Various embodiments disclosed herein provide techniques for managing encryption keys at nodes in a mesh network. In various embodiments, a method includes receiving, by a first node in a network, a first message from a second node; determining, by the first node, that a first key usable by the first node to decrypt the first message is outdated based on a comparison of a first key version identifier associated with the first key and a second key version identifier associated with a second key, where the second key was used to encrypt the first message, and the second key version identifier is received from the second node with the first message; and in response to determining that the first key is outdated, transmitting, by the first node to a key management service, a first request for an updated version of the first key to replace the first key.
Various embodiments disclosed herein provide techniques for managing encryption keys at nodes in a mesh network. In various embodiments, a method includes, while in a key failure detection time period associated with a first key, detecting, by a node in a mesh network, a decryption failure using the first key; in response to detecting the decryption failure using the first key, incrementing, by the node, a failure count for the first key; and in response to determining that the failure count is at least a threshold count and a key update time period has been entered, transmitting, by the node to a key management service, a request for an update to the first key.
H04L 9/16 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols using a plurality of keys or algorithms the keys or algorithms being changed during operation
H04W 12/04 - Key management, e.g. using generic bootstrapping architecture [GBA]
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
Various embodiments disclosed herein provide techniques for messaging among message groups associated with agents executing on nodes of a mesh network. A messaging application executing on a node of the mesh network receives content for a first message from an agent executing on the first node, the first message being for a first message group; and transmits a composite message to a second messaging application executed by a second node of the mesh network, the composite message including the first message and a second message for a second message group.
Various embodiments disclosed herein provide techniques for messaging among message groups associated with agents executing on nodes of a mesh network. A messaging application executing on a node of the mesh network receives a request from an agent executing on the first node to join a message group; verifies that a policy permits the agent to join the message group; adds the agent to the message group; receives, from the agent, content for a message for the message group; and transmits the message to a second messaging application of a second node of the mesh network for delivery to an agent that is executing on the second node and that is included in the message group. In various embodiments, the messaging application receives, from another node of the mesh network, a second message for the message group, and delivers content from the second message to the agent.
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
H04L 51/212 - Monitoring or handling of messages using filtering or selective blocking
H04L 67/10 - Protocols in which an application is distributed across nodes in the network
H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks
H04W 12/04 - Key management, e.g. using generic bootstrapping architecture [GBA]
H04W 12/03 - Protecting confidentiality, e.g. by encryption
H04L 9/14 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols using a plurality of keys or algorithms
Various embodiments disclosed herein provide techniques for messaging among agents executing on nodes a mesh network. In various embodiments, a method includes receiving, by a messaging application executing on a node of a mesh network, content for a message from an agent executing on the node; verifying, by the messaging application, that a policy permits delivery of the message; and transmitting, by the messaging application, the message to another messaging application executing on another node of the mesh network.
H04L 51/212 - Monitoring or handling of messages using filtering or selective blocking
H04W 4/06 - Selective distribution of broadcast services, e.g. multimedia broadcast multicast service [MBMS]; Services to user groups; One-way selective calling services
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
H04L 67/10 - Protocols in which an application is distributed across nodes in the network
Techniques for obtaining and processing utility consumption data (e.g., gas, water, electricity, etc.) of a utility network to determine if a violation has occurred with respect to a restriction schedule associated with a service site. By way of example, a number of utility restriction schedules associated with a number of service sites may be generated that indicate, for example, a type of restricted activity and/or event (e.g., irrigation), seasons and/or which days activity is allowed or not allowed, duration activity is allowed, and/or mitigation to take place if a violation is detected. A device (e.g., a smart utility meter, a router, etc.) may monitor utility consumption and detect a particular usage activity (e.g., irrigation) via data disaggregation. The device may compare the activity to the restriction schedule for that particular service site and perform automatic mitigation if a violation is detected.
A method, apparatus, and system for providing an input overvoltage protection are disclosed. A voltage monitor may monitor input voltage to an electricity meter and output a reference voltage associated with, or based at least in part on, the input voltage. A ground switch may electrically connect a first ground to a second ground allowing current to flow from the second ground to the first ground and charge a bulk capacitor up to a predetermined level when the reference voltage is less than or equal to a threshold voltage, and electrically disconnect the first ground from the second ground and prevent from charging the bulk capacitor higher than the predetermined level when the reference voltage is greater than the threshold voltage.
H02H 3/12 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to underload or no-load
H02H 3/06 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection - Details with automatic reconnection
H02H 3/20 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to excess voltage
H02H 3/32 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to phase angle between voltages or between currents involving comparison of the voltage or current values at corresponding points in different conductors of a single system, e.g. of currents in go and return conductors
Various embodiments set forth a method comprising validating, by a first computing system in a secured computing environment, a demand event generated by an operator, where the operator is authenticated to generate demand events within the secured computing environment and the demand event corresponds to a set of endpoints operating outside the secured computing environment, generating, by the first computing system, an authorization permit associated with the demand event, and sending, from the first computing system to a second computing system outside of the secured computing environment, (i) an indicator of the demand event, and (ii) the authorization permit, where the demand event is usable by the second computing system to generate a demand event command for the set of endpoints, and the authorization permit is usable by the set of endpoints to validate the demand event command
G06F 21/57 - Certifying or maintaining trusted computer platforms, e.g. secure boots or power-downs, version controls, system software checks, secure updates or assessing vulnerabilities
G06F 21/64 - Protecting data integrity, e.g. using checksums, certificates or signatures
G06F 21/32 - User authentication using biometric data, e.g. fingerprints, iris scans or voiceprints
A method, apparatus, and system for disconnecting loads from the electrical grid based on a power line frequency are disclosed. An electricity meter may monitor a power line frequency of a source power line connected to the electricity meter, and in response to determining that the power line frequency is lower than a disconnect threshold frequency, may open an internal switch and disconnect a load side output of the electricity meter from the source power line.
H02H 3/46 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to frequency deviations
H02J 3/00 - Circuit arrangements for ac mains or ac distribution networks
Various embodiments set forth a method comprising determining, by a first computing device powered by a rechargeable battery and a non-rechargeable battery, whether to change operation of the first computing device from a first operating state to a second operating state based on one or more of a state of the rechargeable battery, a state of the non-rechargeable battery, or a state of a communication mode of the first computing device; and in response to determining that operation of the first computing device should change to the second operating state, increasing, by the first computing device, an interval between communications with one or more second computing devices using the communication mode.
11.
EFFICIENT COLLABORATION BETWEEN METERS UNDER THE SAME TRANSFORMER
In an electrical grid, several electricity meters may be associated with the same transformer, and may measure electricity sold to respective customers. One electricity meter executes manager software, while the other electricity meters execute agent software. One or more applications operated on each electricity meter, and control metrology devices, data processing, operation of radio(s) and/or a powerline communications modem, determine aspects of electrical phase determination, etc. The agent software operating on each electricity meter may relay messages from applications operating on that electricity meter to other applications operating on other electricity meters. Each message sent by each instantiation of agent software may include a networking score of that electricity meter. The manager software may communicate with a data collector and/or main office server(s). The manager software may select a replacement meter from among those connected to the same transformer to assume the role of executing manager software.
A leak detection sensor may be capable of dynamically adjusting a sampling time for acoustic data based on monitored fluid flow. The leak detection sensor monitors leak detection information associated with a fluid in a fluid transporting medium over a predetermined time interval, where the leak detection information comprises flow and pressure of the fluid in the fluid transporting medium, and processing the leak detection data monitored at the sampling time in the predetermined time interval, where the sampling time is determined based at least in part on the monitored flow of the fluid.
F17D 5/06 - Preventing, monitoring, or locating loss using electric or acoustic means
E03B 7/07 - Arrangement of devices, e.g. filters, flow controls, measuring devices, siphons, valves, in the pipe systems
G01M 3/28 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for valves
13.
