U.S. patent application number 13/657784 was filed with the patent office on 2013-02-21 for method and system for intelligent energy network management control system.
This patent application is currently assigned to JETLUN CORPORATION. The applicant listed for this patent is Jetlun Corporation. Invention is credited to Elsa A. CHAN, Tat-Keung CHAN.
Application Number | 20130046412 13/657784 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42737052 |
Filed Date | 2013-02-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130046412 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CHAN; Tat-Keung ; et
al. |
February 21, 2013 |
METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR INTELLIGENT ENERGY NETWORK MANAGEMENT CONTROL
SYSTEM
Abstract
A system for providing network infrastructure for energy
management and control is disclosed. A controller integrates
powerline and wireless networking technologies in order to provide
an integrated network. A gateway sends and receives command and
control data across the integrated network. Client devices may
connect to the integrated network and perform a variety of
functions. An appliance module may send and receive data across the
integrated network in relation to a particular appliance. A panel
meter may send and receive data across the integrated network in
relation to data measured at a distribution panel. A serial bridge
may connect various devices to the integrated network. Computing
devices may remotely or locally connect to the integrated network
and send and receive data.
Inventors: |
CHAN; Tat-Keung; (South San
Francisco, CA) ; CHAN; Elsa A.; (South San Francisco,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Jetlun Corporation; |
South San Francisco |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
JETLUN CORPORATION
South San Francisco
CA
|
Family ID: |
42737052 |
Appl. No.: |
13/657784 |
Filed: |
October 22, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13536889 |
Jun 28, 2012 |
8319627 |
|
|
13657784 |
|
|
|
|
12550382 |
Aug 30, 2009 |
8269622 |
|
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13536889 |
|
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|
61161050 |
Mar 17, 2009 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
700/286 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04L 12/40039 20130101;
Y04S 20/42 20130101; Y02B 90/242 20130101; Y04S 20/322 20130101;
Y04S 20/30 20130101; H04L 12/2836 20130101; H04L 12/2818 20130101;
Y02B 90/246 20130101; Y02B 90/20 20130101; Y04S 20/46 20130101;
G01D 4/004 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
700/286 |
International
Class: |
G06F 1/26 20060101
G06F001/26 |
Claims
1. A method for operating a system for monitoring and controlling
power usage in a home or industrial setting, the method comprising:
in a the system comprising: a gateway apparatus comprising: a
powerline module configured to transmit information at one or more
first frequencies, the powerline module being coupled to a
powerline network, the powerline network being coupled to one or
more appliances; a control module configured to transmit
information at one or more second frequencies, the control module
being configured to control one or more appliances coupled to the
power line from information received from one or more appliances; a
wireless module configured to transmit information at one or more
third frequencies; a circuit sensor device comprising a plurality
of input sites, the input sites being coupled to respective circuit
breaker elements in a circuit distribution panel, the circuit
sensor device being coupled to the powerline module via one or more
powerline networks or the wireless module to transmit power
consumption information in either at least real time or a selected
time frequency; a panel device comprising a first input, a second
input, and a third input respectively coupled to a power source
including a first phase, a second phase, and a third phase, the
panel device being configured to output power information; and an
appliance module coupled to the gateway apparatus, the appliance
module being configured to tum on or tum off one or more
appliances, the appliance module being coupled to the control
module using either or both of wireless module or the control
module; and transferring a control signal to the appliance module
to turn on or turn off one or more appliances.
2. The method of claim 1 further comprising one or more
communication ports, the one or more communication ports being
coupled to the control module, the one or more communication ports
being configured for at least one format selected from GSM,
Cellular, Fiber, Coaxial, Ethernet, Zigbee, RS232, RS485, M-bus,
USB, Firewire, 802.XXX, WiLan, WiMax, Powerline, HomePNA, and MOCA;
wherein the appliance module is configured to measure power
consumption in real time.
3. The method of claim 1 wherein the appliance module comprising an
element selected from a thermal sensor, a humidity sensor, a
security sensor, a motion sensor, a light sensor, one or more
pressure sensors, one or more microphones, one or more audio
devices, one or more vibration sensors, a gyro or accelerometer,
one or more smoke sensors, or a biological sensor.
4. The method of claim 1 wherein the appliance module comprising
one or more combinations of sensor devices; wherein the one or more
third frequencies of 2 GHz is 2.5 GHz; wherein the one or more
first frequencies ranging from 1 MHz to 30 MHz; wherein the one or
more second frequencies ranging from 250 kHz to 400 kHz.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein each of the appliance module, the
powerline module, control module, wireless module, and circuit
sensor device comprising one or more batteries as a power
backup.
6. The method of claim 1 further comprising a routing device, the
routing device being coupled to the control module.
7. The method of claim 1 further comprising a reset module
configured to perform a soft or hard reset remotely using at least
information from the control module or other module.
8. The method of claim 1 wherein the wireless module configured to
communicate to one or more appliance modules.
9. A system for monitoring and controlling power usage, the system
comprising: a gateway apparatus comprising: a powerline module
configured to transmit information at one or more first
frequencies, the powerline module being coupled to a powerline
network, the powerline network being coupled to one or more
appliances; a control module configured to transmit information at
one or more second frequencies, the control module being configured
to control one or more appliances coupled to the power line from
information received from one or more appliances; a wireless module
configured to transmit information at one or more third
frequencies; a circuit sensor device comprising a plurality of
input sites, the input sites being coupled to respective circuit
breaker elements in a circuit distribution panel, the circuit
sensor device being coupled to the powerline module via one or more
powerline networks or being coupled to the wireless module to
transmit power consumption information in either at least real time
or a selected time frequency; and a reset module configured to
perform a soft reset or hard reset of the gateway apparatus
remotely using at least information from the control module or
other module.
10. The system of claim 9 wherein the reset module is configured
using one or more integrated circuits configured to reset at least
the gateway apparatus; wherein the one or more third frequencies is
2.4 GHz; wherein the one or more first frequencies ranges from 1
MHz to 30 MHz; wherein the one or more second frequencies ranges
from 250 kHz to 400 kHz.
11. A method for operating a system for managing power usage in a
home or industrial setting, the method comprising: in a the system
comprising: a gateway apparatus comprising: a powerline module
configured to transmit information at a first frequency ranging
from 1 to 30 MHz, the powerline module being coupled to a powerline
network, the powerline network being coupled to an appliance; a
control module configured to transmit information at a second
frequency, the control module being configured to control the
appliance coupled to the power line from information received from
the appliance; a wireless module configured to transmit information
at a third frequency; a circuit sensor device comprising an input
site, the input site being coupled to a circuit breaker element in
a circuit distribution panel, the circuit sensor device being
coupled to the powerline module via the powerline network to
transmit power consumption information in either at least real time
or a selected time frequency; a panel device comprising a first
input, a second input, and a third input respectively coupled a
first phase, a second phase, and a third phase of a power source,
the panel device being configured to output power information; and
an appliance module coupled to the gateway apparatus, the appliance
module being configured to tum on or tum off the appliance, the
appliance module being coupled to the control module using either
or both of wireless module or the control module; and transferring
a control signal to the appliance module to turn on or turn off the
appliance.
12. The method of claim 11 further comprising a communication port,
the communication port being coupled to the control module, the
communication port being configured for at least one format
selected from GSM, Cellular, Fiber, Coaxial, Ethernet, Zigbee,
RS232, RS485, M-bus, USB, Firewire, 802.XXX, WiLan, WiMax,
Powerline, HomePNA, and MOCA; wherein the appliance module is
configured to measure power consumption in real time.
13. The method of claim 11 wherein the appliance module comprises
an element selected from a thermal sensor, a humidity sensor, a
security sensor, a motion sensor, a light sensor, a pressure
sensor, a microphone, an audio device, a vibration sensor, a gyro
or accelerometer, a smoke sensor, or a biological sensor.
14. The method of claim 11 wherein the appliance module comprises
one or more combinations of a sensor device; wherein the third
frequency ranges from 2 GHz is 2.5 GHz.
15. The method of claim 11 wherein the appliance module comprises a
battery for a power backup.
16. The method of claim 11 further comprising a routing device, the
routing device being coupled to the control module.
17. The method of claim 11 further comprising a reset module
configured to perform a soft reset or hard reset remotely using at
least information from the control module or other module.
18. The method of claim 11 wherein the wireless module is
configured to communicate to one or more appliance modules.
19. The method of claim 11 wherein the transferring is provided
from a remote device.
20. The method of claim 11 wherein the transferring is provided
from a mobile device.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of and claims
priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/536,889 filed on
Jun. 28, 2012, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 12/550,382 filed on Aug. 30, 2009, which claims priority
to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/161,050 filed on Mar. 17,
2009, commonly assigned, and each of which is hereby incorporated
by reference herein.
STATEMENT AS TO RIGHTS TO INVENTIONS MADE UNDER FEDERALLY SPONSORED
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
[0002] NOT APPLICABLE
REFERENCE TO A "SEQUENCE LISTING," A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM
LISTING APPENDIX SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISK
[0003] NOT APPLICABLE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention relates to creating the networking
infrastructure for energy monitoring and control systems used for
monitoring, controlling, and transmitting information via AC wiring
or wirelessly, such as via the HomePlug.TM. or ZigBee.TM.
standards, among others. More specifically, the present invention
relates to the central management of power usage via the deployment
of sensors and devices to monitor data and the implementation of
controls via an integrated network, including a powerline and
wireless network controller. Furthermore, the present invention
relates to specific applications of an integrated powerline and
wireless network deployment.
[0005] Human population has exploded! Concurrent with the increase
in the population, energy consumption has increased at a similar or
greater pace. We have consumed and continue to use high levels of
fossil fuels, including oil and coal. To help fulfill the needs of
our energy requirements, renewable energy sources have also been
developed. These renewable energy sources include hydroelectric
plants, nuclear sources, solar, windmills, and others. Although
successful in part, the International Energy Agency projects
further demands in oil and energy consumption in China and India
accounting for most of the increases in the future. Accordingly,
other alternative sources of energy require development.
