Utility Monitoring System
The present invention relates to a system for monitoring the use of utilities; in particular, for monitoring the consumption of resources such as gas, LPGr .'oil, electricity and water.
The effect of excessive consumption of natural resources on the environment is of growing concern for many. Furthermore, the rising price of utilities such as gas, oil and electricity, and the scarcity of water in some areas have resulted in an increased- interest in resource conservation .
For example , it is known that a large proportion of the f inancial budgets of schools and universities are spent on utility bills . Helping to budget properly , and to more effectively and ef f iciently use resources , will be of tremendous importance as prices continue to rise .
Additionally, surveys of properties carried out on homes etc . , for example , as part of a mortgage arrangement , are increasingly concerned with such environmental factors .
Knowledge of the typical consumption requirements and/or environmental impact (e.g. Carbon footprint) of a particular property will aid in the production of accurate surveys .
Commercial meters for gas, electricity and water are widely employed to monitor the consumption of these resources - and to produce bills. However, these types of meter do little to raise public awareness as to our own actual day to day consumption. Furthermore, information is displayed in a form that is not intended to be interpreted by, say, the homeowner. Nor for that matter does the information help the homeowner to make informed decisions about how to minimise their consumption.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a system for monitoring the use of utilities and the like.
According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for monitoring and displaying information corresponding to the consumption of a resource, the system comprising : monitoring means adapted to monitor the consumption of the resource and provide a corresponding monitor signal ; communication means adapted to communicate the monitor signal from the monitoring means to the user interface ; a user interface adapted to receive the monitor signal ; and
a processor for processing the monitor signal to provide display information related to the consumption of the resource for display on the user interface.
Preferably, the processor compares the monitor signal with a predetermined value such that the information displayed on the user interface is displayed as a relative value .
Preferably, the predetermined value is a threshold consumption value.
Preferably, the processor is programmable with a predetermined value.
Preferably, the predetermined value may comprise a set of values, each value being ascribed to a specific type of appliance, the sum of the values providing the predetermined value .
The values may relate to, and be indicative of the typical resource requirements of appliances such as cookers, refrigerators, lights, TVs, dish washers, fax machines computers or other domestic, office or industrial equipment that uses resources.
Optionally, the processor is pre-programmed with one or more predetermined values. The predetermined values may be selected according to a user's environment, on the basis of the type of home or building in which the system is deployed, the number and size of rooms, the number of occupants, the number of occupants above or under a
particular age, or other characteristics of the environment in which the system is used.
Optionally, the processor is adapted to calibrate the display information.
This calibration may be used to provide user interpretable information, for example relating present consumption of a source to a numerical value indicative of the cost per unit time of that consumption.
The calibration may also be used to determine threshold values or target maximum daily consumption values.
Preferably, the processor is adapted to automatically calibrate the display information. The automatic calibration may be based on analysing consumption over a predetermined time interval and adjusting threshold values or target consumption values as appropriate to provide meaningful information to the user. In this way the system is able to react to changes in consumption habits over time.
Preferably, the user interface is adapted to display the information graphically.
The user interface may comprise a series of indicator lights that are illuminated in sequence to convey increasing or decreasing resource consumption.
The user interface may comprise a binary or on/off arrangement which shows when resource consumption exceeds the predetermined value.
Alternatively, the user interface may comprise a series of indicators showing resource consumption on a relative scale. For example, a solid bar on a display which lengthens or shortens dependent on present consumption of an associated resource. This scale may be logarithmic, for example, which exaggerates lower power consumption on said scale.
The user interface is designed to present information on consumption that is readily understandable and does not require any significant level of interpretation by a user. Accordingly, an interface that presents resource consumption in a graphic form by illuminating lights for example provides an easily understandable indication of usage.
In addition , positioning the user interface in a place where it can be easily seen allows a user to become accustomed to changes in resource consumption , raises awareness and teaches the user to consider the consequences of , for example , leaving a light on or leaving electrical equipment on standby mode .
Preferably , the user interface comprises one or more light sources . A light source may be an LED .
The user interface may also present numerical data and/ or text.
Preferably, the user interface is adapted to display numerical data corresponding to the consumption of the resource. The numerical data may be expressed in
conventional units of consumption such as litres, kilowatt-hours, square-metres or square-feet and the like. Alternatively, the numerical data is expressed in units of cost such as a total accumulated cost over a time period or the present cost per minute/hour/day. It may also be expressed in terms of an estimated monthly consumption based on prior and current consumption.
Preferably, the user interface is also adapted to display a maximum rate of usage over a period of time. This will allow a user to quickly see the peak rate of consumption on a particular day.
Optionally, the user interface comprises an audio output means which produces an audible signal dependent on the consumption of the resource.
Preferably, the audio output means produces an audible signal when resource consumption exceeds the predetermined value.
