Transformer monitor, communications and data collection device

Abstract

A transformer monitor, communication and data collection device features a signal processor configured to receive signaling containing information about collected data, including some combination of electrical signaling data related to electrical signaling being processed by a transformer located and arranged in a grid network and to which the apparatus is mounted, metered data related to associated electrical signaling being provided from the transformer to a building or structure in the grid network, and other wireless network data related to other wireless network communication devices/nodes/end points deployed in the grid network; and determine corresponding signaling containing information about collected data for transmitting back to a central location or other connection device for further processing, based upon the signaling received.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a technique for implementing a power grid network; and more particularly, the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for implementing a smart power grid network.

2. Brief Description of Related Art

Proliferation of the “Internet of Things” is driving interconnected smart systems. In particular, smart grids are following this trend though the establishment of smart energy, gas and water management. Interconnected components are now providing an unprecedented level of intelligence supporting numerous operational actions. This landscape is ushering in vast amounts of unstructured data and the need for intelligent data parsing, analysis and action systems.

However, currently there is a need within global smart grid networks, e.g., in urban and remote locations with limited electric infrastructure, for communications with transformers, residential and commercial meters and other Internet/wireless connected devices {commonly referred to as the “Internet of Things”}. These targeted locations do not have sufficient infrastructure to fully deploy a smart grid or Internet infrastructure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention represents a new and unique inclusion of wireless communications and data transmission capability into transformer monitoring modules, transformer monitoring being a core component within a so-called smart grid network. These transformer modules may be mounted directly to utility transformers in the field and include the capability to both collect and transmit information from the transformer, residential and commercial meters and other Internet/wireless connected devices. The transformer module or device according to the present invention differs from other existing technology by incorporating a transceiver, transmitter and antenna/optical network collectively within the same device to establish a wireless mesh network, collect data from other network devices deployed in the field and communicate collected data back to a central location or other connected devices.

According to some embodiments, the complete device assembly of the present invention may include four major components: (1) water proof/environmentally sealed and human factors centric housing, (2) transformer monitoring circuitry, (3) smart grid collection circuitry, and (4) radio/wireless mesh networking circuitry. By way of example, the system may be attached to the transformer via magnets built into the housing and powered from the secondary side of the transformer using hermetically sealed interconnects.

Specific Embodiments

By way of example, and according to some embodiments, the present invention may include, or take the form of, apparatus featuring a signal processor or signal processing module, configured to:

• • receive signaling containing information about collected data, including some combination of electrical signaling data related to electrical signaling being processed by a transformer located and arranged in a grid network and to which the apparatus is mounted, metered data related to associated electrical signaling being provided from the transformer to a building or structure in the grid network, and other wireless network data related to other wireless network communication devices/nodes deployed in the grid network; and
  • determine corresponding signaling containing information about the collected data for transmitting back to a central location or other connection device for further processing, based upon the signaling received.

According to some embodiments, the present invention may include one or more of the following features:

The apparatus may include, or take the form of, a transformer monitor, communication and data collection device, e.g., for pole or pad mounting in relation to a residential or commercial home, building or structure.

The signal processor may be configured to provide the corresponding signaling to the central location or other connection device for further processing, e.g., using an intelligent distribution analytic platform. By way of example, the intelligent distribution analytic platform may include, or take the form of, a digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network having communication nodes for exchanging information between the transformer monitor, communication and data collection device and the central location or other connection device. By way of further example, the intelligent distribution analytic platform may include, or take the form of, using a smart node power grid communication protocol for exchanging information between the communication nodes, the transformer monitor, communication and data collection device and the central location or other wireless network communication devices/nodes/end points deployed in the grid network. The transformer monitor, communication and data collection device according to the present invention is understood to be one of the communication nodes that forms part of the digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network.

The transformer monitor, communication and data collection device may include a combination of a transceiver, transmitter and an antenna/optical network configured to receive the signaling at the transducer located and arranged in the grid network and provide the corresponding signaling back to the central location or other connection device.

The transformer monitor, communication and data collection device may include a housing with a magnet, bolt, harness or other attachment for attaching the housing to a corresponding housing of the transformer located and arranged in the grid network. The housing may be waterproof and environmentally sealed and configured to contain the signal processor therein.

