Description:FIELD OF DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to smart metering system and specifically relates to a multi-mode network interface card for smart metering system.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a multi-mode network interface card for smart metering system.
[0003] With digitization every industrial sector has undergone a remarkable transformation in the past few decades, driven by the need for efficiency, sustainability, and real-time data accessibility. Smart metering systems, have become another cornerstone of the digitization transformation, enabling precise monitoring of electricity, water, and gas consumption. Such systems are increasingly being adopted for optimizing resource usage, implementing dynamic pricing models, and reducing operational costs.
[0004] Network interface card (NIC) is the key component of every smart metering system, transmitting data between smart meters and head-end system (HES). The NIC enables communication over cellular, radio frequency (RF), or other network technologies, ensuring seamless data flow that supports billing, diagnostics, and load balancing. However, while NICs are essential for the smart metering system, but their adoption has been constrained by several limitations.
[0005] The high cost of deploying smart metering systems is a major challenge, as traditional NICs rely heavily on cellular communication requiring active SIM card for transmitting data to the HES. The requirement of periodic recharges to keep the SIM card active, which significantly adds to the cost. In addition, the cellular network coverage is often patchy or non-existent, making it difficult to maintain reliable communication between smart meters and the HES.
[0006] The traditional NICs also require additional infrastructure, such as dedicated gateways, to transmit data over longer distances. This can cause a single point of failure in a gateway to disrupt communication for all meters connected to it, affecting data accuracy. Moreover, traditional NICs often transmit data individually from each smart meter to the HES, leading to inefficiencies in data aggregation and transmission. This leads to significant data traffic, especially when transmitting small, frequent updates from individual meters. This also leads to higher energy consumption because of continuous data transmission draining the power supply of meters, particularly in battery-operated systems, reducing the lifespan of devices and increasing maintenance costs. Additionally, this often results in increased overall system complexity that creates more potential points of failure, requiring ongoing maintenance.
[0007] In addition to this, most existing NICs are designed for a single communication mode either cellular or radio frequency, leading to static configurations and scalability challenges. This lack of flexibility hampers the networks optimization for different geographic and demographic scenarios. Further, traditional NICs often lack robust encryption and validation protocols, leaving them vulnerable to cybercriminals intercepting unencrypted communication between meters and the HES, data tampering, and more.
[0008] Thus, in the light of the afore-mentioned challenges and limitation, there is a need for a more holistic solution that balances affordability, reliability, and scalability.
SUMMARY
[0009] The following is a summary description of illustrative embodiments of the invention. It is provided as a preface to assist those skilled in the art to more rapidly assimilate the detailed design discussion which ensues and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims which are appended hereto in order to particularly point out the invention.
[0010] Embodiments in accordance with the present invention provide a multi-mode network interface card (NIC). Embodiments in accordance with the present invention further provide a head-end system (HES) with Integrated micro-gateway functionality for smart metering. Embodiments in accordance with the present invention further provide a method for managing a smart metering network integrated with multi-mode network interface card (NIC).
[0011] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a number of advantages depending on its particular configuration. First, embodiments of the present application provide multi-mode network interface card (NIC). Next, embodiments of the present application provide a head-end system (HES) with Integrated micro-gateway functionality for smart metering. Next, embodiments of the present application provide a method for managing a smart metering network integrated with multi-mode network interface card (NIC).
[0012] The present disclosure solves all the major limitation of traditional system.
[0013] An objective of the present disclosure is to provide smart meters having network interface card (NIC) with the ability to seamlessly switch between multiple communication modes.
[0014] Another objective of the present disclosure is to minimize the overall deployment and operational costs of smart metering solutions.
[0015] Another objective of the present disclosure is to aggregate data from multiple meters to consolidate network traffic and reduce bandwidth usage.
[0016] Another objective of the present disclosure is to support the integration of additional meters without extensive reconfiguration of existing infrastructure.
[0017] Another objective of the present disclosure is to enhance network coverage and reliability.
[0018] Another objective of the present disclosure is to enable utilities to receive timely and accurate data updates for billing, diagnostics, and load management.
[0019] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to reduce the need for additional hardware components, such as dedicated radio frequency gateways.
[0020] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to reduce SIM charges.
[0021] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to accommodate various deployment scenarios, from urban environments with dense meter installations to rural areas with limited infrastructure.
