DESC:FORM 2
THE PATENT ACT 1970
&
The Patents Rules, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)
1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION:
AUTOMATED UTILITY METER TESTING SYSTEM AND METHOD THEREFOR
2. APPLICANT
Name: GRIFFYN ROBOTECH PVT. LTD.
Nationality: An Indian Company
Address: Shewale Centre, MIDC, Pimpri Colony,
Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra 411019, India.

3. PREAMBLE TO THE DESCRIPTION:
PROVISIONAL
The following specification describes the invention. COMPLETE
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present subject matter relates generally to a field of meter testing and more particularly, the present invention relates to a system and method for automated testing of devices such as utility meters including electricity smart metering equipment (ESME), gas smart metering equipment (GSME), in home display (IHD) and pre-payment metering infrastructure devices (PPMID).
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Various types of meter navigation systems are available in the prior art. The available devices of the prior art for utility meter navigation include devices that collect data from the utility meters that record the date and time of specific work performed by field workers. For example, meter reading devices carried by meter readers are capable of recording the date and time of meter reading, collections, and service order activity as utility company field workers travel from meter to meter collecting meter readings and completing orders for customers. However, efficient performance management of field workers is often difficult for utilities. Traveling from meter to meter, especially in residential areas, may present potential problems posed by obstacles or undesirable paths to field workers. Further, these handheld meter monitoring devices have drawbacks in that they are human-dependent and may not provide accurate data about the utility meter.
One such US Patent US8063792B2 discloses field service and meter reading devices with GPS functionality. The US Patent 8063792B2 discloses a utility meter reading device with global positioning system (GPS) functionality. The device includes a utility meter reading unit that reads usage data from a utility meter and a GPS unit. The GPS unit collects locating coordinates of the utility meter while the meter reading unit collects the usage data. However, the meter reading device of the US Patent 8063792B2 again has a drawback of manual operation and is human dependent and also requires effort and time.
For the reasons stated above, which will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the specification, there exists a need to provide a system for monitoring and testing the utility meters that overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to automate the utility meter reading process which increases the efficiency of the meter reading.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an automated meter reading process suitable for Electricity Smart Metering Equipment (ESME), Gas Smart Metering Equipment (GSME), In-Home Display (IHD), and Pre-Payment Metering Infrastructure Devices (PPMID).
Yet, another object of the present invention is to provide an automated reading process suitable for any utility meter regardless of type, number, and alignment of buttons on the control panel.
Yet, another object of the present invention is to reduce human effort and avoid mistakes in taking utility meter readings by using handheld manual meter readers.
Yet another object of the present invention is to allow remote monitoring of the testing of the utility meter.
Yet another object of the present invention is to retrofit an existing cabinet with an automated metering device test apparatus thereon.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides an automated utility meter testing system for enabling testing of a plurality of metering devices secured inside respective racks in a cabinet. The system comprising a plurality of robots securely mounted in the cabinet, each in contact with at least one metering device; a server communicatively coupled to each of the plurality of robots; an Industrial internet of things portal (IIOT portal) in communication with each of the plurality of robots via the server and a test automation framework stored in a communication network.
In the embodiment, each of the plurality of robots is configured to move in all the directions and execute test automation by navigating through the user interface of the metering device in contact. The server device is configured to receive registration and configure each of the plurality of robots connected thereto for the execution of a plurality of test cases stored therein. Further, the IIOT portal is configured to create test cases, publish and program each of the plurality of robots with the created test cases remotely, adapt with the changes in the test scenarios, receiving information collected by the server, determine various components and parameters of operation and present them for a user. The IIOT portal communicates with each of the plurality of robots by means of control signals from the server based on a test suit managed by the test automation framework and communicates with a user allowing remote monitoring of the testing process.
