Methods and apparatus for time synchronization and measurement of power distribution systems

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for time synchronization and measurement of power distribution systems. A method includes receiving a synchronized wireless communication signal, synchronizing to the synchronized wireless communication signal to produce synchronized time, performing one or more power distribution measurements based on the synchronized time to produce synchronized power distribution measurements, and transmitting the synchronized power distribution measurements to a power control center. An apparatus includes a receiver configured to receive a synchronized wireless communication signal and to synchronize to the synchronized wireless communication signal to produce synchronized time, a measurement module configured to perform one or more power distribution measurements based on the synchronized time to produce synchronized power distribution measurements, and a transmitter configured to transmit the synchronized power distribution measurements to a power control center.

Description

BACKGROUND

1. Field

The present application relates generally to the operation of power distribution systems, and more particularly, to methods and apparatus for time synchronization and measurement of power distribution systems.

2. Background

The electricity industry is going through a metamorphosis with utilities rolling out what is known as the “Smart Grid”. The “Smart Grid” is an intelligent, managed, controlled, network communication overlay on top of the existing electric distribution network. Essentially the Smart Grid links utility computer servers to grid infrastructure devices and new “smart electricity meters.” Several Smart Grid services require that precise time be known. For example, synchronized phasor measurements (time-stamped measurements of alternating current phase), Time of Use (TOU) metering, and scheduled load shedding are just a few of these services.

However, determining precise synchronized time across the smart grid can be challenging and expensive. Some higher end utility infrastructure components use Global Positioning System (GPS) modules to maintain precise time, but these modules are too expensive to be deployed in individual smart meters. Thus, smart meters must use other, less accurate and less expensive, means of acquiring and maintaining time.

Typically, smart meters use the power line frequency itself to measure the passing of time, filling in with expensive real-time clock components to cover power outages. Unfortunately, this adds significant cost to the meter, and time accuracy errors tend to accumulate over periods of usage. The result is that time in smart meters is nowhere near accurate enough to enable synchronized phasor measurements, and it is barely adequate for Time of Use metering.

Therefore, it would be desirable to have a simple cost effective mechanism that operates to provide time synchronization and measurement for improved monitoring and failure detection for power distribution systems.

SUMMARY

A time synchronization (TS) system, comprising methods and apparatus, is provided that operates to provide time synchronization and measurement for improved monitoring and failure detection for power distribution systems.

In an aspect, a method is provided for time synchronization in a power distribution system. The method comprises receiving a synchronized wireless communication signal, synchronizing to the synchronized wireless communication signal to produce synchronized time, performing one or more power distribution measurements based on the synchronized time to produce synchronized power distribution measurements, and transmitting the synchronized power distribution measurements to a power control center.

In an aspect, an apparatus is provided for time synchronization in a power distribution system. The apparatus comprises means for receiving a synchronized wireless communication signal, means for synchronizing to the synchronized wireless communication signal to produce synchronized time, means for performing one or more power distribution measurements based on the synchronized time to produce synchronized power distribution measurements, and means for transmitting the synchronized power distribution measurements to a power control center.

In an aspect, an apparatus is provided for time synchronization in a power distribution system. The apparatus comprises a receiver configured to receive a synchronized wireless communication signal and to synchronize to the synchronized wireless communication signal to produce synchronized time, a measurement module configured to perform one or more power distribution measurements based on the synchronized time to produce synchronized power distribution measurements, and a transmitter configured to transmit the synchronized power distribution measurements to a power control center.

In an aspect, a computer program product is provided for time synchronization in a power distribution system. The computer program product comprises a computer-readable medium embodying codes executable by a processor to receive a synchronized wireless communication signal, synchronize to the synchronized wireless communication signal to produce synchronized time, perform one or more power distribution measurements based on the synchronized time to produce synchronized power distribution measurements, and transmit the synchronized power distribution measurements to a power control center.

In an aspect, a method is provided for time synchronization in a power distribution system. The method comprises receiving one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements from one or more measurement devices, respectively, wherein each measurement device is synchronized to a synchronous wireless communication system, and analyzing the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements to determine one or more power conditions of the power distribution system.

In an aspect, an apparatus is provided for time synchronization in a power distribution system. The apparatus comprises a transceiver configured to receive one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements from one or more measurement devices, respectively, wherein each measurement device is synchronized to a synchronous wireless communication system, and a processor coupled to the transceiver and configured to analyze the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements to determine one or more power conditions of the power distribution system.

Other aspects will become apparent after review of the hereinafter set forth Brief Description of the Drawings, Description, and the Claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing aspects described herein will become more readily apparent by reference to the following Description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary time synchronization system for use in a power distribution system;

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary time synchronization apparatus constructed in accordance with the time synchronization system;

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary power control center constructed in accordance with the time synchronization system;

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary method for time synchronization and measurement in accordance with the time synchronization system;

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary method for receiving and processing time synchronized measurements in accordance with the time synchronization system;

FIG. 6 shows an exemplary time synchronization apparatus constructed in accordance with the time synchronization system; and

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary power control center constructed in accordance with the time synchronization system.

DESCRIPTION

The following description describes aspects and implementations of a time synchronization system that operates to provide time synchronization and measurement for improved monitoring and failure detection for power distribution systems.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary time synchronization system 100 for use in a power distribution system. A power distribution line 102 is shown that is part of a distribution grid that distributes power over a selected geographic region. For example, the power distribution line 102 may distribute power over a neighborhood, community, city, county, or any other region. Coupled to the power distribution line 102 are time synchronization apparatuses (TSAs) 104, 106, 108, 110, and 112. For example, the TSAs may be located at businesses, residences, government buildings, selected geographic locations, or at any location where it may be desirable to monitor the power distribution line 102. Each TSA is operable to communicate with a wireless communication server. For example, the TSAs 104 and 108 can communicate with wireless communication with server 114, and the TSAs 106, 110, and 112 can communicate with wireless communication with the servers 116, 118 and 120, respectively.