[0022] In the light of above disclosure, in an aspect of the present disclosure, a multi-mode network interface card (NIC) is disclosed herein. The card comprising a controller. The card also comprising a dual communication module operationally coupled with the controller and the dual communication module further comprising a radio-frequency transmitter and receiver configured to enable short-range communication with a plurality of radio-frequency-enabled device in proximity. The dual communication module further comprising a cellular modem configured to support wireless direct data transmission to a head-end system (HES). The dual communication module operates in either a radio-frequency mode enabled by the radio-frequency transmitter and receiver or a cellular mode enabled by the cellular modem. The card also comprising a power management module operationally coupled with the controller and the power management module configured to optimize energy consumption by dynamically switching between the radio-frequency mode and the cellular mode based on operational requirements.
[0023] In one embodiment, the controller is programable to enable a standalone cellular communication operation via the radio-frequency transmitter and receiver.
[0024] In one embodiment, the controller is programable to enable a standalone radio-frequency communication operation via the cellular modem acting in radio-frequency mode.
[0025] In one embodiment, the controller is programable to enable a micro-gateway operation aggregating data from multiple radio frequency-enabled devices via the radio-frequency transmitter and receiver and transmitting the aggregated data via the cellular modem.
[0026] In one embodiment, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) has micro-gateway functionality.
[0027] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a smart metering system with multi-mode network interface card (NIC) is disclosed herein. The system comprising at least one multi-mode network interface card (NIC). The multi-mode network interface card (NIC) operates in multiple modes including standalone radio frequency mode, standalone cellular mode, and micro-gateway mode. The system also comprising a processor embedded in the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) and the processor configured to process data, execute configuration protocols, and manage communication between the devices. The system also comprising a programming interface operatively connected to the processor and the programming interface configured to enable remote and manual configuration of the modes of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC). The system also comprising a backend infrastructure operatively connected to the processor and the backend infrastructure configured to perform real-time switching by dynamically reconfiguring the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) in real-time and switching between modes based on operational requirements or network changes. The backend infrastructure is integrated with a plurality of intelligent algorithm to detect and configure the multi-mode network interface card (NIC). The system also comprising a head-end module operatively connected to the processor and the head-end module configured to receive the data collected by the multi-mode network interface card (NIC).
[0028] In one embodiment, the system also comprising a plurality of user interface configured to monitor, configure, and manage network devices and data.
[0029] In one embodiment, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) is linked to at least one meter and a plurality of radio frequency node.
[0030] In one embodiment, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) has integrated support for message queuing telemetry transport (MQTT) and transmission control protocol (TCP) socket protocols, enabling the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) to broadcast association messages directly to the head-end module when attached to the meter.
[0031] In one embodiment, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) act as a micro-gateway to aggregate data from connected the radio frequency nodes and transmits the aggregated data set to the head-end module.
[0032] In one embodiment, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) support radio frequency communication and cellular communication.
[0033] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a method for managing a smart metering network integrated with multi-mode network interface card (NIC) is disclosed herein. The method comprising configuring at least one multi-mode network interface card (NIC) to operate multiple modes including standalone radio frequency mode, standalone cellular mode, and/or micro-gateway mode. The method also comprising using a processor to dynamically reconfigure the modes of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) based on operational requirements. The method also comprising enabling manual reconfiguration of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) in case of specific operational issues via a programming interface. The method also comprising aggregating and transmitting data from the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) to a backend infrastructure for processing and then to the head-end module.
[0034] These and other advantages will be apparent from the present application of the embodiments and solves abovementioned limitations in the traditional system.
[0035] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
[0036] These elements, together with the other aspects of the present disclosure and various features are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and form a part of the present disclosure. For a better understanding of the present disclosure, its operating advantages, and the specified object attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0037] The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:
[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a multi-mode network interface card (NIC), according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a smart metering system with multi-mode network interface card (NIC), according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0040] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method 300 for managing a smart metering network integrated with multi-mode network interface card (NIC), according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Optional portions of the figures may be illustrated using dashed or dotted lines, unless the context of usage indicates otherwise.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0043] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.
[0044] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0045] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0046] The card 100 may be comprising a controller 102, a dual communication module 104, and a power management module 110.
[0047] The dual communication module 104 may operationally be coupled with the controller 102 and the dual communication module 104 further comprising a radio-frequency transmitter and receiver 106 and a cellular modem 108.
[0048] The radio-frequency transmitter and receiver 106 may be configured to enable short-range communication with a plurality of radio-frequency-enabled device in proximity.
[0049] The cellular modem 108 may be configured to support wireless direct data transmission to a head-end system (HES).
[0050] The dual communication module 104 may operate in either a radio-frequency mode enabled by the radio-frequency transmitter and receiver 106 or a cellular mode enabled by the cellular modem 108.
[0051] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the dual communication module 104 may perform dynamic switching to operate in radio frequency, cellular, or micro-gateway mode. For instance, the card 100 may prioritize radio frequency (RF) communication when cellular coverage is poor and switches to cellular mode when RF connectivity is unavailable. This ensures uninterrupted communication in dynamic network environments.