The housing may include a combination of an upper housing, a lower housing base and internal circuitry configured to implement transmission, reception, networking and data aggregation, and sensor input signal processing functionality.

The internal circuitry may include, or form part of, a built-in antenna/optical network that is either incorporated directly into the housing or located externally to the housing.

The building or structure may be a residential home or building, or a commercial building or structure.

The metered data may be received from an electric meter associated with the building or structure. The meter data may also include other types or kinds of metered data, e.g., including metered data from a gas meter, or a water meter, or some combination of meters.

The metered data may be received either from a single phase residential electric meter associated with a residential building, or either from a 3-phase commercial electric meter associated with a commercial structure.

The signaling may contain associated information about the distribution of the electrical signaling in the grid network.

The associated information may include distribution information about a power outage, the voltage of the electrical signaling, and/or transformer monitoring, including voltage analysis, digital rights management (DRM) or energy theft. By way of example, the transformer may provide suitable signaling to the transformer monitor, communication and data collection device containing at least part of the associate information.

The apparatus may include the central location or other connection device configured with a corresponding signal processor to receive the corresponding signaling and determine utility analyst information, e.g., that relates to a delivery substation analysis, proactive asset monitoring, distribution asset utilization, transmission and distribution (T&D) substation analysis, energy audits and analysis, load control and/or geographic localization.

The corresponding signal processor may be configured to provide power utility signaling containing information about energy conservation, load curtailment and/or a demand response for controlling a power utility.

The transformer monitor, communication and data collection device may include one or more cables configured to provide for data and device power.

The transformer monitor, communication and data collection device may include a wireless power transfer module configured for wireless power transfer via inductance or tuned magnetic resonance.

The transformer monitor, communication and data collection device may be, or take the form of, a pole mounted device that is mounted on a transformer on a utility pole, e.g., in relation to electrical energy supplied to residential homes.

Alternatively, the transformer monitor, communication and data collection device may be, or take the form of, a mounted device that is mounted on a pad transformer, e.g., in relation to electrical energy supplied to commercial buildings or structures.

The transformer monitor, communication and data collection device may be, or take the form of, a pole mounted device that is mounted on a transformer on a utility pole.

The apparatus may include, or take the form of, a digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network, e.g., consistent with that set forth herein.

The apparatus may include a global smart grid network comprised of:

• • a first transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device having the signal processor;
  • a second transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device having a second signal processor configured to implement signal processing functionality corresponding to the signal processor in relation to a second transformer and providing second corresponding containing corresponding information about corresponding collected data related to corresponding electrical signaling and corresponding associated electrical signaling for further processing back at the central location or other connection device; and
  • either the first transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device provides the corresponding signaling to the second transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device for providing back to the central location or other connection device, or
  • the second transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device provides the second corresponding signaling to the first transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device for providing back to the central location or other connection device.

The signal processor may be configured to provide the corresponding signaling to the central location or other connection device for further processing via wireless signaling, e.g., including via a cloud network.

At least part of the signaling received may be wireless signaling, or may be hardwired signaling, or may be some combination thereof.

The instant application provides a new technique that is a further development of, and builds upon, the aforementioned family of technologies set forth herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

The drawing includes the following Figures, which are not necessarily drawn to scale:

FIG. 1A is a diagram of a smart power grid network having a transformer monitor/data collection device, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 1B is a diagram of a smart power grid network having a transformer monitor/data collection device, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the transformer monitor/data collection device, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of apparatus, e.g., having a signal processor or processing module, configured for implementing signal processing functionality associated with the present invention, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4A shows a transformer monitor/data collection device interaction with residential and commercial locations, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4B shows a transformer monitor/data collection device installation with residential locations and connected via a cloud network, e.g., to a communication node that forms part of a digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network using a smart node power grid communication protocol, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4C shows a transformer monitor/data collection device installation with commercial locations and connected via a cloud network, e.g., to a communication node that forms part of a digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network using a smart node power grid communication protocol, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The Basic Invention

In summary, and as shown in the drawing, the present invention represents a new and unique inclusion of wireless communications and data transmission capability into transformer monitoring modules 20, transformer monitoring being a core component within a so-called Smart Grid Network according to the present invention. These transformer modules may be mounted directly to utility transformers in the field and may include the capability to both collect and transmit information received in signaling provided from a transformer, residential and commercial meters and/or other communication nodes that form part of other Internet/wireless connected devices in the Smart Grid Network. The transformer module or device according to the present invention differs from other existing technology by incorporating a transceiver, transmitter and antenna/optical network collectively within the same device to both collect data from other network devices deployed in the field and communicate the collected data back to a central location or other connected devices, e.g., consistent with that disclosed herein.