A method for automated utility meter testing, the method comprising steps of registering of the plurality of robots mounted on a cabinet with the server, and receiving configuration therefrom; establishing connectivity between each of the plurality of robots with IIOT via the server; identifying at least one metering devices on the cabinet rack and their control panel configurations, by one robot secured in the respective cabin; accessing a test automation framework configured within a communication platform, by the server via the IIOT portal; initiating a plurality of test sequences from the test automation framework on the metering device, by the robot in accordance with control signals from the server and the IIOT portal; and storing the test results for the respective cabinet by the test automation framework.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and descriptions. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, the emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the embodiments. Moreover, the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.
Reference will be made to embodiments of the invention, examples of which may be illustrated in the accompanying figures. These figures are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Although the invention is generally described in the context of these embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to these particular embodiments.
The above and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 illustrates a block representation of an automated meter testing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention,
Figure 2a2b&2c illustrate a front view side view and perspective view of the cabinet mounted with robot in the automated meter testing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention,
Figure 2d illustrate a closer view of the robot arm in the automated meter testing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention,
Figure 3 illustrates a process flow of a method of automated meter testing in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, and
Figure 4a-4c illustrates a screen-shots of the dashboard of IIOT portal in the automated meter testing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any block diagrams herein represent conceptual views of illustrative systems embodying the principles of the present invention. Similarly, it will be appreciated that any flowcharts, flow diagrams, and the like represent various processes that may be substantially represented in computer-readable medium and so executed by a computer or processor, whether or not such computer or processor is explicitly shown.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
The foregoing objects of the invention are accomplished and the problems and shortcomings associated with prior art techniques and approaches are overcome by the present invention described in the present embodiments.
In order to solve the problems depicted in the background and to provide technological solutions for the limitation in prior arts an automated utility meter testing system for the devices such as electricity smart metering equipment (ESME), gas smart metering equipment (GSME), in-home display (IHD) and pre-payment metering infrastructure devices (PPMID) is provided to reduce the human effort and avoid human errors in taking utility meter reading by using a handheld manual meter reader.
Furthermore, connections between components and/or modules within the figures are not intended to be limited to direct connections. Rather, these components and modules may be modified, re-formatted or otherwise changed by intermediary components and modules.
References in the present invention to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” mean that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, or function described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.
In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these details. One skilled in the art will recognize that embodiments of the present invention, some of which are described below, may be incorporated into a number of systems. Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail. For clarity of the description, known constructions and functions will be omitted.
Furthermore, connections between components and/or modules within the figures are not intended to be limited to direct connections. Rather, these components and modules may be modified, re-formatted or otherwise changed by intermediary components and modules.
Parts of the description may be presented in terms of operations performed by at least one electrical / electronic circuit, or a computer system, using terms such as data, state, link, fault, packet, and the like, consistent with the manner commonly employed by those skilled in the art to convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. As is well understood by those skilled in the art, these quantities take the form of data stored/transferred in the form of non-transitory, computer-readable electrical, magnetic, or optical signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, and otherwise manipulated through mechanical and electrical components of the computer system; and the term computer system includes general purpose as well as special purpose data processing machines, switches, and the like, that are standalone, adjunct or embedded. For instance, some embodiments may be implemented by a processing system that executes program instructions so as to cause the processing system to perform operations involved in one or more of the methods described herein. The program instructions may be computer-readable code, such as compiled or non-compiled program logic and/or machine code, stored in a data storage that takes the form of a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as a magnetic, optical, and/or flash data storage medium. Moreover, such processing systems and/or data storage may be implemented using a single computer system or may be distributed across multiple computer systems (e.g., servers) that are communicatively linked through a network to allow the computer systems to operate in a coordinated manner.
Embodiments of the present invention include various steps, which will be described below. The steps may be performed by hardware components or may be embodied in machine-executable instructions, which may be used to cause a general-purpose or special-purpose processor programmed with the instructions to perform the steps.
