WO2021119764A1

WO2021119764A1 - Method & system for an electrically powered apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2021119764A1
Application number: PCT/AU2020/051406
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stephen John Soutar
Original assignee: AEI Developments Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2019-12-20
Filing date: 2020-12-20
Publication date: 2021-06-24
Also published as: AU2020408372A1

Abstract

A system (10) for control of a plurality of electrically powered devices (12) using live pricing data. The system (10) including a remote system (18) and a local system (15) adapted to operate the plurality of electrically powered devices (12). The remote system (18) includes a remote controller adapted to provide a power pricing signal based on live power pricing data and a timer configured to provide a timer signal, the local system (15) is configured to receive the power pricing signal and the timer signal, and determine that the remote system (18) is in an operational state or an alert state by performing a check on the timer signal. In the operational state the local system (15) is configured to enable operation of one or more of the plurality of electrically powered devices (12) based on operational schedule criteria and the power pricing signal; and in the alert state, the local system (15) is configured to inhibit operation of the electrically powered devices (12). A related method is also disclosed.

Description

Method & System for an Electrically Powered Apparatus

Related Applications

[001] This application claims priority from Australian provisional patent application no. 2019904866 filed 20 December 2019, the contents of which are incorporated by reference.

Technical Field

[002] The invention relates to a method and a system for an electrically powered apparatus or devices, in particular, a method and system for control of one or more electrically powered apparatuses such as, but not limited to, pumping systems used in irrigation based on electricity prices and a pumping schedule.

Background

[003] Electrically powered apparatuses such as irrigation or refrigeration systems are used in a variety of industrial and farming applications. For example, irrigation systems are used in farming to deliver water to the soil and crops, as required. Such systems typically include a plurality of pumps that are used to deliver water through an irrigation network.

[004] The amount of irrigation that is required may vary on a daily, weekly or monthly basis - however, generally there may be some sort of irrigation schedule such as a daily or weekly amount of irrigation that is required. In particular, there may be a time period between when, for example, the ground needs to be charged with water which may depend on factors such as soil moisture content.

[005] In the example of refrigeration systems, such systems may include a plurality of refrigeration units that need to be powered to maintain a particular temperature. Similarly, to irrigation systems, there may be a refrigeration schedule and there may be a time period between when, for example, a refrigeration unit needs to be cooled based on how long it is able to maintain its temperature once cooled.

[006] A problem with such electrically powered systems is that the systems may draw significant power, and in particular, may draw power at times of high electricity prices such as during a peak period. For example, irrigation systems that include a plurality of pumps may draw significant power, and in particular, may draw power at times of high electricity prices such as during a peak period. This problem is exacerbated if multiple irrigation systems at different locations or properties are operating.

[007] Another problem exists if irrigation systems are stopped and started at frequent intervals as the water delivered may be insufficient ,or there may be losses with start up and shut down. Similar issues exist with refrigeration systems in relation to being started and stopped.

[008] Purchasing live power directly from the grid involves having a system in place that is able to monitor the current power price and be configured to selectively provide power to a consumer that may be a household, property or industrial site. For example, such systems may be configured to operate during a time of lower power pricing and restrict power usage when the power price is high.

[009] Typically, such systems have not been used domestically or commercially because power may need to be consumed at a time of high cost, such as a peak times, and the cost may be excessive. Further, the system and hardware may not be reliable and may, for example, fail which may cause the power to be consumed at a high rate. As such, power service providers (i.e. electricity companies) are typically used whom provide average type rates. However, then the consumer is not ever able to benefit from potential lower pricing at off-peak times. Accordingly, a problem exists with the robustness of systems used in relation to live power purchasing and control of electrical apparatuses such as, but not limited to, pumps and refrigeration units.

[0010] The invention disclosed herein seeks to overcome one or more of the above identified problems or at least provide a useful alternative. Summary

[0011] In accordance with a first broad aspect there is provided, a system for control of a plurality of electrically powered devices, such as pumps, compressors, motors or the like, using live pricing data. The system may include a remote system and a local system adapted to operate the plurality of electrically powered devices, wherein the remote system includes a remote controller adapted to provide a power pricing signal based on live power pricing data and a timer configured to provide a timer signal. The local system is configured to receive the power pricing signal and the timer signal, and determine that the remote system is in an operational state or an alert state by performing a check on the timer signal. In the operational state the local system is configured to enable operation of one or more of the plurality of electrically powered devices based on operational schedule criteria and the power pricing signal, and wherein in the alert state, the local system is configured to inhibit operation of the electrically powered devices.

[0012] In an aspect, the remote system includes a plurality of remote controllers each with an associated timer, and wherein the local system is configured to compare a plurality of timer signals from the plurality of remote controllers, and determine the alert state if differences between the plurality of timer signals are identified.

[0013] In yet another aspect, the operational schedule criteria include an operational period criteria, a power pricing criteria and a physical effect criteria.

[0014] In yet another aspect, the physical effect criteria include one or more of a discharge of water and a change in temperature.

[0015] In yet another aspect, the operational period criteria include a minimum period of operation.

[0016] In yet another aspect, the power pricing criteria include power price threshold data. [0017] In yet another aspect, the operational schedule criteria, includes a first period and first schedule data, the first schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data.

[0018] In yet another aspect, the operational schedule criteria include a second period being shorter than the first period, the second schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; and a calculated to be consumed power price over the second period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data.

