AU2011242147A1 - A system, method and computer program code storage medium for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract A system and method for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances There is provided a method for monitoring the energy consumption of a network (180) of appliances. The method comprises storing one or more typical energy usage characteristics (310) of each of the appliances; measuring one or more energy usage characteristics (320) of the network (180) when one or more of the appliances are operational; and calculating the operational state of each of the appliances (330) as a function of the one or more energy usage characteristics of the network (180) and the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances. Display Device 110 Processor Video interface A/D I/O interface Nter Transducer Audio 180 Network 160 Storage medium reader 120 130 Storage medium Figure 1

Description

A SYSTEM, METHOD AND COMPUTER PROGRAM CODE STORAGE MEDIUM FOR MONITORING THE ENERGY CONSUMPTION OF A NETWORK OF APPLIANCES Field of the Invention [001]The present invention relates to energy monitoring and in particular to a system and method for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances. [002]The invention has been developed primarily for use in/with the field of energy monitoring and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use. Background of the Invention [003] In existing energy consumption monitoring arrangements individual monitoring units are required to monitor the energy consumption characteristics of each appliance. Such arrangements typically suffer from the disadvantage of requiring substantial reconfiguration of the network of appliances. [004]As such, a need exists for a system and method for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances without requiring a substantial reconfiguration of the network. [005] Furthermore, while existing energy consumption monitoring arrangements may be configured to warn a user of potential hazardous situations, such systems suffer from the disadvantage of users who may fail to take notice of such warnings. [006]As such, a need exists for a system and method for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances that accounts for users who may fail to take notice of warnings of potential hazardous situations. [007]The present invention seeks to provide a system and method for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances which will overcome or substantially ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.

[008] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. Summary of the Invention [009]According to one aspect, there is provided a method for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances, the method comprising the following steps: i) storing one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances; ii) measuring one or more energy usage characteristics of the network when one or more of the appliances are operational; and iii) calculating the operational state of each of the appliances as a function of the one or more energy usage characteristics of the network and the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances. [0010] In existing arrangements, individual energy consumption meters are typically required for each of the appliances in a network. The installation of individual energy consumption meters and the sending of the readings of the individual energy consumption meters to a central logging unit necessarily require substantial changes to the wiring of an electrical network or the piping of a gas network. Advantageously, as the above aspect calculates the operational state of each of the appliances as a function of the one or more energy usage characteristics of the network, there is no need for substantial changes to the wiring of an electrical network or the piping of a gas network. [0011] Preferably, storing one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliance comprises: i) operating each of the appliances, one at a time; ii) measuring the energy usage characteristics of the network when each appliance is operated; and iii) storing the energy usage characteristics of the network when measured as the one or more typical energy usage characteristic of the appliance in operation.

[0012] Advantageously, a user may store one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances without having to physically move any of the appliances. [0013] Preferably, storing one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances comprises: i) operating each of the appliances iteratively, in turn; ii) measuring a first energy usage characteristic of the network before each iteration; iii) measuring a second energy usage characteristic of the network after each iteration; iv) calculating the difference between the first energy usage characteristic and the second energy usage characteristic; and v) storing the difference as the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each appliance operating in the most recent iteration. [0014] Advantageously, a user may store one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances in an efficient manner without having to operate each of the appliances independently. [0015] Preferably, calculating the operational state of each of the appliances comprises a step of calculating that a subset of the appliances is operational if the sum of the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of the subset of the appliances equals the energy usage characteristics of the network. [0016] Advantageously, as the typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances is known, the operational state of each of the appliances may be determined from energy usage characteristics of the network by determining those combination of operational appliances whose typical energy usage characteristics equal that being drawn by the network. [0017] Preferably, calculating the operational state of each of the appliances further comprises, where more than one possible subset of operational appliances exist, the step of: i) storing information about the physical locations of each appliance; and ii) selecting the subset of appliances as a function of the physical location of each appliance. [0018] Advantageously, the method is able to discriminate between appliances having similar energy usage characteristics. [0019] Preferably, the method further comprises the following steps: i) measuring variations in the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each appliance over time; and ii) updating the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances as a function of the variations. [0020] Advantageously any drift in the electrical usage characteristics of any of the appliances may be taken into account. [0021] Preferably, the method further comprises the steps of: i) associating an alarm criterion with each of the appliances; and ii) generating an alarm signal if the energy usage characteristics of any of the appliances satisfy the alarm criterion. [0022] Advantageously, an alarm signal may be generated to warn a user of an appliance malfunction that may, for example, cause a fire. [0023] Preferably, the alarm criterion corresponds to a maximum electric current, a maximum operational period, a specific time period or a maximum gas flow rate. [0024] Advantageously, the alarm criterion may be suited to both electrical and gas appliances. [0025] Preferably, the alarm signal is sent to one or more signal receiving devices wherein at least one of the signal receiving devices is operable to display a warning message to a user or [0026] wherein at least one of the signal receiving devices is a control device located within a vehicle, the control device being operable to prevent the vehicle from being started.