ELECTRICAL PHASE IDENTIFICATION USING A CLUSTERING ALGORITHM
A method, apparatus, and system for identifying electrical phases connected to electricity meters are disclosed. Voltage time series data of electricity meters are collected over a preselected collection time period, and three initial kernels representing three line-to-neutral phases are generated based on voltage correlations of meter-to-meter combinations. Three new kernels are then generated based on correlation values calculated for each of the three initial kernels with each electricity meter, and electricity meters are clustered into three groups based on average correlation values associated with each electricity meter. Six new kernels representing six phases are then formed based on the average correlation value associated with each electricity meter, and a predicted phase is assigned to each electricity meter based on correlation values of the electricity meter with each of the six new kernels based on the voltage time series data.
G01R 19/25 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof using digital measurement techniques
G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques
14.
DETERMINING NETWORK RELIABILITY USING MESSAGE SUCCESS RATES
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for evaluating connections between nodes in a mesh network. The technique includes identifying a plurality of potential parent nodes for a first node included in the mesh network; computing, for each potential parent node, one or more accumulated message success rates associated with transmitting messages from the first node to a target destination within the mesh network via the potential parent node and with receiving messages from the target destination via the potential parent node; and selecting, from the plurality of potential parent nodes and based on the accumulated message success rates, a parent node for the first node.
Techniques for evaluating connections between nodes in a mesh network include a first node listening across a plurality of listening windows for one or more messages transmitted by a second node during a time period; determining a number of messages received by the first node during the time period; computing, based on the number of messages received, a received message success rate associated with a connection between the first node and the second node, wherein the received message success rate indicates a probability of successfully receiving, at the first node, messages transmitted by the second node via the connection; and computing, based on at least one message received during the time period, a transmitted message success rate associated with the connection, wherein the transmitted message success rate indicates a probability of successfully transmitting messages from the first node to the second node via the connection.
Techniques for evaluating connections between nodes include computing a second accumulated uplink message success rate based on a first accumulated uplink message success rate and a second accumulated downlink message success rate based on a first accumulated downlink message success rate. The first accumulated uplink message success rate indicates a probability of successfully transmitting messages from a second node to a target destination and the second accumulated uplink message success rate indicates a probability of successfully transmitting messages from the first node to the target destination via a direct connection from the first node to the second node. The first accumulated downlink message success rate indicates a probability of successfully receiving messages transmitted by the target destination at the second node and the second accumulated downlink message success rate indicates a probability of successfully receiving messages transmitted by the target destination at the first node via the direct connection.
Techniques for evaluating connections between nodes include a first node determining one or more first accumulated message success rates associated with transmitting messages from the first node to a target destination via an established parent node and with receiving messages from the target destination via the established parent node; determining, based on the one or more first accumulated message success rates, that a search for a different parent node should be performed; identifying a plurality of potential parent nodes; computing, for each potential parent node, one or more second accumulated message success rates associated with transmitting messages from the first node to a target destination via the potential parent node and with receiving messages from the target destination via the potential parent node; and based on the second accumulated message success rates, selecting a new parent node from the plurality of potential parent nodes or maintaining the established parent node.
A method and system for managing electric vehicle (EV) distributed energy resource(s) (DER) are disclosed. A DER analytics engine may receive electricity consumption data of a plurality of sites from corresponding electricity meters of the plurality of sites, detect EV charging information based at least in part on the electricity consumption data, obtain EV telematics data of EVs associated with the EV charging information, reconcile the EV charging information and the EV telematics data, and generate, based on the reconciled EV charging information and the EV telematics data, models for at least one of continuous EV load prediction, electrical vehicle supply equipment (EVSE detection), and/or optimization for at least one of aggregated load, load per feeder, or maximum revenue for time-of-use tiers.
Techniques for hub and spoke publish-subscribe are described herein. In some examples, an outgoing-data database comprising addresses of remote device hubs on respective remote devices is maintained. First data is received from a first process operating on the device. The first data is sent to a first remote hub associated with a first remote device and associated with an entry in the outgoing-data database. An incoming- data database is maintained to associate processes operating on the device with data to which the processes subscribe. Second data is received from a second device hub associated with a second device. It is determined¨by reference to the incoming- data database¨that the second data is data subscribed-to by a second process operating on the device. The second data is sent to the second process.
Techniques are provided for ad-hoc authenticated group discovery and data sharing in a mesh network. A group of devices is created without leaving a security gap due to the open communication needed to establish the discovery of the devices fomting the group. The group can be authenticated autonomously following network discovery of the devices. Instead of requiring global pre-assigned keys for authentication, the devices in the group are authenticated with signatures and certificate passing thereby providing strong security. The efficiency of data sharing between the devices of the network, such as a mesh network, can also be increased. One or more devices may act as a bridge device between devices of a same group that are not in direct wireless communication with each other to reduce re-broadcasts within the mesh network.
H04W 12/069 - Authentication using certificates or pre-shared keys
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
Techniques are provided for ad-hoc authenticated group discovery and data sharing in a mesh network. A group of devices is created without leaving a security gap due to the open communication needed to establish the discovery of the devices fomting the group. The group can be authenticated autonomously following network discovery of the devices. Instead of requiring global pre-assigned keys for authentication, the devices in the group are authenticated with signatures and certificate passing thereby providing strong security. The efficiency of data sharing between the devices of the network, such as a mesh network, can also be increased. One or more devices may act as a bridge device between devices of a same group that are not in direct wireless communication with each other to reduce re-broadcasts within the mesh network.
H04W 84/18 - Self-organising networks, e.g. ad hoc networks or sensor networks
H04L 41/12 - Discovery or management of network topologies
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
G01R 22/00 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters
22.
TECHNIQUES FOR RELEASE ASSISTANCE INDICATION ASSERTION
Techniques for transmitting data include identifying data to be transmitted, adding the data to a queue, and in response to a data session window being open: extracting the data from the queue; transmitting the extracted data to a transceiver via a transmitter; monitoring an amount of data in the queue and determining that the transmitter has transmitted the extracted data to the transceiver; and in response, instructing the transceiver to end the data session window early and transition to a lower power state.
Techniques for transmitting data include receiving a message, storing the message in a buffer, and in response to a data session window being open: extracting the message from the buffer; transmitting at least data included in the message to a transceiver via a transmitter; determining that a header of the message includes a last message indicator and determining that the transmitter has transmitted the data to the transceiver; and in response, instructing the transceiver to end the data session window early and transition to a lower power state.
Techniques for transmitting data include identifying data to be transmitted; and in response to a data session window being open: transmitting the data to a transceiver via a transmitter; determining whether there is additional data to be transmitted and determining whether the transmitter has transmitted the data to the transceiver; and in response, instructing the transceiver to end the data session window early and transition to a lower power state.
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for performing time synchronization within a network. The technique includes detecting a first scheduling conflict between a first transmission time associated with a first periodic beacon from a first node in the network and a second transmission time associated with a second periodic beacon from a second node in the network. The technique also includes determining a first alternate transmission time associated with the first periodic beacon based on a position of the first node in the network and the first transmission time. The technique further includes transmitting the first periodic beacon at the first transmission time, and transmitting an alternate periodic beacon at the first alternate transmission time.
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for performing time synchronization within a network. The technique includes detecting a first scheduling conflict between a first transmission time associated with a first periodic beacon from a first node in the network and a first listening window associated with receiving a second periodic beacon from a second node in the network. The technique also includes determining a first alternate transmission time for the second periodic beacon based on a second transmission time associated with the second periodic beacon and a position of the second node in the network and calculating a second listening window associated with transmission of the second periodic beacon from the second node at the first alternate transmission time. The technique further includes listening for the second periodic beacon during the second listening window.
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for communicating within a network. The technique includes receiving, from a first node in the network and at a first receive time, a first periodic beacon that includes a first network time associated with the first node. The technique also includes determining a first transmission time of a first unicast message to the first node based on the first network time and a unicast interval between consecutive unicast listening times on the first node. The technique further includes transmitting the first unicast message to the first node at the first transmission time.