[0019] In yet another aspect, the system is configured to, based on the operational schedule criteria, adjust the operation of the electrically powered devices over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data.

[0020] In yet another aspect, the operational schedule criteria include predetermined threshold price data and the local system is configured to inhibit operation of the plurality of electrically powered devices if the power pricing signal indicates a price higher than a threshold price of the predetermined threshold price data.

[0021] In yet another aspect, the electrically powered devices include one or more of pumps and compressors.

[0022] In accordance with a second broad aspect there is provided, a method for control of a plurality of electrically powered devices using live pricing data and a direct connection to the grid, the method including: monitoring live power pricing data at a remote system and providing a power pricing signal based on the live power pricing data and a timer signal; receiving at a local system the power pricing signal and the timer signal; determining, at the local system, that the remote system is in an operational state or an alert state by performing a check on the timer signal, wherein in the operational state the local control system is configured to enable operation of one or more of the plurality of electrically powered devices based on operational schedule criteria and the power pricing signal; and wherein in the alert state, the local control system is configured to inhibit operation of the electrically powered devices.

[0023] In accordance with a third broad aspect there is provided, a system for control of electrical devices including a remote control system and a local system, the remote control system including: a main controller adapted to receive power pricing data from an external source and communicate a control signal with the local system; and a timer configured to provide a timer signal to the local system, and the local system including a local controller adapted to receive the control signal and the timer signal, wherein the system is configurable to: Determine forecast and/or historical pricing data from power pricing data; Receive from a user, for a first period, first schedule data, the first schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; Determine, for a second period being shorter than the first period, second schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; and a calculated to be consumed power price over the second period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; Adjusting, an operational amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; and Determine, at the local controller, an operating state of the main controller based at least in part on the timer signal, and in an operative state proceed to operate the electrical devices over the one or more operating time periods.

[0024] In accordance with a fourth broad aspect there is provided, a method for control of electrical devices including a remote control system and a local system, the remote control system including: a main controller adapted to receive power pricing data from an external source and communicate a control signal with the local system; and a timer configured to provide a timer signal to the local system, and the local system including a local controller adapted to receive the control signal and the timer signal, the method including the steps of: Determine forecast and/or historical pricing data from power pricing data; Receive from a user, for a first period, first schedule data, the first schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; Determine, for a second period being shorter than the first period, second schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; and a calculated to be consumed power price over the second period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; Adjusting, an operational amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; and Determine, at the local controller, an operating state of the main controller based at least in part on the timer signal, and in an operative state proceed, to operate the electrical devices over the one or more operating time periods.

[0025] In accordance with a fifth broad aspect there is provided, a system for control of irrigation including a central control system and one or more irrigation systems, the central control system including: a main controller adapted to receive power pricing data from an external source and communicate a control signal with the one or more irrigator systems; and a timer configured to provide a timer signal to the one or more irrigator systems, and the one or more irrigation system including a local controller adapted to receive the control signal and the timer signal, wherein the system is configurable to: Determine forecast and/or historical pricing data from power pricing data; Receiving from a user, for a first irrigation period, first irrigation schedule data, the first irrigation schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; Determine, for a second irrigation period being shorter than the first irrigation period, second irrigation schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; and a calculated to be consumed power price over the second irrigation period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; Adjusting, an irrigation amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; and Determine, at the local controller, an operating state of the main controller based at least in part on the timer signal, and in an operative state proceed, to operate one or more pumps of the one or more irrigator systems over the one or more operating time periods. [0026] In accordance with a sixth broad aspect there is provided, a method for irrigation, the method including the steps of: Determining, forecast and/or historical pricing data from power pricing data; Receiving from a user, for a first irrigation period, first irrigation schedule data, the first irrigation schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; Determining, for a second irrigation period being shorter than the first irrigation period, second irrigation schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of one or more of: the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; a calculated to be consumed power price over the second irrigation period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; Adjusting, an irrigation amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; Communicate the control signal so as to operate one or more pumps of the one or more irrigator systems over the one or more operating time periods.

[0027] In accordance with a seventh broad aspect there is provided, a control system for control of one or more irrigator systems, the control system including: a controller adapted to receive power pricing data from an external source and communicate a control signal with the one or more irrigator systems, the controller being configurable to: Determine historical and/or forecasted pricing data from power pricing data; Receive from a user, for a first irrigation period, first irrigation schedule data, the first irrigation schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; Determine, for a second irrigation period being shorter than the first irrigation period, second irrigation schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; a calculated to be consumed power price over the second irrigation period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; Adjusting, an irrigation amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of the expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; and Communicate the control signal so as to operate one or more pumps of the one or more irrigator systems over the one or more operating time periods.

[0028] In accordance with an eighth broad aspect there is provided, a system for control of irrigation including a central control system and one or more irrigation systems, the central control system including: a main controller adapted to receive power pricing data from an external source and communicate a control signal with the one or more irrigator systems; and a timer configured to provide a timer signal to the one or more irrigator systems, and the one or more irrigation system including a local controller adapted to receive the control signal and the timer signal, wherein the system is configurable to: Determine forecast and/or historical pricing data from power pricing data; Receiving from a user, for a first irrigation period, first irrigation schedule data, the first irrigation schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; Determine, for a second irrigation period being shorter than the first irrigation period, second irrigation schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; and a calculated to be consumed power price over the second irrigation period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; Adjusting, an irrigation amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; and Determine, at the local controller, an operating state of the main controller based at least in part on the timer signal, and in an operative state proceed, to operate one or more pumps of the one or more irrigator systems over the one or more operating time periods.