[0027] Advantageously, the alarm signal may be brought to the attention of a user, such that the user may take appropriate action. [0028] Advantageously, the alarm signal may prevent a user from leaving the location while a potential safety hazard exists. [0029] Preferably, the method further comprises: i) displaying the operational state of each of the appliances; and ii) displaying the total operational time for each of the appliances. [0030] Advantageously, a user may, at a glance, ascertain which appliances are operational and which appliances have been operational for the longest period. [0031] Preferably, the method further comprises: i) displaying a running total of the energy consumption of the network for a time period; and ii) displaying a previous cumulative total of the energy consumption of the network for a previous time period. [0032] Advantageously, a user may make a comparative decision as to whether the current energy consumption is likely to be greater than the energy consumption for a previous period. [0033] Preferably, the method further comprises calculating the total energy consumption of each of the appliances over a predetermined period. [0034] Advantageously, the user is able to monitor the total energy consumption of each of the appliances over a predetermined period. [0035] Preferably, the energy usage characteristics are selected from the set of energy usage characteristics comprising electric current, electric voltage, electric resistance and gas flow rate. [0036] Advantageously, the method is applicable to both electrical and gas fed appliances. [0037]According to another aspect, there is provided a supervisory module for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances, the supervisory module comprising: i) a memory device; ii) a transducer; and iii) a processor; iv) wherein the memory device is configured to store one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances; v) the transducer is configured to measure one or more energy usage characteristics of the network when one or more of the appliances are operational; and vi) the processor is configured to calculate the operational state of each of the appliances using the one or more electrical usage characteristics of the network and the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances. [0038] Advantageously, a user may utilize the supervisory unit at a central location to calculate the operational state of each of the appliances as a function of the one or more energy usage characteristics of the network. As the supervisory unit is centralized and calculate the operational state of each of the appliances as a function of the one or more energy usage characteristics of the entire network, there is no need for substantial changes to the wiring of an electrical network or the piping of a gas network. [0039] Preferably, when each of the appliances is operated, one at a time: the transducer is configured to measure the energy usage characteristics of the network when each appliance is operated; and the processor is configured to store the energy usage characteristics of the network when measured as the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of the appliance in operation. [0040] Preferably, when each of the appliances is operated iteratively, in turn: i) the transducer is configured to measure a first energy usage characteristic of the network before each iteration; ii) the transducer is configured to measure a second energy usage characteristic of the network after each iteration; iii) the processor is configured to calculate the difference between the first energy usage characteristic and the second energy usage characteristic; and iv) the memory device is configured to store the difference as the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each appliance operating in the most recent iteration. [0041] Advantageously, the supervisory unit is operable to measure the one or more typical energy usage characteristic of the appliances without the user having to test each appliance at the supervisory unit. [0042] Preferably, the processor is configured to calculate that a subset of the appliances is operational if the sum of the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of the subset of the appliances equals the energy usage characteristics of the network. [0043] Advantageously, the supervisory unit is operable to determine, from a central location, which appliances are operable as a function of the energy usage characteristics of the network. [0044] Preferably, where more than one possible subset of operational appliances exist: i) the memory device is configured to store information about the physical locations of each appliance; and ii) the processor is configured to select the subset of appliances as a function of the physical location of each appliance. [0045] Advantageously, the supervisory unit is operable to resolve conflicts where two or more appliances exhibit similar energy usage characteristics. [0046] Preferably, the transducer is configured to measure variations in the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each appliance over time; and the processor is configured to adjust the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances as a function of the variations.