Optionally, the user interface is adapted for locating in a vehicle and displaying consumption of vehicular resources. These resources .may include fuel or electricity.
The monitoring means may be located on or near one or more appliances such that resource use by the individual appliances can be monitored.
Preferably, the monitoring means is portable. Optionally, the monitoring means comprises a rechargeable power source. Being portable and/or having a
rechargeable power source enables the monitoring means to operate without the need for an external power source.
The monitoring means may also be capable of measuring consumption of resources by individual appliances and the like, by establishing a baseline consumption rate and subsequently monitoring any consumption over and above that rate for a period of time. This additional consumption can then be correlated with any appliances etc. which were used in that time.
Optionally, the monitoring means is adapted to determine an aggregated consumption rate representative of a combined consumption of one or more resources. This aggregated consumption rate may be represented by a value indicative of corresponding total carbon emissions. Alternatively, the aggregated consumption rate may be represented in proprietary units indicative of the combined consumption.
Alternatively, the monitoring means monitors the total use of a resource such as water, electricity, gas, oil, LPG or the like.
Preferably, the monitoring means determines one or more cost parameters associated with the consumption of one or more resources. For example, the monitoring means may determine a current rate of consumption in monetary terms, a cumulative cost for consumption over a given time interval, or a predicted monthly or yearly cost of consumption. Preferably, the monitoring means is capable of receiving tariff information so as to allow this determination. Alternatively, the processor determines
these parameters based on a signal received from the monitoring means .
Preferably, at least one monitoring means is adapted to monitor gas consumption.
Preferably, at least one monitoring means is adapted to monitor water consumption.
Preferably, at least one monitoring means is adapted to monitor electricity consumption.
Optionally, at least one monitoring means is adapted to monitor oil consumption. I Optionally, at least one monitoring means is adapted to monitor LPG consumption.
Optionally, at least one monitoring means is adapted to monitor electricity produced by microgeneration. This will give an indication of electricity being produced by a user, e.g. via a wind turbine.
Further optionally, at least one monitoring means is adapted to monitor consumption of fuel by a vehicle. Optionally, at least one monitoring means is adapted to monitor consumption of electricity by a vehicle.
The monitoring means may comprise ultrasonic transducers, or some other means for monitoring the flow of the resource. For example, a clamp-on meter can be used to measure the consumption of electricity.
The monitoring means may also be adapted to measure environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity etc. for display on the user interface.
Preferably, the monitoring means is adapted to receive a pulsed output from a utility meter.
Preferably, the communication means comprises a wireless link between the monitoring means and the user interface .
Preferably, the communication means comprises a transmitter associated with the monitoring means and a receiver associated with the user interface, the transmitter adapted to transmit the monitor signal and the receiver adapted to receive the monitor signal.
Optionally, the transmitter is associated with a plurality of monitoring means and is adapted to transmit a plurality of corresponding monitor signals.
Alternatively, the system comprises a plurality of transmitters associated with a plurality of monitoring means and each adapted to transmit a corresponding monitor signal.
Preferably, the receiver is adapted to receive a plurality of monitor signals.
Alternatively, the communication means comprises one or more wired links.
The processor may also be adapted to determine the greenhouse gas emissions corresponding to the consumption
of the resource, for display on the user interface. It may, for example, determine a carbon footprint dependent on the consumption of the resource.
Optionally, the user interface is further adapted to display information relating to the relative use of renewable resources .
Preferably, the system comprises a data storage means adapted to store the information corresponding to the consumption of the resource.
Preferably, the user interface is adapted to extract data stored in the data storage means.
Optionally, the data storage means is located remotely from the monitoring means. Preferably, the data storage means communicates wirelessly with the monitoring means. The data storage means may be a PC, a remote server or a local flash memory storage device.
Optionally, the user interface comprises a display output capable of producing a signal adapted to display consumption of one or more resources on an external display. For example, a real-time display may be provided by output of a TV signal viewable on a television set. Alternatively, the display signal may be capable of display on a PC monitor.
Optionally, the user interface comprises a web-page adapted to present information on the consumption of one or more resources. The web-page may be viewable via the internet and provide a means of monitoring consumption
remotely. The user interface may comprise a TCP/IP stack capable of hosting the web-page.
Optionally, the processor is adapted to determine changes in a pattern of consumption, and to provide an alert as appropriate. In this way, a user's attention may be brought to any excessive consumption. Likewise, a relatively low consumption may be indicative of illness or inability to get to, and use, appliances within a house for example.
Further optionally, the system further comprises an alarm shut-off unit, adapted to prevent activation of an alarm until consumption of one or more utilities falls beneath a threshold consumption value. In this way, an alarm is prevented from being activated in, for example, an office, while consumption of a resource is over a particular value. This may be indicative of lights or computers or the like having been left on rather than 0 switched off to conserve energy.