According to some embodiments, the transformer module or device of the present invention may include four major components: water proof/environmentally sealed and human factors centric housing, transformer monitoring circuitry, smart grid collection circuitry, and radio/wireless mesh networking circuitry (See FIG. 2). By way of example, the transformer module or device may be attached to the transformer on the utility pole via magnets built into the housing and powered from the secondary side of the transformer using hermetically sealed interconnects, e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. See also FIGS. 4A through 4C.

FIGS. 1A and 1B show big picture renditions of the overall smart power grid network, e.g., as a configuration/establishment of a baseline, power grid centric, smart utility mesh network, for implementing a pole mounted transformer monitor/smart data collector device according to the present invention to communicate upstream/downstream within the network.

The overall smart power grid network represents an interconnected so-called “BIG DATA” technology system providing advanced intelligence and synergistic components across power metering, distribution and communication, optimization and installation and servicing. The network incorporates discrete elements in the transformer monitoring and communications, residential and commercial metering and analytical, predictive and pre-emptive software algorithms. The hardware associated with the network facilitates communications with transformers, residential and commercial meters, and other Internet/wireless connected devices {commonly referred to as the “Internet of Things”}. The network's geographically disbursed assets support a wireless mesh network communications extension, while aiding system optimization capabilities, noting that many assets are in logistically difficult areas to reference, re-locate, interrogate and service. The overall integrated system drives substantial efficiencies in data visualization, evaluation, diagnosis, optimization, and servicing using enhanced reality systems across this interconnected smart grid network and similar networks. The collective systems provide a synergistic and unique alternative network for BtB/BtC data receipt and delivery.

The smart grid network according to the present invention represents a singular, standardized, and scalable network, providing the industry's first inclusive solution from a singular supplier. The smart grid network is inclusive of four basic technology elements. The primary hardware and software constituents of the network are as noted and identified below.

• • 1. The pole or pad mounted transformer monitor/smart data collector device is identified herein as element 20, according to the present invention (AKA as “HyperSprout™” (and formerly known as “ITM™”)), which is the localized data aggregation and power flow investigation; establishing a data capture and delivery capability wherever there is power, e.g., consistent with that set forth herein.
  • 2. A digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network (AKA “DataVINE™” (formerly known as (iAMI™”)) is identified herein as element 40, which is a ubiquitous mesh network facilitating automated residential and commercial metering while deploying an alternative data delivery capability; enforcing a market leading 100% meter read capability, e.g., consistent with that set forth in U.S. application Ser. No. 62/236,420 (WFMB No. 756-2.6-1), as well as U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/244,919 (WFMB No. 756-2.8-1), and U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/299,348 (WFMB No. 756-2.10-1).
  • 3. A smart node power grid communication protocol (AKA “DataSCAPE™” (formerly known as iDAP™)), which provides for a comprehensive nodal exchange analysis of all grid parameters; realizing an inclusive geo-spatial understanding of utility operations, e.g., consistent with that set forth in U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/205,358 (WFMB No. 756-2.4-1).
  • 4. An enhanced reality field investigation, interaction and servicing; deploying the industry's first “virtual” utility (AKA as “PowerVISR™”), e.g., consistent with that set forth in U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/203,719 (WFMB No. 756-2.3-1).

Taken collectively, this energy and communications portfolio and financial strategy improves over current offerings through its intimate understanding of utility partners' pain points, core needs and anticipated delights. Most importantly, the network hardware and software solution allows for the identification of the purposeful diversion of energy {i.e., theft} and the focused remediation of the offending areas or subjects, subsequently enhancing enterprise revenues.

As noted, the aforementioned overall combination provides an infinitely scalable data delivery and receipt capability for communities with poorly established, historical infrastructure while providing a synergistic network capability to those communities with current cellular capability.

