WO2014015370A1

WO2014015370A1 - Method and apparatus for remote energy monitoring and control

Info

Publication number: WO2014015370A1
Application number: PCT/AU2013/000815
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Isaac Joffe; Benjamin Scot BERGO; Rohan David Smith
Original assignee: Planet Intellectual Property Enterprises Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2012-07-25
Filing date: 2013-07-24
Publication date: 2014-01-30

Abstract

The present invention provides a system for controlling a demand response in at least one apparatus, the system comprising: at least one device operatively connectable by a consumer to the at least one apparatus for electronic communication therewith wherein the operable connection is adapted to communicate one or a combination of operational parameters of the at least one apparatus with the at least one device; a transceiver comprising a configurable user interface adapted to communicate operational and control data between a consumer and the at least one apparatus via the at least one device; wherein at least one of the at least one device and the transceiver is network enabled for communicating in accordance with one or a combination of communication protocols to enable registration of characteristic information corresponding to each device and operative connection between each device, the consumer and a third party or public utility.

Description

Method And Apparatus For Remote Energy Monitoring And Control

RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2012903164 in the name of Planet Intellectual Property Enterprises Pty Ltd, which was filed on 25 July 2012, entitled "Method and Apparatus for Remote Energy Monitoring and Control" and the specification thereof is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.

FIELD OF INVENTION

This invention relates to the remote monitoring and control of a range of apparatus. In one form the invention relates to a compact, mobile and interactive device facilitating such remote monitoring and control. It will be useful and convenient to describe the invention in relation to an interactive device and its use, for example under the control of algorithms developed to allow the device to interact with a range of apparatus and, to methods of use for such a device. However, it is to be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to that use, only.

BACKGROUND TO INVENTION

Throughout this specification the use of the word "inventor" in singular form may be taken as reference to one (singular) inventor or more than one (plural) inventor of the present invention.

It is to be appreciated that any discussion of documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the context of the present invention. Further, the discussion throughout this specification comes about due to the realisation of the inventor and/or the identification of certain related art problems by the inventor. Moreover, any discussion of material such as documents, devices, acts or knowledge in this specification is included to explain the context of the invention in terms of the inventor's knowledge and experience and, accordingly, any such discussion should not be taken as an admission that any of the material forms part of the prior art base or the common general knowledge in the relevant art in Australia, or elsewhere, on or before the priority date of the disclosure and claims herein.

Modern homes and offices are fitted with a wide range of systems that generate, control and use energy. By way of example, heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) systems are used to control indoor temperature and ventilation. Boilers, solar heaters and heat pumps provide hot water. Solar and wind generators provide power whereas household appliances and lighting elements utilise it. Measurement of the amount of energy being used in homes and offices is very coarse - usually by a single electricity or gas meter that measures the total amount. The measurement may also be a net amount, in other words, if energy is being generated and fed back into the grid, a measurement of that amount of energy is not available to the occupant.

Understanding how much energy each system, apparatus within a system or stand alone apparatus uses or generates on its own is important for building occupants because: as the overall cost of electricity increases, they want to make more informed choices about which appliances to use, and how much they want to use them, in order to reduce their energy costs; with the emergence of renewable-electricity credits (such as STCs) and feed-in tariffs, occupants and governments must have a means of confirming that the amount of energy being generated and the payments being made for the reduction in emissions are accurately reconciled; with an increasing prevalence of smart-meters and Time-Of-Use (TOU) electricity tariffs we are seeing an increase in variation in electricity prices throughout the day. Household systems that are aware of this variation could automatically adjust their behaviour, or allow users to adjust their behaviour, to save energy and money. There are some devices available which provide a greater level of detail about the energy usage in a building, but they all suffer from problems, as follows:

A principal problem is that existing devices do not offer a low cost way for a person to be 'on-site' to monitor and/or record a relevant parameter such as current drawn from an apparatus or appliance or air temperature or humidity, i.e. for remote monitoring or control of a parameter that may not be easy or convenient to be physically near to; · A second problem is that the cost and complexity of installing and managing such devices often outweighs the benefits. The drive for greater efficiency and productivity favours simple, incumbent solutions with minimal capital expenditure and short learning curves; · A third related problem is that there is often great merit in monitoring multiple parameters simultaneously. For example, air temperature, pressure and humidity, or light, temperature and airflow. However, the inventor considers in these situations a low cost fully integrated sensor and logging system may be required rather than three separate monitoring devices;

A fourth problem is that the devices are isolated from the outside world and therefore they are limited in the types of decisions they can make. It is envisaged by the inventor that a device with ability to access information about outdoor weather conditions or current electricity tariffs could automatically improve its efficiency or reduce cost of operation.

Furthermore, an ability to record and track trends and history of multiple parameters would be very useful from an energy tracking and management viewpoint. There is significant potential for improving performance of energy generation and distribution in the monitoring of trends and anomalies related to energy usage.

On top of this, any integrated device needs to be very low cost or it becomes unsuitable for the mass market. There are many partial solutions to one or more subsets of the problems noted herein, but no known complete solutions to the entire problem, as recognised by the inventor, in a single device or system are known from the prior art. By way of explanation known solutions of the prior art as identified herein have at least a major disadvantage in that they control apparatus/appliance function load, such as air conditioning load, only. In short they may turn the system or apparatus off when a utility desires, but take no consideration of household conditions or consumer/user need. This is considered to be unacceptable to consumers of energy. Aside from the issue of not wanting an outside party such as a public utility or an authority that could be seen as "big brother" imposing to turn a consumer's AC off, if a house gets very hot then this circumstance may become a potentially life threatening health issue for occupants. In the latter circumstance prior art devices, by definition, do not take into account the internal temperature of a dwelling which they are controlling and so can be considered a life-threatening health hazard in the extreme but not uncommon circumstance.

Some examples of partial solutions are given below.

The reason that the overall problem of energy monitoring and control has not been solved yet is because a complete solution has required development of enabling technology and changes in lifestyle and society's attitudes towards energy. In particular:

The ubiquity of powerful mobile devices with rich user interfaces

Reductions in the power usage and cost of wireless communication protocols (Bluetooth and 3G data plans)

Increasing amount of data being made publicly available (e.g. up-to-the-minute weather forecasts, instant electricity tariffs)

Economic and social incentives for reducing energy use

For temperature monitoring/logging there are a range of low cost temperature measurement prior art devices such as analogue and digital thermometers. These devices work perfectly in many situations, but do not have temperature logging (recording) or any ability to communicate data to an external device. A thermometer does not provide a history of temperature or temperature trends.

Devices such as weather stations, power monitors or scientific logging devices exist for monitoring multiple parameters such as temperature, humidity and barometric pressure. Whilst these devices have a higher degree of functionality, they are moderately expensive and designed for professional scientific or engineering use (eg they may have multiple temperature probes and wires protruding from a logging device).

Where devices do have advanced functionality such as logging and trend tracking they are often fairly large, cumbersome and prohibitively expensive. They do not have the ability to access data from external sources (such as the internet) to use as input to intelligent algorithms to monitor and identify when parameters are varying away from historical norms.

Further to the above, average power consumption in developed world nations is increasing with growing populations and the continuing improvement in living conditions. Until contemporary times, power utilities have been content to build new generation capacity to manage this increase in average demand. In the past two decades however, technology costs have decreased to the point where many householders can now afford air conditioning systems which create even greater demand for electricity. To ensure that there are no black outs, power utilities must build additional generation capacity to cope with the few hottest days of the year when a large percentage of the population uses their AC units. Some utilities have built additional generation capacity of over A$1 billion in investment to handle just 10 - 15 hours of peak load demand each year. This situation is not atypical and it is reasonable to state that responding to this peak demand (demand response management) is the most pressing issue for most utilities at this time.

Accordingly, a problem that is confronting all major utilities is how to manage this peak demand. By limiting the amount of power used on AC units, power utilities can delay the requirement to build new generating capacity. Equally, due to the fact that the investment to meet this peak demand must be passed onto the end customer, consumers would face lower power costs if the peak demand could be controlled, with little to no change in their personal utility. Additional benefits are shared through the electricity network by distributors (who could spend less on transformers and substations if they could be guaranteed of a lower peak demand) and energy retailers, who would be better able to manage their wholesale market positions. It is considered by the inventor that a key appliance which drives this peak demand is the residential AC Unit, which may include ducted and other systems for example but more specifically split-system AC units. New standards to equip AC units with demand response capability have been introduced in many countries (eg Australia with AS 4755). Assuming these units start to be purchased by existing and newly constructed homes as of 2012, there is still a large incumbent stock of AC units, which cannot be controlled and which may take about 10 - 12 years to retire. There exists an urgent need for a way to manage this peak demand, whilst not inconveniencing householders in the application.

In the inventor's view, an ideal solution to the above demand response problem is a system that can:

• reliably control any number of AC units within a home, apartment, unit, townhouse or small business · can be controlled easily by the user but over-ridden by a power utility

• be reliably contacted and controlled when deployed across a region

• record the amount of power saved and when for usage by the owner or power utility or some other entity.