[0047] Advantageously, the supervisory unit is able to take into account any variations in the energy usage characteristics of an appliance, such as internal factors such as ageing, or where external factors such as seasonal temperature changes play a part. [0048] Preferably, the processor is configured to calculate the total energy consumption of each of the appliances over a predetermined period. [0049] Advantageously, the supervisory unit is operable to ascertain which appliances are using the most energy so as to allow a user to make informed decisions as how to reduce energy usage. [0050] Preferably, the processor is configured to select the energy usage characteristics from the set of energy usage characteristics comprising electric current, electric voltage, electric resistance and gas flow rate. [0051] Advantageously, the supervisory unit is deployable in both electrical and gas appliance networks. [0052] Preferably, the processor is configured to associate an alarm criterion with each of the appliances; and the processor is configured to generate an alarm signal if the energy usage characteristics of any of the appliances satisfy the alarm criterion. The alarm criterion corresponds to a maximum electric current, maximum operational period, a specific time period or a maximum gas flow rate. [0053] Preferably, the supervisory module further comprised a signal transmitter, wherein the signal transmitter is operable to send the alarm signal to one or more signal receiving devices. [0054] Advantageously, the supervisory unit is operable to warn a user of unusual appliance activity, such as the iron being left on for more than an hour, or potentially dangerous situations, such as short circuit events. [0055] According to another aspect, there is provided a user module for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances, the device comprising: i) a signal receiver; and ii) a display device, iii) wherein the signal receiver is adapted to receive, from the supervisory module information relating to the operational state of an appliance, and iv) the display device is operable to display the operational state the appliance. [0056] Advantageously, a user is able to interact with the supervisory module by using the user module in order to view the operational state each appliance. [0057] Preferably, the signal receiver is configured to receive an alarm signal; and the display device is operable to display a warning message to a user. [0058] Advantageously, the user module is able to visibly display a warning message to the user. [0059] Preferably, the display device is operable to display the operational state of each of the appliances; the total operational time for each of the appliances; a running total of the energy consumption of the network for a time period; and a previous cumulative total of the energy consumption of the network for a previous time period. [0060] Advantageously, a user is able to use the user module to review the energy consumption characteristics of the network of appliances and take informed steps so as to reduce the energy consumption of the network. [0061]According to another aspect there is provided a control module comprising: i) a signal receiver; and ii) an actuator, iii) wherein the signal receiver is configured to receive, from the supervisory module, an alarm signal, and iv) the actuator is operable in accordance with the alarm signal to prevent a vehicle from being started. [0062] Advantageously, the control module is operable to prevent a user from leaving a potentially dangerous situation, such as when an iron is left on while the user goes on holiday.

[0063]According to another aspect there is provided a computer program code storage medium for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances, the computer program code storage medium comprising computer code instructions configured to cause a computing device to monitor the energy consumption of a network of appliances, as described herein. [0064] Advantageously, a computer program code storage medium for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances may be compiled for distribution. [0065] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed. Brief Description of the Drawings [0066] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: i) Fig. 1 is a general purpose embedded controller in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. ii) Fig. 2 is a system for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention; and iii) Fig. 3 is a method for calculating the operational state of a network of appliances in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments [0067] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features. [0068] Fig. 1 shows a general purpose embedded controller 100 on which the various embodiments described herein may be implemented. The controller 100 comprises memory 110 which may comprise volatile memory (RAM) and/or non-volatile memory (ROM). Typically the memory 110 comprises a combination of volatile and non volatile memory, such that the non-volatile memory stores the controller 100 firmware and the volatile memory stores one or more temporary results of the fetch-decode execute cycle, as described below.

[0069]The controller 100 comprises a computer program code storage medium reader 130 for reading data from a computer program code storage medium 120. The storage medium 120 may be optical media such as CD-ROM disks, magnetic media such as floppy disks and tape cassettes or flash media such as USB memory sticks. [0070] The I/O interface 140 communicates with the storage medium reader 130 and may take the form of a SCSI, USB or similar interface. The I/O interface 140 may also communicate with one or more human input devices (HID) 160 such as a keyboard or pointing devices. The I/O interface 140 may also communicate with one or more personal computer (PC) devices 190, using a suitable interface such as an RS-232 interface. The I/O interface may also communicate audio signals to one or more audio devices 1050, such as a speaker or a buzzer. [0071] The controller 100 also comprises a network interface 170 for communicating with one or more computer networks 180. Network 180 may be a wired network, such as a wired EthernetTM network or a wireless network, such as a Bluetooth network or IEEE 802.11 network. The network 180 may be a local area, such as a home or office computer network, or a wide area network, such as the Internet. [0072] Typically computer program code is preloaded into the memory 100. However, computer program code instructions may be loaded into the memory 110 from the storage medium 120 using the storage medium reader 130 or from the network 180. [0073]The controller 100 comprises an arithmetic logic unit or processor 1000 for performing computer program code instructions. The processor 1000 is typically a low-power microprocessor suited to low power embedded controller applications. During the bootstrap phase, an operating system and one or more software applications are loaded the memory 110. During the fetch-decode-execute cycle, the processor 1000 fetches computer program code instructions from memory 110, decodes the instructions into machine code, executes the instructions and stores the results in the memory 110. [0074] The controller 100 also comprises a video interface 1010 for conveying video signals to a display device 1020, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), cathode-ray tube (CRT) or similar display device. The display device 1020 may be embedded in the controller 100, or located at a remotely.