FIGS. 1A and 1B

By way of example, FIGS. 1A and 1B show examples of smart power grid networks generally indicated as 10 and 10′, some embodiments of the present invention. By way of example, the smart power grid networks may take the form of, or may be configured to include, one or more digital data and delivery and receipt mesh networks like element 40. Each digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network 40 includes communication nodes such as the transformer module or device 20 for exchanging information upstream and downstream between the communication nodes and the central location, which takes the form of the private network 50 in FIGS. 1A and 1B. Communication nodes are configured to be able exchange such upstream and downstream information between themselves in order to exchange such upstream and downstream information between a respective communication node and the central location. In FIGS. 1A and 1B, similar elements are provided with similar reference labels.

In FIGS. 1A and 1B, the smart power grid networks 10, 10′ include transformers like elements 12, 22 for providing electric energy to residential homes and commercial buildings like elements 16, 26, each having a respective electrical meter like elements 18, 28 for measuring the associated electrical energy usage. The smart power grid networks 10, 10′ also include transformer monitor/data collection devices 20 configured to collect data about the electrical energy usage in relation to residential homes and commercial buildings 16, 26 from the respective electrical meter like elements 18, 28. For example, each electrical meter 18, 28 may provide metered data signaling containing information about metered data related to associated electrical signaling being supplied from the transformer 12, 22 to the building or structure 16, 26 in the grid network 10, 10′. Moreover, transformer monitor/data collection devices 20 may receive associated signaling containing information about electrical signaling data related to electricity being processed by the transformer 12, 22 located and arranged in the grid network and to which the transformer monitoring device is mounted, as well as other wireless network data related to other communication nodes/end points forming part of other wireless network devices deployed in the grid network. In effect, the collected data received by the transformer monitor device 20 may include some combination of the electrical signaling data related to the transformer, the metered data related to the electrical meter and/or the other wireless network data related to other communication nodes/end points in the grid network.

The transformer monitor/data collection devices 20 are also configured to provide suitable signaling 30 containing information about the collected data to a private network 50 via the digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network 40. The private network 50 is configured as a central point that processes the collected data, e.g., performing utility analysis that may include one or more of the following: delivery subtraction analysis, proactive asset monitoring, distribution asset utilization, T and D subtraction analysis, energy audits and analysis, load control, and geographic localization. By way of example, the utility analysis is performed in an effort to increase efficiency, decrease costs, increase profits and/or community engagement related to the operation of the smart grid network.

FIGS. 1A and 1B shows a pole mounted transformer device 20 in communications with the electrical meter 18 associated with the residential home 16. By way of example, the electrical meter 18 may be configured to measure single phase electrical energy provided by the transformer 12 along a single phase utility line 11 to the residential home 16.

FIG. 1A also shows a pad mounted transformer device 20 in communications with the electrical meter 28 associated with the commercial building home 26. By way of example, the electrical meter 28 may be configured to measure three (3) phase electrical energy provided by the pad transformer 22 along a three (3) phase utility line 21 to the commercial building home 26. FIG. 1B also shows a power utility 80 configured to provide the electrical energy in the smart grid network 10′.

FIG. 1B shows that the transformer device 20 may be configured to collect data related to some distribution related functionality, e.g., including determinations related to outage, momentary outage, voltage/VAR, and/or transformer monitoring. FIG. 1B shows that the transformer device 20 may be configured to collect data related to some voltage analysis, DRM functionality and energy theft functionality in relation to its associated residential home or commercial building. The transformer device 20 provides the suitable signaling 30 containing information about the collected data to the private network 50 via the digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network 40. The collected data received by the private network 50 may also be analyzed in relation to conservation, load curtailment and/or a demand response vis-a-vis the power utility 80. In FIG. 1B, the private network 50 may include a private network computer and monitor generally indicated as 52 for performing or implementing the aforementioned analysis and functionality. FIG. 1B also shows both the receipt and transmission of digital data across the defined wireless mesh network to a representative IoT device indicated as 53, e.g., which may take the form of a smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop, etc.

FIG. 1A shows that the digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network 40 may include other transformer devices like element 20 exchanging information with other meters like elements 18i, 28i associated with other buildings or structures like elements 16, 26.