There are some devices on the market which provide a part of this solution, but they all suffer from one or more of a number of shortcomings: · A first problem is that no demand response system has the ability to control an AC unit, or plurality of AC units, remotely by a plurality of communication means, offering communication redundancy to increase system reliability;

• A second problem is that the cost to install and operate such devices on existing AC units frequently outweighs the benefits; • A third problem is that few AC unit control systems respond to external data;

• A fourth problem is that few AC unit control systems are user configurable, whilst being over-rideable for demand response events;

• A fifth problem is the desire to control the AC unit s remotely, that is over a communications protocol which is far field and not in the line of sight of the AC unit (possibly over cellular phone network, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or VHF or other)

• A sixth problem is that the ability to over-ride an AC unit's operation without compromising homeowner comfort depends on a number of other factors, such as the thermal properties of the room and the frequency of use of the room. No system analysed by the inventor combines the flexibility of being able to be configured by the user and controlled remotely by them, to be retro-fit at low cost and without the need for an electrician, to offer multiple communication means and therefore a high level of system reliability in reaction to a demand response event which overrides, to the user's full awareness, the users own protocol, and will respond to external information and data within a user's or provided protocol for AC system management.

A system to provide these features is considered to be of high utility to both power utilities and consumers. Some examples of commercially available products that provide partial solutions but do not necessarily address the demand response problem noted above are as follows:

Modlet® : http://themodlet.com/buy_home.html The Modlet® device has been developed by ThinkEco, Inc. This device comprises a wireless managed wall socket adaptor plug, and a system for managing power consumption in the home. The device has a Zigbee communication capability through a router to a webpage hosted by the manufacturers of the Modlet® device where one can manage a selection of devices plugged into the Modlet® device. ThinkEco, Inc. have devised the Modlet® device to include an AC module which communicates with the wall mounted socket for the AC application.

Some recognised advantages of the Modlet® device are:

• Low cost solution - the Modlet® device is a low cost solution for the control of AC units

• User configurable with over-ride - the Modlet® device allows users, from their smart phone, to control the device

• Two way communication - it is possible to determine when the Modlet® device is activated, or not · Wall mounted and powered - the device is wall mounted and powered and hence obviates the need for batteries or other power means

Some disadvantages are: · Reliability - the Modlet® device communicates over the cloud (cellular network) and over Zigbee and requires both of these communication services to be operating successfully to provide the device with an override signal for a demand response event. · Form factor - the Modlet® device only works for appliances that have an accessible plug socket

Z-Wave extender: http://trade.connectedhometechnology.com/product/zxt-110-z- wave-ac-ir-extender

The Z-Wave Extender converts the Z-wave proprietary wireless communications protocol designed for home automation into IR for an AC system, so users can fully control their AC system from anywhere. The system has a range of 30m.

Advantages of the Z-Wave extender are: · Low cost - the solution is a low cost bridge between communications protocols

Disadvantages are:

• No algorithm - the system is simply a communication bridge and offers no additional algorithms for managing AC units

• No direct interaction from utility - no direct communication or interaction with outside information centres such as a utility Dick Smith™ AC remote: http://dicksmith.com.au/product/GH3016/one-4-all- universai-air-con-remote-controi

The Dick Smith™ AC remote is a "One for AH" AC remote control, communicating with hundreds of different IR libraries.

Advantages include:

• Multiple communication channel - the system communicates along one protocol but multiple code bases, and hence is flexible across most available AC units

Disadvantages include: • No communications input interface - the device receives no communications input interface. It has a manual remote control interface with the user, but cannot bridge between IR and other communications protocols · No demand response capability - generally speaking the device has no demand response capability

• No remote programming - no ability to remotely program the device · Requires line of sight - requires line of sight to the AC unit, a distinct property of I R

Tendril Load Control Switch: http://www.tendrilinc.com/energy- providers/product/lcs/

Tendril Load Control Switch (LCS) is a Zigbee enabled device that is connected in line with an electrical appliance (typically a hot water system or air conditioner or pool pump) to shut down the operation of the device during a demand response event. Advantages include:

• Demand response capability - the device is designed for demand response Disadvantages include:

• Reliability - the Tendril LCS device communicates over the cloud (cellular network) and over Zigbee and requires both of these communication services to be operating successfully to provide the device with an override signal for a demand response event

• High cost of installation - the device requires an electrician for installation EcoFactor

EcoFactor, Inc. has developed a cloud hosted residential air heating and cooling system, which can alter the load of the air conditioner, and perform demand response capabilities, with no interaction of the user. The system can communicate with already installed two-way communication thermostat devices and pings these thermostats on a regular basis to reconcile interior temperatures with outdoor temperatures to determine the house based thermal characteristics, thereby best managing power consumption of air conditioners. The company states that their solution can save 30% on space heating and cooling load without comprising comfort for the user (http://www.ecofactor.com/consumer_portal.php).

Advantages include: · Cloud based - The EcoFactor, Inc. System can reach users on their smart phones or PC's easily and at low cost.

• Highly specific algorithm - the algorithm takes local (home based) temperature data and couples this with outside temperature data to learn and respond to individual house conditions and control the AC / heating system based on this level of granularity. En masse, the system can build meta data of millions of houses with AC systems and maximise comfort whilst minimising energy usage, learning and responding to the usage patterns and thermal load of the room, and delivering the best comfort in demand management events.

• Low cost - the system is hosted on the cloud and hence is low cost, the thermostats already exist and all that is required is to learn the characteristics of each household and to manage the household comfort levels with minimal user interaction

Disadvantages include:

• Single control point - whilst the majority of US homes have central AC and heating, the majority of Australian homes, for example, do not. Accordingly, such homes would involve multiple control points. This system would not work, in its current embodiment in many Australian homes as over 60% of homes have wall mounted AC systems and this trend is expected to continue. A similar disadvantage may apply to other non-US markets

• Lower reliability - the system suffers from only one communication protocol - an internet gateway, and could suffer from local service uptime to activate the system and guarantee response. · Non-retro fit - the system provides an elegant SaaS (Software as a Service) platform for managing residential air conditioning systems, however, it does not deal with the existing wall mounted systems, or ducted systems which do not have Wi-Fi capability. EcoFactor, Inc. do not provide a hardware solution to this retro fit dilemma.

Griffin Beacon

The Griffin Beacon™ universal remote control system includes a software application and hardware transmitter which allows a user to control their home appliances from their iPod, iPhone, iPad or Android phone. Users can utilise a Griffin application to communicate with their in-home devices via a Bluetooth / IR bridge. In this way, the iPhone becomes a remote control in the home.

Advantages include:

• Communication bridge - the application and hardware combination facilitates communication from the ubiquitous smart phone to household devices.

• Low cost - the Griffin hardware port is low cost

• No installation - the device communicates with other appliances via infra-red, so no installation or wiring is required Disadvantages include:

No energy management - the solution does not offer demand response capability · No reaction to external inputs - the solution does not respond to external influences, it simply provides a communications bridge

Peel IR Blaster The free App Peel entity has developed an IR blaster that is similar to the Griffin Beacon™ solution. The blaster (called the Peel Fruit™) connects over ZigBee to a network adapter that attaches directly to an open Ethernet port on a WiFi router, a two- part hardware setup which is designed to obviate the need for software configuration during installation, and allows the I R blaster to run for nine months on a single C battery.

The advantages and disadvantages of the Peel I R Blaster are the same as for Griffin, above.

Libelium Waspmote™

Libelium Comunicaciones Distribuidas S.L. (Libelium) has developed a versatile sensor board application that can connect Zigbee to 3G/GPRS and via Ethernet to the internet. The board can communicate in an interoperable fashion in five different communication modes.

Advantages include:

Multi-protocol communications - the device offers a flexible, high redundancy communication suite on the one platform

Low cost - the device is relatively low cost Disadvantages include:

• Hardware solution - this is a hardware solution with no demand response capability or specific AC software capability developed.

Millennium Electronics - Intelligy

Millennium Electronics Pty Ltd has developed a suite of energy management products under their Intelligy™ brand. The company has developed two demand response devices.

Advantages of the Millennium Electronics system includes:

• Demand response capability - The Intelligy™ product range has two demand response devices, both communicate via the Zigbee to the Intelligy™ GPRS module

• Non-line of sight communications - the devices employ non line of sight communications, offering robust communication Disadvantages include:

• Reliability - the Intelligy device communicates over the GPRS network and over Zigbee and requires both of these communication services to be operating successfully to provide the device with an override signal for a demand response event. High cost of installation - both devices are relatively costly to install

• No ability to control plurality of units - no single device has the ability to control a plurality of AC units Greenwave Reality

The Greenwave Reality group have developed a home energy management system which offers smart plugs, an "In Home Display" and power boards that communicate through a gateway that supports the Zigbee and Z-wave communications protocol and provides an Ethernet connection to a home router. The system can receive demand response messaging through the internet and then communicate this over to the Greenwave devices in the home. Remote monitoring of the system is achieved through a PC and smartphone-based software application which communicates with the gateway via the internet.