Optionally, the processor is capable of receiving3 firmware updates so as to update software relating to4 processor operation. These updates may be received by 5 over-the-air broadcasts, wireless link to a local PC or 6 remote server, or by a hardware connection to a portable7 device adapted to provide the firmware upgrade. Q O 9 According to a second aspect of the present invention, 0 there is provided a teaching aid' for teaching about the1 consumption of a resource, the teaching aid comprising:
a system for monitoring and displaying information corresponding to the consumption of a resource according to the first aspect; and one or more input means; wherein the one or more input means effect a consumption of the resource, information about which is monitored and displayed by the system.
Preferably, the one or more input means comprise one or more appliance inputs. In this way an appliance, such as a hairdryer, can be connected to the teaching aid to demonstrate the consumption of a resource by that appliance .
Optionally, the one or more input means comprise one or more light source inputs. Various kinds of light source may be attached to the teaching unit so as to demonstrate and compare the resource consumption of the various light sources.
Optionally, the one or more input means comprise one or more simulation means, adapted to simulate consumption of the resource. Simulation means allow the consumption of larger appliances such as fridges or washing machines to be demonstrated without the need to have such appliances in situ.
The present invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying figures in which:
Figures 1 to 10 illustrate in schematic form a variety of
exemplary user interface displays in accordance with aspects of the present invention, each capable for use with the systems of Figures 11 to 14;
Figure 11 illustrates in schematic form a data acquisition and transmission system in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
Figure 12 illustrates in schematic form a utility monitoring and display system in accordance with, an aspect of the present invention
Figure 13 illustrates in schematic form an exemplary utility monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
Figure 14 illustrates in schematic form an alternative exemplary utility monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
Figure 15 illustrates in schematic form a vehicular resource monitoring system in accordance with an aspect of the present invention; and
Figure 16 illustrates in schematic form a teaching aid in accordance with an aspect of the present invention.
The system of the present invention provides a new way of monitoring utility usage and in doing so increases the level of awareness of the financial and environmental consequences of this usage. A crucial part of the invention is that information that is obtained on utility usage is processed and then presented in a simple but
accurate and reliable manner to allow a person to readily understand their utility use.
Figures 1 to 10 illustrate exemplary user interface displays which present information about the consumption of a number of resources or utilities in an easily readable and readily understandable form. These are intended to be placed in a prominent place in the home, office or other location in which a system of the present invention (such as those discussed with reference to Figures 11 to 14 below) may be located.
The displays can be powered from the mains supply, or by batteries (preferably rechargeable) . In new buildings mains can be routed to the displays in a non intrusive way, or simply by connection to mains outlets. Retro- fitted properties can also use mains outlet connections, or batteries if wires are undesirable. Batteries will also allow the displays to be mobile throughout the home, office etc.
The display 1 of Figure 1 presents consumption information on three scales 2,3,4 corresponding to gas, electricity and water, respectively. These scales comprise solid bars 5,6,7 whose lengths increase and decrease according to variations in consumption. LCD screens 8,9,10 display more specific information about the consumption, for example the electricity consumption LCD screen 9 shows that 2.2 kW of electrical power has been consumed.
The display 1 in this case also incorporates an LCD screen 11 which displays the specific consumption of the
individual resources, as well as indicating consumption as a function of time 12 and the current temperature 13. This temperature may be an average for the home, office, etc. or specific to the location of sensors, transducers and the like which provide information to the user interface. It is also envisaged that this temperature could be the temperature of water in a heating system or in a boiler.
Figure 3 illustrates a display 1 in which the scales 2,3,4 are vertical. Similarly to the displays of Figures 1 and 2 above, the scales 2,3,4 are prominent and easily readable. As well as presenting the temperature 13 and the rate of consumption 12, the display presents the time of day 14. Time information can be used to monitor consumption at various times throughout the day.
The display 1 of Figure 4 presents an alternative form factor in which a central LCD screen 11 is surrounded top, left and right by the scales 2,3,4, and bottom by a panel 15. In the centre of the panel 15 is a push button 16 which toggles the screen 11 between numerical (scalar) values and monetary equivalents. Panel 15 may flip down to reveal further user controls and inputs.
Figure 5 and Figure 6 present similar embodiments of the display 1. The central LCD screen 11 in Figure 5 displays detailed information, whereas the central LCD screen 11 in Figure 6 may be adapted to display only simple information. For example, this display may be used to present warning information - such as an excessive rate of consumption or exceeding predetermined threshold consumption.