FIG. 1A also shows a relay 60 coupled between the digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network 40 and the private network 50. By way of example, the relay 60 is shown as 5 GHz relay for communicating with a corresponding 5 GHZ private network 50, although the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to any particular frequency or transmissions/receipt media for the relay or network.

FIG. 2

FIG. 2 shows the transformer monitor/data collection device 20, e.g., having an upper housing 20a, internal circuitry 20b and a lower housing base 20c. By way of example, the internal circuitry 20c may be configured inclusive of transmission, reception, networking, data aggregation, sensor input, among other requirements for implementing signal processing functionality in relation to the same. For example, any signal processing functionality may be implemented using a signal processor like element 20b1 (see also FIG. 3, element 102), consistent with that set forth herein and described in further detail below.

In particular, the internal circuitry 20b may be configured to implement transmission/reception signal processing functionality, e.g., for exchanging suitable transmission/reception signaling to/from other communication nodes in the smart grid network, or to/from the central location or other connection device like element 50 for further processing, including in relation to some combination of either a cloud network, or a digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network 40, or by using a smart node power grid communication protocol, consistent with that set forth herein.

Further, the internal circuitry 20b may also be configured to implement networking and data aggregation signal processing functionality, e.g., for exchanging suitable networking and data aggregation signaling received to/from other communication nodes in the smart grid network, or to/from the central location or other connection device for further processing, including in relation to some combination of either the cloud network, or the digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network, or by using the smart node power grid communication protocol.

Furthermore, the internal circuitry 20b may also be configured to implement sensor input signal processing functionality, e.g., for exchanging suitable sensor input signaling containing information about sensed input information received by the transformer monitor/data collection device 20 to/from the electric meter 18, 28 of the residential home or commercial building, or to/from the transformer itself 12, 22. Furthermore still, the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to any particular type or kind of signal processing functionality that may be implemented by the internal circuitry 20b; embodiments are envisioned, and the scope of the invention is intended to include, implementing other types or kind of signal processing functionality by the internal circuitry 20b either now known or later developed in the future within the spirit of the present invention.

The housing base 20c may be attached to the pole-mounted transformer or the utility pole 14 itself (see FIGS. 1A and 1B), e.g., by being configured for magnetic attachment, bolt attachment, or other methodologies. The scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to the type or kind of attachment; and embodiments are envisioned using, and the scope of the invention is intended to include, other types or kinds of attachment techniques either now known or later developed in the future within the spirit of the present invention.

The upper housing 20a and the lower housing base 20c may be combined together to form an assembled housing having the internal circuitry 20b therein. By way of example, the assembled housing may be hermetically sealed against the ingress of environmental elements, e.g., like water, moisture, etc. All interconnect ports may be sealed. The assembled housing may be configured to provide protection for reducing electromagnetic interference (EMI), e.g., from the transformer itself or other EMI emitting devices within range. The assembled housing may also be configured for easy transport, attachment, detachment and decommissioning, e.g., in relation to a utility pole or some other structure.

The transformer monitor/data collection device 20 may include an antenna/optical network 20b2 built into the internal circuitry 20b, or alternatively incorporated directly into either housing 20a or 20c, or alternatively located external to the housing assembly. Techniques for implementing a built-in antenna/optical network like element 20b2 into internal circuitry like element 20b, for incorporating an antenna/optical network directly into a housing like elements 20a or 20c, or for locating an external antenna/optical network to a housing assembly are known in the art, and the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to any particular type or kind thereof either now known or later developed in the future.

In the transformer monitor/data collection device 20, external cables 20b3 may be configured for data and/or device power. Alternatively, the transformer monitor/data collection device 20 may also have an accommodation for wireless power transfer via inductance or tuned magnetic resonances. These data and power functionalities are provided by way of example; and the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to the type or kind of data or power functionality implementation; and embodiments are envisioned using, and the scope of the invention is intended to include, other types or kinds of data or power functionality implementation either now known or later developed in the future within the spirit of the present invention.