Advantages include:

Demand response capability - the company has developed a package of hardware and software which has demand response capability, but not for AC systems

Respond to external data - the system can respond to external data through the gateway and be instructed with different commands via this gateway

Non line of sight - the system operates on non line of sight, overcoming disadvantages of I R

Disadvantages include:

Reliability - the Greenwave device communicates over the internet and over Zigbee and requires both of these communication services to be operating successfully to provide the device with an override signal for a demand response event. For the ability to control an air-conditioner, installation by an electrician is required

A system adapted for controlling demand of multiple air conditioners is disclosed in US patent No. 7,870,750 (Yoon et al - Assigned to: LG Electronics, Inc.). The system includes a demand control unit configured to divide multiple air conditioners into groups, to assign a priority level to each group, to calculate an estimated power amount used by the multiple air conditioners based on an amount of power consumed by the multiple air conditioners during a predetermined time period, and to forcibly control an operation of one or more air conditioners included in a respective group based on the priority level assigned to the respective group. The system of Yoon does not cater to control information that is provided in real time such as that through connection to a utility or other public service but rather predicates its demand control on grouping air conditioners into prioritised groups based upon previous (historical) operational characteristics of the air conditioners, temperature differences in the rooms of the relevant building(s) and preassigned values given to the air conditioners. Furthermore, Yoon does not provide a simple and cost-effective retro-fit solution for already installed air-conditioning systems

SUMMARY OF INVENTION With the above background discussion in mind, accordingly one object of the invention is to provide an improved monitoring and control device. Another object of the invention is to provide algorithms adapted to interact with the device. Another object of the invention is to provide algorithms adapted to have the device interact with its environment and/or external/global information and control data. A further object of the invention is to provide methods of monitoring and controlling a range of apparatus.

It is also an object of the invention to overcome or alleviate at least one of the above noted drawbacks of prior art systems or to at least provide a useful alternative to prior art systems.

In a first aspect, a preferred embodiment of the invention provides a device adapted to facilitate a demand response in an energy supply network wherein the device is operatively connectable by a consumer to an energy consuming apparatus for electronic communication therewith and adapted to store and process parameters characterising the apparatus, the device being further adapted for being assigned a weighted ranking for the apparatus based on a combination of rankings assigned to the parameters whereby the weighted ranking for the apparatus is communicated to the energy supply network for allocating a predetermined precedence value to the apparatus that is utilised for remote notification and control of the operation and/or energy consumption of the apparatus by a user, a third party or public utility.

The parameters characterising the apparatus may comprise configurable parameters and observable parameters. In this respect, the parameters may be assigned as one of: a demand response capacity parameter for ranking based on the amount of power savings that can be provided by the apparatus during a demand response event or;

an operating sensitivity parameter for ranking based on the amount of disruption to normal operating conditions during a demand response event.

Embodiments of the present invention also provide a device adapted to monitor one or a plurality of parameters and control one or a plurality of apparatus remotely wherein said device comprises a housing, one or a plurality of input sensors adapted to capture said parameter or parameters, one or a plurality of outputs adapted to control said one or a plurality of said apparatus, a micro controller adapted to process said input sensor parameters and generate said outputs; and a wireless link adapted for communicating between the microcontroller and a remote transceiver. The wireless link may be adapted to communicate with a remote receiver.

The device may be further adapted to calculate the weighted ranking wherein the weighted ranking is calculated by the user or the third party.

Preferably, the device is adapted for retrofit with installed apparatus.

The micro controller is preferably adapted to process said input parameters and/or generate said outputs responsive to commands from said remote receiver.

Advantageously, a shield may be provided in a preferred embodiment which is operatively associated with the energy consuming apparatus and which is adapted for selectively intercepting and/or transmitting control signals to the apparatus. The shield may comprise: an IR sensor directed away from the apparatus for intercepting incoming control signals to the apparatus; and, an IR transmitter directed toward the apparatus for selectively relaying signals to the apparatus.

Preferably, the shield is operatively connected to the micro controller of the device for one or a combination of:

analysing signals received at the shield; selectively transmitting received signals to the apparatus under control of the micro controller, and;

sending control signals from the micro controller to the apparatus. Furthermore, in preferred embodiments the shield is operated in one of:

a first mode wherein the shield is enabled to intercept all signals directed to the apparatus, and;

a second mode wherein the shield is disabled from intercepting any signals directed to the apparatus.

In preferred embodiments it is also provided that the shield is switched between operating in the first and second mode by one or a combination of:

mechanical means;

electro-optical means.

In another aspect, a preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a method of controlling a demand response in at least one apparatus, the method comprising the steps of: communicating one or a combination of operational parameters of the at least one apparatus with at least one device, as described herein, operatively connectable by a consumer to the apparatus for electronic communication therewith; communicating between the at least one device and a transceiver wherein the transceiver com prises a configurable user interface adapted to communicate operational and control data between a consumer and the at least one apparatus via the at least one device; wherein at least one of the at least one device and the transceiver is network enabled for communicating in accordance with one or a combination of communication protocols to enable registration of characteristic information corresponding to each device and operative connection between each device, the consumer and a third party. The third party may comprise one or a combination of a public utility, government authority, central information repository or a proprietary information database being adapted as a source of global or external conditions and information as well as a means for data storage by way of communication through the operative connection between the third party and each device and the consumer.

The method may further comprise the steps of:

calculating a weighted ranking for the at least one apparatus based on a combination of rankings assigned to the operational parameters of the at least one apparatus whereby the weighted ranking for the apparatus is communicated to an energy supply network for allocating a predetermined precedence value to the apparatus that is utilised for remote notification and control of the operation and/or energy consumption of the apparatus by a user, a third party or public utility; and

including the calculated weighted ranking within the characteristic information corresponding to each device.

The method may further comprise the step of shielding the apparatus with a shield, as disclosed herein, for selectively intercepting and/or transmitting control signals to the apparatus. Accordingly, the method may further comprise the steps of:

analysing signals received at the shield;

selectively transmitting received signals to the apparatus under control of a micro controller, and;

sending control signals from the micro controller to the apparatus via the shield. In preferred embodiments, the shield is operated in one of:

In accordance with preferred embodiments of the method the shield is switched between operating in the first and second mode by one or a combination of:

mechanical means;

electro-optical means. In a further aspect, a preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a system for controlling a demand response in at least one apparatus, the system comprising: at least one device operatively connectable by a consumer to the at least one apparatus for electronic communication therewith wherein the operable connection is adapted to communicate one or a combination of operational parameters of the at least one apparatus with the at least one device; a transceiver comprising a configurable user interface adapted to communicate operational and control data between a consumer and the at least one apparatus via the at least one device; wherein at least one of the at least one device and the transceiver is network enabled for communicating in accordance with one or a combination of communication protocols to enable registration of characteristic information corresponding to each device and operative connection between each device, the consumer and a third party.

The third party may include, for example, a public utility, government authority, central information repository or a proprietary information database which can be the source of global or external conditions and information as well as a means for data storage by way of communication through the operative connection between the third party and each device and, the consumer. Preferably, the at least one device comprises a device as disclosed herein.

In a preferred embodiment there is provided apparatus adapted to control a demand response in at least one energy consuming apparatus or consumer appliance, said apparatus comprising: processor means adapted to operate in accordance with a predetermined instruction set, said apparatus, in conjunction with said instruction set, being adapted to perform the method steps as disclosed herein.

In another preferred embodiment, there is provided a computer program product comprising: a computer usable medium having computer readable program code and computer readable system code embodied on said medium for controlling a demand response in at least one energy consuming apparatus within a data processing system, said computer program product comprising: computer readable code within said computer usable medium for carrying out the method steps as disclosed herein.

In another aspect of preferred embodiments there is provided a shield operatively associated with a receiver of a consumer appliance for selectively intercepting and/or transmitting control signals to the consumer appliance, the shield comprising:

a sensor directed away from the appliance for intercepting incoming control signals to the appliance;

a transmitter directed toward the appliance for selectively relaying signals to the appliance;

Preferably, the shield is operable in one of:

In a preferred embodiment, the shield is switched between operating in the first and second mode by one or a combination of:

mechanical means;

electro-optical means. In the context of the present discussion, it is to be noted that the term "demand response" is used herein to describe generally mechanisms used to encourage consumers to reduce peak demand for electricity and may refer in particular to systems and mechanisms that respond to explicit requests to shut off, either with or without action on the part of the consumer. Accordingly, 'demand response' can involve actually curtailing power used or by starting on-site generation which may or may not be connected in parallel with the grid. It is to be noted that this is a different concept from energy efficiency, which means using less power to perform the same tasks, on a continuous basis or whenever that task is performed. At the same time, 'demand response' is a component of smart energy demand, which also includes energy efficiency, home and building energy management. Furthermore, as used herein the term 'demand response' may incorporate three types of demand response, namely, emergency demand response, economic demand response and ancillary services demand response. In this respect, emergency demand response may be employed to avoid involuntary service interruptions during times of supply scarcity. Economic demand response may be employed to allow electricity customers to curtail their consumption when the convenience of consuming that electricity is worth less to them than paying for the electricity. Ancillary services demand response consists of a number of specialty services that are needed to ensure the secure operation of the transmission grid and which have traditionally been provided by generators.

Furthermore, in the context of the present discussion it is also to be noted that the term "apparatus" is used herein to describe consumer appliances that consume electrical energy and power and, whilst it is convenient to describe preferred embodiments herein in which the apparatus described is an air-conditioner, this is in no way limiting of the scope of the present invention.

In essence, preferred embodiments of the present invention stem from the realization that allocating predetermined precedence values characterised by usage parameters of energy consuming apparatus to at least one or a group of apparatus and communicating said allocated predetermined precedence values upstream in an energy supply network, the energy supply network can be adapted to prioritise energy supply to individual apparatus through control information weighted with the precedence values thereby providing a customised and cost effective demand response.

In essence, other preferred embodiments of the present invention stem from the realisation that providing a device that is operatively connectable to energy consuming apparatus by the consumer, as opposed to a specialised technician, for electronic communication of operational parameters of the apparatus with the device, a widespread collection of usage parameters of energy consuming apparatus may be facilitated through low cost retrofit to incumbent consumer products and apparatus.