[0052] The power management module 110 may operationally be coupled with the controller 102 and the power management module 110 configured to optimize energy consumption by dynamically switching between the radio-frequency mode and the cellular mode based on operational requirements.
[0053] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the power management module 110 may prioritize low-power RF communication whenever possible, extending the operational life of battery-powered smart meters. The power management module 110 may intelligently allocate power resources based on the active communication mode.
[0054] The controller 102 may be programable to enable a standalone cellular communication operation via the radio-frequency transmitter and receiver 106. The controller 102 may be programable to enable a standalone radio-frequency communication operation via the cellular modem 108 acting in radio-frequency mode. The controller 102 may be programable to enable a micro-gateway operation aggregating data from multiple radio frequency-enabled devices via the radio-frequency transmitter and receiver 106 and transmitting the aggregated data via the cellular modem 108.
[0055] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the controller 102 may be any microcontroller or microprocessor unit. The controller may be incorporate data security algorithms to implement encryption and validation protocols. The data transmitted via the radio frequency transmitter and receiver 106 and the cellular modem 108 may be encrypted to prevent unauthorized access. The controller 102 may incorporate validation mechanisms to verify data integrity before relaying it to the HES.
[0056] The multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 100 may have micro-gateway functionality.
[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the cellular modem 108 may support, but not limited to, 2G, 3G, 4G wireless communication and narrow-band internet of things (NB-IoT). In a preferred embodiment, the micro-gateway mode may allow multiple RF-enabled nodes/devices to share a single cellular connection, significantly lowering recurring SIM costs. In a preferred embodiment, the micro-gateway mode may allow aggregating data at the micro-gateway level for minimizing the overall bandwidth required for data transmission.
[0058] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the standalone cellular mode may be suitable for areas with strong cellular coverage. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the standalone radio-frequency mode may be suitable for environments with reliable radio frequency infrastructure. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the multi-gateway mode may be suitable for regions with multiple radio frequency meters but limited cellular connectivity.
[0059] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the card 100 with dynamic switching capabilities may adapt based on the network demand and offload data from the plurality of connected radio-frequency devices/nodes. In a preferred embodiment, the micro-gateway functionality may allow handling of up to twenty radio frequency devices in proximity for optimal performance. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the micro-gateway functionality may accommodate varying number of radio frequency devices as per the utility deployment scenarios.
[0060] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of a smart metering system 200 with multi-mode network interface card (NIC), according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0061] The system 200 may be comprising at least one multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202, a processor 204, a programming interface 206, a backend infrastructure 208, and a head end module 212.
[0062] The multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may operate in multiple modes including standalone radio frequency mode, standalone cellular mode, and micro-gateway mode.
[0063] In a preferred embodiment, each of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may registered with the system 200, which may assign the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 a unique identifier and pre-determined communication parameters.
[0064] The processor 204 may be embedded in the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202, and the processor 204 configured to process data, execute configuration protocols, and manage communication between the devices.
[0065] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 204 may be any microcontroller or microprocessor unit.
[0066] The programming interface 206 may operatively be connected to the processor 204 and the programming interface 206 configured to enable remote and manual configuration of the modes of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202.
[0067] The backend infrastructure 208 may operatively be connected to the processor 204 and the backend infrastructure 208 configured to perform real-time switching by dynamically reconfiguring the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 in real-time and switching between modes based on operational requirements or network changes.
[0068] The backend infrastructure 208 may be integrated with a plurality of intelligent algorithm 210 to detect and configure the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202.
[0069] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the backend infrastructure 208 may support advanced detection, analysis, and management functions the system 200. The intelligent algorithms may use factors such as, but not limited to, cellular signal strength, RF node density, and data load to optimize the mode switching of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202. In some embodiments, the backend infrastructure 208 may utilize the intelligent algorithms 210 to detect anomalies such as data transmission failures, device malfunctions, or abnormal consumption patterns. In some embodiments, the backend infrastructure 208 may perform load balancing to ensure optimal use of communication resources, minimizing latency and packet loss. When cellular traffic is high, the backend infrastructure 208 may prioritizes the standalone radio frequency mode for non-critical data while using the standalone cellular mode for priority transmissions.
[0070] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, backend infrastructure 208, in the micro-gateway mode, may use the intelligent algorithms 210 to aggregate and compress data before transmission, which may reduce the nodes, reducing bandwidth usage and transmission costs.
[0071] The head-end module 212 may be operatively connected to the processor 204 and the head-end module 212 configured to receive the data collected by the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202.