FIG. 3: Implementation of Signal Processing Functionality

By way of example, FIG. 3 shows apparatus 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention, e.g., featuring a signal processor or processing module 102 configured at least to:

• • receive wireless signaling containing information about collected data, including some combination of electrical signaling data related to electrical signaling being processed by a transformer located and arranged in a grid network and to which the apparatus is mounted, metered data related to associated electrical signaling being provided from the transformer to a building or structure in the grid network, and other wireless network data related to other wireless network communication devices/nodes deployed in the grid network; and
  • determine corresponding signaling containing information about collected data for transmitting back to a central location or other connection/communication device for further processing, based upon the signaling received

In operation, the signal processor or processing module may be configured to provide corresponding signaling containing information about the collected data for transmitting back to a central location or other connection device for further processing.

By way of example, the functionality of the apparatus 100 may be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. In a typical software implementation, the apparatus 100 may include one or more microprocessor-based architectures, e.g., having at least one signal processor or microprocessor like element 102. A person skilled in the art would be able to program with suitable program code such a microcontroller-based, or microprocessor-based, implementation to perform the functionality described herein without undue experimentation.

Moreover, and by way of further example, the signal processor or processing module 102 may be configured, e.g., by a person skilled in the art without undue experimentation, to receive the signaling containing information about the collected data, including some combination of the electrical signaling data related to the electrical signaling being processed by the transformer located and arranged in the grid network and to which the apparatus is mounted, the metered data related to the associated electrical signaling being provided from the transformer to the building or structure in the grid network, and the other wireless network data related to the other wireless network communication devices/nodes deployed in the grid network, consistent with that disclosed herein.

Moreover still, and by way of still further example, the signal processor or processing module 102 may be configured, e.g., by a person skilled in the art without undue experimentation, to determine the corresponding signaling containing information about the collected data for transmitting back to the central location or other connection device for further processing, based upon the signaling received, consistent with that disclosed herein.

The scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to any particular implementation using technology either now known or later developed in the future. The scope of the invention is intended to include implementing the functionality of the processors 102 as stand-alone processor, signal processor, or signal processor module, as well as separate processor or processor modules, as well as some combination thereof.

The apparatus 100 may also include, e.g., other signal processor circuits or components 104, including random access memory or memory module (RAM) and/or read only memory (ROM), input/output devices and control, and data and address buses connecting the same, and/or at least one input processor and at least one output processor, e.g., which would be appreciate by a person skilled in the art.

FIG. 4

In summary, FIGS. 4A though 4C that show the basic operation of the present invention, according to some embodiments. FIG. 4A shows the transformer monitor/data collection device 20 in interaction with residential and commercial locations, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Residential Home

By way of example re a residential location, FIGS. 4A and 4B show a residential transformer 12 arranged on a utility pole 14 that supplies electric power to a residential home 16, where electrical energy is measured by an electric meter 18. In FIGS. 4A and 4B, the pole top residential transformer 12 may take the form of a single phase residential transformer, and the electric meter 18 may be configured as a single phase electric meter. The electric meter 18 may also be configured to provide electric meter signaling containing information about the amount of electricity used by the residential home 16. The electric meter 18 may be configured to provide such electric meter signaling to the transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20 in a data structure that is presently known in the art. Alternatively, the electric meter 18 may be configured to form part of a digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network like element 50, according to the present invention, and may be configured to provide such electric meter signaling to the transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20 in a data structure that is consistent with the data structure protocol of the digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network, according to the present invention. By way of example, the data structure protocol may include, or take the form of, the smart node power grid communication protocol, consistent with that disclosed herein

By way of example, the digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network may be configured like that shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. In FIGS. 4A and 4B, the utility pole mounted transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20 may be coupled to the pole top residential transformer 12, according to the present invention. FIGS. 4A and 4B also show a single phase utility line 11 configured to couple the residential home 16 and the single phase electric meter 18 to the residential transformer 12 and the pole mounted transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20, e.g., providing power from the single phase electricity from the residential transformer 12 to the residential home 16, and also providing meter data signaling containing information about meter data from the residential home 16 back to the pole mounted transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20. In operation, the pole mounted transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20 monitors the power flow of electrical energy through the residential home 16 to the electrical meter 18. FIGS. 4A and 4B also show that the pole mounted transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20 also collects the meter data received back from the electrical meter 18 and transmits the meter data in data packets wirelessly over the air to a cloud-based analytic platform 30, for cooperating with, and exchanging the collected data to, the digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network 40, e.g., using the smart node power grid communication protocol, as shown in FIG. 4B.