In essence, further preferred embodiments of the present invention stem from the realisation that a device adapted for electronic communication with energy consuming apparatus to communicate operational parameters of the apparatus therebetween that is further network enabled for communicating in accordance with one or a combination of communication protocols can provide a redundancy of communications within an energy supply network to produce increased uptime for operable connection of apparatus in a demand response system.

In essence, many embodiments of the present invention stem from the realisation that reduced complexity and cost for equivalent functionality of prior art demand response systems may be obtained through the use of available smart communications technology to provide user or consumer control in a demand response system.

In contrast to the above, the total cost of existing residential and commercial demand response solutions, once product, installation, maintenance and all other costs are taken into account, is larger than the benefits of demand response capability they were able to provide. The present invention provides a method and system which reduces the cost of the product, installation and maintenance of the demand response solution to a point where it is viable for residential and commercial customers.

Further to the above realisations, it is noted that key principles that have led to embodiments of the invention are:

• minimising cost and complexity of installation and maintenance of monitoring and control devices is a way to overcome problems of existing solutions · by taking a device with minimal functionality and equipping it with a wireless connection to a smartphone or PC, this creates a very low cost way of substantially increasing processing power, user interface and connectivity capabilities The invention as described herein includes a number of advantages over the known prior art, which are noted as follows. The device of preferred embodiments of the invention is small and can be installed in any part of the home without the need for additional wiring or services of tradespersons. The benefits of this are: · Reduced cost of installation

• Ability to monitor and control a wider range of systems and appliances, especially those that are hardwired at time of installation. For example, a solar panel installer checking that a new set of solar panels he has just installed is producing the correct amount of power

• No impact on visual appearance of house or office, caused by additional wiring.

• Where the device scavenges power, no batteries are required

The device and control systems of preferred embodiments of the invention use wireless communications to send and receive data from a receiver (smartphone, PC) or between multiple devices. The benefits of this are: · The person monitoring or controlling the system parameters does not have to be present to see what is happening. This is useful when the device is inaccessible (e.g. in a roof cavity) or inconvenient (e.g. in a basement) as it provides freedom of movement for the user. For example: sending an email via a smartphone when the pollen levels being drawn into the house are too high, then closing the external air vent.

• Because the device can store the parameters it is monitoring, a user does not have to be within range of the device at all times. They can download a historical record of what happened when next the wireless connection with the device is established. For example, recording the amount of power generated over the course of a day by solar panels.

• Multiple devices can be connected to a single receiver, providing a user or control algorithm with a larger and better set of data on which to make a decision. For example: being able to turn on 3 air-conditioners, the hot water system and the fridge from a single location.

• Communication between multiple devices can be used to form a mesh network which can extend the range of the system.

The device of preferred embodiments of the invention contains a minimal amount of sensing and control hardware, which is used in conjunction with a receiver (smartphone or PC). The benefits are:

• Assuming a user already owns a smart phone they do not require an additional user interface or microprocessor with high computational power. They only need to invest in the low cost sensors and the software algorithms. . This computational power means that a range of algorithms can be used to monitor and control the various parameters and provide analysis. For example, temperature measurements from multiple air-conditioners can be used to account for variation between rooms within the house and each unit's set point can be adjusted to provide a uniform temperature throughout.

. The internet connection of the receiver can be used to access data from more sources and apply more sophisticated algorithms. This could include: o Weather: For example, preventing air-conditioning from turning on if a cool change is expected soon o Electricity tariffs: For example, cycling heaters on and off instead of running them continuously when electricity is most expensive. This becomes more relevant as time-of-use billing becomes more widespread o Air quality warnings : For example, closing external air vents when a high pollen count warning is in force

The internet connection of the receiver can be used to store historical data offsite where it can be viewed and analysed by others. This use could include: o Sending alarm signals remotely. For example, warning that an air conditioner may need repair if the unit has been running continuously but the room temperature is not decreasing. o Sharing of data. For example: providing detailed data on power consumption by HVAC and hot water systems and generation by solar panels, which are displayed alongside utility bills. o Archiving of data for auditing purposes. For example, recording the amount of power produced by a solar panel and checking that this is inline with the expectations of any government rebates (STC's) used to subsidise installation of the system

In a preferred embodiment, the invention provides a low cost device that:

• can be retro-fit on a wall mounted AC unit. Accordingly, the at least one device operatively is connectable by a consumer as opposed by a specialised technician for electronic communication with to the apparatus;

• has in-built control algorithms and parameters that allow it to operate the AC unit;

• has very high uptime using a plethora of redundant communication protocols.

This stems from at least one of the at least one device and the transceiver being network enabled for communicating in accordance with one or a combination of communication protocols;

• can be controlled by a user, either locally or remotely;

• can respond to demand response events directed by a utility or third party, by receiving a signal from that utility or third party and modifying one or more parameters of the apparatus in response to that signal. For example, the utility may send a signal which turns off the wall mounted AC unit for a period of 10 minutes during periods of peak power use. In another preferred embodiment, the invention provides a control system that:

• can initiate a demand response event on any apparatus by receiving a signal from that utility or third party and modifying one or more parameters of the apparatus in response to that signal

• characterises each device for its suitability to respond to demand, based on user configurable and local environmental parameters. The device may be characterised using historical sensor data to create a digital profile for each respective device;

• maintains a list of all the devices with which it has reliable communication (i.e. control) The last two bullet points above stem from the device and or transceiver being network enabled in accordance with one or a combination of communication protocols to enable registration of characteristic information, which may include ability to respond to demand response events, device status and system health, local environmental conditions such as temperature or presence of people, historical sensor data or apparatus usage patterns as well as statistical measures based on all of the above.

Whereas prior art systems may not take into account on site or external parameters affecting the local environment being serviced by an apparatus, which can be considered a life-threatening health hazard in some circumstances, on the other hand, a device and or system controlling such a device in accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention can take this into account. By way of example, in combination with a two-way communication system, a utility can therefore conduct a triage process whereby the houses with the most critical need get their AC turned back on in preference. A situation is envisaged whereby say 1 ,000 houses have their AC turned off and within 15 minutes a number of those (eg 50 Or 100) are turned back on because the internal temperature is rising rapidly and passes a pre-determined threshold, for example 30°C. In an Australian environment, this could be true of a west-facing glass-walled unit on a sunny afternoon. Meanwhile many other houses that have greater temperature stability, for example, a south facing unit only meters from the aforementioned west-facing unit, may barely notice the impact of the AC system going off for 1-2 hrs during peak load.

Further scope of applicability of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the disclosure herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further disclosure, objects, advantages and aspects of preferred and other embodiments of the present invention may be better understood by those skilled in the relevant art by reference to the following description of embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the disclosure herein, and in which:

Figure 1 illustrates a schematic view of a system for controlling demand response in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a block system diagram of a device for monitoring and controlling an energy apparatus in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a graph depicting setpoint temperature against time for use in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 is a flow chart illustrating the execution of an algorithm in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention for updating a setpoint temperature;

Figure 5 is a graph depicting duty cycle against time for use in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating the execution of an algorithm in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention for updating a duty cycle;

Figure 7 is a combined graph depicting setpoint temperature and duty cycle against time for use in a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating the execution of an algorithm in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention for updating both setpoint temperature and duty cycle; DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The Device The invention provides, in a preferred embodiment, a low cost device 4, best shown in figure 2 and within the system of figure 1 , that can monitor sensors 21 , 22 and control appliances 100. It is controlled remotely using wireless communication links 1 1 , 12, 13 and 14 e.g. by a Smartphone 8, PC, router or radio transmitter, where PC, router or radio transmitter are not shown.

As shown in figure 2, the device 4 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 21 1 within housing 210, which has a microcontroller 24 and wireless communications circuit (consisting of wireless communications chip or modules 26 and 27, antenna(e) A1 and A2 and supporting electronics). The microcontroller 24 is configured such that it is able to read input signals from the outside world, as well as send control signals to the outside world. The input (not shown) and output ports 7, 7a of the microcontroller 24 have connectors on them to allow sensors 21 , 22 or control elements (eg relays) to be connected to the PCB 21 1. The microcontroller 24 is loaded with software that performs tasks including reading of input signals, calculations required for processing those signals, and communication with other electronic elements on the PCB 21 1 . The microcontroller 24 is connected to the wireless communications circuit through wiring in the PCB 21 1 and the microcontroller software sends messages to the wireless communications circuit using a predefined protocol.

With reference to figure 1 , the device 4 transmits and receives data over at least one wireless link 1 1 to a receiver device 8 (e.g. Smartphone or PC), or equally, a transceiver. The wireless communications circuit establishes a wireless connection with the receiver 8 using a standard communications protocol (e.g. Bluetooth or Wifi). Software in the receiver 8 and the software in the microcontroller 24 identify each other and confirm that a good connection has been established. Human input may be required to confirm the identity of the receiver 8 (pairing) by entering a password. The software in both device 4 and receiver 8 also records the identity of the paired device 4 and any other information required to re-establish the connection in the future without additional user input. Once the connection is established, a predefined communications protocol is used to transmit data from one device 4 to the other. Alternatively, one-way communications may be supported as would be understood by the person skilled in the art.