[0029] In accordance with a ninth broad aspect there is provided, a system for scheduled control of a plurality of electrically powered devices using live pricing data purchased directly from the grid, the system including a remote system and a local system adapted to operate the plurality of electrically powered devices, wherein the remote system includes at least two remote controllers adapted to provide respective power pricing signals based on live power pricing data and at least two timers configured to provide timer signals associated respectively with the at least two remote controllers, and wherein the local system is configured to be in simultaneous communication with each of the at least two remote controllers and receive the power pricing signals and the timer signals, and determine that the remote control system is in an operational state or an alert state by performing a check on the timer signals, wherein in the operational state the local system is configured to enable operation of one or more of the plurality of electrically powered devices based on operational schedule criteria and the power pricing signal; and wherein in the alert state, the local system is configured to inhibit operation of the electrically powered devices.

[0030] In an aspect, the check includes determining if there is an error in at least one of the timer signals.

[0031] In another aspect, the check includes determining if there is a difference between the timer signals.

[0032] Further aspects, functions and features of the invention are detailed below and in the accompanying Figures.

Brief Description of the Figures

[0033] The invention is described, by way of non-limiting example only, by reference to the accompanying figures, in which;

[0034] Figure l is a block diagram illustrating a system for irrigation; and [0035] Figure 2 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method for irrigation.

Detailed Description

System

[0036] Referring to Figure 1 there is shown an example of a system 10 for the operation of one or more electrically powered apparatuses, devices or machines 12 such as, but not limited to, electrically powered compressors, pumps, drives, air conditioning, automation, motors or the like. In this example, the electrically powered apparatuses, devices or machines 12 are shown as, but not limited to, one or more pumps 14 for irrigation.

[0037] The electrically powered apparatuses, devices or machines 12 may be operated by one or more local systems 15. In this example, the one or more pumps 14 may form part of one or more local systems 15 that in this example are provided as irrigation systems 16. The irrigation systems 16 may be located at the same location or at one or more different locations. In this example, the irrigation system 16 may be located at one or more installations such as geographically separate farms, properties or the like. The irrigation systems 16 may include other devices such as pivot irrigators or the like. The irrigation systems 16 may include one or more associated local controllers or control systems 17.

[0038] In other examples, the local system 15 may include other electrically powered devices such as compressors used in refrigeration systems or air conditioning or the like. The local controller or control systems 17 may include one or a plurality Programmable Logic Controllers (not shown) that execute program written in software and a communication means (not shown) for wire or wireless communication with a main or central control system 18. Such Programmable Logic Controllers may have a processor and associated memory (not shown). The software configures the local controller 17 to execute the various methods described herein. The local system 15, namely the local controller 17, receives data from the main control system 18 and then determines how and when to operate any electrical devices 12, in this example, pumps 14.

[0039] The local controller 17 may receive inputs or data from one or more sensors 27. In this example, the sensors 27 may include soil moisture sensors. However, in other examples, the sensors 27 could include temperature, humidity sensors, rain gauges or the like. The local system 15, namely the local controller 17, may include a plurality of subsystems connected to electrical devices 12 such as, in this example, pumps 14. Each of these subsystems may include Programmable Logic Controllers. The local controllers 17 may be provided in a single housing or box or may be provided as a set of housings or boxes or units that contain each of the above-mentioned subsystems. The subsystems may be remote and located at each of the electrical devices 12 (such as pumps or pivots). These subsystems may also have sub-controllers and watch dog timers (not shown), as failure detection is critical to ensuring the system shuts down. The subsystems may include hardware interlocks, to inhibit operation in the event of a system error or failure, and may be configured to operate variable speed drives.

[0040] The local system 15 is in electrical commination with a local main power source via a transformer 23. The local controller 17 is configured to monitor the mains power between the transformer 23 and the local system 15 to monitor the available and consumed power. The power from the transformer 23 that is provided to the devices 12, in this example, the pumps 14 is controlled by the local control systems 17 including turning on and off devices 12 to receive power and recording power that is available and/or consumed.

[0041 ] The local system 15 may include alternative energy sources 31. The monitoring of the mains power locally also allows for optimising of alternative energy sources 31 that may be provided onsite. For example, local wind, battery power, solar energy may be available. The local system 15 may be configured to selectively use local alternative power in certain circumstances such as if the live price.

[0042] The main control system 18 is arranged to be in operative communication with the local controller 17 of the local system 15, and be configured to receive data from various sources including, but not limited to, receiving live pricing data 19 and receiving user inputted data 21 relating to the operation of the one or more local systems 15 at the one or more installations.

[0043] The main control system 18 preferably communicates with a user or system interface 33 that allows input of the inputted data 21 and may provide information to the user such as the status of the system 10, and an indication of the live power price. The user interface 33 may also allow for general configuration of the system. The main control system 18 may also receive network management data 29. The network management data 29 may be provided not only the usual demand management but other network assistance / correction roles including, but not limited to, frequency variation, voltage control, reverse flow assistance. The local controllers 17 may also have a local interface or be in communication with the system interface 33. [0044] The communication may be via any suitable wire or wireless means. The main control system 18 may also be configured to receive local data 25 such as local weather, temperature, wind or the like. This local data may also be provided to the local control systems 15.

