A Novel Approach to Implement Low-Cost AMI Functionality using Delay-Tolerant Communication

This paper presents the design and implementation of an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) platform based on a Bluetooth and a delay tolerant network (DTN) architecture, which has virtually zero cost of communication. The platform is ultra-low-cost, secure, and globally compliant making it suitable for deployment in emerging markets for rural electrification, offering 'pay-as-you-go (PAYGO)' billing, remote disconnect and advanced functions such as power factor correction. Intelligence embedded in the edge devices can execute certain control actions autonomously, based on locally measured parameters. The devices are capable of duplex communication, relaying data to the cloud and executing cloud-driven control commands. The cloud-based analytics engine also provides additional value streams that can be unlocked by electric utilities. The AMI platform is suitable for providing higher, event driven visibility into the distribution network. The smart meter itself requires minimal country-specific certification, and is easy to install in the field, making the platform well suited for global deployment.