[0006] As sources of energy are being developed, challenges in
monitoring and controlling energy also exist. That is, there is
simply no easy way to monitor and control the use of energy in wide
scale applications ranging from home appliances, lighting, and
other uses. Conventional meters have been developed to monitor
certain specific applications. Although somewhat successful,
conventional meters cannot monitor a wide variety of applications
in a timely and real time basis. These and other limitations are
described throughout the present specification and more
particularly below.
[0007] From the above, it is seen that techniques for improving
solar devices is highly desirable.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention may be embodied as an energy
monitoring and control system for monitoring and controlling
individual loads and transmitting energy usage information over
conventional AC wiring or wireless media. The system includes a
controller for integrating powerline and wireless network and for
creating network infrastructure. The system further includes an
energy monitor unit for each appliance load that plugs into a
standard AC wall outlet and monitors power consumption and also has
a wireless transmitter and receiver for communicating with wireless
sensors and devices on the network and a power line transmitter and
receiver for communicating with a gateway master control station.
The system also includes an energy monitor unit for a distribution
system that has a power line transmitter and receiver or a wireless
transmitter and receiver for communicating with the gateway
according to one or more embodiments. The system also includes a
serial bridge for serial devices on the network that have a power
line transmitter and receiver or a wireless transmitter and
receiver for communicating with the gateway. The gateway receives
energy usage data from each of the energy monitor units and serial
bridges, stores the data, displays the data in various
user-selectable formats such as a web browser, a cell phone or PDA,
and provides an interface to control the various energy monitor
units on the network. The gateway also connects to the World Wide
Web (WWW) or an external data source to allow remote monitoring and
control of the network.
[0009] In a specific embodiment, the present invention provides a
system for monitoring and controlling power usage in, for example,
a home, buildings, apartments, hospitals, schools, factories,
office buildings, industrial areas setting, and other regions. The
system has a gateway apparatus. The gateway apparatus has a
powerline module configured to transmit information at one or more
first frequencies ranging from about 1 to 30 MHz. In a specific
embodiment, the powerline module is coupled to a powerline network,
which is coupled to one or more appliances, e.g., computer,
refrigerator, furnace, air conditioning, lighting. The gateway has
a control module configured to transmit information at one or more
second frequencies ranging from about 250 KHz to 400 KHz. In a
specific embodiment, the control module is configured to control
one or more appliances coupled to the power line from information
received from one or more appliances. The gateway has a wireless
module configured to transmit information at one or more third
frequencies of about 2.4 GHz. The system has a circuit sensor
device comprising a plurality of input sites, which are coupled to
respective circuit breaker elements in a circuit distribution
panel. The circuit sensor device is coupled to the powerline module
via one or more powerline networks to transmit power consumption
information in either at least real time or a selected time
frequency. The system has a panel device comprising a first input,
a second input, and a third input respectively coupled to a power
source including a first phase, a second phase, and a third phase.
In a specific embodiment, the panel sensor device is configured to
output power information. The system has an appliance module
coupled to the gateway apparatus. The appliance module is
configured to turn on or turn off one or more appliances, which are
coupled to the control module using either or both of wireless
module or the control module.
[0010] In one or more embodiments, the present invention provides a
network infrastructure configured to connect to new smart meters,
sensors or client devices to the World Wide Web and to allow remote
monitoring of such devices via computing devices, such as a
personal computer or mobile device. It is accordingly another
embodiment, the present invention provides the network
infrastructure configured to connect various appliances or client
devices to the World Wide Web and allow remote command or control
of such devices. Of course, there can be other variations,
modifications, and alternatives.
[0011] Furthermore, it is another embodiment of the present
invention to integrate a variety of network media into a central
controller such that wireless, powerline, broadband, or other
communications media may be utilized for extending network
connectivity, reducing signal interference, and increasing device
interoperability in an energy management command and control
application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part
of the specification, illustrate several aspects of the present
invention, and together with the description serve to explain the
principles of the invention. In the drawings:
[0013] FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of the system according to an
embodiment in the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 2 is an alternate simplified diagram of the system
utilizing increased wireless networking according to an embodiment
in the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of the gateway
according to an embodiment in the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a simplified block diagram of the appliance module
according to an embodiment in the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a simplified block diagram of the circuit meter
according to an embodiment in the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 6 is a simplified block diagram of the RS232 Bridge
according to an embodiment in the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 7 is a simplified block diagram of the RS485 Bridge
according to an embodiment in the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 8 is a simplified block diagram illustrating the
present invention as deployed in an alternative business
application such as a document control system;
[0021] FIG. 9 is a simplified block diagram illustrating the remote
management server as deployed in a plurality of locations according
to an embodiment in the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 10 is a simplified software block diagram for the
gateway according to an embodiment in the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 11 is a simplified software block diagram for the
appliance module according to an embodiment in the present
invention;
[0024] FIG. 12 is a simplified software block diagram for the panel
meter and serial bridges according to an embodiment in the present
invention;
[0025] FIG. 13 is a simplified software data collection flow
diagram for the gateway according to an embodiment in the present
invention;
[0026] FIG. 14 is a simplified software data query flow diagram for
the gateway according to an embodiment in the present
invention;
[0027] FIG. 15 is a simplified software flow diagram for the
appliance module according to an embodiment in the present
invention;
[0028] FIG. 16 is a simplified software buffer process flow diagram
for the appliance module according to an embodiment in the present
invention;
[0029] FIG. 17 is a simplified software data query flow diagram for
the panel meter according to an embodiment in the present
invention;
[0030] FIG. 18 is a simplified software buffer process flow diagram
for the panel meter according to an embodiment in the present
invention;
[0031] FIG. 19 is a simplified software flow diagram for the RS232
Bridge and RS485 Bridge according to an embodiment in the present
invention;
[0032] FIG. 20 is a simplified software buffer process flow diagram
for the RS232 Bridge and RS485 Bridge according to an embodiment in
the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 21 is a simplified software alert process flow diagram
for the gateway according to an embodiment in the present
invention;
[0034] FIG. 22 is a simplified process diagram for the backup
battery according to an embodiment in the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 23 is a simplified process diagram for a hard reset
method according to an embodiment in the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 24 is a simplified diagram illustrating a Powerline and
Zigbee bridging network according to an embodiment in the present
invention; and
[0037] FIG. 25 is an alternative simplified diagram illustrating a
Powerline and Zigbee bridging network according to an embodiment in
the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0038] According to the present invention, techniques for
monitoring and controlling various appliances or client devices are
provided. As an exemplary embodiment, the invention has been
applied to a single-family home. The invention may also be embodied
with applications to buildings, apartments, hospital, schools,
factories, office buildings, industrial areas, any combinations of
these, or other networking applications.
[0039] We identified that government regulators have been looking
for techniques to match energy consumption with its generation. We
have discovered that traditional electrical meters only measure
total consumption and as such provide little information of when or
how the energy was consumed. Conventional smart meters provide a
way of measuring energy consumption in time intervals, allowing
price-setting agencies to introduce different prices for
consumption based on the time of day and the season.
[0040] Electricity pricing usually peaks at certain predictable
times of the day and the season. In particular, if generation is
constrained, prices can rise significantly during these times as
more expensive sources of power are purchased from other
jurisdictions or more costly generation is brought online. It is
believed that billing customers by how much is consumed and at what
time of day will force consumers to adjust their consumption habits
to be more responsive to market prices. Regulatory and market
design agencies hope these "price signals" will delay the
construction of additional generation or at least the purchase of
energy from higher priced sources thereby controlling the steady
and rapid increase of electricity prices.
[0041] With the rising cost of home energy use and the imminent
rollout of Time-of-Use (TOU) billing from the power utilities, it
has become desirable to know the quantity and the time of use of
electrical power consumed by various household appliances so that
inefficient uses of electricity can be eliminated and electricity
usage can be shifted to off-peak periods. Conventional smart meters
in limited usage today provide some solutions to these problems.
But even with the conventional smart meters, it is only provided
the total consumption based on the time of day and season. Such
meters do not provide granular energy usage information that allows
a user to pinpoint which device or appliance in the home or office
is drawing the most power. This prevents a user from being informed
as to which device or appliance can be turned off during peak times
when prices are high.
[0042] In solving these problems of energy consumption measurement
and control, an energy management system (EMS) provides a real-time
measurement of the energy consumed by the various electrical loads
within the electrical distribution system. With these measurements,
a user can pinpoint sources of energy use and remotely control the
electrical loads within the electrical distribution system either
by turning on or off appliances. Most EMS systems are tailored for
industrial commercial loads such as a heating ventilation and air
conditioning (HVAC) in a hotel or factory.
[0043] Moreover, conventional network devices often freeze about
running for a period of time where the software may lock-up,
thereby requiring some physical reset either by turning-on or off
the device or unplugging or plugging the device. Since this creates
problem for service providers, it would be desirable to provide
appropriate solution.
[0044] Furthermore, while home automation is greatly appreciated
when power is adequate, such is not so during electricity brown or
black-out, especially for home automation that is connected to
important functions like security systems. Thus it would be
desirable as well to provide appropriate solution. These and other
limitations of conventional energy monitoring techniques are
overcome by the present method and systems according to one or more
embodiments.
[0045] FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of the energy monitoring and
control system 100 according to an embodiment of the present
invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should not
unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person having
ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations,
alternatives, and modifications. As shown, the system 100 for an
energy monitoring and control network is included. The system 100
has a gateway 101 that is coupled to the external data source 103,
which is derived from a modem or router 105 that connects to a
world-wide network of computers or world-wide web (WWW) 103 and
provides multiple IP addresses to the system 100, and is then
coupled to a plurality of client devices through AC wiring 107 or
wirelessly 109. A plurality of computing devices 133 and mobile
devices 135 can monitor and control the gateway 101 and client
devices residing behind the gateway.
[0046] The gateway 101 may be adapted to collect, aggregate, store,
receive and or transmit information, and is also adapted to bridge
various network media together. The gateway 101 is adapted to
bridge low speed and high-speed powerline technologies and ZigBee
wireless technology together. In alternative embodiments, wireless
technology can include other wireless technologies such as wireless
802.11 standards, Zwave, 6lowPAN, or others. As merely an example,
the gateway 101 may be a product manufactured by Jetlun Corporation
of South San Francisco, Calif., under the part number RD75606.