In one implementation, the wireless communication servers 114, 116, 118, and 120 are part of a code division multiple access (CDMA) wireless communication system that provides synchronous wireless communications to allow multiple nodes to communicate with each other and with other entities coupled to a network infrastructure. The CDMA system derives its time synchronization from a universal time system, such as a global positioning system (GPS). Thus, all communications are performed in a time synchronized manner. It should be noted that the time synchronization system is suitable for use with any wireless communication system operable to provide synchronous communications and is not limited to use with only CDMA systems.

Each TSA is assigned an identifier that identifies the TSA and provides a mechanism to establish its position relative to the power distribution line 102. Each TSA comprises a wireless modem/radio allowing it to utilize signals transmitted from the wireless communication servers to acquire time synchronization from these signals. As a result, all TSAs become synchronized to within a particular threshold or accuracy. For example, utilizing CDMA signal transmissions, the TSAs may achieve time synchronization to within one microsecond.

In one implementation, knowledge of time developed inherently in the radio modem is output to clock processing circuitry at the TSAs and any measurements taken by the TSAs are tagged with this highly accurate time source. This enables each TSA to perform highly accurate phasor measurements, perform power measurements in precise intervals of time, perform any other type of measurement, and schedule tasks very precisely.

Synchronizing to the synchronous wireless transmissions allows the TS system to prevent or eliminate the problem of accumulating time errors found in conventional systems. For example, each TSA acquires and maintains time synchronization based on received radio transmissions from the time synchronized wireless servers. Thus, each TSA maintains accurate time synchronization with no accumulating time errors, unlike conventional systems which utilize local timing circuits that may experience accumulating time errors.

Once synchronized, the TSAs operate to perform any desired power line measurements. For example, the TSAs operate to measure phase, voltage, current, power utilization or any other parameters associated with the power distribution line 102. This results in a set of measurements at known locations along the power distribution line 102 that are accurately time synchronized. For example, it is possible to obtain a set of time synchronized phase measurements along the power distribution line 102.

Referring now to TSA 106 having identifier #2, the TSA 106 acquires time synchronization utilizing received wireless signals from wireless server 116. The TSA 106 then makes desired power line measurements to produce synchronized power line measurements. The TSA 106 then transmits these synchronized measurements to a power control center (PCC) 122. The measurements are transmitted wirelessly using the wireless server 116, as illustrated by path 126, or by using a landline communication system, as illustrated by path 124. The landline communication system comprises telephone, network, fiber optic communication systems or other type of wired communication system, including using the power line 102.

The phase measurements effectively measure the line frequency of the power distribution line 102. Typically, the frequency of the power waveform is a 60 hertz sine wave. By measuring this frequency at one microsecond time intervals, the frequency (and associated phase) can be finely resolved. During processing, the measurements are correlated in real time across the entire grid to determine phase variations that may be problematic. The identity of each TSA is mapped to a geographic position which allows the locations of excessive phase variations to be determined. All TSAs shown in FIG. 1 perform the same functions as TSA 106 and also transmit their synchronized measurements to the power control center 122.

The power control center 122 operates to receive the synchronized measurement transmissions from TSAs located along the power distribution line 102. The PPC 122 is aware of the position of each TSA through its identifier. The synchronized measurements are received wirelessly or through the landline system. The power control center 122 operates to analyze the synchronous measurements to determine various conditions or operating states of the power distribution line 102. For example, the power control center 122 can determine from the synchronized measurements and the TSA identifiers whether there is an unacceptable power or phase variation at a particular location along the power distribution line 102. The power control center 122 can also send commands or instructions to the TSAs to adjust when synchronized measurements are to be performed and which measurements to perform. Using the TSA identifiers, the power control center 122 can also communicate with selected TSAs to request that additional measurements or other actions be taken. Additionally, the PCC 122 can communicate anomaly parameters to dynamically control how TSA detect anomaly conditions on the power line 102. A more detailed description of the anomaly parameters is provided below.

Furthermore, the PCC 122 supports a communication channel 130 that allows communication with other PCCs of the distribution grid. The communication channel 130 allows information to be exchanged between PCCs and/or allows distributed processing of power line measurements performed by the TSAs

In another implementation, each TSA may “self-locate” its position and report its position to the appropriate PCC. For example, each TSA utilizes one or more position determining capabilities of the wireless modem/radio to determine a geographic position. These position determining capabilities include, but are not limited to, cell sector identification and Advanced Forward Link Trilateration (AFLT). In AFLT, a TSA takes measurements of signals from nearby cellular base stations (towers) and reports the time/distance readings back to the PCC, which are then used to calculate an approximate location of the TSA. In general, three surrounding base stations are used to get an optimal position determination.

In another implementation, a TSA may determine its own position by interfacing to other servers or network entities. For example, each TSA comprises a network interface 128 to exchange any type of information with other network entities to determine it own position.

As a result of using one or more of the self locating techniques, each TSA reports an approximate latitude and longitude (with a known uncertainty) to the PCC to provide positional context to each power measurement. This simplifies the management of the system since the PCC would operate to self learn TSA positions rather than having to carefully maintain a database tying TSA identities to addresses and corresponding locations.

