Maximum information capture from energy constrained sensor nodes
AssigneeRockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
InventorFrederick M. Discenzo
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Adaptable self-powered sensor node and methods of operation providing real-time monitoring and management of node operation. The adaptable self-powered sensor node incorporates an adaptable generator and a radio transmitter to operate remotely without the need for power or communication wiring. Data analysis capabilities provide for maximizing information extracted from sensors and analysis and providing control or reporting information utilizing a strategy to minimize energy usage while reducing information entropy.
Claims42
An adaptive self-powered sensor node system for optimizing the amount of useful information available from a monitored system subject to constraints on sensor node power, time and monitored system operating conditions, the system comprising:
- a sensing component that senses conditions associated with a device;
- and
- an entropy calculation component that operates the sensor node to minimize the information entropy of the device.
A method for use in connection with an adaptive self-powered sensor node attached to operationally vibrating equipment, the method comprising:
- collecting operational vibration data from a rigidly attached equipment;
- analyzing the operational vibration data to produce predictive information regarding equipment maintenance and failure;
- analyzing the operational vibration data to determine if an operation strategy producing a greater information entropy reduction to power expenditure ratio is available;
- adjusting the resonant frequency of a generator to optimally produce power based on the resonant frequency of the operationally vibrating equipment;
- transmitting the predictive information to a server if sufficient power reserves are available;
- and
- entering a quiescent state to end the analysis cycle and sleep until the next analysis cycle.
An adaptive self-powered sensor node system for monitoring operationally vibrating equipment and predicting equipment maintenance needs and failure based on changes in vibration characteristics, the system comprising:
- means for sensing conditions associated with a device;
- means for operating a sensor node to minimize the information entropy of the device.
An adaptive self-powered pipe analysis system for investigating the structural integrity of a piping system, the system comprising:
- a robot for traversing the piping system, the robot comprising:
- one or more flexible fins constructed of a piezo-electric material for generating power;
- a power storage component for storing generated power;
- an entropy analysis engine for determining optimal power generation;
- a communications component for interacting with other robots;
- and
- one or more piezo-electric membranes that oscillate based on changes in fluid pressure for generating power.
An adaptive self-powered sensor node system for monitoring operationally vibrating equipment and providing for process control based on changes in vibration characteristics, the system comprising:
- a sensing component that senses conditions associated with a device;
- and
- an entropy calculation component that operates the sensor node to minimize the information entropy of the device.
A method for operating an adaptive self-powered pipe analysis system for optimizing energy generating and information collecting capabilities, the method comprising:
- determining areas of greater fluid flow rate;
- determining times when the fluid flow rate is at a minimum;
- moving to areas of greater fluid flow rate at times when the fluid flow rate is at a minimum;
- and
- maximizing power generation by maintaining a position in an area of greater fluid flow rate while remaining dormant for power conservation.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.