Client devices may include a variety of apparatus connected through
premises AC wiring 107 or wirelessly 109, such as appliance module
111, panel meter 113, serial bridge 115, network adapter 121, or a
variety of sensors 123.
[0047] An appliance module 111 can connect to a variety of
appliances and devices such as refrigerator, washer and dryer,
range, stove, microwave, personal computer, television, or other
appliance. An appliance module 111 may be adapted to measure, store
and or control energy usage of connected appliances or devices,
bridge Zigbee wireless sensors and devices to the network, or
receive and transmit information across network infrastructure. As
merely an example, the appliance module 111 may be a product
manufactured by Jetlun Corporation of South San Francisco, Calif.,
under the part number RD75613.
[0048] A panel meter 113 may be connected to an electrical circuit
breaker panel or distribution panel 125. A panel meter 113 may be
adapted to measure and or store energy consumption information of
up to three (3) phases of power coming into the home or building
inside the electrical circuit breaker panel or distribution panel
125. As merely an example, the panel meter 113 may be a product
manufactured by Jetlun Corporation of South San Francisco, Calif.
or others.
[0049] A serial bridge can be connected to any serial-enabled
device such as a variety of gas, electric or water meters 127,
solar power inverters 129, programmable controllable thermostats
(PCT) 117 or other devices. Serial bridge 115 may be adapted to
capture and or store serial analog data to IP digital data and
receive and or transmit information. As merely an example, Jetlun
Corporation of South San Francisco, Calif., manufactures two (2)
types of serial bridges-one with a RS232 interface under the part
number RD75617 and the other with a RS485 interface under the part
number RD75618, but can be others.
[0050] A network adapter may be an apparatus adapted to convert the
signal from AC wiring 107 to an IP signal and can receive and
transmit information. A network adapter can be connected to a
variety of IP devices such as IP Camera 119, Set-top-box (STB) 131,
and others. As merely an example, Jetlun Corporation of South San
Francisco, Calif., manufactures a variety of network adapters,
including Powerline-to-Ethernet Adapter under the part number
RD31101 and RD31201, Powerline-to-Wireless Adapter under the part
number RD31203, Powerline-to-Coax Adapter under the part number
RD31202, Powerline-to-Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) Adapter under the
part number RD31212, and Powerline-to-Print Server under the part
number RD31216. A sensor 123 may be adapted to detect or measure a
physical property and send receive and transmit to an appliance
module 111 or gateway 101 over AC wiring 107 or wirelessly 109.
[0051] FIG. 2 is an alternate simplified diagram of the system 200
according to an embodiment in the present invention and
illustrating further wireless network connectivity. This diagram is
merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the
claims herein. A person having ordinary skill in the art would
recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications. As
shown in FIG. 2, the system 200 for an energy monitoring and
control network similar to FIG. 1 as described above and
incorporates the previous description by reference. The system 200
further illustrates how a variety of gas, electric and water meters
227, solar power inverters 229, programmable controllable
thermostats (PCT) 217, and sensors 223 can be connected or
networked to the gateway wirelessly 209. FIG. 2 illustrates the
flexibility of the system and method of the present embodiment and
the ability to bridge wireless and powerline networking
technologies in provisioning a robust networking infrastructure
capable of integrating different networking media.
[0052] FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of the gateway 300
according to an embodiment in the present invention. Gateway 101 of
FIG. 1 and gateway 201 of FIG. 2 is shown in greater detail 300 in
FIG. 3. This diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly
limit the scope of the claims herein. A person having ordinary
skill in the art would recognize many variations, alternatives, and
modifications. The gateway 300 may be coupled to an external data
source, such as high speed network, the World Wide Web, the
internet, or an intranet via Ethernet ports 329. As shown, the
gateway 300 includes a variety of elements. Such elements include a
Central Processing Unit (CPU) 301 that is connected to a network
switch chipset 303 through an Industrial Standard Architecture
(ISA) interface to Ethernet interface 305. The CPU 301 is also
connected to NAND flash memory 307, synchronous dynamic access
memory (SDRAM) 309, a Secure Digital (SD) socket 311, a crystal 313
and five (5) universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART)
ports 317. Each UART port is connected to a variety of elements,
such as a low-speed powerline chipset 319, a Zigbee wireless
chipset 321, a Joint Test Action Group (JTAG) 323, a RS232
connector 325, and a USB connector 327. The network switch chipset
303 is connected to a plurality of Ethernet ports 329 and a
high-speed powerline chipset 331 through a media independent
interface (MII) interface 333. The backup battery module 335 is
comprised of a DC converter 337 that connects to a reset circuit
339, a DC input 341 and a backup battery 343. The DC input 341
provides a powerline signal output 345. The reset circuit 339
provides a reset output 347.
[0053] Gateway 300 creates the networking infrastructure needed for
connecting a variety of appliances, devices, controls, and sensors
to the World Wide Web. Network infrastructure is created by
high-speed powerline chipset 331, low speed powerline chipset 319,
and or wireless chipset 321. Gateway 300 may support the HomePlug
or ZigBee standards. Powerline chipsets 331 and 319 allow the use
of existing electrical wiring for the provisioning of network
infrastructure throughout premises wiring by implementing a
modulated carrier signal on the wiring system. The carrier signal
allows the transfer of data between the gateway 300 and various
client devices connected to the powerline network. The powerline
network may be further supported and extended by the deployment of
appliance module 111, or various powerline routers, switches or
signal amplifying devices along various points in the premises
wiring layout. Wireless ZigBee chipset 321 allows the provisioning
of the networking infrastructure across the airwaves via a radio
frequency (RF) signal. The RF signal allows the wireless transfer
of data between the gateway 300 and various devices on the network.
The wireless network infrastructure may likewise be supported by
appliance module 111, or various wireless routers, switches, or
signal amplifying devices across the wireless coverage area.
[0054] Gateway 300 operates as a central host for the integrated
powerline and wireless network that it provides. Other networking
technologies rely on mesh-type network architectures in which
multiple devices throughout the network act as repeaters in
continually supporting network connectivity. However, in order for
a mesh-type network to be successful, many devices are needed
across the desired networking area in order to support the network.
The preferred embodiment of the present system and method relies on
a different approach. The gateway 300 is the central hosting device
for integrated powerline and wireless network. The present system
and method does not rely on many devices for supporting the
network, the gateway 300 is the central host and supports network
integration and connectivity.
[0055] Gateway 300 allows a data signal to be networked across the
powerline infrastructure backbone to the preferred locale or
specific premises location and thereafter networked across wireless
infrastructure in order to reach a client appliance, device, or
sensor. Gateway 300 supports the integration of powerline and
wireless technology into a single local area network solution in
order to increase network coverage and connectivity with a variety
of client devices or appliances. Network data signals may be
efficiently routed across both powerline and wireless media to
areas supported by premises wiring or wireless infrastructure.
[0056] In using gateway 300 as a central controller of data signals
across the network infrastructure, interference is eliminated from
the system. Previous attempts at connecting client devices to
network controllers utilized wireless or powerline technologies
that were not centrally controlled. Each deployment of a wireless
or powerline system in a multi-unit dwelling relied on separate
devices and infrastructure to connect client devices to a
controller. Interference between wireless and powerline
technologies commonly occurs across multiple deployments of
separate networking technology. With the use of the present system
and method preferably embodied in gateway 300, interference is
thereby eliminated as data signals are centrally provisioned,
managed and controlled.
[0057] Coupling by gateway 300 to client devices is accomplished
with powerline or wireless signal technology. Devices may also be
coupled to gateway 300 through additional media such as coaxial
cable, telephone cable, infrared signal, or other electromagnetic
frequency. The data signal between gateway 300 and client devices
may be via a range of bandwidths. A high-speed bandwidth signal may
be used to transmit and receive large data content signals to
client devices such as an IP camera, set-top box, printer, or other
devices. A low-bandwidth signal may be used to transmit and receive
low data content signals for use in measuring, monitoring, or
controlling client devices on the network. For example, a
low-bandwidth signal may carry command or control information from
gateway 300 to appliance module 111 and turn the connected
appliance on or off. Furthermore, the low-bandwidth signal may
efficiently carry low data content signals containing power usage,
consumption, or rate data information.
[0058] Coupling by gateway 300 to network infrastructure may be
accomplished in a variety of architectures. The low-bandwidth
signal may be generated by low-speed powerline chipset 319 and
individually coupled to premises wiring at a certain location near
gateway 300. Similarly, the high-speed bandwidth signal may be
generated by high-speed powerline chipset 331 and individually
coupled to premises wiring at a certain location near gateway 300.
Wireless signals may be generated by ZigBee chipset 321 and coupled
to client devices via RF signal and client device RF receiver. In
an alternative method, gateway 300 may couple to network
infrastructure through bridging wireless and powerline signals. For
example, gateway 300 may generate a data signal, couple the signal
to premises wiring via low-speed or high-speed powerline chipsets
319 or 331 respectively, and thereafter convert the powerline data
signal to wireless signal at the desired location in the premises
wiring and thus connect with client devices. Alternatively, a
variety of combinations or bridging methods may be used to couple
gateway 300 to client devices across network infrastructure via
wireless to powerline or powerline to wireless signal media.
[0059] Coupling locations for gateway 300 may be embodied in
individual locations for each chipset or alternatively in a single
location. For example, low-speed powerline chipset 319 may couple
to premises wiring at a specified location independent of the
coupling location to premises wiring of high-speed powerline
chipset 331. Alternatively, the coupling location for gateway 300
may be a single location, integrating low-speed and high-speed
powerline signals. For example, data signals generated by gateway
300 and low-speed and high-speed powerline chipsets may be coupled
to premises wiring with one coupler at a single location.
Furthermore, coupling locations for sending or receiving data
signals across premises wiring may be integrated or separate. For
example, powerline chipsets 319 or 331 may be coupled to premises
wiring in one location for transmitting powerline data signal and
coupled to premises wiring in another separate location for
receiving powerline data signals from network infrastructure.
Alternatively, powerline chipsets 319 of 331 may be coupled to
premises wiring at a single location for sending and receiving data
signals.