Alternatively, if the PCC does maintain a position database, having an approximate latitude and longitude delivered by the TSAs can be used to spot errors in such a database. Note that a very accurate self location determination would not be necessary. Even a basic cell sector position capability (provided by many wireless technologies) would be adequate to determine the location of grid problems or to maintain the position database.

It should be noted that a TSA can be part of every node on the distribution grid. Compared to conventional systems, which utilize a few high end infrastructure components each having expensive position finding electronics, the TSAs can be implemented with relatively minor cost and provide a virtually unlimited number of synchronized measuring points throughout the grid.

Therefore, the time synchronization system operates to provide time synchronization and measurement in a power distribution system. The system allows a large number of synchronized measurements to be acquired in a cost effective manner, and these measurements are communicated to a power control center for analysis. For example, the large number of synchronized measurements allows slight phase variations across the distribution grid to be detected. The system also allows the power control center to communicate requests for additional measurements or other actions to one or more TSAs to allow more detailed investigations of distribution conditions or inefficiencies.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary TSA 200 for use in accordance with the time synchronization system. For example, the TSA 200 is suitable for use as the TSA 106 shown in FIG. 1. The TSA 200 comprises processor 202, measurement module 204, landline transceiver 206, and wireless transceiver 208 all coupled to communicate using data bus 210. It should be noted that the TSA 200 is just one implementation and that other implementations are possible.

The wireless transceiver 208 comprises hardware and/or hardware executing software that operates to allow the TSA 200 to communicate data or other information with other entities using a wireless communication system. In one implementation, the transceiver 208 comprises a radio modem that is configured to communicate over a wireless communication system. For example, the transceiver 208 comprises a receiver portion that is operable to receive synchronized transmission frames 212 from a wireless communication server, such as a server operating in a CDMA communication system.

The transceiver 208 includes a transmitter portion that is operable to send data or other information to other entities using the wireless communication system. Thus, the transceiver 208 utilizes the radio modem to communicate using the wireless communication system to receive instructions from a power control center through the transmission frames 212 or may transmit synchronized measurements 214 to the power control center.

The transceiver 208 also acquires time synchronization utilizing the transmission signals of the wireless communication system. For example, during communication with the wireless communication system, the transceiver 208 inherently acquires accurate time synchronization and passes this time synchronization to timing logic 222 of the processor 202.

The landline transceiver 206 comprises hardware and/or hardware executing software that operates to allow the TSA 200 to communicate data or other information with other entities using a landline communication system. The landline communication system comprises telephone, network, or fiber optic communication systems or other type of wired communication system, including using the power line itself. For example, the transceiver 208 is operable to send or receive data or other information to other entities using the landline communication system. For example, the transceiver 208 comprises transmitter and receiver portions that can communicate using the landline communication system to receive instructions 216 from a power control center or may transmit synchronized measurements 218 to the power control center.

The measurement module 204 comprises hardware and/or hardware executing software that operates to receive a sync signal from the processor 202 and perform one or more measurements of a power line 220. For example, the processor 202 controls when and which measurements are to be performed by the measurement module 204. The measurements comprise power, voltage, current, phase, usage history and/or any other type of measurement. Voltage, current, and phase are primary measurements. Power; however is a derived measurement in that it is derived from other primary measurements. The measurement module 204 is operable to determine any type of derived measurements, including load factor, harmonic content, other reactive qualities, or any other type of derived measurement. The measurements are synchronized by the received sync signal and passed to the processor 202.

In one implementation, the measurement module 204 operates to measure the steady-state average “phase offset” of a TSA relative to a fixed point in the network. This enables an estimate of distance between any two TSAs. Phase offset generally does not become ambiguous for at least 5,000 kilometers, thus for all practical purposes it is unambiguous within any power operator's territory. The difference in phase offset between any two TSAs is an estimate of the difference in distance that the power took to travel to the two respective positions. If one TSA that is supposed to be in a particular neighborhood or region has a much different phase than other TSAs in the region, then an error condition is indicated which may require further investigation.

The measurement module 204 also comprises anomaly parameters 224. The anomaly parameters 224 identify power line anomaly conditions to be detected by the measurement module 204. The anomaly conditions may require the measurement module 204 to determine derived measurements. The anomaly parameters set bounds and thresholds for the primary and derived measurements associate with each anomaly condition. If the bounds or thresholds associated with an anomaly condition are exceeded, then it is determined that the anomaly condition exists. Thus, the anomaly parameters provide the bounds or thresholds for anomaly detection and in addition, the actions to be taken should one or more anomaly conditions be detected.

In one implementation, the measurement module 204 operates to detect the power line anomaly conditions asynchronously, such that any time an identified anomaly condition occurs, it will be quickly detected by the measurement module 204.

In one implementation, the anomaly parameters 224 are pre-configured at the measurement module 204. For example, the anomaly parameters are configured at manufacture or installation of the TSA 200. In another implementation, the anomaly parameters 224 are configured, updated, and maintained by a PCC. For example, at any time a PCC may download anomaly parameters 224 using the transceiver 208 or the transceiver 206. This allows the PCC to dynamically control anomaly detection performed by the TSA 200.

Furthermore, the anomaly parameters 224 identify additional measurements associated with each anomaly condition. The additional measurements are measured when the corresponding anomaly condition is detected. For example, the measurement module 204 detects a particular anomaly condition based on the anomaly parameters 224. The measurement module 204 then accesses the anomaly parameters 224 to determine additional measurements to be performed based on the detected anomaly condition. The additional measurements are performed and the detected anomaly and associated measurements are passed to the processor 202 for transmission to the PCC.