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for performing time synchronization within a network. The technique includes receiving, from a first node in the network and at a first receive time, a first periodic beacon that includes a first network time associated with the first node. The technique also includes determining a second receive time at which a second periodic beacon from the first node is to be received based on the first network time and the first receive time. The technique further includes calculating a first listening window for the second periodic beacon based on the second receive time, a first jitter uncertainty, and a first drift uncertainty, and listening for the second periodic beacon during the first listening window.
In various embodiments, a system within a wireless network comprises a set of battery-powered device (BPD) nodes within the wireless network, and a joining BPD node that identifies, in a subset of BPD nodes, a set of potential parent nodes, filters the set of BPD nodes based on network optimization criteria to identify a target parent node, and transmits a request message to establish a communications link with the target parent node as a child node, where the target parent node in the set of BPD nodes executes instructions to receive the request message from the joining BPD node, evaluate data associated with the joining BPD node with acceptance criteria, and upon determining that the joining BPD node meets the acceptance criteria, establish the communications link with the joining BPD node, where, upon the communications link being established, the joining BPD node is a child to the target parent node.
A network system includes a main network implementing a conventional network protocol and a BPD subtree implementing a custom network protocol. The main network comprises a plurality of MPD nodes, the conventional network protocol being configured for MPD nodes. The BPD subtree comprises a plurality of BPD nodes, the custom network protocol being configured for BPD nodes. The custom network protocol defines smaller and simpler subtrees relative to the conventional network protocol. As a result, the custom network protocol defines less complex functions relative to the conventional network protocol, including functions for discovery, messaging, and loop management. A root node of the BPD subtree is connected with an MPD node of the main network and one or more descendant nodes of the BPD subtree. The root node implements the conventional network protocol and the custom network protocol.
A network system includes a main network implementing a conventional network protocol and a BPD subtree implementing a custom network protocol. The main network comprises a plurality of MPD nodes, the conventional network protocol being configured for MPD nodes. The BPD subtree comprises a plurality of BPD nodes, the custom network protocol being configured for BPD nodes. The custom network protocol defines smaller and simpler subtrees relative to the conventional network protocol. As a result, the custom network protocol defines less complex functions relative to the conventional network protocol, including functions for discovery, messaging, and loop management. A root node of the BPD subtree is connected with an MPD node of the main network and one or more descendant nodes of the BPD subtree. The root node implements the conventional network protocol and the custom network protocol.
Techniques for controlling water pressure at a plurality of water customer service sites are described. In an example, a first plurality of water service sites having water pressure values greater than a first threshold value are identified. A second plurality of water service sites having pressure values less than a second threshold value are identified. Valves controlling water flow to respective customer service sites within the first and second pluralities of water service sites are adjusted. The adjustments increase water pressure in the second plurality of water service sites to a pressure above a minimal target pressure. The adjustment maintains the water pressure of the first plurality of service sites above the minimal target pressure. In an example, groups of water service sites are associated with respective water mains and/or water pressure sensors. Information shared between groups may assist in adjusting water valves within the water system.
Techniques are directed to controlling access to resources on a message bus of a network communication device. The techniques may include, by the network communication device, processing a message bus access policy file uniquely corresponding to a process. The message bus access policy file may include a certificate securely associating the message bus access policy file with the process. The techniques may further include, by the network communication device, based at least in part on the processing the message bus access policy file, exposing one or more resources of the network communication device to the process on the message bus, in a manner corresponding to at least one resource access permission indication contained within the message bus access policy file.
An agent, of a distributed intelligence application, generates feature data for a feature. A baseline configuration of parameters is processed, associated with the distributed intelligence application, to determine a first set of parameters. The baseline configuration of parameters and a modified configuration of parameters are processed to determine a second set of parameters. The modified configuration is associated with the distributed intelligence application and indicates a difference from the baseline configuration. A snapshot of dynamic data is processed according to an algorithm using the first set of parameters to determine a first result and using the second set of parameters to determine a second result. The first result and the second result are each provided with a respective indication of the configuration used to generate the result.
A system includes a stream partition manager configured to receive data packets input from a plurality of actors, the actors including virtual representations of physical devices, and partition the data packets into a number of stream partitions based at least in part on one or more criteria. The system further includes a plurality of stream processors communicatively coupled to the stream partition manager. Individual stream processors of the plurality of stream processors being configured to receive data packets from a stream partition of the number of stream partitions, process the data packets to generate multiple table entries, and transmit the multiple table entries in batches. The system further includes a target table communicatively coupled to the plurality of stream processors. The target table is configured to receive and store the batches received from the individual stream processors.
H04L 67/568 - Storing data temporarily at an intermediate stage, e.g. caching
H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks
36.
FORMING A BLOCKCHAIN IN A LOW-BANDWIDTH, RESOURCE-CONSTRAINED NETWORK
A device selects a plurality of other devices to participate in a blockchain based at least in part on observed behavior of a communication link between the device and each of the other devices. The device, based at least in part on the selecting, participates in the blockchain with at least some of the plurality of other devices.
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
37.
SECURE TRIMMING OF BLOCKCHAIN IN A RESOURCE-CONSTRAINED NETWORK
Based at least in part on a determination of an amount of remaining storage available in a device being relative to a particular level, a device trims at least a portion of the blockchain from the device including by making storage allocated to the portion of the blockchain available. The device recalculates the blockchain without the portion of the blockchain that has been trimmed from the device. Further, the device sends a message to another device participating in the blockchain, the message including at least the hash for the recalculated blockchain.
A first device participating in a blockchain receives an indication of an error in the blockchain being maintained by the first device. The first device determines a defective block of the blockchain and receives a replacement for the defective block from a second device. The first device determines a recalculated blockchain that includes the replacement for the defective block.
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
H04W 12/00 - Security arrangements; Authentication; Protecting privacy or anonymity
39.
GAS REGULATOR DIAPHRAGM-POSITION AND PRESSURE-RELIEF DETECTION
Device(s) and techniques determine if a gas regulator supplying gas at a regulated pressure to a gas meter (e.g., the gas meter of a house or business) within a gas distribution system has one or more lock-up failure events or venting events, wherein gas is vented to the atmosphere. In an example, a sensor obtains information indicating a relative position of a stop stem of a gas regulator and a diaphragm pin of the gas regulator. As pressure increases within the regulator, the diaphragm pin moves toward and/or touches the stop stem. The gas pressure increase may result from debris in the regulator that prevents a valve from fully closing. A signal may be sent from the regulator and/or associated gas meter. The signal may contain information based at least in part on data from the sensor, and which may indicate a lock-up failure event or a venting event by the gas regulator.
G05D 16/06 - Control of fluid pressure without auxiliary power the sensing element being a flexible member yielding to pressure, e.g. diaphragm, bellows, capsule
40.
NETWORK EDGE DETECTION AND NOTIFICATION OF GAS PRESSURE SITUATION
Techniques for detecting a high gas pressure situation within a gas delivery system (e.g., for natural gas delivery to homes and businesses) are described. In one example, a device measures gas pressure. If a pressure over a threshold value is detected, a nearby device is messaged. The nearby device either confirms the over-pressure condition or indicates it may be more localized. If the condition is present within an area of the gas delivery system and/or within a group of devices within the gas delivery system, protective measures may be taken, such as closing valves providing gas to a number of service sites.
Various embodiments disclose a computer-implemented method for sending a message associated with an outage event, comprising, at a first node in a network, receiving a key from a second node in the network, wherein the second node is adjacent to the first node; storing the key in a first memory, wherein the first memory is capable of operating in a low power mode; detecting an outage event; in response to detecting the outage event, operating a first processor in the low power mode; and via the first processor operating in the low power mode: generating a message, securing the message using the key, and sending the message to the second node.