[0060] Coupling of powerline chipsets 319 or 331 to premise wiring
may be embodied in an AC/DC coupler integrated into the power
supply unit or battery backup module 335 of gateway 300. As an
embodiment of such integrated power supply and powerline chipset
coupling, gateway 300 may be connected to a premises location AC
power supply, such as a standard 120-volt wall outlet. In utilizing
a 120-volt AC power source to supply electrical power to the
gateway 300, an AC/DC coupler may additionally couple powerline
chipsets 319 or 331 to the premises wiring via the same power
source. Furthermore, the power supply unit of gateway 300 may
provide the desired DC-voltages required by the variety of
high-speed powerline, low-speed powerline, ZigBee, or other
chipsets embodied in the system. It is known by persons having
ordinary skill in the art that specific chipsets typically operate
at particular DC-voltages which are essential for proper
functioning. For example, high-speed powerline chipset may operate
at 3.5 volts DC, whereas ZigBee chipset may operate at 12 volts DC.
Thus, the power supply of gateway 300 may provide the particular
voltages need by the chipsets utilized in the system.
[0061] The back-up battery module 335 and back-up battery 343 of
gateway 300 allows operation of gateway 300 in the event of a power
failure or disruption. During such an event, gateway 300 is able to
continually operate uninterrupted via battery module 335 and
back-up battery 343 in supplying a continuing source of power.
Maintaining operational status of gateway 300 via back-up battery
module 335 and back-up battery 343 allows gateway to continue to
send and receive data signals across the network infrastructure to
client devices. With back-up battery module 335 and back-up battery
343, gateway 300 is also able to maintain command or control of
client devices on the network infrastructure. For example, in the
event of a power failure, gateway 300 may continually operate in
controlling the opening or closing of a client device door
mechanism. This allows gateway 300 to maintain control or security
over such a client device door mechanism and maintain security over
entry ways into a premises location. In another embodiment, gateway
300 may maintain network infrastructure or continue to collect,
aggregate, store, receive, or transmit data signals across the
network infrastructure in the event of a power failure or
disruption by utilizing back-up battery module 335 and back-up
battery 343. Without normal power, gateway 300 may also continually
send or receive data from a utility provider or company with
back-up battery module 335 and back-up battery 343.
[0062] In the event of a power failure or power disruption, gateway
300 may enter a safe mode and may operate to conserve power in a
low power mode. Additionally, non-essential operations of gateway
300, such as commanding or controlling premises lighting devices,
may be shut down in order to conserve power available via the
back-up battery module 335 and back-up battery 343. In a safe mode,
gateway 300 may conserve power to by focusing command or control
exclusively on security related client devices throughout the
network infrastructure. An alert message may be generated by
gateway 300 in low power or safe mode in response to a power event.
Furthermore, operations to be performed by gateway 300 in safe mode
or low power mode may also be scheduled or custom configured by the
user.
[0063] Data is collected by gateway 300 from client devices via the
network infrastructure through data signals. Data may include power
usage information, such as instantaneous power, peak power, or
average power. Such data may be collected from each client device
on the network and aggregated at the gateway 300. The data may be
stored on gateway 300 NAND flash memory 307 or synchronous dynamic
access memory (SDRAM) 309 for later use. Gateway 300 may receive
various data signals containing data from the network or client
devices. Also, gateway 300 may transmit data via data signals
across the network infrastructure to client devices.
[0064] Network media are bridged with gateway 300 as various types
of data transmission methods may be used to communicate across the
network infrastructure. Gateway 300 utilizes powerline technology
to connect and communicate across premises wiring and gateway 300
utilizes radio frequency (RF) signals to communicate wirelessly.
These media types are bridged with gateway 300 as a data signal may
be bridged from powerline media to RF media in order to communicate
to a client device. The data signal content may also be bridged
across other different media types in order to communicate with
client devices on the network. Gateway 300 may employ other network
media or signal types to communicate or route data signals or
content across powerline systems, HomePlug systems, copper wiring,
premises wiring, co-axial cables, telephone cables, wireless
technologies, RF signals, WiFi, ZigBee, Bluetooth, WPAN, RFID, UWB,
infrared (IR), or other media. Gateway 300 bridges various network
media in acting as a central controller for routing a data signal
throughout the network infrastructure and across different network
media.
[0065] Client devices are coupled to gateway 300 via the network
infrastructure and thus communicate with gateway 300 by sending and
receiving data signals across various bridged network media. For
example, a client device may communicate wirelessly across a room
in a building via ZigBee signal to appliance module 400 or a
powerline coupler located nearby. Appliance module 111 or the
powerline coupler then may convert the signal from wireless ZigBee
medium to powerline signal and transmits the data across the
powerline network to gateway 300. Additional couplers may convert
data signals across different media types within the network
infrastructure. Client devices may include a plurality of appliance
modules 111, panel meters 113, serial bridges 115, network adapters
121, or a variety of sensors 123. Client devices may send and
receive data signals via network infrastructure to gateway 300.
Command or control signal data may be sent from gateway 300 via the
network infrastructure to client devices.
[0066] In order to interact with gateway 300, remote or local
computing devices may connect to gateway 300 via the World Wide
Web, internet or via the network infrastructure. A computer or
mobile device running client software applications may communicate
with gateway 300 and send and receive data to client devices
connected to the network infrastructure via gateway 300. Gateway
300 and the client devices connected to the network infrastructure
may be monitored or controlled from anywhere in the world by a
remote computing device. For example, a remote computing device may
connect to gateway 300 via the internet and select a specific
client device for adjustment of power usage or energy consumption.
Additionally, remote computing devices may collect information or
data stored on gateway 300 for processing or display on the
graphical interface of the computing device. Remote computing
devices may be server computers operated by utility companies and
send or receive data from customer sites via gateway 300.
Additionally, utility companies may send command or control data
signals to customer gateways 300 in order to shut down client
devices during times of peak power usage. Utility companies may
furthermore, send energy pricing data to customer gateways 300 and
customer energy usage may appropriately be configured or
readjusted.
[0067] In generating a wireless signal for network infrastructure,
gateway 300 may utilize a Zigbee wireless chipset 321. As preferred
embodiment, the Zigbee chipset 321 can feature an integrated Zigbee
chipset manufactured by EMBER CORPORATION of Massachusetts,
according to an embodiment of the present invention, but it would
be recognized that other chipsets could be utilized such as
wireless chipsets for RF signals, WiFi, ZigBee, Bluetooth, WPAN,
RFID, UWB, infrared (IR), or other media. In alternative
embodiments, the Zigbee wireless chipset 321 can include other
chipset designs that are suitable for the present methods and
systems such as other Zigbee chipsets from suitable companies such
as TI, Freescale, or others, as well as other wireless networking
technologies that are suitable for the present methods and systems
such as 6loWPAN, WiFi 802.11, Bluetooth, RFID, and UWB network
chipsets from Archrock, Broadcom, Atheros, or others. As noted, the
chipsets and companies mentioned are merely an example and should
not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein.
[0068] As another embodiment of the present system, gateway 300 may
utilize an integrated chipset for communicating or sending data
signals across combined network media. As an example, low-speed
powerline chipset 319, high-speed powerline chipset 331, and ZigBee
chipset 321 may be embodied in a single chipset solution that
generates data signals for gateway 300 in communicating with client
devices across both powerline and wireless network media. Such a
single chipset solution may generate powerline, wireless, or other
signals in order to send and receive data across network
infrastructure. A single chipset may offer an integrated solution
for bridging different network media by gateway 300.
[0069] In generating a powerline signal for network infrastructure
across premises wiring, gateway 300 may utilize a low-speed 319 or
high-speed 331 powerline chipset. As a preferred embodiment, the
powerline chipsets 319 or 331 may feature an integrated powerline
chipset manufactured by YITRAN of Israel, according to an
embodiment of the present invention, but it would be recognized
that other chipsets could be utilized. Powerline chipsets 319 or
331 may be embodied in a variety of chipsets optimized for coupling
and communicating across HomePlug systems, copper wiring, premises
wiring, co-axial cables, or telephone cables within the network
infrastructure managed by gateway 300. As a preferred embodiment,
the powerline chipset 319 or 331 may be a single-chip powerline
networking controller with integrated Simple serial Host interface
(logical command language over UART). The chip interfaces with
RS232 serial interfaces, among others. Preferably, there is at
least a 7.5 kbps data rate on the premises wiring or AC wiring,
although others may be desirable, such as 1 Mbps, 14 Mbps, 85 Mbps,
400 Mbps and 1 Gbps. In alternative embodiments, the powerline
chipset 319 or 331 can include other chipset designs that are
suitable for the present systems such as other powerline chipsets
from suitable companies such as DS2, Intellon, Panasonic,
Coppergate, Sigma, Arkados, Yitran, Echelon, or others, as well as
other networking technologies that are suitable for the present
methods and systems such as HomePNA, MoCA, and UWB network chipsets
from Coppergate, Entropic, or others. As noted, the chipsets and
companies mentioned are merely an example and should not unduly
limit the scope of the claims herein.
[0070] FIG. 4 is a simplified block diagram of the appliance module
400 according to an embodiment in the present invention. Appliance
module 111 of FIGS. 1 and 211 of FIG. 2 is shown in greater detail
400 in FIG. 4. This diagram is merely an example, which should not
unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person having
ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations,
alternatives, and modifications. As shown, the appliance module 400
includes a variety of elements. Such elements include a Central
Processing Unit (CPU) 401 that is connected to a powerline chipset
403 and a Zigbee wireless chipset 405 through a RS232 serial
interface 407. The CPU 401 is also connected to a temperature and
humidity sensor 409 through an I/O port 411, a reset circuit 413, a
plurality of General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) ports 415, a
crystal 417, and a backup power module 419. The powerline module
403 includes a variety of elements. Such elements include a
plurality of I/O ports 411, an analog to digital interface 435 that
connects to the live wire 429 and the neutral wire 431 through a
coupling method 435a, and a backup power module 419. Each I/O port
411 is connected to a variety of sources. Such sources include a
reset circuit 413, a crystal 417, a power measure module 421, a
relay switch 423. The power measure module 421 is connected to a
power supply 437 and two (2) current transformers (CT) 425a and
425b that are connected to a standard AC socket 427. The AC socket
427 is plugged directly onto the AC wiring. AC wiring has three
wires which include, a live wire 429, a neutral wire 431 and a
ground wire 433. One CT 425a measures current on the live wire 429
and the other CT 425b measures current leakage on the neutral wire
431. The backup power module 419 includes a variety of elements.
Such elements include a battery 1435, and a power supply 437. The
power supply 437 also includes a variety of elements. Such elements
include an EMI Filter 439 and a 12V 500 mA DC output 441. The EMI
Filter 439 is connected to the live wire 429 and the neutral wire
431.
