alarm signals 56
from the LCU 10 or C/T 14 located at one or more facilities 58 to
the control center 12. The information may also be communicated to
other control centers of other locations. Each control center 12
may be operated by one or more of engineering, maintenance and
billing companies. The alarm signals 56 are preferable sent with
power consumption data 60, discussed above, via a communications
device such as the Internet 22. The power consumption data 60 is
logged in an energy data archive 62 and the alarm signals 56 are
logged in a fault data archive 64, preferably located at the
control center 12. The alarm signals may be in the form of
different color lights located on the LCU 10 that preferably
correspond to the operating status of the LCU 10 and include, for
example, 1) the LCU is in bypass mode, i.e., not energy savings
mode, 2) the LCU is not functioning, i.e., a hard fault exists in
the unit, and 3) the LCU is operating in power savings mode. Those
skilled in the art will appreciate that other alarm signals may be
used, such as signals indicating an uncharacteristic change in
consumption (e.g., reduction or increase indicating fixture, lamp
or ballast malfunction).
[0048] At the control center 12, an operator diagnoses the alarm
signals to determine if there is a fault. Alternatively, a computer
program is run to analyze the alarm signals and display a message
corresponding to the fault. If there is a fault, service personnel
66 are automatically dispatched to facility with information
regarding, for example, the date and time the fault occurred, the
facility's location, the LCU 10 that sent the fault data, the
location and type of the lamp and ballast, tile panel location and
circuit number, and/or the fixture height. Additionally, in the
case of the alarm, the operator may immediately call the end user
to diagnose the kW, Amperage, and any other signals to determine
whether or not service personnel should be dispatched. Alternative
to waiting, preferably the operator informs the end user that the
service provider is aware of the alarm. Other coordinating
activities or a sub-set of the above-described coordinating
activities may be performed.
[0049] It is to be understood that changes and modifications to the
embodiments described above will be apparent to those skilled in
the art, and are contemplated. It is therefore intended that the
foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather
than limiting, and that it be understood that it is the following
claims, including all equivalents, that are intended to define the
spirit and scope of this invention.
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