28 August, 2024- An electric grid sensor detects anomalous voltage or current. The utility person must look into this. The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has developed a drone inspection system. This approach handles abnormalities, particularly in isolated areas.
EPB demonstrated the new system at their powerline worker training facility. Situated near Chattanooga, Tennessee, is the facility. During the demo, they deployed a drone. It studied a recording of electrical arcing noises. The drone, directed by GPS, captured footage of the region. It also summoned other drones equipped with high-resolution sensors and cameras. These drones transmitted live data to EPB’s command center. They also shared data with ORNL’s Grid Operations and Analytics Laboratory.
Utilities may assess problems online thanks to this technology. It helps them decide whether to send maintenance crews to prevent outages. The technique increases the speed and precision of grid monitoring. As stated by principal investigator Peter Fuhr. EPB is keen to adopt this technology as it can prevent outages and reduce costs.
The system is part of the AIMS (Autonomous Intelligent Measurement Sensors) project. It uses off-the-shelf drones. Custom sensors have also been included in the system. ORNL developed specialized software and algorithms for this project. It includes innovations like a low-cost, lightweight sensor replacing an expensive ultraviolet camera.
Drones get started during the inspection process by using grid sensors that detect irregularities. These drones employ GPS technology. Following an evaluation of the situation, they distribute information across many networks. Scout drones function like triage nurses. After evaluating the circumstances, they determine whether more specialist drones are necessary.
The central control system receives real-time sensor data. Efforts are underway to process data near the drone. This helps conserve battery life and maintain communication. The system includes a manual override feature for human intervention if necessary.
Elizabeth Piersall adapted the drone’s sensor components and developed control software. Her interest lies in utilizing low-cost sensors to detect issues like arcing. The technology utilizes extensive drone video data for training. Its goal is to improve routine and post-storm grid inspection.
ORNL envisions deploying fleets of these drones at substations. They will start with the largest substations. Compared to conventional examination techniques, this strategy should be more affordable. EPB intends to employ drones for emergency evaluations. This would follow severe weather events.
All things considered, the new technology presents a novel viewpoint on grid monitoring. It improves one’s capacity to recognize issues early on and take swift action. ORNL researchers contributed to this innovation. Gary Hahn, Ali Ekti, Bill Monday, Jason K. Richards, and Ozgur Alaca make up the team. Emma Foley and Stephanie Tomasik, both University of Tennessee students, were involved. They also took part in the initiative.
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