A data collection device and method for determining an alternative event condition is presented. The method includes receiving a first data communication including a first data value from a first sensor and determining a first event condition based on the first data value being beyond a predetermined threshold. The method further includes receiving additional data communications including additional data values from one or more second sensors, aggregating the first data value and the additional data values, and determining that the determination of the first event condition is incorrect based on the aggregated data values and a known relationship between the first sensor and the one or more second sensors. The method additionally includes determining a second event condition based on the first data value and the additional data values being beyond the predetermined threshold. An action may then be performed in response to the determination of the second event condition.
A data collection device and method for determining a backflow condition in a water distribution system. The data collection device receives a first data communication from a first node, the first data communication indicating a first possible backflow condition at the first node. The data collection device receives additional data communications from one or more second nodes, the additional data communications indicating backflow conditions at the second nodes. The data collection device aggregates and analyzes the first data value and the additional data values and determines that an actual backflow condition exists based on the aggregated data values and a known relationship between the first node and the second nodes. The data collection device may then perform action(s) in response to determining the backflow condition, such as reporting the backflow condition, requesting updated reporting from the nodes, closing appropriate valves, initiating pumps to increase water pressure, flushing the system, etc.
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for operating an electronic device within a cellular environment. The technique includes determining a coverage enhancement (CE) parameter and one or more radio frequency (RF) link parameters associated with a link between the electronic device and a cellular base station at a first point in time. The technique also includes computing a first estimate for a signal condition associated with the link based on the CE parameter and the one or more RF link parameters. The technique further includes determining that the signal condition is not adequate based on the first estimate and delaying transmission of one or more messages from the electronic device over the link until a second point in time that is later than the first point in time.
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for operating an electronic device within a cellular environment. The technique includes determining one or more radio frequency (RF) link parameters associated with a link between the electronic device and a cellular base station at a first point in time. The technique also includes computing a first estimate for a pseudo-coupling loss (PCL) for the link based on the one or more RF link parameters. The technique further includes determining that the PCL exceeds a maximum coupling loss (MCL) for the link based on the first estimate and delaying transmission of one or more messages from the electronic device over the link until a second point in time that is later than the first point in time.
A computer-implemented method of transmitting messages within a mesh network comprises: receiving at a first node included within the mesh network a network message that is to be broadcast within the mesh network; determining a security key type based on at least one of a resource parameter associated with at least one neighbor node included in the mesh network or an attribute of the network message; securing the network message with a security key of the security key type to generate n secured network message; and broadcasting the secured network message to one or more other nodes included in the mesh network that are directly connected to the first node.
A load-side voltage detection module for a metrology device includes a plurality of first resistors electrically coupled to a first load-side terminal, the first resistors being in series, a plurality of second resistors electrically coupled to a second load-side terminal, the second resistors being in series, a voltage divider electrically coupled between a first line-side terminal and a second line-side terminal, the voltage divider creating a reference voltage for the load-side voltage detection module, and a pulse generator to generate a pulse based on detection of voltage, the pulse indicating a voltage on at least one of the first load-side terminal or the second load-side terminal, above at least one threshold.
A high-voltage protection module (200) for a metrology device includes a metal-oxide varistor (MOV, 124) coupled across a mains power line, a resistor (126) electrically coupled to the MOV in series with the MOV, and a fuse (128) electrically coupled to the MOV and the resistor in series, the resistor being located between the fuse and the MOV. The fuse opens upon an overvoltage event disengaging alternating current (AC) power from the mains power line to the metrology device.
H02H 9/04 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for limiting excess current or voltage without disconnection responsive to excess voltage
H02K 7/00 - Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
A metrology device includes a housing, a lower support structure, a PCB coupled to the lower support structure, and a cover coupled to the lower support structure and the housing. The housing supports the cover in three coordinate directions. The lower support structure includes a first pillar that supports the PCB and mechanically couples with the cover. The first pillar causes the PCB to stand off from the lower support structure and causes the cover to stand off from the PCB. The metrology device also includes a second pillar that extends from the lower support structure to a base to cause the lower support structure to stand off from the base. The cover has a non-circle shape, and a cross section of the housing at a same elevation of the housing as an elevation of the cover within the housing is a circle.
Various embodiments disclose a computer-implemented method for managing multi-mode communications between node devices in a network comprising initiating a carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance (CSMA/CA) session at a first node while in a first mode, where the CSMA/CA session is associated with a request to transmit a data message to a second node, switching from the first mode to a second mode, in response to switching to the second mode, suspending the CSMA/CA session at the first node, switching back to the first mode, and in response to switching back to the first mode, resuming the CSMA/CA session at the first node.
H04W 4/06 - Selective distribution of broadcast services, e.g. multimedia broadcast multicast service [MBMS]; Services to user groups; One-way selective calling services
51.
OPTIMIZED PARENT AND PATH SELECTION FOR BATTERY POWERED DEVICES WITHIN A WIRELESS NETWORK
A wireless network includes nodes configured to implement an improved parent and path selection process to efficiently and reliably manage energy consumption of a battery powered device node. When a given node selects a path, the node transmits requests to multiple potential parent nodes. Each potential parent node transmits a metric that is indicative of the remaining battery life of the nodes in the path that includes the respective potential parent node. The given node then selects a parent node, and corresponding path, based on the metrics. More specifically, the given node selects a path, where at least one node on the selected path is less likely to prematurely exhaust the remaining battery life of the node, relative to the nodes in the other potential paths. As a result, the given node selects a path that optimizes battery consumption of the various battery powered nodes in the wireless network.
Various embodiments disclose a computer-implemented method for transmitting data between node devices in a mesh network comprising acquiring, by a first node device within the mesh network that supports a set of channel plans, a channel mask that specifies a set of channels that are available for a channel plan within an operating region associated with the mesh network, determining, based on the channel mask, a set of available channels supported by the first node device, selecting, from the set of available channels, at least one channel as a first preferred channel for data transmissions between the first node device and a second node device included in the mesh network, and configuring, based on the first preferred channel, a communication link between the first node device and the second node device.
ABSTRACT A method of determining whether a received message at a communications device is from a legitimate second device may include building a message intended for a legitimate second device, generating a time delay using a secret key known to the device and the legitimate second device, sending the built message to the legitimate second device, starting a timer at the time of sending the built message, receiving a response to the sent message, determining a response time of the received response based on a time value of the timer, determining an acceptable receive window of time based on the generated time delay, determining whether the determined response time is within the determined acceptable receive window of time, and when the determined response time is within the determined acceptable receive window of time, recognizing the received response as a legitimate message from the legitimate second device. Date Recue/Date Received 2020-1 2-2 1
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
ABSTRACT A device and method for locally authenticating an accessor device to access an operable device. The method comprises receiving reservation information at a validation device from an access granting device, the reservation information identifying one or more accessor devices as having permission to utilize the operable device, where the operable device is local to (e.g., within a predetermined proximity) of the validation device. The method further comprises receiving a request from an accessor device requesting permission to utilize the operable device, the request including an identifier of the requesting accessor device, validating the request based on the reservation information and the identifier, and when validation is successful, granting to the requesting accessor device permission to utilize the operable device. The method may further include receiving an instruction from the access granting device to revoke such permission from the requesting accessor device, and revoking such permission from the requesting accessor device. Date Recue/Date Received 2020-1 2-2 1
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
Various embodiments disclose a computer-implemented method for transmitting data between node devices in a mesh network comprising receiving, by a first node device within the mesh network that supports a first set of communication modes, a first information element that specifies a second set of communication modes supported by a second node device within the mesh network, determining, based on the first information element, a common set of communication modes that includes at least a default mode and a first mode, selecting, from the common set of communication modes, the first mode as a first preferred communication mode for data transmissions between the first node device and the second node device, and configuring a communication link between the first node device and the second node device according to the first mode.