The device 4 may have multiple sensors 22, or be in communication with one or more sensors 21 , that allow it to capture and store data for the parameter of interest. Such sensors 21 , 22 may be adapted to capture data on one or more of the following parameters:

A. Electrical current

B. Temperature C. Humidity

D. Pressure

E. Light

F. Airflow

The sensors 21 , 22 are preferably connected by wiring to the input connectors on the PCB 21 1 . The sensors 22, in one embodiment, are located in said housing 210 and positioned such that they are in the location where the accuracy and reliability of the parameter being sensed is greatest, for example, a hot water temperature sensor in the bathroom, or a current sensor positioned around a single live wire of a 240V appliance 100. The sensors 21 may also be located outside the housing 210 in order to be in the location where the accuracy and reliability of the parameter being sensed is greatest. For example, a sensor 21 could be made of component parts in which a transducer is located outside the device housing 210 at a convenient location for measurement while the major portion of the sensor 21 , 22 including signal conditioning circuitry 23 and measurement recording components 25, are located within the housing 210. The device 4 also has multiple output channels that allow it to communicate with other external elements. Such outputs may be adapted to communicate with one or more of the following: A. Heater and cooling controllers

B. Displays

C. Switches

D. Lights

These external elements may be attached to the device using the output port connectors (7, 7a) on the PCB 21 1. They may be actuated:

1. Physically, by a change of state in the output port (e.g. a relay)

2. Electronically, by using an electronic communications protocol (e.g. RS23, RS485, Modbus) to transmit messages between the device and the elements on the output ports. This may be performed, for example, also by wireless connection.

In a preferred form, the device 4 may comprise a microcontroller 24, wireless communications module(s) 26 and 27, infra-red transmitter 7, power supply 29 and housing 210. The housing 210 has mounting features such as for example attachment clip 212 shown in figure 2, which allows it to be attached to the side of the head unit of a wall-mounted AC system 100. The mounting position is such that, for example an IR transmitter 7 incorporated into the device 4 achieves a direct line of sight with an IR receiver 6 of the AC unit 100 (used by a conventional remote control - not shown) without restricting the ability to use the conventional remote control.

One of the problems that may be encountered with the mounting position detailed above is that the state of the appliance 100 can be changed by a conventional remote control, without the device 4 knowing that this has occurred. This may affect the ability of the device 4 to subsequently control the appliance 100, as the transmission that it will send will be based on an inaccurate understanding of the status of the appliance 100. To resolve this problem , a shield 30, for example as shown in figure 1 can be placed in front of the I R receiver 6. The shield 30 has an I R sensor 32 facing outward towards the room and an I R transmitter 31 facing towards the I R receiver 6 of the appliance 100. The IR receiver 32 and transmitter 31 on the shield 30 are connected to the microcontroller 24 so that, when the shield 30 is covering the I R receiver 6 of the appliance 100, any IR signals are intercepted by the shield 30 and sent to the microcontroller 24 which can then analyse these signals and choose to either relay them to the shield I R transmitter 31 (and therefore the appliance 100) or not relay them. I n addition, the microcontroller 24 can send signals to the shield I R transmitter 31 (and therefore the appliance 100) independently of any outside input. In this way, the device 4 can fully account for all signals sent to the I R receiver 6 of the appliancel 00.

Further, the mounting position of the shield 30 may be controllable, such that in one state the shield 30 is enabled to intercept all signals directed at the apparatus by blocking the line of sight to the I R receiver 6 and the device 4 intercepts all messages to the appliance 100, whilst in a different state the shield 30 is disabled from intercepting any signals directed to the apparatus and does not restrict the line of sight to the I R receiver 6 and allows messages from a conventional remote control. The method of changing this position may be implemented through changing the physical position of the shield 30 with mechanical means, for example by moving it with an electric motor (not shown), or with electro-optical means for example by changing the infra-red transparency of the shield 30, for example by switching the state of an LCD display attached to the shield 30. The device 4 is controlled by commands received by the wireless communications module 26 or 27, which are transmitted to the microcontroller 24, which contains software which interprets the command and transmits an I R signal to the AC unit 100. The device 4 may be powered by a battery 28, or alternatively a power supply, which could be internal power supply 29 or an external power supply 213 such as the power supply used by the AC unit 100. The device 4 may also include some means of scavenging power from the environment, such as a photovoltaic panel, which can be used to charge the battery 28 or supply power directly to the device 4.

The ability to control the mounting position of the shield 30 may be used to optimize power usage of the device 4. In some instances, it is critical that the state of the appliance 100 is fully known and that it is able to be controlled by the device 4 without interference from other remote controls. An example of this is during, or just before a demand response event is about to occur. In such case, the shield 30 is moved in front of the appliance IR receiver 6 and all IR transmissions are intercepted and analysed by the microcontroller 24. However, in other instances, it is not critical to know or control the state of an appliance 10. An example of this is when there is low likelihood of a demand response event occurring, or when the user of the appliance 100 has explicitly requested full control with an external remote. In such case, the shield 30 is moved away from the appliance IR receiver 6, the IR receiver 32 on the shield 30 is turned off and the microcontroller 24 does not intercept or analyse any IR transmissions. This mode of operation is beneficial in that it may substantially reduce the power usage of the device 4. Installation of the device 4 requires only mechanical attachment to the AC unit 100 and alignment of the IR transmitter 7. No interference with the AC unit 100 or household wiring is required and installation does not require any specialist qualifications.

Generally, the device 4 is preferably sized so that it can be placed in any location within a house or building 1 , or attached to an appliance 100 without disrupting the environment or requiring installation hardware. For example, the device 4 can be clipped over the electrical wire whose current it is measuring and does not require any further mounting hardware. In this respect, it is envisaged that the entire device (4) may be clipped over the wire, but also just the sensor (21 ). The PCB 21 1 is located in the housing 210 which protects it from the environment (dust, splashes, extreme temperatures) and also includes attachment features 212, such as clips or hooks, that assist in attaching the device in a permanent and/or electronically communicative manner. The housing 210 may also have features that allow any I/O interface components such as buttons 216 or lights 217 that are located on the PCB 21 1 to be accessed by a user.

The device 4 may be powered by different power sources 29, 213 that are connected to the PCB 21 1 : 1 . A conventional power supply, such as an AC adapter which is plugged into a wall socket

2. Sharing the power supply of a nearby appliance

3. Power generated by a photovoltaic cell or other self-contained generating power supply

4. By scavenging power from the emitted energy around an electrical wire with sufficient current, such as for example, by way of induction, Hall effect and/or eddy current means. This is achieved in one example of induction by placing a coil around a single live electrical wire, such that the alternating magnetic field caused by the electric current will induce an alternating electric current in the coil. The current induced in the coil is fed into a conditioning circuit which outputs an appropriate power signal form

For situations where power from these sources is not able to be supplied continuously, a battery 28 may be attached to the PCB 21 1 to act as a buffer and supply power when other power sources are disconnected. The battery 28 in turn can be charged in all of the ways that are listed above as power sources.

The device 4 preferably has data storage capability so that it can record the state of its inputs and outputs over a long period of time. Some of the storage capacity is available within the microcontroller 24, but additional storage capacity is available in nonremovable (e.g. EEPROM) or removable (e.g. SD card) electronic memory 25 that is integrated into the PCB 210. The microcontroller software determines which data is stored, and in which location. In addition to the state of inputs and outputs, data related to the configuration of the device 4 or any other data transmitted over the wireless link 1 1 , 13 or 14 can be stored in the same manner. The receiver or transceiver 8 runs software to display, record and analyse the data. The software also provides a user with up-to-date device status, including the number of devices 4 in communication with the transceiver 8, the state of the inputs and outputs of the device 4 and the apparatus 100 connected to each device 4, as well as whether a demand response event has been initiated, and allows them to send control messages to the device 4. The software in the receiver or transceiver 8 comprises a communications module and a user interface (Ul) module 9.

The communications module establishes and maintains the connection with the communications circuit 26, 27 in the device 4. It accepts commands and data from the Ul module 9 and uses a pre-defined protocol to transmit them to the device 4. It also receives data from the device 4 and uses a pre-defined protocol to translate them into information that is then supplied to the Ul 9. The software communications module handles communications errors or a break in connection by trying to re-establish the connection and retransmit any data that was lost during the break. By way of example, a preferred protocol that is suitable for implementation may be defined as a Serial Port Profile (SPP) over Bluetooth and is preferably used as the communication channel between Smartphone in one embodiment and the firmware. Once the serial communication channel is opened, packets are sent containing air conditioner state (e.g. temperature, fan speed). Each packet has a start and stop byte at each end. If the start and stop bytes appear in the payload they are escaped/encoded to avoid confusion by the receiver. The last byte of the payload is a checksum to detect corruption.

The firmware decodes a packet at a time and decodes any escaped bytes. If the packet is too long for its buffers it will be discarded. If the payload's checksum fails then the packet is discarded. In one preferred embodiment, no acknowledgements are provided in the communication. However, in another embodiment, an acknowledgement packet is sent back if the packet was received and successfully decoded and, a negative acknowledgement packet is sent back if the packet was received but discarded.

The Ul module 9 takes data from the device 4 (passed up via the communications module) and displays it on the smartphone 8 or PC screen in a manner that is easy to understand for the user. This includes viewing historical data, performing analysis of data (e.g. calculating the cumulative power used over a period of time) and overlaying multiple data sets for comparison. The Ul 9 provides a means for the user to save data on the receiver 8 or use other functions of the receiver 8, such as SMS or email, to transmit the data. The Ul 9 also provides the user with a means of setting alarm conditions and monitoring incoming data to determine if an alarm condition has been triggered. The Ul 9 can be configured to perform specific actions when alarm conditions are triggered. For example, turn off a heater 100 when a room is too hot, or play a sound when the power consumption of an appliance 100 is too high.