[0071] A preferred embodiment of appliance module 400 is a device
which can connect to a variety of appliances or devices and
measure, store or control energy usage of each appliance or device.
Appliances or devices may include client devices on the network
infrastructure such as refrigerators, washer and dryers, ranges,
stoves, microwaves, personal computers, televisions, or others. As
an example of appliance module placement, appliance module 400 may
sit between a client device and a standard wall electrical outlet.
Specifically, appliance module 400 may be embodied as a device
which may be plugged into an electrical outlet and provide and
simultaneously provide an outlet to a certain client device. By
plugging the client device into the outlet of appliance module 400,
the client device is able to obtain electrical power and the
appliance module is able to take measurements of energy usage.
[0072] Appliance module 400 may couple to client devices remotely
or locally. For example, appliance module 400 may measure or manage
energy consumption of a client device directly coupled to it by
plugging such client device directly into the appliance module.
Alternatively, appliance module 400 may remotely measure or manage
energy consumption of client devices via remote coupling through
network infrastructure. For example, appliance module may couple to
client devices via wireless or ZigBee signal.
[0073] Appliance module 400 may provide the network infrastructure
to support connectivity between gateway 300 and client devices.
Typically, an appliance module 400 may be placed at the terminal
end point of premises wiring. Gateway 300 sends and receives
powerline signals across the premises wiring system in order to
communicate with appliance module 400. As appliance module is
coupled to the premises wiring, it may send and receive powerline
signals to gateway 300. Furthermore, appliance module 400 may
communicate to client devices wirelessly via RF signal past the
premises wiring system. The powerline data signal sent between
appliance module 400 and gateway 300 may be further transmitted by
appliance module 400 as a wireless RF signal. Additionally, other
signal media may be used by appliance module 400 in communicating
past the premises wiring system such as other wireless
technologies, WiFi, ZigBee, Bluetooth, WPAN, RFID, UWB, infrared
(IR), or other media.
[0074] In bridging various wireless network media to powerline or
other premises wiring networking technology, appliance module 400
functions to provide a network backbone across premises wiring and
allows wireless connectivity to such network backbone. Appliance
module 400 enhances the coverage and range of ZigBee or wireless
network infrastructure by providing a bridge to the premises wiring
network backbone. Previously un-connected client devices may be
coupled to the network via appliance module 400. Client devices may
be ordinary household appliance which may not generate unique data
signals or provide unique command or control interfaces, such as
existing premises lighting, HVAC systems, or television. However,
some client devices may be specifically designed for coupling to
appliance module 400 for command or control by gateway 300. In all
instances, appliance module 400 provides the bridging capability to
connect client devices to the network infrastructure.
[0075] Data measured by appliance module 400 as a preferred
embodiment includes power usage information, such as instantaneous
power, peak power, or average power. Such data may be collected
from each client device connected to appliance module 400 via
network infrastructure, or specifically via local or remote
coupling to client devices as described above. Appliance module 400
sends such data to gateway 300 via network infrastructure. Data
provided by appliance module 400 may be used for determining energy
footprint, energy efficiency, sources of energy waste, levels of
consumption, energy cost, or carbon footprint. Appliance module 400
may also be used for determining or locating client devices
responsible for "vampire" current and how much such leaks cost.
[0076] Command or control of client devices may be provided by
appliance module 400. Basic on or off switching of client devices
may be supported by appliance module 400. Typically, basic command
or control signals, or other data measurements from client devices
coupled to appliance module 400 may be low-bandwidth data signals.
Additionally, appliance module 400 may support a high-bandwidth
data signal to client devices in order to provide a variety of
command or control functionality. As an example, a client device
may be a set-top box coupled to appliance module 400. A
high-bandwidth data signal may be communicated across network
infrastructure via gateway 300 to appliance module 400, which may
be coupled to set-top box. In another embodiment, a client device
may be an IP camera coupled to an appliance module. The IP camera
may generate a high-bandwidth data signal which may be transmitted
by appliance module 400 across network infrastructure to a desired
location or received by gateway 300.
[0077] FIG. 5 is a simplified block diagram of the panel meter
apparatus 500 according to an embodiment in the present invention.
Panel meter 500 is a more detailed view of panel meter 113 or 213
of FIGS. 1 and 2 respectively. This diagram is merely an example,
which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A
person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize many
variations, alternatives, and modifications. As shown, the panel
meter apparatus 500 includes a variety of elements. Such elements
include a panel meter module 501, a plurality of circuit connectors
503 that is group together 505, a plurality of current sensor
modules 515, and a power supply unit 541. The panel meter module
501 includes of a variety of elements. Such elements include a
plurality of CPUs 507a, 509, and 507b that are connected to a
plurality of circuit connectors port A 503, port I 505, port P, and
port H. CPUs 507a and 507b read data from the plurality of circuit
connectors. The master CPU 509 collects the data from the CPUs 507a
and 507b. Master CPU 509 is coupled to powerline chipset module 511
for sending and receiving data across the powerline network. The
powerline chipset module 511 is further coupled to power input
wires 521, 523, 525 and 527 connected to the power supply unit 541.
Note that for multiple powerline modules, such power input lines
521, 523, 525 and 527, are shown numbered correspondingly as 521',
523', 525' and 527', and 521'', 523'', 525'' and 527''. The power
supply unit is comprised of an AC/DC converter 529 and a 1:1
voltage transformer 531 and coupled to premises wiring 533, 535,
537, and 539. Premises wiring is comprised of a phase 1 wire 533, a
phase 2 wire 535, a phase 3 wire 537 and a ground or neutral wire
539 in an electrical circuit breaker panel or distribution panel.
Circuit connectors port A 503, port I 505, port P, and port H are
connected to current sensor modules 513 via a four-wire design 521,
523, 525, and 527. The four-wire design is comprised of a constant
voltage 521, a ground wire 523, an energy signal output 525 and a
reference voltage input 527. Current sensor modules 515 are
comprised of a current sensor 517 and an energy monitoring
integrated circuit (IC) 519.
[0078] Panel meter 500 may be comprised of circuit connectors 1
through N, shown in FIG. 5 for illustration purposes as circuit
connectors port A 503, port I, port P, and port H. It is understood
that panel meter 500 may include more or less circuit connectors
than depicted in FIG. 5. Panel meter 500 may further comprise a
plurality of current sensor modules 1 through N, shown in FIG. 5
for illustration purposes as current sensor modules 515. It is
understood that panel meter 500 may include more or less current
sensor modules than depicted in FIG. 5. Current sensor modules are
coupled to each circuit connector and premises wiring to allow the
measurement of energy consumption data. Panel meter 500 may further
comprise a plurality of CPUs 1 through N, shown in FIG. 5 for
illustration purposes as CPUs 507a and 507b. It is understood that
panel meter 500 may include more or less CPUs than depicted in FIG.
5. Master CPU 509 collects data from the plurality of CPUs in panel
meter 500.
[0079] Panel meter 500 may function with a single or a plurality of
current sensor modules 515, thus making the design modular. With a
single panel meter, a user may select a given number of desired
current sensor modules and plug each current sensor module into the
panel meter 500. The panel meter 500 is not restricted to a fixed
number of current sensor modules 515. A user may increase or
decrease the amount of current sensor modules 515 at any given
time.
[0080] Panel meter 500 comprises a compact design for easy
installation near a circuit breaker or distribution panel. The
space-saving design is user-friendly and eases installation into
sometimes cramped spaces around circuit breakers or distribution
panels.
[0081] Panel meter 500 provides similar functionality as with
appliance module 400 in regards to measuring energy usage data.
However, panel meter 500 takes energy measurements in a different
manner than appliance module 400. Panel meter 500 takes energy
measurements at an electrical circuit breaker panel or distribution
panel 125 or 225, in contrast to appliance module 400 which takes
measurements between a client device and a power source. As a
preferred embodiment, panel meter 500 may be installed in or near
to an electrical circuit breaker panel or distribution panel 125 or
225 of a premises electrical power system. With installation near a
circuit breaker panel or distribution panel, panel meter 500
measures energy consumption data across circuits in an electrical
circuit breaker panel or distribution panel 125 or 225. The
isolation of premises wiring into circuit segments with circuit
breakers may vary depending on the electrical schematics of the
particular location. Therefore, panel meter 500 may measure a
variety of circuit segments depending on the particular electrical
schematics of the location.
[0082] Panel meter 500 may be embodied with plurality of current
sensor modules 515 which may be coupled to premises wiring circuits
in or near electrical circuit breaker panel or distribution panel
125 or 225. For example, a current sensor modules 515 may be
connected to the circuit wiring supporting the kitchen lighting as
designated in the electrical circuit breaker panel or distribution
panel. Additional current sensor modules 515 may be connected to
the circuits represented in the electrical circuit breaker panel or
distribution panel, such as a circuit for the downstairs bathroom,
garage, upstairs bedroom, living room, etc., or other circuit
designations or layouts.
[0083] A preferred embodiment of current sensor modules 515 may be
a current clamp device or probe which clamps around a premises
wiring circuit or segment in the electrical circuit breaker panel
or distribution panel. An alternative embodiment of current sensor
modules 513 may be a current loop device where a segment of
premises wiring is threaded through the loop of the current sensor
module. In all embodiments of current sensor modules 515, the
design will allow easy installation to the electrical circuit
breaker panel or distribution panel and provide measurements of
power usage information, such as instantaneous power, peak power,
or average power.