[0045] Preferably, in this example, the main control system 18 may be provided in duplicate, annotated as 18a and 18b, each having a controller 20a, 20b, watch dog timers 22a, 22b, battery backed power suppliers 24a, 24b and communication modules 26a, 26b that may connect wirelessly to the Internet or other suitable data transmission and receipt means. The controller 20a, 20b may be any suitable computing device including Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) having a processor and memory (not shown). The controllers 20a, 20b may execute software programs to perform the methods and functions as described herein. It is noted that a single interface may be provided for duplicate controllers 20a, 20b of the control systems annotated as 18a and 18b.

[0046] Each of the main control systems 18a and 18b may be geographically separate such as in different towns to thereby, for example, have different or independent power supplies and Internet connections. The watch dog timers 22a, 22b may be configured to count each second from 0 to 30000, and then restart at 0. As such, the main control systems 18a and 18b may be remote to each other and remote to the one or more local systems 15. Each of the main control systems 18a and 18b may be in its own housing or box.

[0047] Each of the one or more local systems 15 may be in simultaneous communication with both of the central control system 18a and 18b thereby the central control system data communication with the one or more irrigation systems 16 has a high reliability. It is noted the local systems 15 may be geographically separate, such as being at different farms

[0048] In particular, the one or more irrigation systems 16, more specifically the local controllers 17, are configured to receive data from both of the central control system 18a and 18b including signals from the watch dog timers 22a, 22b, and may determine or check that if at least one of the timer signals of watch dog timers 22a, 22b is changing - then the associated central control system 18a and 18b is operational. [0049] The local controller 17 may also be configured to perform other checks or comparative operations such as determining if there are unexpected differences between the timer signal or the provided power price signals. In this example, a comparative routine may determine the timer signals are out of sync, one or both timer signals are not advancing, or the comparative routine may determine differences between received power data values above a predetermined threshold.

[0050] This is important to address the problem of system robustness for technical reliability because if power is drawn at the incorrect time, the financial consequence may be significant. The local system 15 may also have other fail safes in place to inhibit operation such as if a power price spike is identified, or a failure or error in the main control system 18 is identified such as a loss of signal therefrom. For example, the local system 15 may include fail safe hardware, such as hardware interlocks associated with each or groups of electrical devices 12 that inhibits or stops operation of the devices 12 in an alert or failure state. Again, this assist with robustness to avoid unexpected use of power in situations where the power price may be high, unknown or otherwise.

[0051] Each of the irrigation systems 16 may include a water source such as a dam or reservoir and a network of pipes (not shown) through which water is pumped via the one or more pumps 14. The one or more pumps 14 may be independently controlled by the local controllers 17 which may be in turn be controlled by the main control system 18a and 18b. The irrigation systems 16 may also include elevated linear irrigators or similar ground-based irrigators such as pivot irrigators. Each of the local irrigation systems 16 including the one or more pumps 14 may be manually controlled, if required. A manual stop is a final fail safe of the system 10.

[0052] The pumps 14 may be fitted with variable speed drives (not shown) such that, for example, the rate of pumping may be selectively increased or decreased. For example, during a period of low power pricing the pumping rate may be reduced and during a time of low power pricing the rate may be increased, even if that rate is not the most efficient. This creates the ability of the local system 15 to have variable demand. [0053] Similar variable drives or devices could be fitted to other examples of the local system 15 that may include refrigeration compressors or the like, that could be used to modify the usual operation to, for example, operate at a high rate at the expense of efficiency if power prices are low.

[0054] The below provides an example of a method 100 for operating the system 10 based on live pricing and an application of irrigation control. However, the example is applicable to other applications. The method may be run by software executed by the main system 18 and/or the local system 15 with the main system 18 being mainly responsible for reliable providing of the pricing data and the local system 15, with the one or more local controllers 17 with operation and scheduling of the local electrical devices 12, and may have a range of subsystems or sub-controllers to operate each type of local electrical devices 12 that may have separate operating schedule and conditions. The subsystems may have sub-controllers that are controlled by and report to central local controller 17 of the local system 15. The sub-controllers may operate the hardware interlocks and any variable speed drives.

[0055] The method 100 is shown in a simplified format to aid understanding, and in practice will be performed by execution of one or more software programs stored by the main control system 18 and the local systems 15.

Live Pricing & Irrigation Control

[0056] Pricing data is available from various sources. One source of input pricing data is available from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) which is available via a data feed from AEMO via the Internet or other wireless network. The pricing data available includes live pricing data.

[0057] Such live pricing data includes: a. Dispatch Price (5 minutes); i. The current 5 -minute spot price in $ / MWh; b. Spot price (30 minutes); i. The average of the last six, 5 minutes dispatch prices for the last 30 minutes period in $/ MWh; ii. 30 minute periods are from:

1. Real clock time, 0 minutes to 30 minutes;

2. Real clock time, 30 minutes to 0 minutes; c. Forecast Spot Price (pre-dispatch) in $/MWh; i. For 30 minute interval periods for at least the next 24 hours.

[0058] In a deregulated electricity market, such “wholesale” power prices can fluctuate widely. This fluctuation provides an opportunity to move irrigation scheduling to minimise costs using real time control systems. As an example, live power pricing in this market can fluctuate from -$1000 to $14,300 which is a reason why the technical implementation of the system 10 and its robustness are important.