In a preferred form, the device 4 is attached to an air-conditioning unit 100 and the smartphone transceiver software has a communications module and a Ul module 9 which performs the functions mentioned above.

If the user is not within range of the device 4, they can still interact with it by sending a message to it over the internet 3. In this case a router (not shown) is required to be present within the home 1 to relay the data to the remote user.

Wireless communication sometimes suffers from dropouts or lost connections. This is undesirable in a demand response system where greater certainty of demand response capability is required. To increase the uptime of the system, the device wireless communication module 26, 27 implements multiple redundant communications protocols. If one of the protocols or connections is lost, the device maintains a connection on the other protocols. Accordingly, one or a combination of protocols may be utilised to enhance uptime. There are 3 general types of communications protocols that the device 4 may support. At least 2 of these are utilised and may be required for increased uptime.

1. Long-range, one-way communications (from a sender to the device) using Radio Data Service available on FM radio stations

2. Long-range, 2-way communications using 3G or 4G mobile communication networks

3. Short-range, 2-way communications using Bluetooth, Zigbee or Wifi protocols

In another aspect the invention provides software adapted to provide said communication between said device 4 and said remote receiver 8. The device 4 can be made to execute sophisticated algorithms by configuring the software in the microcontroller 24 directly or by configuring the software in the receiver 8 and having it send commands to the device 4 to execute the algorithm. Example algorithms are illustrated in flow chart form in figures 4, 6 and 8. The algorithm takes the current and historical states of the device inputs and outputs and data stored in the memory 25 on the device 4 and applies a set of rules that result in either a change in the state of the outputs, triggering of an alarm condition, or both. For example, turning on an air-conditioner 100 only if the temperature in the room (101 , 102, 103, 104) is too high, the time is after 12 midnight when electricity is cheaper and motion is detected (implying someone is in the room).

In addition to relaying commands between a wireless module 8 and the IR transmitter 7, the microcontroller software implements control algorithms which allow more sophisticated operation of the AC unit 100.

The device 4 may also include a temperature and humidity sensor 22 which records the room conditions and stores the data for viewing by the user, or for use as inputs to the control algorithm. For example, the device 4 could automatically turn the AC 100 on when the temperature rose above a setpoint.

The device 4 maintains a record of its status and this information may also be used as input to a control algorithm. For example, the device could prevent the AC 100 from being turned on if it had already been running for 4 consecutive hours. Further algorithms include, but are not limited to:

• the ability to set timers for when to turn on and turn off the AC unit based on the preferences of the user. This is achieved by comparing the value of an internal timer with a series of time markers entered by the user, using the transceiver Ul module 9, where each marker represents a "turn off" or a "turn on" event. When the internal timer reaches the same value as any of the time markers, the device transmits a message to the AC unit 100 to turn on or off as defined by the marker. the ability to set a temperature profile for the AC unit 100, where the temperature is different during different periods of time based on the preferences of the user. This is achieved by comparing the value of an internal timer with a series of time markers entered by the user, using the transceiver Ul module 9, where each marker represents a temperature setpoint event. When the internal timer reaches the same value as any of the time markers, the device 4 transmits a message to the AC unit 100 to set the temperature setpoint of the AC unit 100 defined by the marker. A set temperature profile can be established in this way as illustrated in figures 3 and 4. With reference to figure 4, at step 300 the algorithm begins, the next time marker value is retrieved at step 301. At step 302 the internal timer value is retrieved and at decision step 303 the internal time value is compared with the time marker and if the internal timer value is greater than the time marker the setpoint temperature is updated at step 304. the ability to set a temperature profile for the AC unit 100, where the temperature is kept constant, based on the preferences of the user. This is achieved with a variation to the algorithm of figure 4 by comparing the value of a temperature sensor 22 in the device with a desired temperature setpoint and setpoint deviation allowance entered by the user, using the transceiver Ul module 9. The temperature sensor value is monitored by the device 4 and when the measured temperature deviates from the desired setpoint by more than the deviation allowance, the device 4 transmits a message to the AC unit 100 to modify the temperature setpoint of the AC unit 100 so that the temperature sensed by the sensor 22 returns to a value within the deviation allowance. the ability to set an operating profile for the AC unit 100, where the duty cycle is different during different periods of time based on the preferences of the user. With reference to figures 5 and 6 this is achieved by comparing the value of an internal timer with a series of time markers entered by the user, using the transceiver Ul module 9, where each marker represents a temperature setpoint event. When the internal timer reaches the same value as any of the time markers, the device 4 transmits a message to the AC unit 100 to set the duty cycle of the AC unit 100 defined by the marker. The duty cycle is defined as the percentage of time that the unit is operating within a period. For example, a duty cycle of 50% means that the AC unit 100 is operating for 50% of the time. This could be achieved a number of ways, including by turning the AC unit 100 on for half the time, then off for the rest of the time, or alternatively by turning the AC unit on for 10 minutes, then off for 10 minutes, and repeating this pattern. A set duty cycle can be established in this way as illustrated in figures 5 and 6. With reference to figure 6, at step 400 the algorithm begins, the next time marker value is retrieved at step 401 . At step 402 the internal timer value is retrieved and at decision step 403 the internal time value is compared with the time marker and if the internal timer value is greater than the time marker the duty cycle is updated at step 404.

• the ability to execute any of the above at the same time. By way of example, figures 7 and 8 illustrate a combined temperature and duty cycle set point procedure. With reference to figure 8, at step 500 the algorithm begins. At step 501 the next time marker value is retrieved. At step 502 the internal timer value is retrieved and at decision step 503 the internal time value is compared with the time marker and if the internal timer value is greater than the time marker the setpoint temperature is updated at step 504 and the duty cycle is updated at step 505.

If the receiver 8 has internet-access, it can use information on the Internet 3 in conjunction with the data from the device 4 to apply control algorithms that consider local performance and global conditions. For example, closing external air vents when the EPA issues a warning for high pollution levels. An internet-enabled receiver 8 can also regularly archive the data stored on the device 4 by sending it to a remote storage location (not shown), greatly increasing storage capacity and allowing the data to be viewed and analysed by anyone around the world.

In another aspect the invention provides a method of monitoring and/or controlling a plurality of apparatus 100 comprising the use of multiple devices 4 as previously described connected to a single receiver 8.

Multiple devices 4 can be connected to a single receiver 8 so that the data that is recorded and analysed can come from multiple sources and consists of multiple parameters. Similarly, different commands can be sent to multiple devices 4 from a single source, allowing the ability to apply sophisticated multi-parameter control algorithms. For example: being able to turn on 3 air-conditioners 100 in separate areas of the house (eg rooms 101 to 104 shown in figure 1 ), each with different settings depending on the local temperature of that area, so that all areas converge to the same temperature.

The device 4 also has the ability to communicate with nearby devices 4 of the same type using its wireless link 14 shown in figure 1 . To achieve this, the software in the microcontroller 24 of each device 4 has a configuration similar to the communications module of the receiver 8 outlined earlier. This software establishes a communications link 14 between the respective devices' wireless communications circuits so that data can be transmitted. The data is then supplied to algorithms that reside in the device software. Using this capability, the control inputs and outputs of each device 4 can be co- ordinated with one another without a receiver device 8 being present. For example, opening a fresh air vent (controlled by one device 4 placed in room 103, for example) when air quality deteriorates (sensed by another device 4 in room 101 , for example).

When there are multiple devices 4 present and some are within range of a receiver 8, but others are not, devices 4 can relay data to each other. In doing this, a communications link 14 and 1 1 can be established between the receiver 8 and an out-of-range device 4 (for example in room 101 ), with another device 4 (eg in room 103) in range of both acting as the relay. This increases the effective range of the receiver 8. Algorithm for multiple devices

As outlined above, devices 4 that can communicate with each other can execute sophisticated co-ordinated algorithms. However, in some cases devices 4 cannot communicate directly with each other, but do have access to the Internet 3. In this scenario, an Internet connected server (not shown) can be used to relay messages between devices 4. For example, when an air quality sensor in one suburb senses high pollution, it can send this information to the server software, which relays this information to other devices in an adjacent suburb and instructs them to close the air vents. Additional information available to the server on the Internet 3 is combined with data from the devices 4 to apply control algorithms that consider local performance of multiple devices 4 and global conditions. For example: reducing the cost of electrical bills by analysing when electricity prices are peaking and then switching on air conditioners 100 in one suburb for half an hour, then turning them off and switching on air conditioners 100 in an adjacent suburb for the next half hour, thereby halving power consumption.

The server also records the data transmitted by multiple devices 4 so that it can be viewed and analysed by anyone around the world.

Device Characterisation

The device 4 is programmed to characterise the apparatus 100 to which it is connected based on configurable and observable parameters.

The configurable parameters are entered using either the transceiver Ul module 9 or remotely through an Internet server that is in communication with the device 4. The parameters that can be entered include, but are not limited to:

The frequency of use for the room in which the device and apparatus is located

The purpose for which the room is normally used - A description of the room in which the appliance is located, type and location of insulation, number and size of windows and materials used for construction.

