Patent · US Active

Wireless broadband communications network for a utility

US8441372B2 · kind B2 · utility

9Cited by
44References
15Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateFeb 22, 2010
Grant dateMay 14, 2013
Priority date
Expiry dateAug 16, 2031

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY04S20/30
  • WIPO fieldMeasurement
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

A communications network (12) for use by a utility (10) for communication, command, and control of the utility's distribution area for gas, water and electrical services including the utility's distribution system, security, workforce, and asset management. The network includes apparatus for obtaining information and data concerning usage of the electricity, gas, or water by each of the utility's customers, the operation of installations throughout the system, and how electricity, gas, or water is being distributed throughout the system. The information and data from each source (16) is processed to provide an up-to-date overview of the system and its operation to the utility's management and operating personnel. This includes identification of any current problems, including distribution or security, within the system, and asset monitoring and management to identify possible future problems which may occur within a predetermined period of time. Reports generated as a result of processing the information and data, besides providing current status information, also provide management and operating personnel with information as to ways of alleviating any current problems identified w…

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.