Figure 7 presents a further alternative display 1 with an elongate shape, similar in appearance to an alarm clock and perhaps adapted to perform this function as well . Gas, electricity and water consumption are presented in this case on three circular scales 17,18,19, with corresponding LCD screens 8,9,10 located in the centre of each. The time 14 is displayed to the left of the scales 17,18,19.
On each of the scales 17,18,19 an indicator 20,21,22 marks the daily maximum consumption (which may be based on an input of the number of and type of resource consuming appliances present) . A user may therefore quickly determine how consumption thus far relates to the daily maximum and act if required.
Push buttons 23,24,25 provide a means to reset or adjust the scales 17,18,19. For example, a single press might toggle screens 8,9,10 between scalar values and monetary values, and a press-hold action might reset the scales 17,18,19 to a zero value.
Figure 8 illustrates another alternative embodiment in which the display 1 comprises scales 2,3,4 which use a logarithmic scale factor. This is useful as low levels ' of consumption can be determined with relative ease in comparison to measuring against a linear scale.
Figure 9 (a) and (b) illustrate a display 1 having a removable or retractable lid 26 which reveals (or hides) the scales 2,3,4 and led screens 8,9,10 indicating consumption. In place, the lid 26 not only provides a
more aesthetically pleasing impression but also prevents the accidental pressing of buttons 27 which may be used to configure the display 1. In an alternative embodiment the lid could be functionally replaced with a flip function designed to reverse the display 1 to face, say, a wall upon which, it is mounted.
Figure 10 illustrates, similarly to Figure 3 above, vertical scales 2,3,4 which also incorporate maximum daily consumption indicators as per Figure 7 above. Again, individual LCD screens 8,9,10 present information toggled between numerical and monetary by button 16 , and a large LCD 11 displaying the time 14 and temperature 13.
Indicators 20,21,22 can illustrate graphically the maximum anticipated usage of each of the resources so that an observer can quickly determine the level of usage in the house. Alternatively, it is envisaged that these levels can indicate the maximum rate of consumption over a predetermined time period. Typically, the system will display information in 24 hour cycles (12am-ll .59pm) and so an observer can quickly see what the maximum rate of consumption was that day. If a user has been away from their home during the day, upon their return they can see if any significant consumption occurred during that time. Also, when the user wakes in the morning, they can observe for example the consumption that has taken place during the night by storage heaters and the like.
Prior art meters display a continuous readout on a scale that is not meant to be interpreted by consumers. The present invention can provide a daily readout in a form that can be interpreted even by children. As a teaching
tool the system disclosed herein can therefore aid in improving consumption habits.
Each of the abovementioned displays present, in a readily understandable form, information relating to the consumption of gas, electricity and water. (It will be appreciated that other resources such as LPG could be monitored without deviating from the scope of the invention) . Placed in a prominent location, the nature of the displays is such that a cursory glance will be enough to determine present consumption and (if applicable) relate that to a maximum daily target.
Further ways in which the display unit can be used will take advantage of the learning function provided by presenting the information in an easily readable way. For example, a child-friendly embodiment may allow a child to have a display in his or her bedroom to monitor their own personal contribution to household consumption. The child can therefore readily appreciate the effects of, say, leaving their television on standby or playing a games console for a considerable length of time. Acceptance of such a display in a child's bedroom can be enhanced by provision of exchangeable covers, and by providing visual incentives such as "smiley" and "frowny" faces dependent on the consumption habits of the child.
Similarly, in situations where utility bills are shared the system can aid in the fair allocation of bills. For example, electricity consumption in student accommodation can be monitored on a room by room basis and each student charged for their own usage. In an analogous way,
companies sharing premises can be accountable for their own usage and bills split appropriately.
To ease interpretation further, the scales on any of the above displays could be coloured so as to identify the relative resource, e.g. green for gas, blue for water and yellow for electricity. Said scales could also toggle to a warning colour, say red, or vary in intensity dependent on the extent of the consumption, e.g. thresholds being exceeded.
Similarly, colouration of the indicators (for example in traffic light-like green, amber and red) may provide a quick indication of whether consumption is low, medium or high (respectively) . Thus, without having to approach the display, a gauge of the consumption can be made and acted upon. Plus, as with the visual incentives proposed above for a child-friendly embodiment, it will be easier for a child to interpret "good", "normal" or "bad" energy consumption on the basis of this colour scheme. It is also envisaged that another colour of indicator, for example blue, may be used to indicate energy coming from a renewable source, whether it be from microgeneration or energy provided under a so-called "green" tariff. The blue indicator may visually offset the traffic light-like green, amber and red proposed above.
The displays may also be adapted to present information relating to the generation of resources by, for example, rotary wind turbines or solar panels, and indicate how this affects the net consumption (or carbon footprint) . This may be indicated by accommodating a negative scale on each of the displays which would display a
contribution of energy, and provide a visual indication of how microgeneration can be used to offset domestic consumption.