[0075] The controller 100 further comprises an analog to digital (A/D) converter 1030 for converting analog signals from transducer 1040 into a digital format. The transducer 1040 may be an electrical current, gas flow rate, or similar transducer for measuring energy consumption. [0076]The controller 100 also comprises a communication bus 150 for interconnecting the various devices described above. [0077] Fig. 2 shows a system 200 comprising one or more embedded controllers 100 for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances. The system 200 is configured to obviate the need for individual appliance energy monitoring units such that substantially no reconfiguration of the wiring of the network of the appliances is required. [0078]The system 200 comprises a supervisory module 210. The supervisory module 210 comprises an acquisition module 230 for measuring the energy consumption of the network and a calculation module 220 for calculating various energy consumption characteristics and generating alarm signals. The calculation module 220 and the acquisition module 230 may be implemented as a single module or as two distinct modules connected by a suitable communication channel. [0079] The supervisory module 210 is operable to communicate with one or more user modules 240 and one or more control modules 250. [0080] The acquisition module 230 records the energy consumption of the network of appliances. As such, the acquisition module 230 is located at a convenient location, such as the electrical distribution board or the gas meter board of premises. The acquisition module 230 is provided with one or more transducers 1040 to measure the energy consumption of the premises. For example, where the acquisition module 230 is measuring electrical energy usage, the transducer may 1040 may be an electric current transducer and configured for single-phase or three-phase wiring. Where the acquisition module 230 is configured to measure gas consumption, the transducer 1040 may be a gas flow rate transducer. A combination of transducers 1040 may be used, such that, for example, the acquisition module 230 is configured to measure both electrical and gas energy usage. The energy consumption measurements from the acquisition module 230 are provided to the calculation module.