[0084] Panel meter 500 may be adapted to measure or store energy
consumption information of one, two or three phases of power. For
example, current sensor modules 515 may be embodied in a current
clamp or current loop device coupled to phase 1 wire 533, a phase 2
wire 535, a phase 3 wire 537 and a ground or neutral wire 539 and
provide these measurements to panel meter 500. Alternatively, other
phase combinations of power measurements may be accomplished by
panel meter 500.
[0085] Current sensor modules 515 may also be preferably embodied
in a current clamp or loop device which may transmit data signals
into the premises wiring circuits and thus into the powerline
network. Data signals from panel meter 500 may be sent into the
network infrastructure via powerline chipset module 511. Panel
meter 500 may transmit data to a variety of client devices or
gateway 300 through network infrastructure via powerline chipset
module 511.
[0086] Panel meter 500 may support the HomePlug powerline
networking standard in providing phase and circuit based energy
measurement. In utilizing powerline chipset module 511 coupled to
premises wiring, panel meter 500 may communicate, send or receive
data with gateway 300 and other client devices connected to network
infrastructure. Additionally, panel meter 500 may receive command
or control signals from gateway 300 over the powerline network or
network infrastructure. In communicating with gateway 300, panel
meter 500 may exploit the full capabilities of networking
infrastructure maintained by the gateway, such as powerline
technologies over premises wiring, or wireless technologies, such
as ZigBee.
[0087] Measurements may be provided by panel meter 500 in real-time
or stored over time. With panel meter 500 communicating with
gateway 300, data measurements from the electrical circuit breaker
panel or distribution panel may be collected and graphically
displayed via computing devices connected to gateway 300 via the
World Wide Web or network infrastructure.
[0088] A backup power module option and battery may allow operation
of panel meter 500 in the event of a power failure or disruption.
During such an event, panel meter 500 is able to continually
operate uninterrupted via power module option and battery in
supplying a continuing source of power. Maintaining operational
status of panel meter 500 via power module option and battery
allows panel meter to continue to send and receive data signals
across the network infrastructure to gateway 300 or client devices.
In another embodiment, panel meter 500 may maintain network
infrastructure or continue to collect, aggregate, store, receive,
or transmit data signals across the network infrastructure in the
event of a power failure or disruption by utilizing power module
option and battery.
[0089] In the event of a power failure or power disruption, panel
meter 500 may enter a safe mode and may operate to conserve power
in a low power mode. Additionally, non-essential operations of
panel meter 500, such as measuring non-essential data types or
circuit segments, may be shut down in order to conserve power
available via power module option and battery. An alert message may
be generated by panel meter 500 in low power or safe mode in
response to a power event. Furthermore, operations to be performed
by panel meter 500 in safe mode or low power mode may also be
scheduled or custom configured by the user.
[0090] FIG. 6 is a simplified block diagram of the RS232 serial
bridge 600 according to an embodiment in the present invention.
This diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit
the scope of the claims herein. A person having ordinary skill in
the art would recognize many variations, alternatives, and
modifications. As shown, the RS232 serial bridge 600 includes a
variety of elements. Such elements include a Central Processing
Unit (CPU) 601 that is connected to a powerline module 603 through
a RS232 interface 605, and a RS232 connector 607 through a signal
level conversion module 625. The CPU 601 is also connected to a
backup power module option 609 and a power supply unit (PSU) 611
through a power bus 613. The PSU 611 includes a variety of
elements. Such elements include an EMI filter 615 that is coupled
to a live wire 617 and a neutral wire 619 of the AC wiring. The
backup power module option 609 includes a variety of elements. Such
elements include a battery 627. The powerline module 603 includes a
variety of elements. Such elements include a crystal 621, a reset
circuit 623, and a coupler that couples to a live wire 617 and a
neutral wire 619 of the AC wiring.
[0091] A preferred embodiment of RS232 serial bridge 600 is in
connecting legacy serial based devices to the HomePlug enabled
powerline network across premises wiring as provided by gateway
300. RS232 serial bridge 600 may support RS232 based serial devices
via DB9 serial port. RS232 serial bridge 600 may convert Modbus
ASCII/RTU into Modbus TCP standards. For example, RS232 serial
bridge 600 may connect a variety of gas, electric or water meters
127, solar power inverters 129, programmable controllable
thermostats (PCT) 117, or other devices to the powerline network or
networking infrastructure. RS232 serial bridge 600 provides
connectivity to sensors, controllers, and other devices used for
remote monitoring, energy management and control. Any device with a
serial port, such as security systems or devices, point-of-sale
(POS) systems, or home and building automation systems, to easily
encapsulate serial data and transport it over network
infrastructure to gateway 300 or client devices.
[0092] RS232 serial bridge 600 may also connect and send or receive
data across other networking media via the networking
infrastructure provided by gateway 300. Various client devices may
connect to RS232 serial bridge 600 via powerline network or other
media in the network infrastructure.
[0093] RS232 serial bridge 600 may preferably by embodied in a
small form factor design with a status LED indicator. RS232 serial
bridge 600 may provide connectivity without utilizing serial wires
and supports easy installation of legacy serial based devices to
the networking infrastructure provide by gateway 300. FIG. 7 is a
simplified block diagram of the RS485 serial bridge 700 according
to an embodiment in the present invention. This diagram is merely
an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of the claims
herein. A person having ordinary skill in the art would recognize
many variations, alternatives, and modifications. As shown, the
RS485 serial bridge 700 includes a variety of elements. Such
elements include a Central Processing Unit (CPU) 701 that is
connected to a powerline module 703 through a RS485 interface 705,
and a RS485 connector 707 through a signal level conversion module
725. The CPU 701 is also connected to a backup power module option
709 and a power supply unit (PSU) 711 through a power bus 713. The
PSU 711 includes a variety of elements. Such elements include an
EMI filter 715 that is coupled to a live wire 717 and a neutral
wire 719 of the AC wiring. The backup power module option 709
includes a variety of elements. Such elements include a battery
727. The powerline module 703 includes a variety of elements. Such
elements include a crystal 721, a reset circuit 723, and a coupler
that couples to a live wire 717 and a neutral wire 719 of the AC
wiring.
[0094] A preferred embodiment of RS485 serial bridge 700 is in
connecting legacy serial based devices to the HomePlug enabled
powerline network across premises wiring as provided by gateway
300. RS485 serial bridge 700 may support RS485 based serial
devices. RS485 serial bridge 700 may convert Modbus ASCII/RTU into
Modbus TCP standards. For example, RS485 serial bridge 700 may
connect a variety of gas, electric or water meters 127, solar power
inverters 129, programmable controllable thermostats (PCT) 117, or
other devices to the powerline network or networking
infrastructure. RS485 serial bridge 700 provides connectivity to
sensors, controllers, and other devices used for remote monitoring,
energy management and control. Any device with a serial port, such
as security systems or devices, point-of-sale (POS) systems, or
home and building automation systems, may be connected to RS485
serial bridge 700 to easily encapsulate serial data and transport
it over network infrastructure to gateway 300 or client
devices.
[0095] RS485 serial bridge 700 may also connect and send or receive
data across other networking media via the networking
infrastructure provided by gateway 300. Various client devices may
connect to RS485 serial bridge 700 via powerline network or other
media in the network infrastructure.
[0096] RS485 serial bridge 700 may preferably by embodied in a
small form factor design with a status LED indicator. RS485 serial
bridge 700 may provide connectivity without utilizing serial wires
and supports easy installation of legacy serial based devices to
the networking infrastructure provide by gateway 300.
[0097] FIG. 8 is a simplified block diagram illustrating the
present invention as deployed in a document control system. This
diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the
scope of the claims herein. A person having ordinary skill in the
art would recognize many variations, alternatives, and
modifications. As shown, the system 800 for a document control
system is included. The system 800 has a gateway 801 that is
coupled to the external data source 803, which is derived from a
modem or router 805 that connects to the world-wide network of
computers or world-wide web (WWW) 803 and provides multiple IP
address to the system 800, and is then coupled to a plurality of
client devices through AC wiring 807 or wirelessly 809. A plurality
of computing devices 811 and mobile devices 813 can monitor and
control the gateway 801 and client devices residing behind the
gateway. The gateway 801 is adapted to collect, aggregate, store,
receive and transmit information, and is also adapted to bridge
various network media together. The gateway 801 is adapted to
bridge low speed and high-speed powerline technologies and RFID
wireless technology together. In alternative embodiments, wireless
technology can include other wireless technologies such as wireless
802.11 standards, Zigbee, Zwave, 6lowPAN, or others. A panel meter
815 is adapted to inject and couple IP signal into up to three (3)
electrical phases and into individual circuits residing in the
distribution panel 817. The panel meter 815 is adapted to receive
and transmit information. A network adapter 819 is an apparatus
adapted to convert the signal from AC wiring 807 to an IP Ethernet
signal 821 or a wireless signal 809 and can receive and transmit
information. Each folder 823, document 825, and other assets 827
has a RFID wireless tag that connects to the gateway 801 and the
network adapter wirelessly 809. Each folder 823, document 825, and
other assets 827 can then be monitored and tracked anywhere on the
network on a computing workstation 829 connected through a network
adapter 819 over the AC wiring 807 or on a laptop 831 connected
wirelessly 809 through the gateway 801 or through a network adapter
819. A plurality of computing devices 811 and mobile devices 813
can monitor and track each folder 823, document, 825, and other
assets 827 through the WWW 803 that is connected to the gateway
801.
[0098] A preferred embodiment of a document control system 800 as
illustrated in FIG. 8 may be an application in hospitals. In a
hospital various patient medical records and files are constantly
being transported to various locations within the premises. It is
common for documents become lost or unable to be located quickly.
Therefore, document control system 800 may be applied in order to
solve the document control problem. Hospital records and files may
be attached with RFID wireless tags that allow connectivity to
network infrastructure and ultimately gateway 801. Each folder 823,
document 825, or other assets 827 in a hospital application may
have an RFID wireless tag that connects to the gateway 801 and the
network adapter wirelessly 809.