With reference to Figure 11, there is presented a system 28 that functions to monitor the consumption of 3 different utilities and to display information related to that consumption on a user interface.
Three transducers 29,30,31 are provided which each measure the flow of a utility through an appropriate conduit (not shown). These transducers 29,30,31 provide signals in the form of a potential difference in the range 0-lOV, dependent on the flow in the conduit and a calibration factor selected to correlate the potential difference range with the full scale range of flow possible in the conduit.
Note that the potential difference range above is for the purposes of example only, and may equally be a lower or higher range depending on the particular requirements or the type of transducer used. Equally, the signal could be provided by a current output or a data-carrying signal, or any other suitable means.
In the case of the electrical conduit, the transducer can provide a voltage signal which corresponds to the current flowing in the conduit. This can be measured by inserting an inline ammeter or in a non-invasive fashion by attaching a clamp meter or transducer to the conduit.
To determine the consumption of gas or water, an in-flow transducer is required which is capable of producing a
voltage signal corresponding to the flow rate of gas or water. The transducer may determine the flow rate by one of a number of means, for example by a piston meter or a Venturi meter. Alternatively, a magnetic flow meter could be used to determine the flow rate of water within a non-conducting conduit, and a mass flow meter could be used to determine the flow rate of gas. In any case, the transducers for the water conduit and for the gas conduit also provide a voltage output in the range 0-lOV (again, by way of example only) dependent on the flow rate.
It is envisaged that alternative transducers may be employed which clamp on to the outside of utility conduits such as mains leads, gas and water pipes, and the like, and are able to unobtrusively provide a signal corresponding to the rate of flow of the resource therethrough.
The voltage signals from each of the transducers 29,30,31 are input to a multiplexer 32 that multiplexes the three signals together and passes the multiplexed signal to a processor 33. The processor 33 carries out any necessary conditioning etc. and passes the signal on to the transmitter 34.
The transmitter 34 then transmits the signal via an antenna 35, and the signal is subsequently received by a receiver 36 via an aerial 37. The transmitter 34 and the receiver 36 are adapted to transmit and receive on the same frequency. This frequency may be unique, or selected from a number of available frequencies to eliminate cross-talk with other such systems.
The received signal is then processed by processor 38 prior to being displayed on three corresponding displays . Processing includes any necessary demultiplexing and subsequent calibration of the respective voltage signals to produce an output. For example, consumption of electricity may be presented as a numerical value (e.g. in kW or kWh) or in monetary units (via an appropriate calibration factor) representative of the cost of current or aggregated usage. In this example, three displays 39,40,41 are provided on a single unit which displays information relating to the consumption of gas, electricity and water. The displays 39,40,41 may comprise LCD screens, for example seven segment displays suitable for displaying numerical data, presenting information in a readable manner .
The displays 39,40,41 may also comprise simple LEDs adapted to light up depending on one or more conditions being met. A relative scale of, say, green, amber and red LEDs may be provided to readily indicate low, moderate and high usage, respectively. This kind of scale is easy to interpret. Additionally, if electrical consumption exceeds a predetermined threshold, a warning LED may come on .
Figure 12 presents an expansion of data acquisition and transmission system 28 that functions to monitor the consumption of a number of dif ferent utilities by means of additional separate transducers 42 , 43 , 44 and to display that consumption on as described in detail below, in this case with the aid of an additional display .
In this embodiment a separate transducer 29,30,31 is provided for each of the three utility types, however, an additional three transducers 42,43,44 are also provided which allow for monitoring of the consumption of each of the utilities in another location. This is illustrated by the provision of a main data acquisition unit 45 and an additional data acquisition unit 46. For example, in a domestic setting, one acquisition unit could be located in the kitchen and the other acquisition unit located in the garage, such that consumption in different areas in the house can be determined and, if desired, compared. It will be appreciated that the present invention may also be used in an office or industrial setting.
A main display unit 47 is associated with the main data acquisition unit 45, and additional display 48 is also provided which, can display specifically the information from the additional data acquisition unit 46. Alternatively, both displays 47,48 can alternate between displaying information from the main data acquisition unit 45 and tlαe second data acquisition unit 46.
In this embodiment, an analogue multiplexer 49 multiplexes the analogue outputs from the transducers 29,30,31. An analogue-to-digital converter 50 converts the multiplexed output into a digital signal which is processed 51 and transmitted 52 to a display unit.
The display units 47,48 of this embodiment may be similar to those illustrated in Figure 13 below, comprising an LCD display and an LED display, or alternatively as in Figures 1 to 10 described in detail above.
Data storage 53 is also provided that can store historical data which, for example, can be recalled at a later date or can be downloaded onto a PC or a server in order to analyse resource usage. Calibration data may also be stored here.