Description of the residents who use the room, including age, occupation, gender and fitness level

A preferred "switch-off" order for demand response events for the device, such that devices which are higher up in the order are switched off first during a demand response event, and devices that are lower in the order are switched off later, as further demand response capability is requested by the utility. The type, make and model of appliance to which the device is connected

Appliance power consumption, as measured by the user

The configurable parameters can be entered by the device user, a 3^rd party or a utility.

The observable parameters can be measured by sensors or electronic inputs which are located in the device 4 or in other devices 4 or apparatus 100 which are connected to the device 4. These parameters are predominantly based on instantaneous measurements and include, but are not limited to:

Temperature, humidity or other atmospheric parameters

Operating status of the appliance or apparatus 100 to which the device 4 is connected, such as whether the appliance 100 is on or off, or the temperature or fan speed setpoint of the device 4

A list of other devices 4 with which the device 4 has a live communications connection, including similar devices 4, smartphone transceivers 8 and internet servers.

Power consumption of the appliance 100

Remaining battery life or power supply of the device 4

Historical records of any observable parameters, which have been recorded by the device 4 can be used to create a digital profile to characterise the device 4. This includes but is not limited to:

Average temperature of the environment measured over a period of time

Frequency of operation of the appliance 100 measured over a period of time Heating or cooling rate of an AC appliance 100, determined by the time taken for environment temperature or humidity to change from a starting value to a setpoint value, once the appliance 100 begins operating - A relationship between heating or cooling rate and appliance 100 operating mode

A relationship between power consumption and appliance 100 operating mode Average number of similar devices 4, smartphone transceivers 8 or internet servers with which the device 4 has had a live communications connection

Percentage of time for which at least one live communications connection existed with a similar device 4 or smartphone transceivers 8 or internet server

Time taken for battery 28 life of the device 4 to be reduced by a predefined amount

Characterisation for Demand Response

The device 4, when used in conjunction with an apparatus such as an AC unit 100 or other electrical appliance 100, can be used to create demand response capability. More specifically, the ability for a utility 2 (illustrated in figure 1 ) or 3^rd party to turn the apparatus 100 on or off, or change its operating mode from a high-power mode to a low- power mode, provides a means of controlling the electrical consumption of the apparatus 100.

When the utility 2 or 3^rd party realises that a demand response event should occur, it needs a method of determining which devices 4 should be sent notification of the event. The method used to simplify this decision is a ranking system, where: - Each parameter is assigned to be either a "demand response capacity" parameter or an "operating sensitivity" parameter.

"Demand response capacity" parameters are assigned a ranking based on the amount of power savings that can be delivered during a demand response event, where a high ranking correlates with a high capacity to deliver power savings during a demand response event. For example, the cooling rate parameter for a cooling system 100 which has a high cooling rate, and can therefore reach a temperature setpoint sooner and be shut down more quickly, would have a high "Demand response capacity" ranking. perating sensitivity" parameters determine the amount of disruption to normal operating conditions during a demand response event. This could include customer comfort. For example, the location parameter for a cooling system 100 which is a freezer containing critical biological samples would have a low perating sensitivity" ranking because it would be very disruptive to turn off cooling and spoil the samples.

The rankings for each parameter are combined to calculate a single ranking for the appliance 100 in communication with a device 4. One method for calculating a final ranking is to assign a weighting to each parameter and calculate a weighted average ranking for the apparatus 100. The weightings can be adjusted based on the requirements of the utility 2 or 3^rd party, so that the impact of the demand response event is tailored to their specific situation. For example, in winter, it may be desirable to weight the "operating sensitivity" of heating systems higher than in summer.

When the utility 2 or 3^rd party realises that a demand response event should occur, it transmits notification of the event to the highest ranked apparatus 100 via devices 4 first, thereby ensuring the highest demand response capacity which is also the least disruptive to normal operations and tailored to the specific requirements of the utility 2 or 3^rd party.

In addition to the manner of ranking the apparatus 100 or devices 4 for their suitability to respond to a demand response event, there are situations where the device 4 must be removed entirely from the ranking.

One example of a reason for removing the device 4 from the ranking is if, when the device 4 responds to a demand response event, the health or safety of consumers or the general public may be affected. For example, turning off the air-conditioning in a room where the temperature rises rapidly, such as a west-facing glass-walled unit on a sunny afternoon, may result in life-threatening internal temperatures, even more so if the occupants of the room are elderly or sensitive to temperature extremes.

A second example of a reason for removing the device 4 from the ranking is that the device is unreachable - not in communication with the utility 2 - and therefore unable to be controlled. If the communication protocol being used by the device 4 is a 2-way protocol, then the device 4 can be considered unreachable if it is sent a message that requests a reply, and a reply is not received after a certain period of time.

It is to be noted that the rankings may also be updated periodically.

Further embodiments of the invention include:

1 ) Method in which the device 4 is installed. Some examples are: Clips around electrical wire and scavenges power - Connected to power supply of the device it is monitoring Plugged into a wall socket Battery powered with a recharging station

2) Type of parameters that are monitored can include anything measurable with a sensor which can be converted into an electronic signal

3) Type of parameters that are controlled can include anything that can be actuated with an electronic signal

Some examples are:

Power monitoring and control for renewable energy Temperature monitoring and control for Heating and cooling systems Air quality monitoring and control for ventilation systems

4) Algorithms used to monitor and control devices 4 can be simple (e.g. just recording data) to very sophisticated (e.g. tracking trends based on device sensor data, historical data, data obtained over the internet and state of other devices in the vicinity) Some examples are:

Monitoring indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity can be used as inputs to decide if a building requires additional ventilation or supplementary heating or cooling.

Similar measurements can be used on a greenhouse or wine cellar to control ventilation levels.

Monitoring power usage in a home as well as monitoring the current electricity tariff and then controlling when it is least expensive for an air-conditioner to turn on

Triggering an alarm condition when there is too much pollution (e.g. carbon monoxide) in a room to alert both the user and to alert others via a phone message, SMS or email.

5) Types of data transfer that could happen between devices 4, receiver 8 and external world 3. Some examples are:

Sensor data transferred to an internet server for archiving Sensor data transferred between devices 4 so that they are each aware of what the other is doing

Internet data such as weather forecasts displayed on devices 4.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, without departing from the broad general scope of the present disclosure. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

While this invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments thereof, it will be understood that it is capable of further modification(s). This application is intended to cover any variations uses or adaptations of the invention following in general, the principles of the invention and including such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains and as may be applied to the essential features hereinbefore set forth.

As the present invention may be embodied in several forms without departing from the spirit of the essential characteristics of the invention, it should be understood that the above described embodiments are not to limit the present invention unless otherwise specified, but rather should be construed broadly within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrative only and not restrictive. Various modifications and equivalent arrangements are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the invention and appended claims. Therefore, the specific embodiments are to be understood to be illustrative of the many ways in which the principles of the present invention may be practiced. In the following claims, means- plus-function clauses are intended to cover structures as performing the defined function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. For example, although a nail and a screw may not be structural equivalents in that a nail employs a cylindrical surface to secure wooden parts together, whereas a screw employs a helical surface to secure wooden parts together, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail and a screw are equivalent structures. It should be noted that where the terms "server", "secure server" or similar terms are used herein, a communication device is described that may be used in a communication system, unless the context otherwise requires, and should not be construed to limit the present invention to any particular communication device type. Thus, a communication device may include, without limitation, a bridge, router, bridge-router (router), switch, node, or other communication device, which may or may not be secure.

It should also be noted that where a flowchart is used herein to demonstrate various aspects of the invention, it should not be construed to limit the present invention to any particular logic flow or logic implementation. The described logic may be partitioned into different logic blocks (e.g., programs, modules, functions, or subroutines) without changing the overall results or otherwise departing from the true scope of the invention.

Often, logic elements may be added, modified, omitted, performed in a different order, or implemented using different logic constructs (e.g., logic gates, looping primitives, conditional logic, and other logic constructs) without changing the overall results or otherwise departing from the true scope of the invention.

Various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in many different forms, including computer program logic for use with a processor (e.g., a microprocessor, microcontroller, digital signal processor, or general purpose computer and for that matter, any commercial processor may be used to implement the embodiments of the invention either as a single processor, serial or parallel set of processors in the system and, as such, examples of commercial processors include, but are not limited to Merced™, Pentium™, Pentium II™, Xeon™, Celeron™, Pentium Pro™, Efficeon™, Athlon™, AMD™ and the like), programmable logic for use with a programmable logic device (e.g., a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or other PLD), discrete components, integrated circuitry (e.g., an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC)), or any other means including any combination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, predominantly all of the communication between users and the server is implemented as a set of computer program instructions that is converted into a computer executable form, stored as such in a computer readable medium, and executed by a microprocessor under the control of an operating system. Computer program logic implementing all or part of the functionality where described herein may be embodied in various forms, including a source code form, a computer executable form, and various intermediate forms (e.g., forms generated by an assembler, compiler, linker, or locator). Source code may include a series of computer program instructions implemented in any of various programming languages (e.g., an object code, an assembly language, or a high-level language such as Fortran, C, C++, JAVA, or HTML. Moreover, there are hundreds of available computer languages that may be used to implement embodiments of the invention, among the more common being Ada; Algol; APL; awk; Basic; C; C++; Conol; Delphi; Eiffel; Euphoria; Forth; Fortran; HTML; Icon; Java; Javascript; Lisp; Logo; Mathematica; MatLab; Miranda; Modula-2; Oberon; Pascal; Perl; PL/I; Prolog; Python; Rexx; SAS; Scheme; sed; Simula; Smalltalk; Snobol; SQL; Visual Basic; Visual C++; Linux and XML.) for use with various operating systems or operating environments. The source code may define and use various data structures and communication messages. The source code may be in a computer executable form (e.g., via an interpreter), or the source code may be converted (e.g., via a translator, assembler, or compiler) into a computer executable form.