Embodiments of the present invention may be provided as a computer program product, which may include a machine-readable storage medium tangibly embodying thereon instructions, which may be used to program the computer (or other electronic devices) to perform a process. The machine-readable medium may include, but is not limited to, fixed (hard) drives, magnetic tape, floppy diskettes, optical disks, compact disc read-only memories (CD-ROMs), and magneto-optical disks, semiconductor memories, such as ROMs, PROMs, random access memories (RAMs), programmable read-only memories (PROMs), erasable PROMs (EPROMs), electrically erasable PROMs (EEPROMs), flash memory, magnetic or optical cards, or other types of media/machine-readable medium suitable for storing electronic instructions (e.g., computer programming code, such as software or firmware).
Various methods described herein may be practiced by combining one or more machine-readable storage media containing the code according to the present invention with appropriate standard computer hardware to execute the code contained therein. An apparatus for practicing various embodiments of the present invention may involve one or more computers (or one or more processors within the single computer) and storage systems containing or having network access to a computer program(s) coded in accordance with various methods described herein, and the method steps of the invention could be accomplished by modules, routines, subroutines, or subparts of a computer program product.
In some embodiments, the systems may be configured as a distributed system where one or more components of the system are distributed across one or more networks in a cloud computing system.
As used in the description herein, the meaning of "a, an," and "the" includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided so that this invention will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art.
While embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be clear that the invention is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the comprehensive explanation of the embodiments of this disclosure presented alongside the accompanying illustrations is not meant to constrain the breadth of the disclosed subject matter. Instead, it serves as a representation of specific embodiments within the scope of this disclosure. All additional embodiments devised by individuals with ordinary expertise in the field, without requiring inventive contributions, are encompassed within the protective scope of this disclosure.
The foregoing detailed description of embodiments is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the disclosure, there is shown in the present document example constructions of the disclosure; however, the disclosure is not limited to the specific system/ apparatus or method disclosed in the document and the drawings.
The present disclosure is described in detail with reference to the accompanying figures. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to various features of the present subject matter.
Further, the figures depict various embodiments of the present subject matter for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following discussion that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the present subject matter described herein.
In an implementation according to one of the embodiments, the present invention is a system for automated utility meter testing such as electricity smart metering equipment (ESME), gas smart metering equipment (GSME), in-home display (IHD), and pre-payment metering infrastructure devices (PPMID).
Referring to figures from 1 to 4, an automated utility meter testing system (hereinafter referred to as “the system (100)”) for inspection and executing test cases is shown in accordance with the present invention. In an embodiment, the system (100), comprises a plurality of robots (10), a server (20) communicatively coupled to the plurality of robots (10), and an Industrial internet of things portal (IIOT portal) (30).
Referring to figure 1, each of the plurality of robots (10) is mounted on a cabinet (25) in order to be in contact with the metering device (50) secured inside the respective racks of the cabinet (25). Each of the plurality of robots (10) are communicatively coupled to the server (20) for receiving a plurality of control signals produced by the respective server (20) connected thereto. The server (20) is a server grade computer, coupled to the IIOT portal (30).
The IIOT portal (30) is configured to be in communication with each of the plurality of robots (10) via the server (20). The IIOT portal (30) is further configured to communicate with a test automation framework stored in a communication network, creating test cases, publish and program each of the plurality of robots (10) with the created test cases remotely. The IIOT portal (30) is capable of adapting with the changes in the test scenarios, based on the received information from the server (20), and determine various components and parameters of testing operation.
The IIOT portal (30) establishes connectivity with each of the plurality of robots (10) by means of the control signals from the server (20). This control signals include instructions corresponding to the test suit managed by the test automation framework. The test automation framework is configured with a user interface for communicating with a user that allows remote monitoring of the testing process. In the embodiment, the IIOT Portal (30) provides a secured, private-cloud-based portal that controls the robot (10) and gives a holistic view of the operations. The communication between the robot (10) and the IIOT portal (30) is established via the server (20) and is implemented by means of API request and responses therebetween.
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the test automation framework comprises a web portal and a plurality of cloud components consisting of a user interface module for the administrative setup of the cabinets (25), individual devices such as meters (50), test environments, and test procedures.