[0081] Fig. 3 shows a method 300 for calculating the operational state of a network of appliances. Method 300 is performed by the supervisory module 210. The method 300 starts at step 310 where the typical energy usage characteristics of each appliance are measured and stored. [0082] To store the typical energy characteristics of each appliance, all of the appliances are initially deactivated and the acquisition module 230 is then set to 'learn' mode. In 'learn' mode, the acquisition module 230 measures one or more characteristics of each appliance, such electric current or gas flow rate. At the start of the 'learn' mode, the transducers 1040 of the acquisition module 230 will register zero, in that no energy is being consumed. Then, each appliance in the network is operated independently and in turn. For each turn, the acquisition module 230 records the energy usage characteristics of each appliance. [0083] In an example, the user may first operate a stove, whereafter the acquisition module 230 will measure 17 amperes. The user then deactivates the stove and operates the air conditioning unit, whereafter the acquisition module 230 measures 15 amperes. The user may then turn off the air conditioning unit and turn on a laptop, whereafter the acquisition module measures 0.5 amperes, and so on. The user may operate each appliance in the house until the typical energy usage characteristics of each appliance has been measured. The typical energy usage characteristics are stored in the calculation module 220. As such, the memory 110 of the calculation module 220 may store the following exemplary information: Appliance Typical current usage (amperes) Stove 17 Air conditioning unit 15 Laptop 0.5 [0084] During the 'learn' mode, the acquisition module 230 may direct the user in operating the appliances. For example, the acquisition unit 230, using audio device 1050, may generate an audible signal, such as a beep, or display suitable information on the display device 1020 to prompt the user to operate each appliance. Additionally, the acquisition module 230 may prompt the user for a name for each of the appliances. The user may enter each name by way of the HID 160, such as an alphanumeric keypad. [0085] In an alternative embodiment, the acquisition module 230 may require no user input, but rather associate each independent change in the measured energy consumption current characteristics as belonging to a separate appliance. Furthermore, the acquisition module 230 may automate the naming of each appliance, such as 'appliance-1', 'appliance-2' and so forth. In a further alternative embodiment, the user may configure the supervisory unit 210 my means of a connected PC 190. [0086] In an alternative embodiment, the user need not operate each appliance in isolation, but may operate each appliance until all of the appliances are operational. In this manner, the acquisition unit 230 will measure a several increment in energy usage over time and may associate each difference with each appliance. [0087] The user may also be prompted to input the location of each appliance. For example, the user may input using HID 160 the name of the location, such as 'lounge' or 'main bedroom', or simply 'location 1', 'location 2' etcetera. [0088]At step 320, the acquisition unit 230 measures the energy usage characteristics of the network of appliances. For example, the acquisition unit 230 continuously measures the current usage of the network in daily usage, wherein none, some or all of the appliances are operational. For example, there the user is using the laptop and the stove at the same time, the acquisition unit 230 will measure 17.5 amperes. The energy usage characteristics of the network are stored in the memory 110 of calculation module 220. [0089] At step 330, the operational state of each appliance is calculated as a function of the typical energy characteristics of the appliances and the energy usage characteristics of the network. The calculation module 220 receives the energy usage characteristics of the network from the acquisition module 230. The calculation module 220 then retrieves the typical energy usage characteristics for all of the appliances from memory 110 and calculates the combination of appliances that satisfy the energy usage characteristics of the network. In the example given above, if the network draws 17.5 amperes, the only combination of appliances that would draw 17.5 amperes is the stove and the laptop. Similarly, if the network draws 32.5 amperes, the only combination of appliances that would draw 32.5 amperes is the stove, the laptop and the air conditioning unit. The calculation module 220 may be configured to record the start and end times of each operation of each appliance, or alternatively increment a running timer associated with each appliance. [0090] However, there may be situations where more than one combination of appliances satisfies the energy usage of the network, such as in the example below: Appliance Typical current usage (amperes) Iron 10 Air conditioning unit 15 Television 10 [0091] As such, where the acquisition unit 230 measures that the network draws 25 amperes, it could indicate that the air conditioning unit is being used in conjunction either with the iron or the television. As such, the calculation module 220 makes use of a secondary calculation, taking into account the location information input by the user during step 310. In this manner, the calculation module 220 may take into account that there is more probability of appliances in the same location being used contemporaneously. As such, the calculation module 220 may calculate that it is more probable that the television is being used in combination with the air conditioning unit by virtue of their both being located within the lounge, rather than the air conditioning unit being used in combination with the iron, which may be located in the laundry. [0092] Further, where the energy consumption of a first combination of appliances in a first location and a second combination of appliances in a second location both meet the energy consumption of the network, the calculation module 220 may make use of a tertiary calculation that takes into account date and time rules. For example, it would be unlikely that a user would be using an electric lawnmower after 6pm in the evening. As such a rule may be associated with the energy usage characteristics of lawnmower indicating that the lawnmower is probably not operated after 6pm in the evening.