[0099] For example, RFID wireless tag attached to a document may
emit an RF signal which may be received by a network adapter 819 or
other receiver configured for RFID signals. Typically, a network
adapter 819 or other receiver will be located near the RFID tag
attached to a document. Network adapter 819 or other receiver may
then utilize the powerline network backbone, wireless network, or
other network infrastructure to send RFID signal data to gateway
801. In receiving RFID signal, gateway 801 then is able to pinpoint
the location or other data information provided by RFID signal.
Thus, each folder 823, document 825, and other assets 827 can then
be monitored and tracked anywhere on the network or premises
location on a computing workstation 829 connected through a network
adapter 819 over the AC wiring 807 or on a laptop 831 connected
wirelessly 809 through the gateway 801 or through a network adapter
819. A plurality of computing devices 811 and mobile devices 813
can monitor and track each folder 823, document, 825, and other
assets 827 through the WWW 803 that is connected to the gateway
801.
[0100] The forgoing illustration of a document control system 800
may be one preferred application of the technology. Further
applications are available with the present invention, such as
library asset management, retail environments, warehousing or
stocking applications, manufacturing environments, office
applications, or other environments that require tracking or
control of objects capable of supporting RFID technology.
[0101] FIG. 9 is a simplified block diagram illustrating the remote
management system 900 as deployed in a plurality of locations
according to an embodiment in the present invention. This diagram
is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the scope of
the claims herein. A person having ordinary skill in the art would
recognize many variations, alternatives, and modifications. As
shown, the remote management system 900 has a management server 901
that is connected to the world-wide networks of computers or
world-wide web (WWW) 903. Through the WWW 903, the management
server 901 may monitor, collect, store, manage, and control a
plurality of gateways 905 that is connected to a modem or router
907. A plurality of remote computing devices 909 and mobile devices
911 can monitor, manage and control devices residing behind a
gateway 905 via the management server 901 through the WWW 903.
[0102] Remote management system 900 may allow a utility or other
service provider to collect data from customer gateways 905 and
compile data regarding individual or entire customer energy usage
data. Utility or other service provider may furthermore utilize
remote management system 900 to command or control customer gateway
905 and thus connected customer client devices. For example, during
peak power usage periods where blackouts or brownouts are expected,
utility or service provider may command or control customer gateway
905 in order to shut down client devices and thereby reduce system
power loads.
[0103] Remote management system 900 may allow a utility or service
provider to send data regarding pricing fluctuations to customer
gateway 905 and interact with customer settings related to power
pricing levels. For example, customer may configure gateway 905 to
operate based upon price levels provided by utility or service
provider. Customer may configure gateway 905 to command or control
client devices based upon energy prices. If prices are high,
gateway 905 may therefore shut down non-essential client devices.
For example, client device washer and dryer may be scheduled to
operate only during non-peak price levels as the need to run the
appliances may not be immediate and may be scheduled over a period
of time. If prices are low, gateway 905 may perform scheduled
operations via client devices that were not needed to be performed
when prices were high. Therefore, gateway 905 may perform command
or control of client devices efficiently scheduled in response to
energy pricing data provided by utility or service provider via
remote management system 900.
[0104] FIG. 10 is a simplified software block diagram 1000 for the
gateway according to an embodiment in the present invention. This
diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the
scope of the claims herein. A person having ordinary skill in the
art would recognize many variations, alternatives, and
modifications. As shown, the gateway software block diagram
includes a variety of elements. Such elements include a physical
layer 1001, a driver layer 1003, an application layer 1005 and a
user interface layer 1007. The physical layer 1001 includes a
variety of elements. Such elements include an Ethernet interface
1009 and a powerline Interface 1011. The driver layer 1003 includes
a variety of elements. Such elements include a serial port driver
1013, an Ethernet driver 1015, a Zigbee driver 1017, a memory
driver 1019, and a powerline driver, 1021. The application layer
1005 includes a variety of elements. Such elements include a data
collection driver 1023, a command and control driver 1025, a data
analysis and storage driver 1027 and a command communication driver
1029. The user interface includes a user interface 1031.
[0105] The software for the gateway represented in the block
diagram of FIG. 10 may perform a variety of functions. Such gateway
software may allow gateway to create an integrated powerline and
wireless networking infrastructure. For example, gateway software
may send a data signal across the powerline network backbone to a
preferred location in the premises wiring. Thereafter, gateway
software may support the conversion of the data signal into a
wireless signal to be networked across wireless infrastructure.
Gateway software may further efficiently route data signals across
the integrated network in order improve network functionality. For
example, gateway software may route data signals in a certain
manner in order to improve data bit rate, or gateway may route data
signals in order to conserve power.
[0106] Gateway software may allow the elimination of signal
interference from the integrated network. The gateway software may
act to centrally manage data packets or hash function in
eliminating interference. Gateway software may centrally manage the
provisioning of data signal frequencies and eliminate
interference.
[0107] Gateway software may manage the coupling architecture of
client devices to network infrastructure. For example, gateway
software may control the type of bandwidth signal used to couple
client devices. Furthermore, gateway software may also control the
utilization of chipsets in generating data signals across
powerline, wireless, or other network media. Gateway software may
control the bridging architecture of the integrated network in
bridging wireless and powerline signals. For example, gateway
software may optimize the location and format for bridging various
media types across the integrated network. In this functionality,
gateway software may determine to utilize powerline networking in a
certain location with poor wireless performance and vice versa use
wireless networking where powerline performance is poor.
[0108] Backup battery module functionality of gateway may be
controlled with gateway software. The software may allow gateway to
perform backup function in the event of a power failure or
disruption. The gateway software may be configured to maintain
security in the even of a power failure and focus resources on the
attainment of that goal. Alternatively, gateway software may
optimize gateway performance to efficiently conserve power in the
event of a power failure. Gateway software may allow safe mode
operation to conserve power. The software may efficiently command
or control client devices in response to a power loss event. Alert
message generation may be controlled by gateway software.
[0109] FIG. 11 is a simplified software block diagram 1100 for the
appliance module according to an embodiment in the present
invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should not
unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person having
ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations,
alternatives, and modifications. As shown, the software block
diagram of the appliance module 1100 includes a variety of
elements. Such elements include a physical layer 1101, a driver
layer 1103, and an application layer 1105. The physical layer 1101
includes a variety of elements. Such elements include
temperature/fog/brightness/infrared sensor 1107, a
switch/relay/alarm sensor 1109, and a powerline interface 1111. The
driver layer 1103 includes a variety of elements. Such elements
include a serial port driver 1113, a sensor driver 1115, a Zigbee
driver 1117, a controller driver 1119, a General Purpose
Input/Output (GPIO) driver 1121, and a powerline driver 1123. The
application layer 1105 includes a variety of elements. Such
elements include a data collection module 1125, a command and
control module 1127 and a data and command communication module
1129.
[0110] The software for the appliance module represented in the
block diagram of FIG. 11 may perform a variety of functions. Such
appliance module software may allow the appliance module to take
measurements of energy usage. The software may control the method
of coupling appliance module to the client device for energy
monitoring or control. For example, appliance module software may
determine whether to remotely or locally couple to client devices,
either via direct connection or wirelessly.
[0111] Appliance module software may control the sending or
receiving of data signals across the powerline network or the
wireless network, or the integrated network infrastructure. The
software may allow appliance module to provide wireless
connectivity to the powerline network backbone. For example, at a
certain premises location, appliance module software may provide a
client device a wireless connection to the powerline network.
[0112] Data measurements at appliance module may be controlled by
appliance module software. The software may control the measurement
of power usage information such as instantaneous power, peak power,
or average power. The method of data collection, via either network
infrastructure, or via local or remote coupling to client devices
may be controlled by appliance module software. The software may
control sending such data to gateway via network
infrastructure.
[0113] Command or control of client devices coupled to appliance
module may be carried out by appliance module software. The
software may control the provisioning of high, low, or other
bandwidth signals to client devices via appliance module
coupling.
[0114] FIG. 12 is a simplified software block diagram for the panel
meter and serial bridges according to an embodiment in the present
invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should not
unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person having
ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations,
alternatives, and modifications. As shown, the panel meter and
serial bridge software block diagram includes a variety of
elements. Such elements include a physical layer 1201, a driver
layer 1203, and an application layer 1205. The physical layer 1201
includes a variety of elements. Such elements include a power
measure or serial port module 1207 and a powerline module 1209. The
driver layer 1203 includes a variety of elements. Such elements
include a serial port driver 1211, a sensor driver 1213, and a
powerline driver 1215. The application layer 1205 includes a
variety of elements. Such elements include a data collection module
1217 and a data/command communication module 1219.
[0115] The software for the panel meter and serial bridges
represented in the block diagram of FIG. 12 may perform a variety
of functions. In regards to panel meter functionality, the panel
meter software allows panel meter to take energy measurements at
the electrical circuit breaker or distribution panel. Panel meter
software may control the measurement or energy usage data from
panel meter current sensor module as well as the transmission of
data signals into premises wiring circuits or network
infrastructure. The software may support communication between
panel meter and gateway or a variety of client devices via network
infrastructure.
[0116] Panel meter software may control the scheduling of energy
usage measurements. For example, panel meter software may schedule
measurements to be conducted in real time or to be taken
periodically. Backup power module support of panel meter may be
controlled by panel meter software. The software may efficiently
command or control panel meter functionality in a low power mode in
order to conserve energy or maintain security. Safe mode operation
and functionality of panel meter may be controlled with panel meter
software as well as alert message generation.
[0117] Serial bridge software as represented in FIG. 12 may perform
a variety of functions. The software may allow serial bridge to
send or receive data across network infrastructure. Serial bridge
software may support the connectivity of serial based devices to
the network infrastructure and the command or control of such
devices. The software may also facilitate the gathering of data
from serial based devices.