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the test automation framework includes a web portal and a plurality of cloud components consisting of user interface module in communication with an environment management module, a cabinet management module, a device management module, a test group management module, a test suit management module, a test case management module, a test schedule creation module, and an account management module therein.
The user interface module allows a user such as administrator to create setup and configure for a plurality of environments in the test automation framework. This includes creating the setup and configuring the plurality of cabinets (25), individual metering devices (50), test environments, and test procedures to be applied on the individual metering devices (5).
In an implementation of one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the environment management module is configured to manage information on various test environments and allows the user to add/edit/delete the details of test environments for the user. The different attributes that are captured includes the name of the test environment, the location, and the address of the location where the test cycles are carried out.
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the cabinet management module is configured to manage information on a plurality of cabinets (25), by receiving a plurality of attributes such as cabinet ID and the environment from the user. Thus, the cabinet management module allows the user to add new cabinet details, edit/delete existing cabinet details and mapping of the devices in each of the plurality of cabinets (25).
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the device management module is configured to manage information on a plurality of metering devices (20), by receiving a plurality of attributes such as cabinet ID, device ID, device type, device make, device model, and device firmware. The device management module allows the user to add/edit/delete metering devices (20) and allows to mapping of the plurality of devices (50).
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the test group management module is configured to manage information on test suites, by allowing the user to add different test suites in a specific test group for test execution. The different attributes received by the test group management module include test group name, and test suites. The test suites are made available in the user interface by a drop-down list containing a plurality of test suites that are part of a specific test group.
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the test suite management module allows the user to add different test cases in a specific test suite. The different attributes that are captured are the test suite name and test cases. This includes a drop-down list in the user interface for selecting the test cases to be part of the respective test suite.
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the test case management module is configured to manage information on a plurality of test sequences to be followed for testing operation. This allows the user to create different test cases for the test execution. The different attributes that are captured are test case name, and test sequence. The test sequence includes selection of a sequence of actions from a list of actions preprogrammed to make a test case.
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the test schedule creation module manages a plurality of test groups for each of the different cabinets (25). The module enables users to create/ schedule test groups for each of the different cabinets (25). A test scheduler option provided therein contains details to input the required test sequence to run on each of the plurality of the cabinets (25). This also provides the user to input their selection of test environment and the cabinet (25). The cabinet selection is followed by the details of the device (50) and a further selection of a test group for each device type. This is further followed by inputting user selection of the test sequences for immediate test operations or scheduling the desired functionality for future test operation. The test schedule creation module is also configured with a recurring functionality for scheduling and allows the user to set it up for future auto-test runs. Thus, different schedules are created and stored for future reference.
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the account management module is configured for managing a plurality of user accounts in the test automation framework wherein the user account includes an admin account, at least one test user account and at least one support team user account. This allows the admin user to add/edit/disable other type of user accounts, and assign roles. In this way, the module allows only the admin user to create and disable other user accounts in the system.
Referring to the figures from 2a to 2c, one of the embodiments of the invention, the robot (10) and the metering devices (50) (‘meters’ hereinafter) to be tested are mounted on a suitable position in the cabinet (25). The cabinet (25) is provided with a plurality of slots for receiving meters (50) and a safety switch (51) coupled to the robot (10). The arrangement of each of the plurality of robots (10) on the cabinet (20) is made in two ways, such as door mounted units and wall mounted units.
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the robots (10) are mounted on the walls of the cabinet (25). In the wall mounting configuration, fewer number of robots (10) are employed for executing the test cases. In the wall mounting configurations two robots (10) are secured per set for each of the walls and hence four robots (10) are configured per cabinet (25) resulting in cost savings for the operations. However, the ability to execute operations in parallel is limited in this configuration, resulting in slower throughput and there will be a significant impact on the operations in case of failure of any one of the robots (10) in a robotic assembly.