[0093] The calculation module 220 is adapted to account for any drift in the energy usage characteristics of any of the appliances over time. For example, should the calculation module 220 calculate that the current drawn by a laptop has drifted from 0.5 amperes to 0.6 amperes, the calculation module 220 will update the typical usage characteristic of the laptop in memory 110. [0094] In addition to calculating the number of operative appliances, the calculation module 220 is adapted to calculate the total usage time of each appliance, which may further be calculated hourly, daily, weekly, monthly and yearly. [0095] The calculation module 220 is also configured to generate one or more alarm signals when certain criteria are met. These alarm signals may either conveyed to one or more user modules 240 for either audible or visual presentation or used to control one or more control modules 250, as described below. Exemplary criteria may include: [0096]An appliance has been left on for more than a predetermined period. For example, a water pump being on for more than 5 hours may indicate a pump malfunction. As such, an alarm signal may alert the user and be used to deactivate the pump. [0097] An appliance is being used at a specific time. For example, an alarm signal could be generated where an iron is operative after 9pm at night. [0098] The energy usage characteristics of the network exceeding a certain threshold. For example, an alarm signal may be generated when the network draws more than 30 amperes, such as during short circuit events. [0099] A special event is scheduled. For example the calculation module 220 may be configured to store one or more special events, such as birthdays, anniversaries or meetings. As such, the calculation module 220 may be configured to remind the user of an upcoming event, for example, by reminding a user to buy a birthday present. Additionally, the calculation module 220 may be further configured to alter the one or more alarm criteria during a special event. For example, during a birthday party, it is likely that more energy will be consumed by the appliances in the network, by, for example, the stove in the baking of a birthday cake, the sound system in playing entertaining music and the aircon for cooling. As such, the control unit 220 may be configured not to send out an alarm signal indicating that the energy usage characteristics of the network exceeding a certain threshold. In this manner, the calculation module 220 may be further configured to account for seasonal fluctuations, in that during winter, it is more likely that more energy will be used for heating. As such, the control module 220 may be configured to increase the energy consumption threshold during winter. [00100] User modules 240 are typically portable devices with which the user interacts with the system 200. Wireless communication, such as a BluetoothTM or IEEE 802.11 wireless network, is the preferable communications link between the supervisory module 210 and the user module 240, however wired communication links, such as C-BusTM may also be used. [00101] The user module 240 displays energy usage information to a user so as to assist the user in monitoring the energy usage, and where appropriate, taking steps to minimize the energy consumption. As such, the user module 240 is adapted to display, on the display device 1020: [00102] Those appliances that are currently operating. [00103] The total operating time for each of the appliances. [00104] Those alarm criteria that are enabled or disabled [00105]A running total of the energy consumption of the network, including the associated energy cost. [00106] The total the energy consumption of the network from a previous time period, including the associated energy cost. [00107] The control module 250 is adapted to act according to the alarm signals from the calculation module 220. The control module 250 may communicate with the supervisory module 210 in a similar manner to that used by the user module 240, that is, by either a wired or a wireless communications link. [00108] In one embodiment, where an alarm criterion relates to an appliance being used for more than a predetermined time, the control unit, upon receiving an alarm signal, may be configured to interrupt the power to the appliance, for example by actuating an electromechanical relay. [00109] In a further embodiment, the control module 250 is adapted to prevent a vehicle from being started. For example, system 200 may be configured to prevent a car from being started when the iron is on, thereby preventing a user from leaving his or her house while there is a potential fire hazard. In older vehicles, the control module 250 may be configured to actuate an electromechanical relay to interrupt the delivery power from vehicle car battery to the vehicle starter motor. In newer vehicles, the control module 250 may be configured to interface directly with the electronic engine management system of the vehicle. Interpretation Wireless: [00110] The invention may be embodied using devices conforming to other network standards and for other applications, including, for example other WLAN standards and other wireless standards. Applications that can be accommodated include IEEE 802.11 wireless LANs and links, and wireless Ethernet. [00111] In the context of this document, the term "wireless" and its derivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communications channels, etc., that may communicate data through the use of modulated electromagnetic radiation through a non-solid medium. The term does not imply that the associated devices do not contain any wires, although in some embodiments they might not. In the context of this document, the term "wired" and its derivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communications channels, etc., that may communicate data through the use of modulated electromagnetic radiation through a solid medium. The term does not imply that the associated devices are coupled by electrically conductive wires. Processes: [00112] Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the following discussions, it is appreciated that throughout the specification discussions utilizing terms such as "processing", "computing", "calculating", "determining", "analysing" or the like, refer to the action and/or processes of a computer or computing system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulate and/or transform data represented as physical, such as electronic, quantities into other data similarly represented as physical quantities.

Processor: [00113] In a similar manner, the term "processor" may refer to any device or portion of a device that processes electronic data, e.g., from registers and/or memory to transform that electronic data into other electronic data that, e.g., may be stored in registers and/or memory. A "computer" or a "computing device" or a "computing machine" or a "computing platform" may include one or more processors. [00114] The methodologies described herein are, in one embodiment, performable by one or more processors that accept computer-readable (also called machine readable) code containing a set of instructions that when executed by one or more of the processors carry out at least one of the methods described herein. Any processor capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken are included. Thus, one example is a typical processing system that includes one or more processors. The processing system further may include a memory subsystem including main RAM and/or a static RAM, and/or ROM. Computer-Readable Medium: [00115] Furthermore, a computer-readable carrier medium may form, or be included in a computer program product. A computer program product can be stored on a computer usable carrier medium, the computer program product comprising a computer readable program means for causing a processor to perform a method as described herein. Networked or Multiple Processors: [00116] In alternative embodiments, the one or more processors operate as a standalone device or may be connected, e.g., networked to other processor(s), in a networked deployment, the one or more processors may operate in the capacity of a server or a client machine in server-client network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer or distributed network environment. The one or more processors may form a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set of instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. [00117] Note that while some diagram(s) only show(s) a single processor and a single memory that carries the computer-readable code, those in the art will understand that many of the components described above are included, but not explicitly shown or described in order not to obscure the inventive aspect. For example, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term "machine" shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein. Additional Embodiments: [00118] Thus, one embodiment of each of the methods described herein is in the form of a computer-readable carrier medium carrying a set of instructions, e.g., a computer program that are for execution on one or more processors. Thus, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, embodiments of the present invention may be embodied as a method, an apparatus such as a special purpose apparatus, an apparatus such as a data processing system, or a computer-readable carrier medium. The computer-readable carrier medium carries computer readable code including a set of instructions that when executed on one or more processors cause a processor or processors to implement a method. Accordingly, aspects of the present invention may take the form of a method, an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, the present invention may take the form of carrier medium (e.g., a computer program product on a computer-readable storage medium) carrying computer-readable program code embodied in the medium. Carrier Medium: [00119] The software may further be transmitted or received over a network via a network interface device. While the carrier medium is shown in an example embodiment to be a single medium, the term "carrier medium" should be taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term "carrier medium" shall also be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a set of instructions for execution by one or more of the processors and that cause the one or more processors to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present invention. A carrier medium may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media.