Commercial Building

By way of further example re a commercial location, FIGS. 4A and 4C show a corresponding transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20 for a commercial building using three (3) phases (e.g., labeled phase A, B and C) of power also monitors the power flow to such a commercial building.

In FIGS. 4A and 4C, the commercial location includes a transformer 22 that is shown as a pad mounted transformer for mounting in relation to some part of the commercial building 16. The transformer 22 is shown as a three phase commercial transformer having the corresponding transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20 coupled thereto, according to the present invention. FIGS. 4A and 4C also show the commercial building 16 having a three phase electric meter 28 that is coupled to the three phase commercial transformer 22 and the transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20 via a three phase utility line 21 that may include a meter data line for providing the meter data, according to the present invention. In operation, the mounted transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20 monitors the power flow of electrical energy through the commercial building to the electrical meter 28. In FIGS. 4A and 4C, the three phase utility line 21 may be configured so that the meter data line provides meter data signaling containing information about meter data from the commercial building 26 back to the transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20. In FIGS. 4A and 4C, the transformer monitor/smart data collector device 20 may also act as a data collector to transmit the power used back to such a cloud-based analytic platform for cooperating with, and exchanging the collected data to, the digital data and delivery and receipt mesh network 40, e.g., using the smart node power grid communication protocol, as shown in FIG. 4B.

Other Related Applications

The application is related to other patent applications, some of which are identified above, that together form part of the overall family of technologies developed by one or more of the inventors herein, and disclosed in the following applications:

• • U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/203,719 (WFMB No. 756-2.3-1), filed 11 Aug. 2015, entitled “Enhanced reality system for visualizing, evaluating, diagnosing, optimizing and servicing smart grids and incorporated components;”
  • U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/205,358 (WFMB No. 756-2.4-1), filed 14 Aug. 2015, entitled “Integrated solution of Internet of Things, DSGN™, and iDAP™ pertaining to Communication, Data and Asset Serialization, and Delta Data Modeling Algorithms;”
  • U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/213,815 (WFMB No. 756-2.5-1), filed 3 Sep. 2015, entitled “Novel application of line loss revenues for smart grid purchase and installation financing using proprietary analytics systems and hardware;”
  • U.S. application Ser. No. 62/236,420 (WFMB No. 756-2.6-1), filed 2 Oct. 2015, entitled “Supplemental and alternative digital data delivery and receipt mesh network realized through the placement of enhanced transformer mounted monitoring devices;”
  • U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/244,914 (WFMB No. 756-2.7-1), filed 22 Oct. 2015, entitled “Augmentation, expansion and self-healing of a geographically distributed mesh network using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology;”
  • U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/244,919 (WFMB No. 756-2.8-1), filed 22 Oct. 2015, entitled “Data transfer facilitation across a distributed mesh network using light and optical based technology;” and
  • [7] U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/299,348 (WFMB No. 756-2.10-1), filed 24 Feb. 2016, entitled “Distributed 802.11s mesh network using hypersprout hardware for the capture and transmission of data;”

which are all assigned to the assignee of the instant patent application, and which are all incorporated by reference in their entirety.

The Scope of the Invention

It should be understood that, unless stated otherwise herein, any of the features, characteristics, alternatives or modifications described regarding a particular embodiment herein may also be applied, used, or incorporated with any other embodiment described herein. Also, the drawing herein is not drawn to scale.