In one of the embodiments of the invention, each of the robots (10) is arranged on the cabinet door (26) configured to operate in parallel mode. This allows the robots (10) to execute the test cases independently of one another, such that in case any one of the robots (10) were to fail, the other robot can continue its operations without any impact.
In the embodiment, the robot (10) includes a control logic module formed by at least one central processing unit (CPU) in communication with a storage medium, a communication module, a machine vision module, and electromechanical module. The electromechanical module includes a robotic arm (12) in association with a robotic actuator (14) for providing flexibility in performing parallel activities. The robotic arm (12) performs all the actions to be taken on the metering device (50) secured inside the cabinet (25).
In an implementation of one of the embodiments of the invention, each of the robots (10) is configured for executing a plurality of test cases on the metering devices (50) secured on the respective slots in the cabinet (25). The test cases are stored in the server (20) for access by means of the communication module. This is facilitated by establishing communication between the robot (10) and the server (20) that allows the registration of each of the plurality of robots (10). The server (20) is capable of configuring these robots (10) for the execution of a plurality of test cases, reading various parameters set thereon to understand their behavior, aiding communication between the robot (10) and the IIOT portal (30). Further, the IIOT portal (30) is configured with a plurality of functionalities such as communication with a test automation tool stored in a communication network, creating test cases, publish and program the robot (10) with the created test cases remotely, adapt with the changes in the test scenarios, receiving information collected by the server, determine various components and parameters of operation and present them for the user.
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the cabinet door carrying the robot (10) is mounted on hinges (26) on one side, allowing a user to open and close the door. Throughout the test cycle operation, the cabinet door must remain closed. If the door is opened, the execution procedures are terminated, and the robot (10) is programmed to stop at its current location. Further, after every closure of the cabinet door, the robot (10) triggers the self-calibration module for that particular cabinet (25).
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the invention, each of the plurality of robots (10) is mounted on a platform and is configured to move up-down and sideways positioning itself against each cabinet (25) that holds the metering device (50) to perform the testing. In various embodiments, the platform that holds the robot (10) is made of a frame or a gantry. In a specific embodiment, four robots (10) are configured for 80 cabinets (25), in which 20 cabinets are formed by 4 rows and 5 columns served by a single robot (10).
In an implementation of the invention, the robot (10) is registered to a specific server (20) for secured and uninterrupted data connectivity. During registration of the robots (10), a secure certificate is exchanged between each of the robots (10), the server (20), and the IIOT portal (30). This secure certificate ensures a secure connection between the robot (10) and the backend servers such as the IIOT Portal (30).
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, each of the plurality of robots (10) is configured to be communicatively coupled to the server (20) over a local area network such as Ethernet.
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, each of the plurality of robots (10) is configured to be communicatively coupled to the server (20) by means of Wi-Fi and a standard wireless broadband communication such as LTE, (Long-Term Evolution).
In one of the embodiments of the invention, the robot (10) is configured with artificial intelligence (AI) module. This AI module helps the robot (10) with automated self-configuration and is also mechanically designed to move in all directions, specifically, three Cartesian axes i.e. up-down, in-out, back-and-forth.
In the embodiment, each of the plurality of the robot (10) is configured with a calibrating module for self-calibrating and adjusting the observed readings according to any changes that may happen in each plurality of the cabinets (25). The robots (10) are also configured with a machine vision module incorporated with an image processing unit and image capturing devices and a deep learning modules to identify the exact positions of each and every button on the various metering devices including the user interface.
In the embodiment, each of the plurality of the robots (10) are also configured with a machine vision module incorporated with an image processing unit and image capturing unit. the machine vision module together with a deep learning module in association with AI module supports the movements and identification of the metering devices (50) in the cabin (25) and their control panel configurations.