The processor 202 comprises at least one of a CPU, processor, gate array, hardware logic, memory elements, and/or hardware executing software. The processor 202 operates to control the measurement module 204 to perform selected measurements. The processor 202 comprises timing logic 222 that generates a sync signal that is sent to the measurement module 204 to control when measurements are to be taken. The timing logic 222 obtains synchronization from the transceiver 208 which has acquired its synchronization from received wireless transmission frames. For example, received synchronized transmission frames are received by the transceiver 208 and are analyzed by the transceiver 208 to determine an exact time reference which is indicated to the timing logic 222, which then generates the sync signal to indicate the precise time at which particular measurements are to be performed by the measurement module 204.

The processor 202 also comprises interface logic to support communication link 226, which provides network communication with various network entities. For example, the processor 202 may communicate with other network entities using the link 226 to self locate the position of the TSA 200. Any suitable location techniques may be performed and the results are reported by the processor 202 to a PCC using the transceiver 206 and/or transceiver 208.

The processor 202 is also operable to receive instructions from a power control center using a wireless communication system or a landline communication system. For example, the power control center may encode the instructions into the received wireless transmission frames 212 that are received by the wireless transceiver 208. The power control center may also encode the instructions into landline communications 216 that are received by the landline transceiver 206. In either case, the received instructions are passed to the processor 202.

The processor 202 decodes the instructions and determines if any actions are necessary. For example, if additional measurements are requested, the processor 202 controls the measurement module 204 to perform the additional measurements. The processor 202 then transmits the additional measurements to the power control center using either the landline transceiver 206 or the wireless transceiver 208. The processor 202 may also perform any other action requested by the power control center and is not limited to obtaining just additional power line measurements. For example, the instructions may include anomaly parameters 224 that are stored at the measurement module 204. The anomaly parameters 224 are used to allow a PCC to dynamically control anomaly detection and processing. A more detailed description of the operation of the TSA 200 is provided in another section below.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary power control center 300 constructed in accordance with the time synchronization system. For example, the PCC 300 is suitable for use as the PCC 122 shown in FIG. 1. The PCC 300 comprises processor 302, landline transceiver 304, wireless transceiver 306, TSA database 308, all coupled to communicate using data bus 310. It should be noted that the PCC 300 is just one implementation and that other implementations are possible.

The wireless transceiver 306 comprises hardware and/or hardware executing software that operate to allow the PCC 300 to communicate data or other information with other entities using a wireless communication system. For example, the transceiver 306 comprises a transmitter portion that is operable to transmit information, instructions, or other data to one or more TSAs using synchronized transmission frames 314 of a synchronized wireless communication system, such as a CDMA communication system. The transceiver 308 also comprises a receiver that is operable to receive synchronized measurements 312 from one or more TSAs using the synchronized wireless communication system.

The landline transceiver 304 comprises hardware and/or hardware executing software that operate to allow the PCC 300 to communicate data or other information with other entities using a landline communication system. For example, the transceiver 304 comprises a receiver portion that is operable to receive synchronized measurements 316 from one or more TSAs using the landline communication system. The transceiver 304 also comprises a transmitter that is operable to transmit instructions 318 or other data to one or more TSAs using the landline communication system

The TSA database 308 comprises information about TSAs stored in any suitable memory that is accessible via the bus 310. The database 308 identifies TSAs by their assigned identifier and includes any other information necessary to process synchronized measurements received from any TSA. The database also associates TSA identifiers with geographic locations so that a location for each received synchronized measurement can be determined.

The processor 302 comprises at least one of a CPU, processor, gate array, hardware logic, memory elements, and/or hardware executing software. The processor 302 operates to process synchronized measurements received by the transceivers 304 and 306 to determine one or more power line conditions associated with a power distribution line. For example, the received synchronized measurements are associated with identified TSAs and the processor 302 is able to access the TSA database to determine a location associated with each received synchronized measurement. The processor 302 is then able to determine one or more power line conditions by analyzing the measurements taken at each location. For example, if one or more TSAs report low voltage conditions, the processor 302 can access the TSA database 308 to determine the location of the low voltage conditions. Similarly, synchronized phase measurements reported by the TSAs can be correlated in real time by the processor 302 to determine the location of any phase variation that may indicate loading problems or a potential blackout condition.

The processor 302 is also operable to determine if any additional measurements or actions are desired from one or more TSAs. If so, the processor 302 can control the wireless transceiver 306 to transmit instructions in the synchronized transmission frames to one or more TSAs. The instructions instruct the particular TSAs to take additional measurements, update anomaly parameters, or perform additional actions and report back the results.

The processor 302 also supports a communication channel 320 that allows communication with other PCCs of the distribution grid. The communication channel 320 allows information to be exchanged between PCCs and allows distributed processing of power line measurements performed by the TSAs. The communication channel 320 comprises any suitable communication link allowing multiple PCCs to communicate.

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary method for time synchronization and measurement in accordance with the time synchronization system. For clarity, the method 400 is described below with reference to the TSA 200 shown in FIG. 2. In one implementation, the processor 202 executes one or more sets of codes to control the TSA 200 to perform the functions described below.

At block 402, synchronized wireless communication signals are received. For example, the wireless communication signals are received from a synchronized wireless communication system, such as a CDMA system, or from any other type of system that can provide synchronized communication signals. In one implementation, the transceiver 208 receives the synchronized wireless communication signals from a wireless communication server, such as the server 116 shown in FIG. 1.