[0072] The system 200 may also be comprising a plurality of user interface 214 configured to monitor, configure, and manage network devices and data.
[0073] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the programming interface 206 may be a remote programming interface, allowing a user to access the programming interface 206 through the user interface 214. The user interface 214 may be any electronic device such as, but not limited to, smart phone, tablet, laptop, personal computer, and more.
[0074] The multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may be linked to at least one meter and a plurality of radio frequency node.
[0075] The multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may have integrated support for message queuing telemetry transport (MQTT) and transmission control protocol (TCP) socket protocols, enabling the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 to broadcast association messages directly to the head-end module 212 when attached to the meter.
[0076] The multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may act as a micro-gateway to aggregate data from connected the radio frequency nodes and transmits the aggregated data set to the head-end module 212.
[0077] The multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may support radio frequency communication and cellular communication.
[0078] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may be integrated with a plurality of data encryption techniques to ensure secure data transmission across the networks, protecting the consumer/user data. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may be integrated with proper authentication protocols to prevent data corruption and unauthorized access, enhancing the reliability of transmitted information/data.
[0079] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the data collected from the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may be encrypted and validated before transmission to the head-end module 212, ensuring data integrity and security across both radio frequency and cellular networks. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the backend infrastructure 208 may be embedded with a plurality of data encryption algorithms to encrypt the data collected by the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the processor 204 may receive data from the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 periodically and may transmit the head-end module 212.
[0080] In some embodiments, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may have internet of things (IoT) integration capabilities to support advanced smart grid by providing seamless connectivity and real-time data management. In some embodiments, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may leverage artificial intelligence and advanced analytics for predictive maintenance, demand forecasting, and resource optimization.
[0081] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system 200 may support hybrid communication with an adaptive gateway capability, enabling the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 to function either as a regular network interface or as a local hub (micro-gateway) for surrounding radio-frequency-enabled devices. The system 200 may have backward compatibility with traditional non-smart NICs, ensuring a smooth transition for legacy systems.
[0082] FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method 300 for managing a smart metering network integrated with multi-mode network interface card (NIC), according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0083] The method 300 may be comprising the following steps.
[0084] At 302, configuring at least one multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 to operate in multiple modes including standalone radio frequency mode, standalone cellular mode, and/or micro-gateway mode.
[0085] At 304, using a processor 204 to dynamically reconfigure the modes of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 based on operational requirements.
[0086] At 306, enabling manual reconfiguration of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 in case of specific operational issues via a programming interface 206.
[0087] At 308, aggregating and transmitting data from the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 to a backend infrastructure 208 for processing and then to the head-end module 212.
[0088] In a preferred embodiment, the processor 204, enabled by the intelligent algorithm 210 embedded with the backend infrastructure 208, may initiate the communication with each of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 to configure its mode i.e., standalone cellular mode, standalone radio frequency mode, or micro-gateway mode.
[0089] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, in the standalone cellular mode, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may use the cellular modem (108) to communicate directly with the head-end module 212. Data from a smart meter is sent via cellular communication supported by the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 to the head-end module 212, similar to the traditional NIC configurations.
[0090] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, in the standalone radio frequency mode, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may be configured as a radio-frequency NIC transmitting data using radio-frequency technology to a nearby radio-frequency gateway or micro-gateway.
[0091] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, in the micro-gateway mode, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may operate as a micro-gateway by establishing radio frequency connections with up nearby radio frequency nodes/device or other smart meters, collecting their data and then relaying it to the head-end module 212 via the cellular modem 108.
[0092] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, during real-time switching, the processor 204, enabled by the intelligent algorithm 210 embedded with the backend infrastructure 208, may dynamically reconfigure the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 in real-time, switching it between modes based on operational requirements or network changes. For instance, if a standalone cellular connection becomes cost-prohibitive due to high SIM charges, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) 202 may be switched to micro-gateway mode to leverage RF communication with the nearby meters.
[0093] The disclosed invention offers several advantages that significantly improve the efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness of smart utility metering. The disclosed invention supports both cellular (2G, 4G, NB-IoT) communication and radio frequency communication, allowing seamless adaptability based on operating conditions. The card 100 automatically switches between radio frequency, cellular, and micro-gateway modes, ensuring optimal connectivity at all times. The operability of the card 100 in different modes, enable catering to diverse deployment scenarios. The dynamic selection of the modes in the card 100 may reduce power consumption and extends the operational lifespan of smart meters.