Referring to the figure 3a, a process flow of a method of automated meter testing in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is shown. In an implementation in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, during operation, each of the plurality of robots executes a set of test sequences retrieved from the web portal, on the metering device (50) secured on racks in the respective cabinet (25). Thus, each of the plurality of cabinets (25) performs the intended functionality parallelly without any dependency on each other. The method for automated utility meter testing includes registering of a plurality of robots (10) mounted on a cabinet (25) with a server (20), and receiving configuration therefrom; establishing connectivity between each of the plurality of robots (10) with IIOT (30) via the server (20); identifying at least one metering devices (50) on the cabinet rack and their control panel configurations, by one robot (10) secured in the respective cabin (25); accessing a test automation framework configured within a communication platform, by the server (20)via the IIOT portal (30); initiating a plurality of test sequences from the test automation framework on the metering device (50), by the robot (10) in accordance with control signals from the server and the IIOT portal (30); and storing the test results for the respective cabinet (25) by the test automation framework.
The identification of the metering devices (50) on the cabinet rack and their control panel configurations, includes identification based on image-based analysis conducted by the robot (10). In this stage, images of the control panel of the respective meter (50) under test is captured by the image capturing unit. The image thus captured by the image capturing unit is processed and applied for Optical character recognition (OCR) by the image processing unit. The presence of text is detected by the OCR and accordingly the data on the dimensions of the control panel are retrieved from the images by the image processing unit. The image thus captured is converted from the images into a test cycle and are transferred from the robot (10) to the test automation framework accessed by the server (20). Thus, the test automation framework configured within the cloud platform accessed by the server (20) via IIOT portal (30) and initiates the test sequences and stores the results for the respective cabinet (25).
In one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the communication between the server (20) and the IIOT portal (30) is established by means of API request and response cycles as shown in figure 3b.
Referring to figures 4a to 4c, views of the display provided by the IIOT portal in the automated meter testing system in accordance with one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention is shown. In the implementation, each of the plurality of robot (10) is in communication with a monitoring module in the IIOT portal (30) and functions in accordance with the instructions therefrom. Thus, allowing a plurality of remote users such as test users to monitor the system functionality simultaneously over the communication network. This allows a single window solution for monitoring the testing of the plurality of devices such as metering devices (50) in each of the plurality of cabinets (25) remotely and visualizing the testing status in real-time. The monitoring module in IIOT portal (30), thus monitors the robot performance, server (20) performance and utilization, system responsiveness, automated test execution performance, and log analyzers, enables the users such as a support team to proactively manage the operations. In the embodiment, the robot performance is indicated by the color codes ‘Red, Green or Amber flags’ to indicate whether the robots (10) are fully functional, stopped, or partially functional respectively.
In an implementation of one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the server (20) performance and utilization include monitoring of CPU, storage medium, etc. to ensure that the speed of operation is not hampered because of any latencies.
In an implementation of one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system responsiveness feature includes a module for monitoring the service level and step-level response time to get information on the performance of the background services.
In an implementation of one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the automated Test Execution Performance includes monitoring the number of test cases performed, the number of meters/cabinets completed, the overall time taken, etc.
In an implementation of one of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the log analyzers are configured for providing the information useful for analysis of software/code performance to help identify, analyze and resolve any issues. Based on this analysis, the technical support team takes appropriate corrective measures to ensure good system performance.
The monitoring module in the IIOT (30) is further configured for producing alerts with 24/7 capability for critical situations where thresholds have been exceeded. The alerts are generated and propagated by means of a plurality of methods such as via email notification SMS text messages and calls. The module is also configured for storing historical data and alarms.
In the embodiment, each of plurality of robots (10) is mounted on the cabinets (25) and is configured to execute test automation by navigating through the user interface of the metering devices or meters (50) such as Electricity Smart Metering Equipment (ESME), Gas Smart Metering Equipment (GSME), In-Home Display (IHD) and Pre-Payment Metering Infrastructure Devices (PPMID).
ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
1. Proactive monitoring of the operations offered by the system (100) helps the users to take pre-emptive actions and smoothen the performance of the testing operations. Thus, the monitoring module of the IIOT Portal (30) provides valuable information to both the operations team, executive management as well as the engineering team.