Implementation: [00120] It will be understood that the steps of methods discussed are performed in one embodiment by an appropriate processor (or processors) of a processing (i.e., computer) system executing instructions (computer-readable code) stored in storage. It will also be understood that the invention is not limited to any particular implementation or programming technique and that the invention may be implemented using any appropriate techniques for implementing the functionality described herein. The invention is not limited to any particular programming language or operating system. Means For Carrying out a Method or Function [00121] Furthermore, some of the embodiments are described herein as a method or combination of elements of a method that can be implemented by a processor of a processor device, computer system, or by other means of carrying out the function. Thus, a processor with the necessary instructions for carrying out such a method or element of a method forms a means for carrying out the method or element of a method. Furthermore, an element described herein of an apparatus embodiment is an example of a means for carrying out the function performed by the element for the purpose of carrying out the invention. Connected [00122] Similarly, it is to be noticed that the term connected, when used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being limitative to direct connections only. Thus, the scope of the expression a device A connected to a device B should not be limited to devices or systems wherein an output of device A is directly connected to an input of device B. It means that there exists a path between an output of A and an input of B which may be a path including other devices or means. "Connected" may mean that two or more elements are either in direct physical or electrical contact, or that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other but yet still co-operate or interact with each other. Embodiments: [00123] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. [00124] Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention. [00125] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination. Specific Details [00126] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

Terminology [00127] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms. Comprising and Including [00128] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention. [00129] Any one of the terms: including or which includes or that includes as used herein is also an open term that also means including at least the elements/features that follow the term, but not excluding others. Thus, including is synonymous with and means comprising. Scope of Invention [00130] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of procedures that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams and operations may be interchanged among functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the present invention.

[00131]Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms. Industrial Applicability [00132] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to the energy consumption monitoring industries.

Claims (38)

1. A method for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances, the method comprising the following steps: storing one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances; measuring one or more energy usage characteristics of the network when one or more of the appliances are operational; and calculating the operational state of each of the appliances as a function of the one or more energy usage characteristics of the network and the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances.

2. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the step of storing the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliance comprises the following steps: operating each of the appliances, one at a time; measuring the energy usage characteristics of the network when each appliance is operated; and storing the energy usage characteristics of the network when measured as the one or more typical energy usage characteristic of the appliance in operation.

3. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the step of storing one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances comprises the following steps: operating each of the appliances iteratively, in turn; measuring a first energy usage characteristic of the network before each iteration; measuring a second energy usage characteristic of the network after each iteration; calculating the difference between the first energy usage characteristic and the second energy usage characteristic; and storing the difference as the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each appliance operating in the most recent iteration.

4. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the step of calculating the operational state of each of the appliances comprises a step of calculating that a subset of the appliances is operational if the sum of the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of the subset of the appliances equals the energy usage characteristics of the network.

5. A method as claimed in claim 4, wherein the step of calculating the operational state of each of the appliances further comprises, where more than one possible subset of operational appliances exist, the step of: storing information about the physical locations of each appliance; and selecting the subset of appliances as a function of the physical location of each appliance.

6. A method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising the following steps: measuring variations in the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each appliance over time; and updating the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances as a function of the variations.

7. A method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising the steps of: associating an alarm criterion with each of the appliances; and generating an alarm signal if the energy usage characteristics of any of the appliances satisfy the alarm criterion.

8. A method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the alarm criterion corresponds to a maximum electric current.

9. A method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the alarm criterion corresponds to a maximum operational period.

10. A method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the alarm criterion corresponds to a specific time period.