The following table illustrates the weightings that may be given to different types of appliances for electricity consumption. These figures can be programmed into the system of the present invention. This may be done by the user, or these values may be pre-programmed and selected by the user to suit specific circumstances.
DEVICE IN HOME AMOUNT POINTS
Fridge 205 points Freezer 195 points Fridge/Freezer 345 points Frost Free 390 Fridge/Freezer points 390
282
Chest Freezer points 390 Dishwasher
38 Compact points 49 Normal points 49
55
Washing Machine points 55
75
Tumbler Dryer points 75
Cooker
80
Gas Hob, Electric Oven points
135
All Electric points 135
30
All Gas points
65
Work top points
Microwave
59
Microwave only points 59
77
Microwave/Cooker points
27
Kettle points 1 27
25
Toaster points 1 25
18
Coffee Perculator points
18
Juicer points
22
Blender points 1 22
15
Waist Disposal points
Television
35
Flat Screen points
25
Large sets points 4 100
15
Portables sets points
1327
Additional appliances etc. such as bed-side lamps, irons and dvd players can be added, and the above list is a basic version of what can be an extremely comprehensive list.
The total points give an indication of the level of expected electricity usage and this information is used to determine the threshold level at which the system will provide certain outputs from the user interface . This is set based upon the user's likely utility use. A similar table may be constructed for gas where the devices would comprise, for example, hobs, ovens, boilers, central heating (and number of rooms) and the like. Suitable tables may be drawn up for different environments such as offices (which might list items such as photocopiers and fluorescent lighting) and factories (which might list items such as printing presses and industrial air conditioning) .
The system will accept this information, for example by user input of the total points on appropriate tables such as those discussed above, and calibrate the scales such that the maximum resource consumption corresponds with a full scale readout of the display. In practice, the full scale readout will correspond to the maximum plus an additional buffer in case consumption exceeds this value (this may be caused by a fault, or a new appliance that has not been accounted for, etc.) .
The system is usable without the abovementioned calibration, however once calibrated the system is tailored for the specific environment in which it is utilised.
It is envisaged that an automatic calibration can allow the system to work without the abovementioned user input. By monitoring utility consumption, processing this information and predicting usage patterns based on some basic user input (size of house, number of occupants etc.) the system can determine an initial calibration and thereafter react to trends in usage so as to display information which is relevant. For example, as the winter months approach, consumption of gas/electricity is likely to increase as more and more radiators are employed. Threshold values and scales may therefore be increased accordingly to reflect the predicted overall increase in consumption. The opposite will be true as the summer months approach.
Figure 13 illustrates the positioning of three separate transducers 54,55,56 on their respective utility conduits
57,58,59. The gas and water transducers 54,55 are in- line transducers which measure the flow of gas and water respectively. The electrical transducer 56 is connected typically to a mains lead from an electricity junction box. This does not have to be connected in line and is preferably a clamp type transducer .
Each of the transducer outputs is connected to a transmitter 60 which transmits a . multiplexed, or otherwise aggregated, signal to an associated display unit 61 which receives signal by means of an aerial 62.
The display unit 61 has an LCD screen 63 which can graphically and numerically convey information about the consumption of each utility type. It may also provide an indication of cost per unit time, or an aggregated cost over the course of a day, week, month or year. Furthermore, three scales of coloured LEDs 64 are provided. The scales 64 may comprise of a number of green, amber and red LEDs which would be illuminated according to the level of usage; low, moderate and high (respectively) . Alternatively, the scales 64 may comprise a sequence of lights where the number of lights that are on signifies the utility usage.
The scales 64 could be replaced with three single red LEDs; the system having been configured to illuminate the single red LEDs when the rate of consumption or the aggregated consumption of any or all resources reaches or exceeds a threshold value.
It is anticipated that all of the conduits that a user wishes to monitor may not be located in such proximity so as to allow one transmitter to be connected to them all.
Figure 14 illustrates an example where a separate transmitter 65,66,67 is provided for each of the transducers 54,55,56, which then allows for more convenient installation of the system. Furthermore, an alternative display unit 68 is illustrated which presents information regarding consumption of gas, water and electricity by means of a single LED 69,70,71 corresponding to each resource.
In this instance, a threshold value can be set for each utility, whereby consumption of a utility over the threshold results in illumination of the respective LED. This provides a simple and effective way of presenting information to the user .
The threshold may be set at a value corresponding to a normal consumption of a particular resource. However, it may also be set to a zero level such that any consumption results in illumination of the respective LED. In use, the attention of a person leaving their home might be drawn to an LED indicating that a source of water is running. If this is unexpected, they may realise that a tap has been left open.
An intelligent aspect is also envisaged whereby the system is aware that a particular appliance (say, a washing machine) is in operation and the expected water consumption known. In this case, consumption over and above this expected value might cause an LED to be
illuminated alerting the user that another source of water must be running.