At block 404, time synchronization is acquired by synchronizing to the synchronized wireless communication signal. In one implementation, the transceiver 208 determines time synchronization from the received synchronized wireless communication signals. For example, the received synchronized wireless communication signals comprise transmission frames which are synchronized to a GPS time standard. The transceiver 208 is able to analyze these received frames to acquire (or lock in) time synchronization. For example, using CDMA transmission frames, time synchronization can be determined to within one microsecond so that any device receiving the transmission frames can synchronize to this level of accuracy. The time synchronization is then indicated to the timing logic 222 which generates a corresponding sync signal.

At block 406, updated anomaly parameters are received. In one implementation, the anomaly parameters are received by the transceiver 208 and stored at the measurement module 204 as anomaly parameters 224. The anomaly parameters identify power line anomalies to be detected and actions to be taken in response.

At block 408, synchronized power distribution measurements are performed. In one implementation, the timing logic 222 provides the sync signal or trigger to the measurement module 204. The measurement module 204 responds by measuring the phase or other parameters of a power distribution line. The measurement module 204 is operable to measure the phase to any desired level of accuracy and its measurement is synchronized by the sync signal. The measurement module is also operable to perform any other type of power line measurement.

At block 410, the measurements are transmitted to a power control center using the wireless communication system. For example, the measurement module 204 controls the wireless transceiver 208 to transmit the synchronized phase measurements to the power control center using the wireless communication link 214.

At block 410, in an optional operation, the synchronized phase measurements are transmitted to a power control center using a landline communication system. For example, the measurement module 204 controls the landline transceiver 206 to transmit the synchronized phase measurements to the power control center using the landline communication links 218. The landline communication system comprises telephone, network, or fiber optic communication systems or other type of wired communication system, including using the power line itself.

At block 412, a determination is made as to whether a request for additional measurements or other actions has been received. For example, a request for additional measurements may be generated by a PCC and transmitted to the TSA 200 using the wireless transmission frames 212. If a request for additional measurements or other actions has not been received, the method proceeds to block 418. If a request for additional measurements or other actions has been received, the method proceeds to block 416. The processor 202 makes this determination.

At block 416, additional measurements or actions are performed. For example, the processor 202 controls the measurement module 204 to perform the additional phase measurements or other power distribution measurements. Once the additional measurements or actions are performed, the method proceeds to block 410 to transmit the measurements.

At block 418, a determination is made as to whether any power line anomalies are detected. For example, in one implementation, the measurement module 204 is pre-configured with anomaly parameters 224 that identify a set of power line anomalies to be checked. These anomalies include excessive power usage, voltage or current spikes, or any other type of anomaly associated with the power line 102. In another implementation, the PCC provides the anomaly parameters at block 406. For example, the PCC can dynamically adjust the anomalies to be detected by providing and/or updating the anomaly parameters 224 at any time. The anomaly parameters identify boundaries and thresholds for primary or derived measurements. If the boundaries or thresholds are exceeded, the measurement module determines which if any anomaly conditions exist. If one or more anomaly conditions exist, the method proceeds to block 420. If no anomaly conditions exist, the method proceeds to block 406.

At block 420, additional measurements or actions are performed. For example, the anomaly parameters 224 comprise additional measurements to be performed for each detected anomaly. For example, if a low voltage anomaly is detected; additional measurements, such as power or current measurements may be performed. The processor 202 controls the measurement module 204 to perform the additional measurements based on the anomalies detected and corresponding measurements identified in the anomaly parameters 224. Once the additional measurements or actions are performed, the method proceeds to block 410 to transmit the results to a PCC.

Therefore, in one implementation, the method 400 is performed by a TSA at any location associated with a power distribution line to determine synchronized phase measurements or other power distribution parameters and to transmit those measurements to a power control center using wireless and/or landline transmission links. It should be noted that the method 400 is just one implementation and that the operations of the method 400 may be rearranged or otherwise modified within the scope of the various implementations. Thus, other implementations are possible.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary method 500 for receiving and processing synchronized measurements in accordance with the time synchronization system. For clarity, the method 500 is described below with reference to the PCC 300 shown in FIG. 3. In one implementation, the processor 302 executes one or more sets of codes to control the PCC 300 to perform the functions described below.

At block 502, updated anomaly parameters are transmitted to one or more TSAs. For example, the processor 302 generates the anomaly parameters and transmits them to the identified TSAs using the transceiver 306.

At block 504, synchronized power distribution measurements are received from one or more TSAs. For example, the synchronized power distribution measurements are received from a landline communication system using the transceiver 304 or a wireless communication system using the transceiver 306. Each of the synchronized power distribution measurements is associated with an identified TSA.

At block 506, the received measurements are analyzed to determine one or more power line conditions. For example, the processor 302 analyzes measurements from multiple TSAs to determine fluctuations in power, voltage, current, phase or any other parameter. In one implementation, the processor 302 determines a location of a particular power line condition indicated by one or more TSAs by determining the location of the TSAs from the TSA database 308. For example, to determine phase variations, the processor 302 correlates received synchronized phase measurement in real time to detect any phase variations that may be problematic. The locations of the detected phase variations can then be determined based on the TSA identifiers and corresponding locations obtained from the TSA database 308.

At block 508, a determination is made as to whether additional measurements or actions are desired. For example, additional measurements may be desired from one or more TSAs to fully analyze a particular power line condition. If no additional measurements or actions are required, the method ends. If additional measurements or actions are required, the method proceeds to block 508. The processor 302 makes this determination.

At block 510, one or more TSAs are identified to perform additional measurements or actions. For example, the processor 302 determines one or more power line conditions based on previous synchronized measurements and identifies one or more TSAs from which additional measurements are desired to perform further analysis. The TSAs are identified by their location and/or unique identifier. For example, if a phase variation is detected at a particular location, the processor 302 operates to request additional phase measurements from TSAs located at or near that location.