Initial Inputs to the System

[0059] The central or main control system 18 is adapted to receive price data including live power pricing and forecast power pricing from regulating authorities, in this case, AEMO. The pricing data is considered to be correct if time stamp data, in this case, the 5 minute data time stamp provide by one or both of the watch dog times 22a, 22b changes at least every 6 minutes. Failure to change will trigger an alarm condition or alert state for this data at the central control system 18 and/or at the local controller 17 of the local system 15. In this example, the alert state is identified by the local controller 17 and the local controller 17 may be configured to inhibit operation of the pumps 14 (or other devices 12) in the alert or failed state.

[0060] An example of typical daily price data is shown below in Table 1, including 30- minute Spot Price - Actual (history) and 30 minute Spot Price - Forecast (predicted).

Table 1 - 30-minute Spot Price (Actual and Forecast)

5 minute Spot Price - Actual (History)

Table 2 - 5-minute Spot Price (Actual and Forecast)

[0061] At step 110, from this received pricing data information, the central control system 18 is configured by software to initially determine operative or historical pricing data from the power pricing data. In other examples, the main or central control system 18 may simply provide data indicative of the power price and the determinations may be performed by the local control system 15, both examples are contemplated herein.

[0062] The historical pricing data includes an average price for a first predetermined time period that may be a longer historical time period, in this example, the last 7 days or a week, and also the average price for a second predetermined time period that may be a relatively shorter time period, in this case, a daily period including the average price based on 30 minute spot price so far for the present day, and the scheduled forecast 30 minute price for rest of the day.

[0063] Accordingly, the historical pricing data includes data from both of the first and second predetermined time period that in this example represents both long term or weekly and short term or daily data, as well as some near-term forecast data. The forecast pricing data may be used to assist to determine when the local system 15, in this example, the irrigation systems 16 are to become operative. Such data may be stored and updated in memory.

Weekly Scheduling [0064] The electrically powered devices 12, in this example pumps 14, are operated in accordance with an operational criteria or schedule. The operational criteria or schedule may set a longer first period over which the electrically powered devices 12 are to operate, such as a weekly schedule, as outlined below and also a shorter second period, which may account for minimum operation periods to account for start up losses and also minimum “charge” periods, for example, minimum irrigation times to actually wet the ground.

[0065] In this example, to provide adequate irrigation and also adaptability, each one or more of the irrigation systems 16 for each property has an associated first irrigation schedule data entered by a user at step 120 that includes an irrigation schedule over a first irrigation period. In this example, the first irrigation period may be a week. Of course, other periods may be used varying from days to months. This data may be entered and determined by the central control system 18 or the local control system 15. Such data may be stored and updated in memory.

[0066] Irrigating based on a weekly irrigation or longer schedule provides a degree of flexibility to the daily irrigation targets. It allows the daily totals to be initially set by the user, then automatically adjust according the varying daily average live power costs, within limits set by the user.

[0067] The first irrigation schedule data may be inputted to the central control system 18 or the local control system 15. For example, the week commencing at midnight on Monday. This allows the weekend, the lowest network cost time, to be the catchup time.

[0068] The user may set a percentage of the weekly irrigation (Volume or time) to irrigate each day of the week, allowing a bias to be provided on weekends, and also allows irrigation management based on weather and ground conditions.

[0069] To control weekly irrigation, the user provides the following parameters that form the first irrigation schedule data for each specific property or irrigator system 16.

^■ Minimum run times (in 30 minute segments)

^■ Maximum average price - 30 minutes

^■ Maximum average price - 5 minutes

^■ Maximum average pumping price for day ^■ Maximum average pumping price for week

^■ % underrun (of time or volume) for each day

^■ % overrun (of time or volume) for each day

^■ Irrigation selected for time or volume

^■ % Price above 7 days average price to reduce daily irrigation

^■ % Price below 7 days average price to increase daily irrigation

[0070] The Extreme Price Limit parameter is set by the system operator. When the 5 minutes spot price is above this limit pumping is automatically inhibited by the central control system 18 or the local control system 15. Depending on the configuration predetermined threshold price data may include: maximum average price - 30 minutes, maximum average price - 5 minutes, maximum average pumping price for day maximum average pumping price for week.

[0071] Accordingly, the first irrigation schedule data includes predetermined irrigation amount data such as volume or time of irrigation, predetermined operating time data such as minimum run times etc, predetermined user set price threshold data such as max price etc. and predetermined adjustment data such as the % Price above 7 days average price to reduce daily irrigation and % Price below 7 days average price to increase daily irrigation.

Daily Irrigation Scheduling

[0072] At step 130, the system 10, either the central control system 18 or the local control system 15, is configured by software to determine second irrigation schedule data over a second irrigation period, in this case, the second irrigation period is a daily period. The second irrigation schedule data is determined or calculated data and is used to control the actual irrigation that is to occur on a daily basis. The determination of the second irrigation schedule data may be calculated in real time based the on live pricing data, the forecast pricing data and the first (weekly) irrigation schedule data that includes the predetermined irrigation amount data and predetermined user set threshold price data. [0073] In more detail, to determine the second irrigation schedule data over the second irrigation period, being in this case a daily period, the central control system 18 or local control system may be configured by software to processes the following logic continuously, during each daily second irrigation period: a. Calculate how many whole first time segments, in this example, 30 minutes periods left in the day i. Determine the average price for each combination of 30 minutes time segment a. For each first 30 minute time segment i. Calculate the average scheduled price ii. Create a list of lowest to highest price segments b. For each second time segment, in this example, a 60 minute time segment i. Calculate the average scheduled price ii. Create a list of lowest to highest price segments c. For each third time segment, in this example, a 90 minute time segment i. Calculate the average scheduled price ii. Create a list of lowest to highest price segments d. Do until time segment > time left in the day

[0074] It is noted that the first, second and third time segments may be other suitable time periods, as required.