Alternatively, a button may be depressed on the display whereby monitoring consumption continues, but a separate monitoring takes place of consumption after the button press. To illustrate, a user may wish to determine the resources consumed by their washing machine. Pressing a button on the display then establishes a baseline consumption of each resource, and presents only information relating to consumption over and above this baseline. In this way, the amounts of water, electricity, gas and the like consumed during a washing cycle can be monitored. Any appliance can be monitored in the same way, and this may also aid in diagnosing whether an appliance is consuming more resources than expected. This may have a particular application in monitoring the power consumption of air conditioning units which are known to be demanding on resources and being able to readily appreciate this will allow users to use such, units in a more resource-conscious way.
Figure 15 illustrates a further alternative embodiment in which a resource monitoring system is incorporated into a vehicle 71. Electricity 72 and fuel 73 monitoring transducers may be fitted in the factory during manufacture of the vehicle or, in this case, be clamp-on transducers which are retro-fitted proximal to the car battery 74 and to the fuel line 75 in the under-bonnet space of an existing vehicle.
The transducers 72,73 monitor consumption and tranmsit corresponding signals indicative of this consumption to
an in-car display unit 76, which in this case displays two scales 77,78 against which electrical consumption and fuel consumption are gauged.
This display 76, and it's proximity to the steering wheel 79 and other dashboard displays enables a driver of the car to quickly gauge their consumption against a target consumption and to visually appreciate how differing driving habits can affect that consumption. It is envisaged that this embodiment
Further adaptations may facilitate use in so-called hybrid or alternative fuel cars. Transducers, corresponding to particular energy sources may simply be retrofitted and subsequently detected by the in-car display unit. Furthermore, energy generated (for example by braking) can be visually offset against consumption.
Figure 16 illustrates a teaching aid 80 which employs a display 81 similar to those discussed above and is capable of demonstrating consumption of energy by various items.
A mains socket 82 is provided to which an appliance, for example a hair dryer, can be connected. When switched on, the energy consumption by the appliance is determined and displayed on the display 81. In this way, the consumption of that appliance can be demonstrated, in particular to children, in a readily understandable way.
Light source sockets 83, 84 and 85 are also provided, corresponding to a fluorescent tube 86/ an incandescent bulb 87, and an energy-saving lightbulb .88. By switching
each of these light sources on and off, and watching the energy consumption of each as monitored and displayed on the display 81, a useful tool to illustrate the benefits of particular light sources is achieved.
Some appliances which cannot easily be moved around to provide such demonstrations can be simulated. Switches 89, 90, 91 may represent a fridge, a freezer and a washing machine for example. Alternatively, the switches may simulate a washing machine at varying temperatures of operation, e.g. 30°, 40° and 60°.
Similarly, a simulated thermostat 92 may be used to illustrate the difference in energy consumption dependent on the target temperature of a central heating system.
Relative consumption of resources by different appliances and light sources etc. can be a useful tool in educating people. By switching from one to another the benefits of (by way of example) using one particular kind of bulb over another, or one particular rating of fridge over another, can be easily understood. This is achieved by the simple and clear representation of consumption provided by the display.
The system of the present invention is therefore seen not only as a tool for allowing consumers to better understand and improve their overall energy consumption, but as a tool to educate children (the consumers of the future) at an early age.
A number of advantages can be had over the state of the art with regard to a number of features of the system.
The present invention provides a way for a user to quickly determine their level of usage of a number of utilities. They may then act upon this information to reduce their consumption resulting not only in a cost saving to themselves but a reduced environmental impact.
A further advantage of aspects of the present invention is that the system can be employed in a number of different locations such that utility consumption can be broken down and assessed in, for example, different areas in the home.
In summary, the present invention will allow a user to be able to monitor their utility consumption with ease and thereby use said utilities in a more cost effective and environmentally conscious way. In addition, the information is presented in such a way that a user can quickly determine the nature of consumption of the utilities, and identify any unexpected usage. This affords the present invention a teaching capacity whereby a user can determine their usage in a way that is readily understandable, and without the need for interpretation. This provides an associated advantage that a user can self-regulate their consumption.
Target amounts may be set for consumption, and the display could present visual and/or audible alarms should consumption exceed those target amounts. In addition, the system may "learn" over a period of time and determine expected usage levels (which may of course vary during the year) . Usage contrary to these expected values may then provide alerts to the user that they are either over-consuming or consuming less than usual.