A forecast engine is configured to analyze aerial and/or satellite images depicting a geographic area to identify the existence of solar panels within the geographic area at different times. Based on the installation time of each solar panel, the forecast engine estimates the solar power generation capacity of the solar panel. The forecast engine also analyzes meteorological data, including weather forecasts, to estimate a level of insolation at each solar panel within the geographic area across a range of times. The forecast engine can then determine the total amount of solar power generation within the given geographic area at a particular time using the solar power generation capacity of each solar panel and the level of insolation at each solar panel at the particular time.
Various embodiments disclosed herein provide techniques for detecting electrical arcing in an electrical system. A powerline communications (PLC) application executing on a network communications device acquires, via a PLC modem, first voltage readings associated with an electrical circuit. The PLC application performs one or more operations based on the first voltage readings to determine that an electrical arcing condition is present within the electrical circuit. The PLC application performs a remedial operation in response to determining that the electrical arcing condition is present.
G01R 31/00 - Arrangements for testing electric properties; Arrangements for locating electric faults; Arrangements for electrical testing characterised by what is being tested not provided for elsewhere
H02H 3/00 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection
H02H 3/20 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to excess voltage
H02H 3/24 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition, with or without subsequent reconnection responsive to undervoltage or no-voltage
Techniques for allocating event offsets within a period of transmission are described. A mains-powered device (MPD) may act as a "parent" to one or more battery-powered devices (BPDs). The MPD may assign "event offsets" to each BPD. The event offset is a time by which the BPD's timeslot is "offset" from the start of a periodic cycle of transmissions by the MPD. Thus, each event offset indicates a time that the BPD must be "awake," i.e., operating its radio receiver and/or performing other functionality. A BPD may spend a substantial fraction of its time in a "sleep" mode, wherein less power is used and fewer functions are performed than during a period of that BPD's event offset. Another BPD may have a different event offset. Communications by the MPD with each child BPD may be substantially uniformly distributed over the period. To increase efficiency, groups of BPDs may receive multicasts.
Disclosed are techniques to minimize the electricity consumption of battery powered devices during network discovery and other phases of network operation. Example techniques include efficiently listening for other mains powered and battery powered devices within communication range of the battery powered device by, for example, shortening its listening window depending on how close the time reference maintained by the battery powered device is estimated to be to the time reference used by the other mains powered and battery powered devices within communication range. Other techniques include slowing the rate of listening by the battery powered device when the battery powered device is unlikely to be able to receive discovery messages or is already connected to the network. Other techniques include using knowledge of the network to listen for discovery messages on a channel or channels on which other devices are likely to be transmitting.
Techniques for limiting forwarding of multicast communications are described herein. For example, the techniques intelligently forward data along paths of a network where members of a multicast group are located. As such, a node that does not lead to members of the multicast group may be configured to selectively and intelligently forward multicast messages it receives. This can reduce network communications, ultimately conserving processing, communication, and/or battery resources of the nodes and improving performance of the network.
H04W 40/24 - Connectivity information management, e.g. connectivity discovery or connectivity update
H04L 41/082 - Configuration setting characterised by the conditions triggering a change of settings the condition being updates or upgrades of network functionality
An enclosure for a utility metering device is configured to reduce internal air temperatures. In an example, the utility metering device has a solar shield and/or filtered ventilation air passage(s). In the example, an enclosure is attached to a base. Opening(s) may be defined in the enclosure, to allow air to remove heat from the metering device by convection. The openings may be covered with filters, to prevent the entry of water, dust, insects, etc. A solar shield may cover at least an upper surface of the enclosure. An air pocket may be defined between the solar shield and at least the upper surface of the enclosure. Air from within the enclosure may be ventilated into the air pocket, and air from within the air pocket may be ventilated into the atmosphere. The ventilation removes heat from within the enclosure, while the solar shield rejects addition of heat energy.
A battery-powered device (BPD) node compresses certificate chains to generate compressed certificate chains. The BPD node includes a compression dictionary that indexes various data entries that occur across many certificate chains and/or repeat within a particular certificate chain. The BPD node compresses a given certificate chain by replacing data entries within the given certificate chain with indices to corresponding data entries in the compression dictionary. The indices are smaller in size than the corresponding data entries. A neighboring BPD node also includes the compression dictionary and decompresses a compressed certificate chain by replacing indices included in the compressed certificate chain with the indexed data entries stored in the compression dictionary. Performing certificate exchanges with compressed certificate chains reduces the amount of limited battery power that is depleted during certificate exchanges, thereby extending BPD node operational lifetime and helping to prevent the need for premature battery replacement.
H04L 9/32 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols including means for verifying the identity or authority of a user of the system
63.
SYSTEM SUBSET VERSION AND AUTHENTICATION FOR REMOTELY CONNECTED DEVICES
A method of creating an update for distribution to network endpoints (108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122), comprising under control of one or more processors configured with executable instructions: selecting a subset of files (132, 134, 136) to update a plurality of files stored in a memory device of a network endpoint (108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122) to be updated; generating a hash of the subset of files (132, 134, 136); creating a delta file (124) comprising the subset of files (132, 134, 136) and the hash of the subset of files; and sending, to the network endpoint (108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122), the subset of files (132, 134, 136), wherein the subset of files (132, 134, 136) is less than a number of the plurality of files stored in the memory device of the network endpoint (108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122).
H04L 67/125 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks involving control of end-device applications over a network
H04W 12/00 - Security arrangements; Authentication; Protecting privacy or anonymity
H04W 4/70 - Services for machine-to-machine communication [M2M] or machine type communication [MTC]
H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks
H04L 69/40 - Network arrangements, protocols or services independent of the application payload and not provided for in the other groups of this subclass for recovering from a failure of a protocol instance or entity, e.g. service redundancy protocols, protocol state redundancy or protocol service redirection
A distributed energy resource (DER) device is coupled to a utility meter in a "behind-the-meter" configuration. The utility meter analyzes a commitment generated by the DER device to determine a specific operation performed by the DER device at a particular time. The utility meter analyzes metrology data to identify an "event" associated with the particular time and then attempts to map the identified event back to the DER device based on a library of events associated with different DER devices. The utility meter also attempts to map the identified event to the specific operation set forth in the commitment. If the utility meter can successfully map the identified event to both the DER device and to the specific operation set forth in the commitment, then the utility meter generates a validated commitment. The validated commitment can be used to facilitate an energy market settlement process.
An application management service may be used to determine which agents of an application need to be installed and/or licensed on one or more smart sensors. The application management service may determine which agents are associated with a given application and may determine which agents are currently installed and/or licensed on the one or more smart sensors. The application management service may determine which agents are not currently installed or licensed on the one or more smart sensors and that are associated with the application and may cause those agents to be installed or licensed on the one or more smart sensors.
G06F 21/57 - Certifying or maintaining trusted computer platforms, e.g. secure boots or power-downs, version controls, system software checks, secure updates or assessing vulnerabilities
G06F 21/62 - Protecting access to data via a platform, e.g. using keys or access control rules
A solar-powered device (SPD) relay node is coupled to a remotely-located "leaf" node in order to provide the leaf node with network access. The SPD relay node routes network traffic to and from the leaf node via one or more different paths that traverse other SPD relay nodes that reside upstream of the SPD relay node. The SPD relay node determines a specific path across which to route the network traffic based on several different factors associated with the upstream SPD relay nodes, including battery level, solar generation rate, and link quality. The SPD relay node generates a routing metric for each upstream SPD relay node based on these different factors and then routes traffic across the upstream SPD relay nodes based on the routing metric and based on a priority level associated with the network traffic.
H04W 40/02 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing
H04W 40/04 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on wireless node resources
H04W 40/10 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on wireless node resources based on available power or energy
H04W 40/12 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on transmission quality or channel quality
H04W 40/20 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on geographic position or location
A solar-powered device (SPD) node operates as an access point for leaf nodes. The SPD node load balances network traffic received from leaf nodes across different backhaul networks. The SPD node determines a specific backhaul network across which to route the network traffic based on several different factors associated with the SPD node. Those factors include a current battery level, a current solar generation rate, and a current communication link status. The SPD access point also determines the specific backhaul network across which to route the network traffic based on characteristics of the different backhaul networks, including a network latency, among other characteristics.