At block 512, requests for additional measurements or actions are transmitted to the identified TSAs. The processor 302 identifies the TSAs and associated measurements to be obtained in one or more requests. The requests are forwarded to the wireless transceiver 306 for transmission to the identified TSAs using the transmission frames 312 of the wireless communication system. The method then proceeds to block 502 to update anomaly parameters.

Therefore, the method 500 is operable to analyze synchronized measurements reported by a plurality of TSAs and if desired, request additional measurements or actions from one or more particular TSAs. It should be noted that the method 500 is just one implementation and that the operations of the method 500 may be rearranged or otherwise modified within the scope of the various implementations. Thus, other implementations are possible.

FIG. 6 shows an exemplary time synchronization apparatus 600 constructed in accordance with the time synchronization system. For example, the TSA 600 is suitable for use as the TSA 200 shown in FIG. 2. In an aspect, the TSA 600 is implemented by at least one integrated circuit comprising one or more modules configured to provide aspects of a time synchronization system as described herein. For example, in one implementation, each module comprises hardware and/or hardware executing software.

The TSA 600 comprises a first module comprising means (602) for receiving a synchronized wireless communication signal, which in an aspect comprises the transceiver 208. The TSA 600 also comprises a second module comprising means (604) for synchronizing to the synchronized wireless communication signal to produce synchronized time, which in an aspect comprises the transceiver 208. The TSA 600 also comprises a third module comprising means (606) for performing one or more power distribution measurements based on the synchronized time to produce synchronized power distribution measurements, which in an aspect comprises the measurement module 204. The TSA 600 also comprises a fourth module comprising means (608) for transmitting the synchronized power distribution measurements to a power control center, which in an aspect comprises the transceiver 208.

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary power control center 700 constructed in accordance with the time synchronization system. For example, the PCC 700 is suitable for use as the PCC 300 shown in FIG. 3. In an aspect, the PCC 700 is implemented by at least one integrated circuit comprising one or more modules configured to provide aspects of a time synchronization system as described herein. For example, in one implementation, each module comprises hardware and/or hardware executing software.

The PCC 700 comprises a first module comprising means (702) for receiving one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements from one or more measurement devices, respectively, wherein each measurement device is synchronized to a synchronous wireless communication system, which in an aspect comprises the transceiver 306. The PCC 700 also comprises a second module comprising means (704) for analyzing the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements to determine one or more power conditions of the power distribution system, which in an aspect comprises the processor 302.

In one or more exemplary embodiments, the functions described may be implemented in hardware, software to be executed by a computer, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions may be stored on or transmitted over as one or more instructions or codes on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable medium includes both computer storage media and communication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another. A storage media may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer. Also, any connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium. For example, if the software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of medium. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and blu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

The various illustrative logics, logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the aspects disclosed herein may be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but, in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

The description of the disclosed aspects is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. Various modifications to these aspects may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects, e.g., in an instant messaging service or any general wireless data communication applications, without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein. The word “exemplary” is used exclusively herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any aspect described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects.

Accordingly, while aspects of a time synchronization system have been illustrated and described herein, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made to the aspects without departing from their spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the disclosures and descriptions herein are intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the invention, which is set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A method for time synchronization in a power distribution system, the method comprising:

receiving a synchronized wireless communication signal from a terrestrial wireless communication system;

synchronizing a clock to a synchronized time based on the synchronized wireless communication signal;

receiving a first anomaly parameter, the first anomaly parameter identifying an action to be taken in response to detecting a first anomaly;

producing a synchronized result based on one or more power distribution measurements and the synchronized time;

transmitting the synchronized result; and

receiving a second anomaly parameter in response to transmitting the synchronized result, the second anomaly parameter configured to replace a value of the first anomaly parameter.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein:

the terrestrial wireless communication system includes a cellular communication system,

the first anomaly parameter identifies a particular action to be taken in response to detecting a power line anomaly that is associated with the cellular communication system, and

the particular action includes a phase measurement.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving a third anomaly parameter before transmitting the synchronized result, wherein the terrestrial wireless communication system comprises a code division multiple access (CDMA) system, and wherein the first anomaly parameter and the third anomaly parameter identify one or more power line anomalies associated with the CDMA system.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the clock is synchronized based on transmission frames in the synchronized wireless communication signal, wherein the one or more power distribution measurements are based on the transmission frames, and further comprising:

identifying power line anomaly conditions based on the one or more power distribution measurements and based on at least the first anomaly parameter; and

determining whether one or more additional power distribution measurements are to be performed in response to identifying the power line anomaly conditions.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:

determining a particular power distribution measurement of the one or more additional power distribution measurements based on identifying a particular power line anomaly condition of the power line anomaly conditions;

performing the particular power distribution measurement in response to identifying the particular power line anomaly condition to generate measurement results; and

transmitting the measurement results to a power control center.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein:

the one or more power distribution measurements are performed by a measurement module, and

the first anomaly parameter identifies:

a threshold for detecting the first anomaly, and

a particular action to be taken at the measurement module in response to the measurement module detecting the first anomaly.

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving anomaly parameters corresponding to power line anomaly conditions, the anomaly parameters including the first anomaly parameter, wherein the power line anomaly conditions include an excessive power usage, a voltage spike, a current spike, or a combination thereof, and wherein the anomaly parameters include a power threshold, a voltage threshold, a current threshold, or a combination thereof.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more power distribution measurements are performed by a measurement module, and further comprising:

identifying a location of the measurement module using advanced forward link trilateration; and

transmitting the location to a power control center.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the first anomaly parameter includes a threshold, and further comprising identifying an anomaly condition in response to a first power distribution measurement of the one or more power distribution measurements exceeding the threshold.