This also facilitates a safety feature wherein excessive consumption can be brought to the attention of a user. For example, if a low rate of consumption is expected at a particular time of the day (or of the year) and a high rate is measured this can be brought to the attention of the user. It may be indicative, therefore, of an appliance being left on by mistake (e.g. gas fire, television on standby etc.) or of a leak or faulty appliance somewhere in the home. It is also foreseen that a user exiting their home may be alerted to the fact that they have left, for example, an oven hob switched on. In a larger building, such as an office block or a factory, a number of transducers may be located at varying locations throughout. This will allow monitoring of consumption in particular areas in the building but also provide a means of locating a fault, such as a gas leak (or blockage) which is indicated by an excessive (or reduction in) consumption of that resource.
Alternatively, a reduction in the rate of consumption over a period in which a higher rate of consumption is expected, perhaps by virtue of measured usage over a period of time, may be indicative of a reduction in activity. This may alert people to the possibility that someone, for example an elderly relative, has changed their habits which may be due to reduced mobility because of an accident or illness.
In either case, a user's attention may be brought to irregularities in consumption rates by SMS, email, pre- recorded telephone message or the like. This might be provided via a messaging module that forms part of the
system, via a TCP/IP stack or by communicating with a remote server which subsequently relays a message to a user.
The present invention provides a system that allows one or more user to readily access and understand information concerning their use of a utility such as electricity, gas, oil, LPG or water. In particular, the user interface of the present invention is designed to be positioned in for example the hallway of a house or other prominent position such that its occupants are continually presented with information on their utility usage. By configuring the system analyse and process information such that the information that is presented to the user is a straightforward but accurate representation of the amount of utility usage, the present invention provides an extremely effective tool for teaching people about the extent of their utility use and to raise awareness of the issues that are directly linked to that use, such as environmental impact and cost.
The system of the present invention may be fitted to existing utilities and to their metering equipment. It may also be fitted in new build houses, offices or industrial premises, or retro-fitted in existing properties. In addition, it can be used to monitor production of electricity, for example by wind turbine, and to appreciate how microgeneration can affect domestic utility costs.
Calibration also enables the same system to be incorporated into a wide variety of environments, from
single bedroom flats to multi-storey offices, from student accommodation to industrial factories. The calibration provides a means to tailor the displays, any thresholds, targets or maximum values and so on for the specific requirements of the situation. The same display is therefore suitable for monitoring the consumption of a small household as well as a large, heavily resource dependent, production plant.
Further adaptations can be made for this purpose. For example, the exemplary weighting table discussed above may be tailored for domestic appliances, industrial machinery, or any manner of equipment for which it is desirable to monitor the consumption of resources.
Monitoring the consumption of resources may assist in the production of bills . Present billing typically estimates consumption over a year and produces monthly or quarterly bills accordingly. At the end of the 12 month billing cycle the actual consumption is determined and there will usually be a credit or a deficit against which further estimates and a reduced or increased monthly bill is calculated. The present invention may allow utility companies to provide bills tailored to the actual consumption by a user by using information from the system. This information can be conveyed to the company over wired or wireless communication devices, over the internet or other telecommunication system.
The present invention may therefore also address some of the problems associated with the provision of oil and LPG. Consumers and providers have little indication of their usage of such utilities, and might only find out
when the utility runs out. This can be of great inconvenience to rural consumers who may have difficulty accessing alternative resources in the meantime. The present invention also allows such consumers to monitor consumption of ' those utilities and thereby act accordingly when supplies are running low. SeIf- regulation is therefore enabled for these resources, and billing can also be simplified.
The system of present invention is also provided with a range of support services that may be provided on-line. This may include technical support, information on ways of calibrating the device, a shop where related products such as decorative covers can be bought, information on energy efficiency, the availability of grants and information on renewable energy.
It is also envisaged that an on-line service tied in with the present invention will allow display of such information as a carbon footprint for a home, office or the like. The website can provide corresponding services or incentives related thereto. For example, information and links may be provided to allow users to offset their carbon emissions by placing corresponding orders to plant trees. Furthermore, reduced consumption of resources may be rewarded by the allocation or granting of so-called carbon credits which may be collected and used to pay for the carbon emissions created as a result of particular activities; e.g. going on holiday or commuting to work.
European Directive 2002/91/EC on the energy performance of buildings places emphasis on a number of factors where the present invention will be of considerable benefit.
For example, calculation of the integrated energy performance of buildings will be aided by the present invention which can monitor resource consumption and present relevant information in an easily interpretable form. This information will also subsequently assist in the energy certification of buildings, which must also be carried out prior to sale.
Further modifications and- improvements may be added without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. For example, a connection to a server may be provided so as to allow updated tariff information to be relayed to the processor. This would allow for any changes in billing rates to be reflected accurately in the display. Additionally, where wireless connections have been discussed, the present invention applies equally to wired connections. Additionally, where embodiments have been described with reference to homes and domestic appliances, it will readily be appreciated that the same invention may be implemented in other environments and for a wide variety of equipment and resources.