The computer program may be fixed in any form (e.g., source code form, computer executable form, or an intermediate form) either permanently or transitorily in a tangible storage medium, such as a semiconductor memory device (eg, a RAM, ROM, PROM, EEPROM, or Flash-Programmable RAM), a magnetic memory device (e.g., a diskette or fixed disk), an optical memory device (e.g., a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM), a PC card (e.g. , PCMCIA card), or other memory device. The computer program may be fixed in any form in a signal that is transmittable to a computer using any of various communication technologies, including, but in no way limited to, analog technologies, digital technologies, optical technologies, wireless technologies (e.g., Bluetooth), networking technologies, and inter-networking technologies. The computer program may be distributed in any form as a removable storage medium with accompanying printed or electronic documentation (e.g., shrink wrapped software), preloaded with a computer system (e.g., on system ROM or fixed disk), or distributed from a server or electronic bulletin board over the communication system (e.g., the I nternet or World Wide Web).

Hardware logic (including programmable logic for use with a programmable logic device) implementing all or part of the functionality where described herein may be designed using traditional manual methods, or may be designed, captured, simulated, or documented electronically using various tools, such as Computer Aided Design (CAD), a hardware description language (e.g., VHDL or AHDL), or a PLD programming language (e.g., PALASM, ABEL, or CUPL). Hardware logic may also be incorporated into display screens for implementing embodiments of the invention and which may be segmented display screens, analogue display screens, digital display screens, CRTs, LED screens, Plasma screens, liquid crystal diode screen, and the like.

Programmable logic may be fixed either permanently or transitorily in a tangible storage medium, such as a semiconductor memory device (e.g., a RAM, ROM, PROM, EEPROM, or Flash-Programmable RAM), a magnetic memory device (e.g., a diskette or fixed disk), an optical memory device (e.g., a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM), or other memory device. The programmable logic may be fixed in a signal that is transmittable to a computer using any of various communication technologies, including, but in no way limited to, analog technologies, digital technologies, optical technologies, wireless technologies (e.g., Bluetooth), networking technologies, and internetworking technologies. The programmable logic may be distributed as a removable storage medium with accompanying printed or electronic documentation (e.g., shrink wrapped software), preloaded with a computer system (e.g., on system ROM or fixed disk), or distributed from a server or electronic bulletin board over the communication system (e.g., the Internet or World Wide Web).

"Comprises/comprising" and "includes/including" when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. Thus, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words 'comprise', 'comprising', 'includes', 'including' and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to".

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A device adapted to facilitate a demand response in an energy supply network wherein the device is operatively connectable by a consumer to an energy consuming apparatus for electronic communication therewith and adapted to store and process parameters characterising the apparatus, the device being further adapted for being assigned a weighted ranking for the apparatus based on a combination of rankings assigned to the parameters whereby the weighted ranking for the apparatus is communicated to the energy supply network for allocating a predetermined precedence value to the apparatus that is utilised for remote notification and control of the operation and/or energy consumption of the apparatus by a user, a third party or public utility.

2. A device as claimed in claim 1 wherein the parameters characterising the apparatus comprise configurable parameters and observable parameters.

3. A device as claimed in claim 1 or 2 wherein the parameters are assigned as one of: a demand response capacity parameter for ranking based on the amount of power savings that can be provided by the apparatus during a demand response event or; an operating sensitivity parameter for ranking based on the amount of disruption to normal operating conditions during a demand response event.

4. A device as claimed in claim 1 , 2 or 3 wherein the device is adapted to monitor one or a plurality of parameters and control one or a plurality of apparatus remotely wherein said device comprises a housing, one or a plurality of input sensors adapted to capture said parameter or parameters, one or a plurality of outputs adapted to control said one or a plurality of said apparatus, a micro controller adapted to process said input sensor parameters and generate said outputs; and a wireless link means adapted for communicating between the microcontroller and a remote transceiver.

5. A device as claimed in claim 4 wherein the micro controller is adapted to process said input parameters and/or generate said outputs responsive to commands from said remote transceiver.

6. A device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4 further comprising a shield operatively associated with the energy consuming apparatus which is adapted for selectively intercepting and/or transmitting control signals to the apparatus.

7. A device as claimed in claim 6 wherein the shield comprises:

an I R sensor directed away from the apparatus for intercepting incoming control signals to the apparatus;

an IR transmitter directed toward the apparatus for selectively relaying signals to the apparatus.

8. A device as claimed in claim 7 wherein the shield is operatively connected to the micro controller of the device for one or a combination of:

analysing signals received at the shield;

selectively transmitting received signals to the apparatus under control of the micro controller, and;

sending control signals from the micro controller to the apparatus.

9. A device as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 8 wherein the shield is operated in one of:

10. A device as claimed in claim 9 wherein the shield is switched between operating in the first and second mode by one or a combination of:

mechanical means;

electro-optical means.

1 1 . A method of controlling a demand response in at least one apparatus, the method comprising the steps of: communicating one or a combination of operational parameters of the at least one apparatus with at least one device operatively connectable by a consumer to the apparatus for electronic communication therewith; communicating between the at least one device and a transceiver wherein the transceiver comprises a configurable user interface adapted to communicate operational and control data between a consumer and the at least one apparatus via the at least one device; wherein at least one of the at least one device and the transceiver is network enabled for communicating in accordance with one or a combination of communication protocols to enable registration of characteristic information corresponding to each device and operative connection between each device, the consumer and a third party or a public utility.

12. A method as claimed in claim 1 1 wherein the third party comprises one or a combination of a public utility, government authority, central information repository or a proprietary information database being adapted as a source of global or external conditions and information as well as a means for data storage by way of communication through the operative connection between the third party and each device and the consumer.

13. A method as claimed in claim 1 1 or 12 wherein the at least one device operatively connectable by a consumer to the apparatus comprises a device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10.

14. A method as claimed in claim 1 1 , 12 or 13 further comprising the step of shielding the apparatus with a shield for selectively intercepting and/or transmitting control signals to the apparatus.

15. A method as claimed in claim 14 further comprising the steps of: analysing signals received at the shield;

sending control signals from the micro controller to the apparatus via the shield.

16. A method as claimed in claim 14 or 15 wherein the shield is operated in one of: a first mode wherein the shield is enabled to intercept all signals directed to the apparatus, and;

17. A method as claimed in claim 16 wherein the shield is switched between operating in the first and second mode by one or a combination of:

mechanical means;

electro-optical means.

18. A system for controlling a demand response in at least one apparatus, the system comprising: at least one device operatively connectable by a consumer to the at least one apparatus for electronic communication therewith wherein the operable connection is adapted to communicate one or a combination of operational parameters of the at least one apparatus with the at least one device; a transceiver comprising a configurable user interface adapted to communicate operational and control data between a consumer and the at least one apparatus via the at least one device; wherein at least one of the at least one device and the transceiver is network enabled for communicating in accordance with one or a combination of communication protocols to enable registration of characteristic information corresponding to each device and operative connection between each device, the consumer and a third party or public utility.

19. A system as claimed in claim 1 8 wherein the third party comprises one or a combination of a public utility, government authority, central information repository or a proprietary information database being adapted as a source of global or external conditions and information as well as a means for data storage by way of communication through the operative connection between the third party and each device and the consumer.

20. A system as claimed in any one of claims 18 or 19 wherein the at least one device comprises a device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10.

21 . Apparatus adapted to control a demand response in at least one apparatus, said apparatus comprising: processor means adapted to operate in accordance with a predetermined instruction set,

said apparatus, in conjunction with said instruction set, being adapted to perform the method steps as claimed in any one of claims 1 1 to 17.

22. A computer program product comprising: a computer usable medium having computer readable program code and computer readable system code embodied on said medium for controlling a demand response in at least one apparatus within a data processing system, said computer program product comprising: computer readable code within said computer usable medium for carrying out the method steps as claimed in any one of claims 1 1 to 17.

23. A device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the device is further adapted to calculate the weighted ranking.

24. A device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 1 0 wherein the weighted ranking is calculated by the user or the third party.

25. A method as claimed in any one of claims 1 1 to 17 further comprising the steps of: calculating a weighted ranking for the at least one apparatus based on a combination of rankings assigned to the operational parameters of the at least one apparatus whereby the weighted ranking for the apparatus is communicated to an energy supply network for allocating a predetermined precedence value to the apparatus that is utilised for remote notification and control of the operation and/or energy consumption of the apparatus by a user, a third party or public utility; including the calculated weighted ranking within the characteristic information corresponding to each device.

26. A device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the device is adapted for retrofit with installed apparatus.

27. A shield operatively associated with a receiver of a consumer appliance for selectively intercepting and/or transmitting control signals to the consumer appliance, the shield comprising:

28. A shield as claimed in claim 27 wherein the shield is operable in one of:

29. A shield as claimed in claim 27 or 28 wherein the shield is switched between operating in the first and second mode by one or a combination of:

mechanical means;

electro-optical means.

28. A device, system and/or apparatus as herein disclosed.

29. A method, process or protocol as herein disclosed.