[0094] The disclosed invention may be cost effective by reducing SIM Charges with the micro-gateway mode allows multiple radio frequency (RF)-enabled meters to share a single cellular connection, significantly lowering recurring SIM costs, eliminating the need for separate RF gateways, and reducing hardware expenses in large-scale deployments. The disclosed invention may optimize bandwidth usage by aggregating data at the micro-gateway level to minimizes the overall bandwidth required for data transmission.
[0095] The disclosed invention may address the issue of rural and remote coverage gaps as well as efficiently handle dense installations in urban areas. The system 200 may connect and manage up to 20 radio frequency devices in micro-gateway mode, with scalability for higher numbers depending on network configuration. Thus, the disclosed invention may accommodate the integration of additional meters and devices without extensive reconfiguration.
[0096] The disclosed invention may be easy to deploy in existing smart metering infrastructure without requiring any major modifications. The disclosed invention with remote programming capabilities may reduce the need for on-site interventions. The disclosed invention may ensure uninterrupted data transmission through real-time switching between modes in response to network disruptions. The disclosed invention may, with data aggregation capabilities, reduce the likelihood of data loss or transmission errors.
[0097] The disclosed invention may ensure timely and accurate data delivery for utility billing, diagnostics, and load management. Overall, the disclosed invention reduces network complexities by reducing the number of hardware components required. The disclosed invention is also compatible with existing communication protocols.
[0098] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
[0099] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope the invention is defined in the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements within substantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.
, Claims:I/We Claim:
1. A multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (100), the card (100) comprising:
a controller (102);
a dual communication module (104) operationally coupled with the controller (102), the dual communication module (104) further comprising:
a radio-frequency transmitter and receiver (106) configured to enable short-range communication with a plurality of radio-frequency-enabled device in proximity; and
a cellular modem (108) configured to support wireless direct data transmission to a head-end system (HES),
wherein the dual communication module (104) operates in either a radio-frequency mode enabled by the radio-frequency transmitter and receiver (106) or a cellular mode enabled by the cellular modem (108); and
a power management module (110) operationally coupled with the controller (102), the power management module (110) configured to optimize energy consumption by dynamically switching between the radio-frequency mode and the cellular mode based on operational requirements.
2. The card (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (102) is programable to:
enable a standalone cellular communication operation via the radio-frequency transmitter and receiver (106);
enable a standalone radio-frequency communication operation via the cellular modem (108) acting in radio-frequency mode; and
enable a micro-gateway operation aggregating data from multiple radio frequency-enabled devices via the radio-frequency transmitter and receiver (106) and transmitting the aggregated data via the cellular modem (108).
3. The card (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (100) has micro-gateway functionality.
4. A smart metering system (200) with multi-mode network interface card (NIC), the system (200) comprising:
at least one multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202),
wherein the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202) operates in multiple modes including standalone radio frequency mode, standalone cellular mode, and micro-gateway mode;
a processor (204) embedded in the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202), the processor (204) configured to process data, execute configuration protocols, and manage communication;
a programming interface (206) operatively connected to the processor (204), the programming interface (206) configured to enable remote and manual configuration of the modes of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202);
a backend infrastructure (208) operatively connected to the processor (204), the backend infrastructure (208) configured to perform real-time switching by dynamically reconfiguring the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202) in real-time and switching between modes based on operational requirements or network changes,
wherein the backend infrastructure (208) is integrated with a plurality of intelligent algorithm (210) to detect and configure the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202); and
a head-end module (212) operatively connected to the processor (204), the head-end module (212) configured to receive the data collected by the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202).
5. The system (200) as claimed in claim 4, the system (200) also comprising a plurality of user interface (214) configured to monitor, configure, and manage network devices and data.
6. The system (200) as claimed in claim 4, the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202) is linked to at least one meter and/or a plurality of radio frequency node.
7. The system (200) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202) has integrated support for message queuing telemetry transport (MQTT) and transmission control protocol (TCP) socket protocols, enabling the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202) to broadcast association messages directly to the head-end module (212) when attached to the meter.
8. The system (200) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202) act as a micro-gateway to aggregate data from connected the radio frequency nodes and transmits the aggregated data set to the head-end module (212).
9. The system (200) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202) support radio frequency communication and cellular communication.
10. A method (300) for managing a smart metering network integrated with multi-mode network interface card (NIC), the method (300) comprising:
configuring at least one multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202) to operate in multiple modes including standalone radio frequency mode, standalone cellular mode, and/or micro-gateway mode;
using a processor (204) to dynamically reconfigure the modes of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202) based on operational requirements;
enabling manual reconfiguration of the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202) in case of specific operational issues via a programming interface (206); and
aggregating and transmitting data from the multi-mode network interface card (NIC) (202) to a backend infrastructure (208) for processing and then to the head-end module (212).