10. An apparatus for time synchronization in a power distribution system, the apparatus comprising:

means for synchronizing a clock to a synchronized time based on a synchronized wireless communication signal that is received from a terrestrial wireless communication system;

means for receiving a first anomaly parameter that identifies an action to be taken in response to detecting a first anomaly;

means for producing a synchronized result based on one or more power distribution measurements and the synchronized time; and

means for performing transmission of the synchronized result, the means for receiving configured to receive a second anomaly parameter in response to the transmission, the second anomaly parameter configured to replace a value of the first anomaly parameter.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein:

the terrestrial wireless communication system comprises a synchronous communication system,

the first anomaly parameter identifies a particular action to be taken in response to detecting a power line anomaly that is associated with the synchronous communication system, and

the particular action includes a phase measurement.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the means for receiving is configured to receive a third anomaly parameter before the transmission, wherein the terrestrial wireless communication system comprises a code division multiple access (CDMA) system, and wherein the first anomaly parameter and the third anomaly parameter identify one or more power line anomalies associated with the CDMA system.

13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the clock is synchronized based on transmission frames in the synchronized wireless communication signal, wherein the one or more power distribution measurements are based on the transmission frames, and further comprising:

means for identifying power line anomaly conditions based on the one or more power distribution measurements and based on at least the first anomaly parameter; and

means for determining whether one or more additional power distribution measurements are to be performed in response to identifying the power line anomaly conditions.

14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the synchronized result is associated with one or more synchronized primary power line measurements, one or more synchronized secondary power line measurements, or a combination thereof.

15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the one or more power distribution measurements include a power measurement, a current measurement, a voltage measurement, a phase measurement, or a combination thereof.

16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the means for performing transmission is configured to transmit the synchronized result to a power control center using a wireless transmission, a landline transmission, or a combination thereof.

17. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the means for synchronizing, the means for receiving, the means for producing, and the means for performing transmission are each coupled to a data bus.

18. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein:

the means for receiving is configured to receive a request for one or more additional measurements;

the means for producing is configured to produce one or more additional results based on performance of the one or more additional measurements; and

the means for performing transmission is configured to transmit the one or more additional results.

19. An apparatus for time synchronization in a power distribution system, the apparatus comprising:

a data bus;

a processor coupled to the data bus and configured to determine a synchronized time based on a synchronized wireless communication signal received from a terrestrial wireless communication system;

a receiver coupled to the data bus and configured to receive a first anomaly parameter that identifies an action to be taken in response to detecting a first anomaly;

a measurement module coupled to the data bus and configured to perform one or more power distribution measurements based on the synchronized time, the processor further configured to produce a synchronized result based on the one or more power distribution measurements; and

a transmitter coupled to the data bus and configured to perform transmission of the synchronized result, the receiver further configured to receive a second anomaly parameter in response to the transmission, the second anomaly parameter configured to replace a value of the first anomaly parameter.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein:

the terrestrial wireless communication system comprises a synchronous communication system,

the synchronous communication system comprises a code division multiple access (CDMA) system,

the first anomaly parameter identifies a particular action to be taken in response to detecting a power line anomaly that is associated with the CDMA system, and

the particular action includes a phase measurement.

21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the data bus, the processor, the receiver, the measurement module, and the transmitter are included within a common housing.

22. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein a clock in the processor is configured to be synchronized based on transmission frames in the synchronized wireless communication signal.

23. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the synchronized result is associated with one or more synchronized primary power line measurements, one or more synchronized secondary power line measurements, or a combination thereof, and wherein the one or more power distribution measurements include a power measurement, a current measurement, a voltage measurement, a phase measurement, or a combination thereof.

24. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the measurement module is further configured to:

identify power line anomaly conditions based on the one or more power distribution measurements and based on at least the first anomaly parameters; and

determine whether one or more additional power distribution measurements are to be performed in response to the identified power line anomaly conditions.

25. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the transmission includes a wireless transmission.

26. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the transmission includes a landline transmission.

27. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the receiver is further configured to receive a request for one or more additional measurements, wherein the measurement module is further configured to perform the one or more additional measurements to produce one or more additional results, and wherein the transmitter is further configured to transmit the one or more additional results.

28. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a processor cause the processor to:

receive a synchronized wireless communication signal from a terrestrial wireless communication system;

synchronize a clock to a synchronized time based on the synchronized wireless communication signal;

receive a first anomaly parameter that identifies an action to be taken in response to detecting a first anomaly;

produce a synchronized result based on one or more power distribution measurements and the synchronized time;

initiate transmission of the synchronized result; and

receive a second anomaly parameter in response to the transmission, the second anomaly parameter configured to replace a value of the first anomaly parameter.

29. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 28, wherein:

the terrestrial wireless communication system comprises a synchronous communication system,

the synchronous communication system comprises a code division multiple access (CDMA) system,

the first anomaly parameter identifies a particular action to be taken in response to detecting a power line anomaly that is associated with the CDMA system, and

the particular action includes a phase measurement.

30. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 28, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to:

generate a synchronization signal; and

control timing of at least one of the one or more power distribution measurements based on the synchronization signal.

31. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 28, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to:

initiate performance of the one or more power distribution measurements at a measurement module;

identify a location of the measurement module using cell sector identification; and

transmit the location to a power control center.

32. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 28, wherein the instructions further cause the processor to:

initiate performance of the one or more power distribution measurements on a power line; and

determine one or more synchronized primary measurements, one or more synchronized secondary measurements, or a combination thereof.

33. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 28, wherein the one or more power distribution measurements include a power measurement, a current measurement, a voltage measurement, a phase measurement, or a combination thereof.

34. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 28, wherein the instructions when executed by the processor cause the synchronized result to be transmitted via a wireless transmission.

35. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 28, wherein execution of the instructions by the processor causes the synchronized result to be transmitted via a landline transmission.

36. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 28, wherein the instructions are executable to further cause the processor to:

receive a request for one or more additional measurements;

initiate performance of the one or more additional measurements to produce one or more additional results; and

initiate transmission of the one or more additional results.

37. A method for time synchronization in a power distribution system, the method comprising:

receiving time synchronized power distribution measurements from a plurality of measurement devices, wherein each measurement device is time synchronized based on a synchronized wireless communication signal from a terrestrial wireless communication system, and wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements include a first phase offset associated with a first measurement device of the plurality of measurement devices and a second phase offset associated with a second measurement device of the plurality of measurement devices;

analyzing the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements to determine one or more power conditions of the power distribution system; and

determining an error condition based on a comparison of the first phase offset and the second phase offset.

38. The method of claim 37, further comprising:

associating the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements with one or more geographic locations; and

correlating the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements based on the one or more geographic locations to determine a measurement variation.

39. The method of claim 37, wherein the first phase offset is a first difference in phase between first power measurement data collected by the first measurement device and second power measurement data collected by a fixed device, and wherein the second phase offset is a second difference in phase between third power measurement data collected by the second measurement device and the second power measurement data.

40. The method of claim 37, wherein the terrestrial wireless communication system comprises a code division multiple access (CDMA) system.

41. The method of claim 39, wherein the first phase offset corresponds to a first distance between the first measurement device and the fixed device, and wherein the second phase offset corresponds to a second distance between the second measurement device and the fixed device.

42. The method of claim 37, wherein each of the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements is associated with a power line of the power distribution system, and wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements comprise a power measurement, a current measurement, a voltage measurement, a phase measurement, or a combination thereof.

43. The method of claim 37, wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements are received via a landline transmission.

44. An apparatus for time synchronization in a power distribution system, the apparatus comprising:

means for receiving one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements from a plurality of measurement devices, wherein each measurement device is time synchronized based on a synchronized wireless communication signal from a terrestrial wireless communication system, and wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements include a first phase offset associated with a first measurement device of the plurality of measurement devices and a second phase offset associated with a second measurement device of the plurality of measurement devices;

means for analyzing the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements to determine one or more power conditions of the power distribution system; and

means for determining an error condition based on a comparison of the first phase offset and the second phase offset.

45. The apparatus of claim 44, further comprising:

means for associating the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements with one or more geographic locations; and

means for correlating the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements based on the one or more geographic locations to determine a measurement variation.

46. The apparatus of claim 44, wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements are received from a server in the terrestrial wireless communication system.

47. The apparatus of claim 44, wherein the terrestrial wireless communication system comprises a code division multiple access (CDMA) system.

48. The apparatus of claim 44, wherein each of the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements is associated with a power line of the power distribution system.

49. The apparatus of claim 44, wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements comprise a power measurement, a current measurement, a voltage measurement, a phase measurement, or a combination thereof.

50. The apparatus of claim 44, wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements are received via a landline transmission.

51. An apparatus for time synchronization in a power distribution system, the apparatus comprising:

a transceiver configured to receive one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements from a plurality of measurement devices, wherein each measurement device is time synchronized based on a synchronized wireless communication signal from a terrestrial wireless communication system, and wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements include a first phase offset associated with a first measurement device of the plurality of measurement devices and a second phase offset associated with a second measurement device of the plurality of measurement devices;

a processor coupled to the transceiver and configured to:

analyze the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements to determine one or more power conditions of the power distribution system; and

determine an error condition based on a comparison of the first phase offset and the second phase offset.

52. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein the processor is configured to:

associate the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements with one or more geographic locations; and

correlate the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements based on the one or more geographic locations to determine a measurement variation.

53. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements are received from a server in the terrestrial wireless communication system.

54. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein the terrestrial wireless communication system comprises a code division multiple access (CDMA) system.

55. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein each of the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements is associated with a power line of the power distribution system.

56. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements comprise a power measurement, a current measurement, a voltage measurement, a phase measurement, or a combination thereof.

57. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements are received via a landline transmission.

58. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions, which when executed by a processor cause the processor to:

receive one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements from a plurality of measurement devices, wherein each measurement device is time synchronized based on a synchronized wireless communication signal from a terrestrial wireless communication system, and wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements include a first phase offset associated with a first measurement device of the plurality of measurement devices and a second phase offset associated with a second measurement device of the plurality of measurement devices;

analyze the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements to determine one or more power conditions of a power distribution system; and

determine an error condition based on a comparison of the first phase offset and the second phase offset.

59. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 58, wherein the instructions are executable by the processor to:

associate the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements with one or more geographic locations; and

correlate the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements based on the one or more geographic locations to determine a measurement variation.

60. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 58, wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements are received from a server in the terrestrial wireless communication system.

61. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 58, wherein the terrestrial wireless communication system comprises a code division multiple access (CDMA) system.

62. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 58, wherein each of the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements is associated with a power line of the power distribution system.

63. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 58, wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements comprise a power measurement, a current measurement, a voltage measurement, a phase measurement, or a combination thereof.

64. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 58, wherein the one or more time synchronized power distribution measurements are received via a landline transmission.