2. The design of the system (100) is flexible enough to be accommodated or retrofitted on an existing cabinet containing the meters (50) under test. The existing cabinet door can be replaced with robot (10) without making any changes to the current dimensions of the cabinets. This enables parallel testing of a plurality of meters (50) in the testing area with high throughput.
3. The system (100) further supports standby additional robots as Field Replacement units (FRU) for instant replacement of faulty ones which have been installed. A user such as a local administrator can remove the fault cabinet assembly and replace it with the spare working assembly. The system (100) self-calibrate itself and continue with the test sequence.
The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present invention and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient, but such omissions and substitutions are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the scope of the claims of the present invention.
,CLAIMS:We claim:

1. An automated utility meter testing system (100) for enabling testing of a plurality of metering devices (50) secured inside respective racks in a cabinet (25), the system (100) comprising:
a plurality of robots (10) securely mounted in the cabinet (25), each in contact with at least one metering device (50) wherein each of the plurality of robots (10) is configured to move in all the directions and execute test automation by navigating through the user interface of the metering device (50) in contact;
a server (20) communicatively coupled to each of the plurality of robots (10), the server (20) is configured to receive registration and configure each of the plurality of robots (10) connected thereto for the execution of a plurality of test cases stored therein; and
an Industrial internet of things portal (IIOT portal) (30) in communication with each of the plurality of robots (10) via the server (20)and a test automation framework stored in a communication network, the IIOT portal (30) configured to create test cases, publish and program each of the plurality of robots (10) with the created test cases remotely, adapt with the changes in the test scenarios based on the information received from the server (20), determine various components and parameters of operation and present them for a user;
wherein the IIOT portal (30) communicates with each of the plurality of robots (10) by means of control signals from the server (20) based on a test suit managed by the test automation framework and communicates with a user allowing remote monitoring of the testing process.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of plurality of robots (10) includes,
a control logic module formed by at least one central processing unit (CPU) in communication with a storage medium;
a machine vision module incorporated with an image processing unit in communication with an image capturing unit;
an electromechanical module includes a robotic arm (12) in association with a robotic actuator (14) that provides flexibility in the movements of a parallel testing activities;
a communication module that establishes communication between the robot and the server (20);
an artificial intelligence (AI) module with automated self-configuration; and
a calibrating module configured for self-calibrating and adjusting the observed readings according to any changes that may happen in the respective cabinets (25);
wherein the AI module in association with machine vision module and a deep learning module facilitates identification of the metering devices (50) in the cabin (25) and the control panel configurations of the metering devices (50) and allow the electromechanical module to execute the test cycles.
3. The system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the robotic arm in association with robotic actuator (14) is configured to perform all the actions to be taken on the metering device (50) secured inside the cabinet (25).
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of robots (10) are mounted on the cabinet (20) as door mounted and wall mounted units.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of robots (10) arranged on the cabinet door (26) is configured to operate in parallel mode, allowing individually execute the test cases independently of one another.
6. The system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the arrangement of the plurality of the robots (10) includes four robots (10) configured for 80 cabinets (25), in which cabinets (25) are formed by 4 rows and 5 columns served by a single robot (10).
7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cabinet door is configured with a hinge (26) for receiving robot (10) on one side, allowing opening and closing the door
8. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of cabinets (25) are configured such that cabinet door remains in the closed position during the operation of the test cycle, and terminates the execution procedures when the door is opened.
9. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of robots (10) is mounted on a platform and is configured to move up-down and sideways positioning itself against each cabinet (25) that holds the metering device (50) to perform the testing.
10. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of robots (10) is communicatively coupled to the server (20)by means of the modes selected from the group containing local area network, Wi-Fi connectivity and standard wireless broadband communication techniques of LTE (Long-Term Evolution).
11. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the communication between the server (20)and the IIOT portal (30) is established by means of API request and response cycles.
12. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the IIOT portal (30) includes a monitoring module configured to monitor robot performance, server performance and utilization, system responsiveness, automated test execution performance, and log analyzers and allowing a plurality of users to monitor the system functionality simultaneously over the communication network remotely, and produce alarm on critical situations.
13. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the test automation framework includes a web portal and a plurality of cloud components consisting of a user interface module in communication with an environment management module, a cabinet management module, a device management module, a test group management module, a test suit management module, a test case management module, a test schedule creation module, and an account management module.
14. The system as claimed in claim 13, wherein the user interface module allows the user to create the setup and configure information on environment including creating the setup and configuring the plurality of cabinets (25), individual metering devices (50), test environments, and test procedures to be applied on the metering devices (5).
15. The system as claimed in claim 13, wherein the environment management module is configured to manage information on a plurality of test environments and allows the user to add/edit/delete the details of test environments.
16. The system as claimed in claim 13, wherein the cabinet management module is configured to manage information on a plurality of cabinets (25) and allows the user to add new cabinet details, edit/delete existing cabinet (25) details and mapping of the metering devices (50) in each of the plurality of cabinets (25).
17. The system as claimed in claim 13, wherein the device management module is configured to manage information on a plurality of metering devices (20), and allows the user to add/edit/delete metering devices (20) and mapping of the plurality of metering devices (50).
18. The system as claimed in claim 13, wherein the test group management module is configured to manage information on test suites, and allows the user to add different test suites in a specific test group for test execution.
19. The system as claimed in claim 13, wherein the test suite management module is configured to manage information on a plurality of test suites, and allows the user to add different test cases in a specific test suite.
20. The system as claimed in claim 13, wherein the test case management module is configured to manage information on a plurality of test sequences to be followed for testing operation and allows the user to create different test cases for test execution and selection of the required test sequence to run on each of the plurality of the cabinet (25).
21. The system as claimed in claim 13, wherein the test schedule creation module manages a plurality of test groups for each of the different cabinets (25), and enables the user to create/ schedule test groups for each of the different metering device types, inputting required test sequence to be run on each of the plurality of the cabinets (25), test environment and cabinet (25) followed by the details of the device (50) a test group for each device type and test sequences
22. The system as claimed in claim 21, wherein the test schedule creation module is configured to provide scheduling of test operations on immediate basis, or scheduling the desired functionality for the future, and a recurring functionality for scheduling the test operations that allows the user to arrange for future auto-test runs thereby different schedules are created and stored for future reference.
23. The system as claimed in claim 13, wherein the account management module is configured for managing a plurality of user accounts in the test automation framework wherein the plurality of user accounts includes an admin account, at least one test user account and at least one support team user account, while allowing an admin user to create and disable other user accounts.
24. A method for automated utility meter testing, the method comprising steps of:
registering of a plurality of robots (10) mounted on a cabinet (25) with a server (20), and receiving configuration therefrom;
establishing connectivity between each of the plurality of robots (10) with IIOT (30) via the server (20);
identifying at least one metering devices (50) on the cabinet rack and their control panel configurations, by one robot (10) secured in the respective cabin (25);
accessing a test automation framework configured within a communication platform, by the server (20) via the IIOT portal (30);
initiating a plurality of test sequences from the test automation framework on the metering device (50), by the robot (10) in accordance with control signals from the server (20) and the IIOT portal (30); and
storing the test results for the respective cabinet (25) by the test automation framework.
25. The method as claimed in claim 24, wherein the identification of at least one metering devices (50) on the rack and their control panel configurations is based on image-based analysis performed by the robot (10) by identifying text information in the images of the cabinet and the metering devices (50) in contact.
26. The method as claimed in claim 24, wherein the registering of each of the plurality of robots (1) include exchanging a secure certificate between each of the robots (10), the server (20), and the IIOT portal (30), that ensures a secure connection between the robot (10), the server (20)and the IIOT Portal (30).
Dated this on 7th November, 2023

Ragitha. K
(Agent for Applicant) IN-PA/2832