[0075] To determine the second irrigation schedule data over the second irrigation period, being in this case a daily period, the central control system 18 or the local control system 15 may be configured by software to processes the following logic. For example: at 17:59, Information from the received price data may be as shown below in Table 3.

Table 3 - Example Received Price Data

[0076] Referring to Table 3, there are 12, whole 30 minutes periods left in the day and as the system 18 may determine the following: o 12, 30 minutes time segments

^■ 18:00 to 18:30, 18:30 to 19:00, 19:00 to 19:30,

. 23:30 to 0:00 o 11, 60 minutes time segments

^■ 18:00 to 19:00, 18:30 to 19:30, 19:00 to 20:00,

. 23:00 to 0:00 o 10, 90 minutes time segments

^■ 18:00 to 19:30, 18:30 to 20:00, 19:00 to 20:30,

. 22:30 to 0:00 o . o . o 2, 300 minutes time segments

^■ 18:00 to 23:30, 18:30 to 0:00 o 1, 360 minutes time segment

^■ 18:00 to 0:00

Table 4: Average Live Price for each multiple of 30 minute time segment

Table 5 - Order, from lowest to highest, for each multiple of 30 minute time segment

[0077] The central control system 18 or local system 15 is then configured by software to determine the most cost-effective way to irrigate the remaining time whilst satisfying the conditions of at least the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data. The minimum operational period may include considering of start up time and losses, and also minimum charge times for the system, such as charge time to soak the ground.

[0078] Thereby the central control system 18 or local control system 15 seeks to minimise the calculated consumed power price that would be incurred of the irrigation system 16 operates over the one or more predetermined operating time periods. The central control system 18 or local control system 15, however, does continue to receive and monitor the live price data and may send a signal to cease operation of the irrigation system 16 if the live price increases above the relevant values of the predetermined threshold provide data.

[0079] As an example, if there are currently 5 hours of irrigation pumping time remaining, and the minimum predetermined operating time is a minimum run time of 1 hour, then, 300 minutes of pumping can be made up from: o 1 of, 300 minutes segment

^■ Determine lowest scheduled average price for above non overlapping segments o 1 of, 240 minutes segment, and 1 off, 60 minutes segment

^■ Determine lowest scheduled average price for above non overlapping segments o 1 of, 210 minutes segment, and 1 off, 90 minutes segment

^■ Determine lowest scheduled average price for above non overlapping segments o 1 of, 180 minutes segment, and 2 off, 60 minutes segments

^■ Determine lowest scheduled average price for above non overlapping segments o 1 of, 150 minutes segment, and 1 off, 60 minutes segment, 1 off 90 minutes segment

^■ Determine lowest scheduled average price for above non overlapping segments o 2 of, 150 minutes segments

^■ Determine lowest average price for above non overlapping segments

[0080] The system 10, via the central control system 18 or local control system 15, is then configured to determine from above combinations, the lowest average scheduled price, as summarised in Table 6 below.

Table 6: Selected Irrigation Schedule

[0081] In this example, the one or more operating time periods for irrigation includes two time periods totalling 5 hours in the selected 30 minutes time segments (indicated in orange above). The two operating time periods for irrigation include 1, 60 min seg, from 18:00 to 19:00 and 1, 240 min seg, from 20:00 to 0:00. Shown in orange above. More flexibility and therefore a lower price may be achieved by reducing the minimum run time.

Adaptive Daily Irrigation

[0082] The system 10 via the central control system 18 or local control system 15 may be configured by software to compare the received live price data to the determined operative or historical pricing data that includes, for example, an average power price for the previous 7 days. On days when the average price for today is higher than the 7 days average price by a set amount or percentage as set by the user and stored within the user control data, the control system 18 may be configured to reduce the daily irrigation total by a predetermined adjustment parameter that may be a set amount or percentage (of time or volume, whichever is selected), as set by the user via the user control data. [0083] On days when the average price for today is lower than the 7 days average price by the set percentage (as set by the user), the system 18 may be configured to increase the daily irrigation total by a set percentage (of time or volume, whichever is selected), as set or determined by the user via the user control data.

[0084] Accordingly, at step 140, the system 10, via the central control system 18 or local control system 15, is able to adjust irrigation, based on the adjustment data, at the second shorter irrigation time period based on, at least, a comparison of the calculated to be consumed power price and the historical pricing data to obtain the preferred outcome over the longer weekly second irrigation time period whilst seeking to meet the irrigation targets over the first irrigation time period.

[0085] At step 150, the local control system 15, in communication with the central control system 18 is adapted to perform a check of data robustness to determine an operational or an alert state that may include checking timer signals to ensure that the timer associated with received power price signal is as expected such as increasing in value. The check of data may include comparison between data such as timer signals received from the simultaneous communication with the main control system 18.

[0086] At step 160, in the operational state, the local control system 15, in communication with the central control system 18 is adapted operate devices 12, namely the pumps 14 of the irrigations systems 16 over the second irrigation period.