H04W 40/10 - Communication route or path selection, e.g. power-based or shortest path routing based on wireless node resources based on available power or energy
A node within a wireless network is powered by a solar hybrid battery system. The solar hybrid battery system includes a solar panel, a primary cell, and a secondary cell. The secondary cell includes only enough power storage to be capable of powering the node during the longest daily interval of darkness in the region where the node is deployed. The solar panel is sized relative to the secondary cell to be capable of fully recharging the secondary cell during the shortest daily interval of daylight in the region where the node is deployed, even under conditions of limited solar irradiance (e.g. due to clouds). The primary cell can charge the secondary battery if the node is shelved or malfunctioning to prevent the secondary cell from becoming overly depleted. The primary cell can also provide the node with additional power during times of peak demand or to perform status reports.
H02S 10/10 - PV power plants; Combinations of PV energy systems with other systems for the generation of electric power including a supplementary source of electric power, e.g. hybrid diesel-PV energy systems
H02S 10/20 - Systems characterised by their energy storage means
G05F 1/67 - Regulating electric power to the maximum power available from a generator, e.g. from solar cell
G06F 1/26 - Power supply means, e.g. regulation thereof
A node includes a firmware application that analyzes sensor data to detect and respond to events associated with the distribution of resources. During execution, the firmware application reads a configuration file that specifies a set of conditions and different actions that should be performed in response to different events associated with those conditions. The configuration file can be dynamically updated during execution of the firmware application to modify the set of conditions the firmware application evaluates and the different actions to be performed when occurrences of specific events are detected. Accordingly, the operational behavior of the node can be modified without needing the node to undergo a firmware update.
H04L 41/0816 - Configuration setting characterised by the conditions triggering a change of settings the condition being an adaptation, e.g. in response to network events
H04L 41/0893 - Assignment of logical groups to network elements
H04L 43/08 - Monitoring or testing based on specific metrics, e.g. QoS, energy consumption or environmental parameters
Disclosed are techniques to conserve battery of an endpoint device. Example techniques include adjusting the size of messages transmitted by an endpoint device and/or adjusting the transmission rate of an endpoint device. In some configurations, the one or more criteria are used by an endpoint device to determine what data fields to include within a message and/or adjust a transmission rate associated with the transmission of messages by the endpoint device. For instance, the one or more criteria may include the battery level of the device, the time of year, whether the data has already been transmitted by the endpoint device, whether the data has been acknowledged as received by another device, whether the endpoint device has been instructed by another device to reduce the message size and/or adjust the transmission rate, and the like.
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
71.
BATTERY LIFE EXTENSION VIA CHANGES IN TRANSMISSION RATES
Disclosed are techniques to conserve battery of an endpoint device. Example techniques include adjusting the size of messages transmitted by an endpoint device and/or adjusting the transmission rate of an endpoint device. In some configurations, the one or more criteria are used by an endpoint device to determine what data fields to include within a message and/or adjust a transmission rate associated with the transmission of messages by the endpoint device. For instance, the one or more criteria may include the battery level of the device, the time of year, whether the data has already been transmitted by the endpoint device, whether the data has been acknowledged as received by another device, whether the endpoint device has been instructed by another device to reduce the message size and/or adjust the transmission rate, and the like.
H04Q 9/00 - Arrangements in telecontrol or telemetry systems for selectively calling a substation from a main station, in which substation desired apparatus is selected for applying a control signal thereto or for obtaining measured values therefrom
A network node device and method of determining a communication route to one or more other network nodes through a network. The method includes sending current routing information to a network management server (NMS), and receiving new or supplemental routing information from the NMS, this supplemental routing information determined by the NMS based on the current routing information of the network node and of the one or more other network nodes. The supplemental routing information may include lateral route information identifying designated routing nodes that form lateral band(s) of nodes that span the network, each lateral band including gate node(s) as entrances/exits to the lateral band. The method may further include determining, based on the supplemental routing information, a route to one or more of the other network nodes. A lateral band may facilitate a route through a chokepoint or other abnormal topological layout.
A wireless mesh network includes a group of nodes configured to predict cloud movements based on voltage time series data. A node residing in the wireless mesh network records voltage fluctuations at a site where solar power is generated. The voltage fluctuations occur when an advancing cloud reduces solar irradiance at the site, thereby reducing solar power generation. The node correlates these voltage fluctuations with other voltage fluctuations recorded by other nodes at other sites where solar power is generated. The node computes a time offset between these voltage fluctuations that corresponds to the time needed for the cloud to advance between the different sites. Based on this time offset and the locations of the various nodes, the node estimates a wind vector. The wind vector can be used to perform near-term solar forecasting by predicting when the cloud will advance to other sites and reduce solar power generation.
A device and method for receiving a configuration setting update at a networked endpoint device. The method comprises: receiving a data packet from a head-end device, including one or more parameter updates including: a parameter identification, a designated parameter value for a parameter identified by the parameter identification, and a predetermined level assignment for the designated parameter value. The method further includes updating a record of two or more records of each parameter with its designated parameter value, the two or more records associated with differentiating level assignments defining a prioritized hierarchy of parameter values for the parameter at the endpoint device, where the updated record is associated with the predetermined level assignment. The method further includes running an application using a selected parameter value recorded at a highest priority level assignment of the differentiating level assignments for which parameter values are presently recorded at the endpoint device.
H04L 41/082 - Configuration setting characterised by the conditions triggering a change of settings the condition being updates or upgrades of network functionality
H04L 41/0893 - Assignment of logical groups to network elements
A smart sensor group management service may be used to establish groups of smart sensors that are associated with one or more common characteristics, such as a common application associated with the smart sensors. The group management service may establish multiple physical groups per application so that multiple entities may have access to managing the groups. The physical groups may be associated with a virtual group that facilitates management of the physical groups and may be accessible by the entities. The entities may perform different types of management operations using the group management service, such as creating groups, adding smart sensors to groups, removing smart sensors from groups, and adjusting settings of features of the applications that are associated with the groups.
Nodes included in a hybrid network establish cellular links infrequently and at staggered intervals. When a node establishes a cellular link, other nodes can transmit and receive data to a back office using that cellular link. In addition, the node can receive a request from the back office across the cellular link indicating that another node should respond to an on-demand read request. The node can then signal the other node via a wireless mesh network to establish a cellular link in order to respond to the on-demand read request. An advantage of the disclosed approach is that a battery powered node can communicate as often as needed with the back office without frequently establishing a cellular link and without maintaining a continuously active cellular link.
H04W 76/15 - Setup of multiple wireless link connections
H04W 76/16 - Setup of multiple wireless link connections involving different core network technologies, e.g. a packet-switched [PS] bearer in combination with a circuit-switched [CS] bearer
A cellular modem is configured for low power applications. In some instances, the cellular modem includes a transceiver, a processor to control the transceiver, a memory device in communication with the processor, and a general-purpose input/output (GPIO) pin, controlled by the processor. In an example, the cellular modem receives an appointed time for an upcoming communication and determines a time to activate a power supply. The determination may be based at least in part on the appointed time for the communication, so that the power supply is ready to supply power at a level consistent with use of the transceiver at the appointed time of the communication. At the determined time, a signal from the GPIO pin is used to activate the power supply, resulting in an increase in power supplied to the cellular modem in a just-in-time manner.