Although the invention has been described and illustrated with respect to exemplary embodiments thereof, the foregoing and various other additions and omissions may be made therein and thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: internal circuitry comprising transformer monitoring circuitry, smart grid collection circuitry, and radio, optical or other wireless mesh networking circuitry, the internal circuitry configured to:receive signaling containing information about collected data, including:electrical signaling data from a transformer related to electricity being processed by the transformer located and arranged in a grid network,metered data from at least one electric meter related to associated electrical signaling being provided from the transformer to a building or structure in the grid network, andother wireless network data from other wireless network communication devices deployed in and around the grid network, the other wireless network data being unrelated to the electricity being processed by the transformer and unrelated to the metered data; anddetermine the signaling containing the information about the collected data for transmitting back to a central location or other connection device for further processing, based upon the signaling received;wherein the internal circuitry is configured to establish a wireless mesh network accessible to the other wireless network communication devices, collect the other wireless network data from the other wireless network communication devices deployed in the wireless mesh network and communicate the collected other wireless network data back to the central location or the other connection device, wherein the wireless mesh network established by the apparatus further comprises the at least one electric meter and the other wireless network communication devices as communication nodes in the wireless mesh network which are configured to exchange the signaling received from the apparatus between themselves in the wireless mesh network and configured to exchange the signaling directed towards the apparatus between themselves in the wireless mesh network;wherein the wireless mesh network established by the apparatus is configured to provide Internet connectivity capability to the other wireless network communication devices.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the internal circuitry is further configured to backhaul the signaling to the central location or the other connection device for further processing, including where the signaling is wireless signaling.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the apparatus is a transformer monitor, communication and data collection device comprising: a transceiver, a transmitter and the internal circuitry configured to backhaul.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the transformer monitor, communication and data collection device comprises a housing with a magnet or bolt attachment for attaching the housing to a corresponding housing of the transformer located and arranged in the grid network.

5. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the transformer monitor, communication and data collection device comprises a housing that is waterproof and environmentally sealed and that contains the internal circuitry therein.

6. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the transformer monitor, communication and data collection device comprises an upper housing, a lower housing base and the internal circuitry configured to implement transmission, reception, networking and data aggregation, and sensor input signal processing functionality.

7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the internal circuitry further includes, or forms part of, a built-in antenna and optical network that is either incorporated directly into the upper housing or the lower housing base or located externally to the upper housing or the lower housing base.

8. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the transformer monitor, communication and data collection device comprises one or more cables configured to provide for data and device power.

9. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the transformer monitor, communication and data collection device comprises a wireless power transfer module configured for wireless power transfer via inductance or tuned magnetic resonance.

10. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the transformer monitor, communication and data collection device is configured to receive digital data from and transmit digital data to the other wireless network communication devices, and wherein the other wireless network communication devices comprise one or more of a smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop, set-top box, home automation device, or other digital device.

11. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the wireless mesh network is configured to provide Internet connectivity capability to the other wireless network communication devices deployed in the wireless mesh network.

12. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the transformer monitor, communication and data collection device is a central node for aggregating data from each of the wireless network communication devices in the wireless mesh network, which comprises the at least one electric meter, and the other wireless network communication devices comprise one or more of a smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop, set-top box, home automation device, or other digital device.

13. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the internal circuitry is further configured to provide the signaling to the central location or the other connection device for further processing via wireless signal, including via a cloud network.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the metered data is received from the at least one electric meter associated with the building or structure, a gas meter, or a water meter.

15. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the metered data is received either from a single phase residential electric meter associated with a residential building, or a three-phase commercial electric meter associated with a commercial structure.

16. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the signaling further comprises associated information about a distribution of the associated electrical signaling in the grid network.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the associated information includes distribution information about a power outage, a voltage of the associated electrical signaling, and/or transformer monitoring, including voltage analysis, digital rights management (DRM) or energy theft.

18. The apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the apparatus comprises the central location or the other connection device configured with a corresponding signal processor to receive the signaling and determine utility analyst information that relates to a delivery substation analysis, proactive asset monitoring, distribution asset utilization, transmission and distribution (T&D) substation analysis, energy audits and analysis, load control and/or geographic localization.

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the corresponding signal processor is configured to provide power utility signaling containing information about conservation, load curtailment and/or a demand response for controlling a power utility.

20. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus is a node in the wireless mesh network comprising: a first transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device having the internal circuitry;a second transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device having a second internal circuitry configured to implement signal processing functionality corresponding to the internal circuitry in relation to a second transformer and providing second corresponding signaling containing second corresponding information about second corresponding collected data related to second corresponding electrical signaling and second corresponding associated electrical signaling for further processing back at the central location or the other connection device; andeither the first transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device provides the signaling to the second transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device for providing back to the central location or the other connection device, orthe second transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device provides the second corresponding signaling to the first transformer mounted monitor, communication and data collection device for providing back to the central location or the other connection device.

21. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the other wireless network communication devices comprise one or more of a smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop, set-top box, home automation device, or other digital device.

22. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the other wireless network communication devices comprise one or more of a smart phone, tablet, computer, laptop, set-top box.