Extreme Price Limit

[0087] If the average 5-minute price exceeds the Extreme Price Limit, that may form part of the price threshold data, the central system 18 or local control system 15 may be configured to instruct all remote systems including all irrigation systems 16 to inhibit irrigation and stop pumping. The pumps 14 will also be inhibited if no central systems 18 are available, and in some examples may only be overridden by the user under very strict conditions as operating the pumps 14 of the irrigation system 16 during extreme pricing can have a significant high impact on the months power price. So, for example, in an override condition - the pump 14 can only be overridden by the user pressing the override button every 15 minutes and during this period of time it is the user’s responsibility to watch the market price.

[0088] It is noted that whilst the above system and method have been described in relation to an irrigation system having pumps, the system and method may find use in other applications for the control of devices and apparatuses that may need to be operated in accordance with a predetermine schedule and may be configured to adaptively consume power at live pricing rate. The method and system can be applied to any electrical system that is required to operate for a known or predetermined period of time, and can vary when operation occurs.

[0089] Advantageously, the systems and methods described herein address a technical problem in relation to the robustness of such systems that operate with live power purchasing to inhibit against system failure or errors that may result in unintended power consumption which may be very costly. For example, use of multiple geographically distributed controllers, timers, local controllers with local comparative checks and also failure modes such as hardware interlocks at each or groups of electrical devices are provided.

[0090] Further, systems and methods described herein address another technical problem of operating systems that have minimum run or charge times as well as scheduled requirements of a physical effect (such as water discharge or cooling over a longer period) as well as multiple types of electrical apparatus or devices to adaptively consume power at live pricing rate.

[0091] For example, such system cannot simply start for a very short period if the electric price is low, there is a minimum time to operate (such as for wetting the ground or refrigeration). Similarly, such systems cannot simply not operate - because, for example, irrigation may be requirde or a temperature may need to be maintained.

[0092] A still further advantage is the reduction in electricity costs whilst still seeking to meet scheduled requirements of a physical effect (such as water discharge or cooling over a longer period). The system provides variable supply options based on requirements over the period and how this relates to power pricing allows for the user to optimise the power price matrix for the period. This capability to provide variable power within the period to meet requirements solves many problems for any number of industries where the power consumption can be variable within set parameters.

[0093] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0094] The reference in this specification to any known matter or any prior publication is not, and should not be taken to be, an acknowledgment or admission or suggestion that the known matter or prior art publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the field to which this specification relates.

[0095] While specific examples of the invention have been described, it will be understood that the invention extends to alternative combinations of the features disclosed or evident from the disclosure provided herein.

[0096] Many and various modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention disclosed or evident from the disclosure provided herein.

Claims

The claims defining the Invention are as follows:

1. A system for control of a plurality of electrically powered devices using live pricing data, the system including a remote system and a local system adapted to operate the plurality of electrically powered devices, wherein the remote system includes a remote controller adapted to provide a power pricing signal based on live power pricing data and a timer configured to provide a timer signal, and wherein the local system is configured to receive the power pricing signal and the timer signal, and determine that the remote system is in an operational state or an alert state by performing a check on the timer signal, wherein in the operational state the local system is configured to enable operation of one or more of the plurality of electrically powered devices based on operational schedule criteria and the power pricing signal; and wherein in the alert state, the local system is configured to inhibit operation of the electrically powered devices.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the remote system includes a plurality of remote controllers each with an associated timer, and wherein the local system is configured to compare a plurality of timer signals from the plurality of remote controllers, and determine the alert state if differences between the plurality of timer signals are identified.

3. The system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the operational schedule criteria include an operational period criteria, a power pricing criteria and a physical effect criteria.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the physical effect criteria include one or more of a discharge of water and a change in temperature.

5. The system according to claim 3, wherein the operational period criteria include a minimum period of operation.

6. The system according to claim 3, wherein the power pricing criteria include power price threshold data.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the operational schedule criteria, includes a first period and first schedule data, the first schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the operational schedule criteria include a second period being shorter than the first period, the second schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: i. the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; and ii.a calculated to be consumed power price over the second period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein the system is configured to, based on the operational schedule criteria, adjust the operation of the electrically powered devices over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein the operational schedule criteria include predetermined threshold price data and the local system is configured to inhibit operation of the plurality of electrically powered devices if the power pricing signal indicates a price higher than a threshold price of the predetermined threshold price data.

11. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the electrically powered devices include one or more of pumps and compressors.

12. A method for control of a plurality of electrically powered devices using live pricing data and a direct connection to the grid, the method including:

Monitoring live power pricing data at a remote system and providing a power pricing signal based on the live power pricing data and a timer signal;

Receiving at a local system the power pricing signal and the timer signal; Determining, at the local system, that the remote system is in an operational state or an alert state by performing a check on the timer signal, wherein in the operational state the local control system is configured to enable operation of one or more of the plurality of electrically powered devices based on operational schedule criteria and the power pricing signal; and wherein in the alert state, the local control system is configured to inhibit operation of the electrically powered devices.

13. A system for control of electrical devices including a remote control system and a local system, the remote control system including: a main controller adapted to receive power pricing data from an external source and communicate a control signal with the local system; and a timer configured to provide a timer signal to the local system, and the local system including a local controller adapted to receive the control signal and the timer signal, wherein the system is configurable to: a. Determine forecast and/or historical pricing data from power pricing data; b. Receive from a user, for a first period, first schedule data, the first schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; c. Determine, for a second period being shorter than the first period, second schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: i. the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; and ii. a calculated to be consumed power price over the second period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; d. Adjusting, an operational amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; and e. Determine, at the local controller, an operating state of the main controller based at least in part on the timer signal, and in an operative state proceed to operate the electrical devices over the one or more operating time periods.