11. A method as claimed in claim 7, wherein the alarm criterion corresponds to a maximum gas flow rate.

12. A method as claimed in claim 7, further comprising the step of sending the alarm signal to one or more signal receiving devices.

13. A method as claimed in claim 12, wherein at least one of the signal receiving devices is operable to display a warning message to a user.

14. A method as claimed in claim 12, wherein at least one of the signal receiving devices is a control device located within a vehicle, the control device being operable in accordance with a received alarm signal to prevent the vehicle from being started.

15. A method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising the following steps: displaying the operational state of each of the appliances; and displaying the total operational time for each of the appliances.

16. A method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising the following steps: displaying a running total of the energy consumption of the network for a time period; and displaying a previous cumulative total of the energy consumption of the network for a previous time period.

17. A method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising calculating the total energy consumption of each of the appliances over a predetermined period.

18. A method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the energy usage characteristics are selected from the set of energy usage characteristics comprising electric current, electric voltage, electric resistance and gas flow rate.

19. A supervisory module for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances, the supervisory module comprising: a memory device; a transducer; and a processor; wherein the memory device is configured to store one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances; the transducer is configured to measure one or more energy usage characteristics of the network when one or more of the appliances are operational; and the processor is configured to calculate the operational state of each of the appliances using the one or more electrical usage characteristics of the network and the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances.

20. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 19, wherein, when each of the appliances is operated, one at a time: the transducer is configured to measure the energy usage characteristics of the network when each appliance is operated; and the processor is configured to store the energy usage characteristics of the network when measured as the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of the appliance in operation.

21. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 19, wherein, when each of the appliances are operated iteratively, in turn: the transducer is configured to measure a first energy usage characteristic of the network before each iteration; the transducer is configured to measure a second energy usage characteristic of the network after each iteration; the processor is configured to calculate the difference between the first energy usage characteristic and the second energy usage characteristic; and the memory device is configured to store the difference as the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each appliance operating in the most recent iteration.

22. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 19, wherein the processor is configured to calculate that a subset of the appliances is operational if the sum of the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of the subset of the appliances equals the energy usage characteristics of the network.

23. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 19, wherein, where more than one possible subset of operational appliances exist: the memory device is configured to store information about the physical locations of each appliance; and the processor is configured to select the subset of appliances as a function of the physical location of each appliance.

24. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 19, wherein: the transducer is configured to measure variations in the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each appliance over time; and the processor is configured to adjust the one or more typical energy usage characteristics of each of the appliances as a function of the variations.

25. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 19, wherein the processor is configured to calculate the total energy consumption of each of the appliances over a predetermined period.

26. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 19, wherein the processor is configured to select the energy usage characteristics from the set of energy usage characteristics comprising electric current, electric voltage, electric resistance and gas flow rate.

27. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 19, wherein: the processor is configured to associate an alarm criterion with each of the appliances; and the processor is configured to generate an alarm signal if the energy usage characteristics of any of the appliances satisfy the alarm criterion.

28. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 27, wherein the alarm criterion corresponds to a maximum electric current.

29. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 27, wherein the alarm criterion corresponds to a maximum operational period.

30. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 27, wherein the alarm criterion corresponds to a specific time period.

31. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 27, wherein the alarm criterion corresponds to a maximum gas flow rate.

32. A supervisory module as claimed in claim 27, further comprising a signal transmitter, wherein the signal transmitter is operable to send the alarm signal to one or more signal receiving devices.

33. A user module for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances, the device comprising: a signal receiver; and a display device, wherein the signal receiver is adapted to receive, from the module as claimed in claim 19, information relating to the operational state of an appliance, and the display device is operable to display the operational state the appliance.

34. A user module as claimed in claim 33, wherein: the signal receiver is configured to receive an alarm signal; and the display device is operable to display a warning message to a user.

35. The user module as claimed in claim 33, wherein: the display device is operable to display the operational state of each of the appliances; and the display device is operable to display the total operational time for each of the appliances.

36. A user module as claimed in claim 33, wherein: the display device is operable to display a running total of the energy consumption of the network for a time period; and the display device is operable to display a previous cumulative total of the energy consumption of the network for a previous time period.

37. A control module comprising: a signal receiver; and an actuator, wherein the signal receiver is configured to receive, from the module as claimed in claim 19, an alarm signal, and the actuator is operable in accordance with the alarm signal to prevent a vehicle from being started.

38. A computer program code storage medium for monitoring the energy consumption of a network of appliances, the computer program code storage medium comprising computer code instructions configured to cause a computing device to perform any of the methods as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18.