Techniques for operating cellular internet of things (IoT) devices under a public cellular carrier are disclosed. During an active connection, the cellular IoT device's radio-controlling application can collect radio metrics by tapping into the diagnostics interface of IoT device's cellular modem to collect data regarding accumulative signal strength, block/bit error rate, and/or round-trip latency for the session, etc. During the active connection, battery and environmental information as well as application-based information can be collected and sent to a remote computing device. In an example, the cellular IoT device can be given revised or refined values for use in timers, which may be used by the device to more efficiently use idle and/or power-save modes to reduce battery power consumption. Moreover, the use of the timers may be extended to devices distinct from the cellular modem, thereby increasing the utility of the timers and the functionality of the IoT device.
A method of operating a headend computer which involves under control of one or more processors configured with executable instructions. The under control of one or more processors configured with executable instructions involves receiving data from user equipment (UE) in a communication, receiving, from a mobility management entity (MME), a value of a maximum coupling loss (MCL) of the communication, and analyzing the MCL of the communication, wherein the analyzing is based at least in part on data inputs from the UE. The analyzing involves determining a period of polling of the user equipment, determining acceptable device latency, and providing the UE with values for a first timer, and a second timer. The values provided to the UE are based at least in part on the detennined period of polling and the detennined acceptable device latency, and the MCL of the communication.
A wireless network includes a plurality of nodes configured to implement an improved discovery process to efficiently and reliably pair with one another with low power consumption. A given node divides time into slots and then performs discovery operations during designated discovery windows. The discovery windows occur periodically but at different times of day. During a given discovery window, nodes attempt discovery using a reduced set of channels that varies from one window to the next, thereby increasing the likelihood that nodes operate on the same channel. Nodes also implement a pairing protocol to coordinate pairing, potentially avoiding situations where all nodes attempt to pair simultaneously. The discovery process may be completed expeditiously, thereby conserving power and extending the operational lifetime of nodes which rely on battery power.
A wireless network includes a plurality of nodes configured to implement an improved discovery process to efficiently and reliably pair with one another with low power consumption. A given node divides time into slots and then performs discovery operations during designated discovery windows. The discovery windows occur periodically but at different times of day. During a given discovery window, nodes attempt discovery using a reduced set of channels that varies from one window to the next, thereby increasing the likelihood that nodes operate on the same channel. Nodes also implement a pairing protocol to coordinate pairing, potentially avoiding situations where all nodes attempt to pair simultaneously. The discovery process may be completed expeditiously, thereby conserving power and extending the operational lifetime of nodes which rely on battery power.
A wireless mesh network includes a plurality of nodes coupled together in parent-child relationships. A child node is configured to cascade listening rate changes upstream to a parent node to perform low-latency communications. The child node transmits an authentication message to the parent node indicating the listening rate change. The child node sets a timer and waits for an acknowledgement from the parent node. If the child node receives the acknowledgement, then the child node and the parent node change listening rate to permit low-latency communications. In addition, if the parent node loses network access, the parent node sets a timer and then waits to abandon the child node until after the timer elapses.
A wireless mesh network includes a child node coupled to a parent node. The parent node transmits time sync beacons that indicate a time slot number and a start time for a current time slot. The child node receives the time sync beacons and determines a delta between the current time slot number of the child node and the current time slot number of the parent node. The child node also computes an offset between a start time of the current slot of the child node and the start time of the current slot of the parent node. The child node reports the delta and the offset to the parent node. Based on the delta and the offset, the parent node determines when, and on what channel, the child node is predicted to be receiving transmissions, and then schedules transmissions to the child node accordingly.
Techniques for limiting forwarding of multicast communications are described herein. For example, the techniques intelligently forward data along paths of a network where members of a multicast group are located. As such, nodes that do not lead to members of the multicast group may be pruned from distribution of the data. This reduces network communications, ultimately conserving processing, communication, and/or battery resources of the nodes.
H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks
Methods and apparatus to detect leaks are disclosed. A disclosed leak probability analysis apparatus associated with a utility distribution system having sensors includes a receiver to receive spectral recording data associated with spectral recordings measured at the sensors, and a storage device to store the spectral recording data. The leak probability analysis apparatus also includes a processor to calculate spectral energies associated with the spectral recording data, calculate deviations of the spectral energies, normalize the spectral energies based on the respective deviations, and generate a leak probability distribution of the utility distribution system based on the normalized spectral energies.
G01M 3/24 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic vibrations
An electronics enclosure is configured to provide protection against a wet and/or humid environment, and that is configured to allow radio frequency (RF) reception and transmission by electronics within the enclosure. In an example of the enclosure, a plurality of layers interact synergistically to provide protection against moisture and a plurality of low cost antennas are disposed proximate an exterior of the enclosure. In the example, a foil layer of the enclosure defines a small opening, through which RF and electrical coupling occurs. The coupling ensures electrical connection to the antenna(s), defined in a layer proximate an exterior of the enclosure.
Techniques for managing battery powered devices in a cellular network are described herein. In some instances, a receiving device, such as a data collector, may receive transmissions from a network endpoint, such as a utility meter. The messages may contain an indication of a power level used in the transmission. The receiving device may estimate a battery end-of-life date of the network endpoint, based at least in part on a known reporting schedule of the endpoint and the power level used in transmissions. The receiving device or the endpoint may revise the reporting schedule to modify the battery end-of-life date. In addition to modification of the reporting schedule, the endpoint power of transmission can be modified, based on RSSI and/or a transmission retry count.
Methods and apparatus to analyze recordings in leak detection are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a leak detection sensor to record a plurality of recordings and a memory. The example apparatus also includes a processor to convert one or more of the plurality of recordings to a corresponding one or more spectral representations, calculate a spectral average based, at least in part, on the one or more spectral representations, store the spectral average to the memory, and generate a data packet based, at least in part, on the spectral average. The example apparatus also includes a transceiver to transmit the data packet to another device.
G01M 3/24 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by detecting the presence of fluid at the leakage point using infrasonic, sonic, or ultrasonic vibrations
Techniques for acknowledging communications from multiple devices are described herein. For example, a device may broadcast a group acknowledgement message indicating that communications from multiple devices have been received by the device. Each acknowledgement in the group acknowledgement message may include a device identifier for a device that sent a communication (e.g., a Medium Access Control (MAC) address of the device, a hash of the MAC address of the device, etc.) and a communication identifier for the communication (e.g., a sequence number of the communication, a Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) code for the communication, etc.).
H04L 1/16 - Arrangements for detecting or preventing errors in the information received by using return channel in which the return channel carries supervisory signals, e.g. repetition request signals
H04W 52/18 - TPC being performed according to specific parameters
A thermocouple device includes a shared conductor for a shunt measurement and a thermocouple measurement. For example, the thermocouple device may include a shared conductor that provides a signal to both calculate current of a shunt and calculate a temperature of the shunt. The thermocouple device may provide an efficient structure that accurately calculates current and temperature. In addition, the thermocouple device may use the temperature of the shunt to detect when a conductive path is overheating. The temperature of the shunt may also be used for other purposes.
G01K 7/08 - Measuring temperature based on the use of electric or magnetic elements directly sensitive to heat using thermoelectric elements, e.g. thermocouples the object to be measured forming one of the thermoelectric materials, e.g. pointed type
G01R 1/20 - Modifications of basic electric elements for use in electric measuring instruments; Structural combinations of such elements with such instruments
G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
91.
MULTI-PIECE CURRENT SHUNT WITH CONDUCTIVE CHANNEL FOR UNIFORM CURRENT FLOW
A shunt (100) is composed of multiple pieces (102,104,106) with at least some of the pieces being connected by a conductive channel (108,110) that provides uniform flow of current. The conductive channel may be a recess, raised portion, stand alone component, or other channel that directs current to flow from one piece of the shunt to another piece in a uniform manner, resulting in an accurat current reading for the shunt. Further, the shunt may include multiple pieces that are composed of different materials.
G01R 1/20 - Modifications of basic electric elements for use in electric measuring instruments; Structural combinations of such elements with such instruments
G01R 19/00 - Arrangements for measuring currents or voltages or for indicating presence or sign thereof
G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
92.