14. A method for control of electrical devices including a remote control system and a local system, the remote control system including: a main controller adapted to receive power pricing data from an external source and communicate a control signal with the local system; and a timer configured to provide a timer signal to the local system, and the local system including a local controller adapted to receive the control signal and the timer signal, the method including the steps of: a. Determine forecast and/or historical pricing data from power pricing data; b. Receive from a user, for a first period, first schedule data, the first schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; c. Determine, for a second period being shorter than the first period, second schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: i. the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; and ii. a calculated to be consumed power price over the second period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; d. Adjusting, an operational amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; and e. Determine, at the local controller, an operating state of the main controller based at least in part on the timer signal, and in an operative state proceed, to operate the electrical devices over the one or more operating time periods.

15. A system for control of irrigation including a central control system and one or more irrigation systems, the central control system including: a main controller adapted to receive power pricing data from an external source and communicate a control signal with the one or more irrigator systems; and a timer configured to provide a timer signal to the one or more irrigator systems, and the one or more irrigation system including a local controller adapted to receive the control signal and the timer signal, wherein the system is configurable to: a. Determine forecast and/or historical pricing data from power pricing data; b. Receiving from a user, for a first irrigation period, first irrigation schedule data, the first irrigation schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; c. Determine, for a second irrigation period being shorter than the first irrigation period, second irrigation schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: i. the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; and ii. a calculated to be consumed power price over the second irrigation period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; d. Adjusting, an irrigation amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; and e. Determine, at the local controller, an operating state of the main controller based at least in part on the timer signal, and in an operative state proceed, to operate one or more pumps of the one or more irrigator systems over the one or more operating time periods.

16. A method for irrigation, the method including the steps of: a. Determining, forecast and/or historical pricing data from power pricing data; b. Receiving from a user, for a first irrigation period, first irrigation schedule data, the first irrigation schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; c. Determining, for a second irrigation period being shorter than the first irrigation period, second irrigation schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of one or more of: i. the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; ii. a calculated to be consumed power price over the second irrigation period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; d. Adjusting, an irrigation amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; e. Communicate the control signal so as to operate one or more pumps of the one or more irrigator systems over the one or more operating time periods.

17. A control system for control of one or more irrigator systems, the control system including: a controller adapted to receive power pricing data from an external source and communicate a control signal with the one or more irrigator systems, the controller being configurable to: a. Determine historical and/or forecasted pricing data from power pricing data; b. Receive from a user, for a first irrigation period, first irrigation schedule data, the first irrigation schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; c. Determine, for a second irrigation period being shorter than the first irrigation period, second irrigation schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: i. the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; ii. a calculated to be consumed power price over the second irrigation period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; d. Adjusting, an irrigation amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of the expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; and e. Communicate the control signal so as to operate one or more pumps of the one or more irrigator systems over the one or more operating time periods.

18. A system for control of irrigation including a central control system and one or more irrigation systems, the central control system including: a main controller adapted to receive power pricing data from an external source and communicate a control signal with the one or more irrigator systems; and a timer configured to provide a timer signal to the one or more irrigator systems, and the one or more irrigation system including a local controller adapted to receive the control signal and the timer signal, wherein the system is configurable to: f. Determine forecast and/or historical pricing data from power pricing data; g. Receiving from a user, for a first irrigation period, first irrigation schedule data, the first irrigation schedule data including one or more of: predetermined operating time data, predetermined threshold price data and predetermined adjustment parameter data; h. Determine, for a second irrigation period being shorter than the first irrigation period, second irrigation schedule data including one or more operating time periods that satisfy the conditions of: iii. the one or more operating time periods being periods greater than a minimum predetermined operating time based on the operating time data; and iv. a calculated to be consumed power price over the second irrigation period is minimised and less than a maximum of the predetermined threshold price data; i. Adjusting, an irrigation amount over the one or more operating time periods based on a comparison of an expected daily average price and the historical pricing data; and j. Determine, at the local controller, an operating state of the main controller based at least in part on the timer signal, and in an operative state proceed, to operate one or more pumps of the one or more irrigator systems over the one or more operating time periods.

19. A system for scheduled control of a plurality of electrically powered devices using live pricing data purchased directly from the grid, the system including a remote system and a local system adapted to operate the plurality of electrically powered devices, wherein the remote system includes at least two remote controllers adapted to provide respective power pricing signals based on live power pricing data and at least two timers configured to provide timer signals associated respectively with the at least two remote controllers, and wherein the local system is configured to be in simultaneous communication with each of the at least two remote controllers and receive the power pricing signals and the timer signals, and determine that the remote control system is in an operational state or an alert state by performing a check on the timer signals, wherein in the operational state the local system is configured to enable operation of one or more of the plurality of electrically powered devices based on operational schedule criteria and the power pricing signal; and wherein in the alert state, the local system is configured to inhibit operation of the electrically powered devices.

20. The system according to claim 20, wherein the check includes determining if there is an error in at least one of the timer signals.

21. The system according to claim 20, wherein the check includes determining if there is a difference between the timer signals.