[0118] FIG. 13 is a simplified software flow diagram for the
gateway according to an embodiment in the present invention. This
diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the
scope of the claims herein. A person having ordinary skill in the
art would recognize many variations, alternatives, and
modifications. As shown, the simplified software data query flow
diagram for the gateway starts 1301 by initializing a power measure
module 1303. If the initialization is successful 1305, the next
step is to read the data 1311, and then write the collected data
using the buffering process 1313. The system then reads the command
using the buffering process 1315. If the new command is
successfully read 1317, then the system will execute the command
1319. If the command is unsuccessful 1317, then the system repeats
itself and reads the data again 1311. If the initialization for the
power measure module 1303 is unsuccessful 1305, the next step is to
initialize the Zigbee module 1307. If the initialization is
successful 1309, the next step is to read the data 1311, and then
write the collected data using the buffering process 1313. The
system then reads the command using the buffering process 1315. If
the new command is successfully read 1317, then the system will
execute the command 1319. If the command is unsuccessful 1317, then
the system repeats itself and reads the data again 1311. If the
initialization for the Zigbee module is unsuccessful 1309, then the
system starts again 1301.
[0119] FIG. 14 is a simplified buffering flow diagram for the
gateway according to an embodiment in the present invention. This
diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the
scope of the claims herein. A person having ordinary skill in the
art would recognize many variations, alternatives, and
modifications. As shown, the buffering flow diagram for the gateway
is starts 1401 by obtaining initializing 1403 and then reading the
data 1405 and returning a value 1407. Then the process terminates
1409.
[0120] FIG. 15 is a simplified software flow diagram for the
appliance module according to an embodiment in the present
invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should not
unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person having
ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations,
alternatives, and modifications. As shown, the simplified software
data query flow diagram for the appliance module starts 1501 by
initializing a General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) 1503. If the
initialization is successful 1505, the next step is to read the
data 1511, and then write the collected data using the buffering
process 1513. The system then reads the command using the buffering
process 1515. If the new command is successfully read 1517, then
the system will execute the command 1519. If the command is
unsuccessful 1517, then the system repeats itself and reads the
data again 1511. If the initialization for the GPIO is unsuccessful
1505, the next step is to initialize the power measure module 1521.
If the initialization is successful 1523, the next step is to read
the data 1511, and then write the collected data using the
buffering process 1513. The system then reads the command using the
buffering process 1515. If the new command is successfully read
1517, then the system will execute the command 1519. If the command
is unsuccessful 1517, then the system repeats itself and reads the
data again 1511. If the initialization for the power measure module
is unsuccessful 1523, the next step is to initialize the Zigbee
module 1525. If the initialization is successful 1527, the next
step is to read the data 1511, and then write the collected data
using the buffering process 1513. The system then reads the command
using the buffering process 1515. If the new command is
successfully read 1517, then the system will execute the command
1519. If the command is unsuccessful 1517, then the system repeats
itself and reads the data again 1511. If the initialization of the
Zigbee module is unsuccessful 1527, then the system starts over
again 1501.
[0121] The appliance module flow diagram can also start 1501 by
initializing a General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) 1503 and then
initializing the power measure module 1521, followed by
initializing the Zigbee module 1525. If initialization is
successful 1527, then the next step is to read the data 1511, and
then write the collected data using the buffering process 1513. The
process then reads the command using the buffering process 1515. If
the new command is successfully read 1517, then the system will
execute the command 1519. If the command is unsuccessful 1517, then
the system repeats itself and reads the data again 1511.
[0122] FIG. 16 is a simplified buffering flow diagram for the panel
meter according to an embodiment in the present invention. This
diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the
scope of the claims herein. A person having ordinary skill in the
art would recognize many variations, alternatives, and
modifications. As shown, the buffering flow diagram for the panel
meter is starts 1601 by obtaining the powerline data 1603 and then
writes the data using the buffering process 1605, which then
terminates 1607. The buffering process then starts again 1609 by
reading the buffered data 1611. If the un-buffered process is
successful or null 1613, then it will write the data to the
powerline module 1615 and terminates 1617. If the un-buffer process
is unsuccessful, then the process terminates 1617.
[0123] FIG. 17 is a simplified software data query flow diagram for
the panel meter 1700 according to an embodiment in the present
invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should not
unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person having
ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations,
alternatives, and modifications. As shown, the simplified software
data query flow diagram for the panel meter 1700 starts 1701 by
initializing a buffering process 1703, follow by initializing the
power measure module 1717. The next step is to read the power
measure module data 1707, and then write the collected data using
the buffering process 1709. The system then reads the command using
the buffering process 1711. If the new command is successfully
read, 1713 then the system will write a command to the General
Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) 1715. If the command is unsuccessful
1713, then the system repeats itself and reads the power measure
data again 1707.
[0124] FIG. 18 is a simplified buffering flow diagram for the panel
meter according to an embodiment in the present invention. This
diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the
scope of the claims herein. A person having ordinary skill in the
art would recognize many variations, alternatives, and
modifications. As shown, the buffering flow diagram for the panel
meter is starts 1801 by obtaining the powerline data 1803 and then
writes the data using the buffering process 1805, which then
terminates 1807. The buffering process then starts again 1809 by
reading the buffered data 1811. If the un-buffered process is
successful 1813, then it will write the data to the powerline
module 1815 and terminates 1817. If the un-buffer process is
unsuccessful, then the process terminates 1817.
[0125] FIG. 19 is a simplified software data flow diagram 1900 for
the serial bridge according to an embodiment in the present
invention. This diagram is merely an example, which should not
unduly limit the scope of the claims herein. A person having
ordinary skill in the art would recognize many variations,
alternatives, and modifications. As shown, the software block
diagram of the serial bridge 1900 starts 1901 by initializing a
buffering process 1903. The system will then initialize the serial
data 1905. The next step will then read the power measure module
data 1907 and then, the serial data 1909. The next step in the
system is to write the collected data 1911 and then write the
command 1913 using a buffering process. The system will then read
the command 1915. If the new command is successful read 1917, then
the command is executed 1919. If the new command is not read
successfully 1917, the system repeats itself and reads the power
measure module data 1907.
[0126] FIG. 20 is a simplified buffering flow diagram for the
serial bridge according to an embodiment in the present invention.
This diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit
the scope of the claims herein. As shown, the buffering flow
diagram for the serial bridge 2000 starts 2001 by obtaining the
powerline data 2003 and then writes the data using the buffering
process 2005, which then terminates 2007. The buffering process
then starts again 2009 by reading the buffered data 2011. If the
un-buffered process is successful 2013, then it will write the data
to the powerline module 2015 and terminates 2017. If the un-buffer
process is unsuccessful, then the process terminates 2017.
[0127] FIG. 21 is a simplified alert process flow diagram for the
gateway according to an embodiment in the present invention. This
diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the
scope of the claims herein. As shown, the process starts 2101 by
checking the status of each client device by sending a ping to each
device 2103. If the client device is responds 2105, then the
process starts over again 2101. If the client device does not
respond, then the gateway logs the failure 2107. The gateway then
checks the user configuration 2109. If the gateway is configured to
send alert 2111, then the gateway will send alert via email and/or
text 2113. If the alert was successfully sent 2115, then the
process terminates 2117. If the alert was not successfully sent
2115, then the gateway will repeat to send alert again 2113. If the
gateway is not configured to send alert 2111, then the process
terminates 2117.
[0128] FIG. 22 is a simplified process diagram for the backup
battery according to an embodiment in the present invention. This
diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the
scope of the claims herein. As shown, the process starts 2201 when
it checks if power is off or not 2203. If power is not off, then
the device repeats to check if power is off or not 2201. If power
is off, then the device switches to the backup battery 2205. The
next process turns on a limited set of components 2207. If the
power turns back on 2209, then the device turns on the entire
device 2211. The battery will then turn off 2213 and begins
recharging the battery 2215. When the battery is full 2217, the
process ends. If the battery is not full, the battery will continue
to recharge 2215. If the power does not turn back on 2209, the
process returns to maintain to backup battery 2205.
[0129] FIG. 23 is a simplified process diagram for a hard reset
method according to an embodiment in the present invention. This
diagram is merely an example, which should not unduly limit the
scope of the claims herein. As shown, the process starts 2301 by
checking the oscillation level 2303. If it is at the right level
and no hard reset is needed, then it repeats the process and starts
2301 over again. If the oscillation level 2303 is not correct and a
hard reset is needed, then the device will perform a hard reset
2305. If the hard reset was successful 2307, it will log the reset
2309 and terminate 2311. If the hard reset was not successful 2307,
it will log failure 2313 and try to perform hard reset 2305
again.
[0130] The hard reset method may be applied to a variety of
applications and or devices. For example, the hard reset method may
be applied to the devices disclosed in the present system for
intelligent energy management and control. Gateway 300, appliance
module 400, panel meter 500, RS232 Bridge 600, or RS485 Bridge 700
may be equipped with hard reset functionality. Additionally, the
hard reset may be applied to other network enabled devices such as
modems, routers, switches, etc. Furthermore, hard reset
functionality may be applied to any electronic device utilizing
integrated circuits and or chipsets. Hard reset functionality in
accordance with the preferred embodiment described here allows such
devices to automatically re-boot or re-load after the device ceases
to function properly or becomes locked-up, frozen or stalled.
Traditionally, such devices must be manually powered off or reset
in order to bring the device back online and functioning properly.
The hard reset method disclosed herein allows such devices to
automatically reset in the even of a system failure.
[0131] FIG. 24 is a simplified diagram illustrating a Powerline and
Zigbee bridging network according to an embodiment in the present
invention. FIG. 25 is an alternative simplified diagram
illustrating a Powerline and Zigbee bridging network according to
an embodiment in the present invention. In a specific embodiment,
the present bridging network for powerline technology with Zigbee
is included. In one or more preferred embodiments, the network
combines and/or bridges at least Zigbee or the like and rf
technology. In a specific embodiment, the network includes a Zigbee
module or multiple modules and/or sensors using a powerline network
backbone, including the HomePlug.TM. standard PLC to extend Zigbee
technology. Of course, there can be other variations,
modifications, and alternatives.
[0132] The method and system of the present invention thus
described, it will be appreciated that numerous modifications and
embodiments may be devised by those skilled in the art. Such
variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit
and scope of the present invention, and all such modifications as
would be appreciated to those skilled in the art are intended to be
included within the scope of the following claims.
[0133] While the above is a full description of the specific
embodiments, various modifications, alternative constructions and
equivalents may be used. Therefore, the above description and
illustrations should not be taken as limiting the scope of the
present invention which is defined by the appended claims.
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