CHANNEL STRUCTURE FOR COMMUNICATION IN WIRELESS NETWORKS
Techniques for communicating channel data regarding a channel plan are described herein. For example, a device may communicate a channel information element that includes a tag indicating a first operating context to which to apply channel data regarding a channel plan. The channel information element may also include a reference tag to indicate whether the channel data is contained in the channel information element or has been previously received and/or to identify a second operating context associated with previously received channel data. If the reference tag indicates that the channel data is contained in the channel information element, the channel data may be extracted from the channel information element and applied to the first operating context. If the reference tag indicates that the channel data has been previously received, the previously received channel data may be accessed and applied to the first operating context.
Techniques for the design and operation of an efficient battery-powered meter are described herein. A metrology unit of the meter may be at least partially located in the gas flow of a pipe, and measures gas flow rate data according to a static flow sensor. The metrology unit calculates raw gas-volume data using at least the flow rate data as input. The metrology unit measures gas temperature to produce gas temperature data, and adjusts the raw gas-volume data, based at least in part on the gas temperature data, to produce corrected gas-volume data. The metrology unit accumulates the corrected gas-volume data over multiple minutes, hours or even days, and then sends the accumulated corrected gas-volume data to an index unit of the meter. By accumulating the data over time, fewer data transmissions are required. The index unit may send the accumulated the accumulated corrected gas-volume data to a utility server.
G01F 15/063 - Indicating or recording devices for remote indication using electrical means
G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
G01F 15/04 - Compensating or correcting for variations in pressure, density, or temperature of gases to be measured
G01F 15/075 - Integration to give total flow, e.g. using mechanically-operated integrating mechanism using electrically-operated integrating means
Techniques for the design and operation of an efficient battery-powered modular meter are described herein. A metrology unit of the meter measures gas flow rate data and calculates totalized gas-volume data having an accuracy that is within a threshold value. The metrology unit accumulates the corrected gas-volume data and then sends the accumulated gas-volume data to an index unit. The threshold value of the metrology unit accuracy may be selected to preclude the need for gas volume calculations by the index unit, so that the metrology unit may be functioning independently from the index unit. The metrology unit may also be configured in a separate enclosure. This results in a modular system design where the index unit may be serviced, replaced or certified without affecting the metrology unit of the meter.
G01F 15/063 - Indicating or recording devices for remote indication using electrical means
G01F 1/66 - Measuring the volume flow or mass flow of fluid or fluent solid material wherein the fluid passes through a meter in a continuous flow by measuring frequency, phase shift or propagation time of electromagnetic or other waves, e.g. using ultrasonic flowmeters
G01F 15/075 - Integration to give total flow, e.g. using mechanically-operated integrating mechanism using electrically-operated integrating means
G01P 5/00 - Measuring speed of fluids, e.g. of air stream; Measuring speed of bodies relative to fluids, e.g. of ship, of aircraft
G01F 15/061 - Indicating or recording devices for remote indication
G01F 15/04 - Compensating or correcting for variations in pressure, density, or temperature of gases to be measured
A method of gas detection includes receiving, by a data collection device, reports of detected concentrations of a particular gas from one or more gas sensing devices having one or more associated gas sensors, receiving an alarm from a gas sensing device indicating a detected concentration greater than a predetermined threshold, and receiving concentration updates from the alarming device at a rate faster than that provided by its predetermined reporting schedule. The method may further include sending a command to one or more gas sensing devices nearby the alarming device to send concentration updates. The method may further include determining a location of a gas leak by triangulating the received updates from the alarming device and the nearby devices based on their locations and/or creating and displaying a gas concentration map based on the received updates from the alarming device and the nearby devices and their locations.
Techniques for identifying electrical theft are described herein. In an example, a secondary voltage of a transformer may be inferred by repeated voltage and current measurement at each meter associated with the transformer. A difference in measured voltage values, divided by a difference in measured current values, estimates impedance at the meter. The calculated impedance, together with measured voltage and current values, determine a voltage at the transformer secondary. Such voltages calculated by each meter associated with a transformer may be averaged, to indicate the transformer secondary voltage. A transformer having lower-than-expected secondary voltage is identified, based in part on comparison to the secondary voltages of other transformers. Each meter associated with the identified transformer may be evaluated to determine if the unexpected voltage is due to a load on the transformer. If a load did not result in the unexpected secondary voltage, power diversion may be reported.
G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
G01R 22/10 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods using digital techniques
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
Techniques for detecting high impedance conditions in an electrical grid are described herein. In one example, impedance is calculated for each of a plurality of locations within the electrical grid, such as at electrical meters. The impedances may be calculated as a change in voltage divided by a change in current, such as between sequential voltage/current measurements. Statistics may be maintained, including the calculated impedances. In three examples, statistics may be used to identify growth in impedance over multiple days, to identify growth in impedance over multiple hours, and to identify a meter for which impedance is higher than impedance for other meters attached to a single transformer. In a further example, instances of impedance over a threshold value may be identified, from among the maintained statistics. The instances of high impedance may be reported for reasons including cost and safety.
G01R 27/16 - Measuring impedance of element or network through which a current is passing from another source, e.g. cable, power line
G01R 31/08 - Locating faults in cables, transmission lines, or networks
G01R 35/04 - Testing or calibrating of apparatus covered by the other groups of this subclass of instruments for measuring time integral of power or current
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
G01R 22/06 - Arrangements for measuring time integral of electric power or current, e.g. electricity meters by electronic methods
A formula-driven programming-environment is described, which may be used to provide an environment for applications to operate within a network node or other computing device. In one example, statements of a program may be interpreted to thereby execute formula-style commands within an address space defined and constrained in a memory device by the integrated development environment. The commands may obtain data, assign values to variables and access data from other node(s) by the interpretation of statements in the program and communicating over a network. The communicating may include queuing a message for transmission by the formula-driven programming-environment. The commands may provide named access or relative access to data in response to the interpretation of statements in the program. The commands may communicate with at least one application located on a remote computing device in response to the interpretation of statements in the program.
G06F 9/44 - Arrangements for executing specific programs
H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks
H04L 67/133 - Protocols for remote procedure calls [RPC]
G06F 15/16 - Combinations of two or more digital computers each having at least an arithmetic unit, a program unit and a register, e.g. for a simultaneous processing of several programs
H04L 12/28 - Data switching networks characterised by path configuration, e.g. LAN [Local Area Networks] or WAN [Wide Area Networks]
H04L 41/12 - Discovery or management of network topologies
An electrical phase (e.g., a phase from among three-phase power) connected to an electrical meter may be determined. In one example of the techniques, changes in energy or power (e.g., a derivative or differences) may be determined based at least in part on measurements from each of a plurality of meters. Changes in energy or power may be determined based at least in part on electrical transmissions measured at each of the phases of a feeder. A meter may be selected from among the plurality of meters. For each of the plurality of electrical phases, the changes in energy or power measured by the meter may be compared or correlated to the changes in energy or power measured at the feeder. A phase that is connected to the meter may be determined, from among the plurality of electrical phases, based at least in part on the comparisons or correlations.
G01R 25/00 - Arrangements for measuring phase angle between a voltage and a current or between voltages or currents
H02J 3/26 - Arrangements for eliminating or reducing asymmetry in polyphase networks
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the network; Circuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
100.
METHODS AND APPARATUS TO LOCATE UTILITY METER ENDPOINTS OF INTEREST
Methods and apparatus are disclosed to determine the location of endpoints of interest. An example method involves in response to detecting a transmission from the endpoint, determining whether the endpoint is an endpoint of interest. If the endpoint is the endpoint of interest, the example method involves sending a first command to the endpoint to increase a transmission rate of the endpoint, determining an estimated location of the endpoint using signal strengths of subsequent transmissions from the endpoint, and enabling the transmission rate of the endpoint to decrease.
G01S 5/00 - Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more direction or position-line determinations; Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more distance determinations
G01C 21/36 - Input/output arrangements for on-board computers
patents
