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Overview | Sensor Projects | Robot Projects | Sensor Development Approach | Robot Development Approach
You are here: Research > Power Delivery & Utilization > Transmission Lines and Substations > Sensors & Robots > Sensor Projects
Sensor Projects
Transmission Line Projects
Assessment of Transmission EPRI is conducting research and development in a wide range of areas related
Line Sensors to sensors. Detailed summaries of individual projects are listed below
alphabetically by area.
Conductor/Connector Sensor
Fault Current/Lightning Sensor
Image Processing for
Transmission Lines Assessment of Transmission Line Sensors
Suspension Insulator Leakage In addition to developing a suite of Transmission
Current Sensor Line sensors, EPRI has been testing and
evaluating a range of other sensor technologies.
Vibration Sensor Suite
Underground Tranmission
Conductor/Connector Sensor Project Summaries by Phase
Projects
This project is developing and demonstrating This page presents EPRI's active
Oil Pressure Sensor projects grouped by the current
low-cost RF sensors to assess conductors and
Underground Transmission compression connectors on overhead transmission project phase (R&D, Development,
Sensors lines. Testing, Demonstration, and
Commercialization).
Substation Projects View Projects by Phase
3D Acoustic Emission Fault Current/Lightning Sensor Interactive Map of
Demonstration Sites
Transformer Monitoring This project is developing an RF sensor that is
This page presents an interactive
Assessment of Substation installed either on the shield wire or the down
map showing the locations of
Sensors conductor of a transmission line to continually
EPRI's current demonstration
measure the magnitude and time of both fault and
GIC Monitor projects and the technologies being
lightning currents.
demonstrated.
Load Tap Changer Sensor
View Map of Demonstration Sites
MIS Sensor for Gas in Oil
Image Processing for Transmission Lines Commercialization
On-line FRA A portion of EPRI's website is
This project is developing image processing
On-line Infrared devoted to transmission and
cameras that can be installed on transmission lines
substation technologies that have
Post Insulator Leakage Current to automatically measure and report activity.
been commercialized.
Sensor
Commercialized Transmission &
SF6 Density Sensor Substation Technology
Suspension Insulator Leakage Current Sensor
Substation-Wide RF Detection
This project is developing an RF sensor that clips
Wireless Acoustic Emission onto the end of a transmission suspension
Sensors Transmission Line R&D Roadmap
insulator string to measure the leakage currents
(PDF 7.90MB)
Wireless Mesh flowing on the insulator.
Underground Transmission R&D
Other Projects Roadmap (PDF 2.24MB)
Vibration Sensor Suite
Power Harvesting for Sensors
This project is developing a suite of low-cost RF
Sensor Lab
sensors that measure vibration in three axes. The
Sensor-SCADA Integration sensors can report the results in real-time or store
the results for future analysis.
Projects by Phase
Interactive Map of Demonstration
Sites
Oil Pressure Sensor
This project is developing an RF sensor for
measuring oil pressure in components, such as
oil-filled terminations. The RF sensor uses a
4-20mA input so the sensor can be applied in a
range of other applications.
Underground Transmission Sensors

2. This project is to investigate, evaluate, and
demonstrate technologies in extruded dielectric
transmission cable system monitoring.
3D Acoustic Emission Transformer Monitoring
The project goals are to explore improved
techniques and algorithms for diagnosis of power
transformers using Acoustic Emission.
Assessment of Substation Sensors
Condition monitoring of substation equipment has
an inherent value based on preventing failure;
maximizing future operation of the equipment;
appropriately scheduling and determining the
extent of inspections and maintenance; providing
for personnel safety; and protecting the
environment.
GIC Monitor
EPRI has a network of sensors on the neutrals of
large network transformers that are susceptible to
GICs (Geomagnetically Induced Currents).
Load Tap Changer Sensor
A lower cost technology has been developed to
monitor gas ratios in Load Tap Changers (LTCs)
without measuring each gas individually.
MIS Sensor for Gas in Oil
The project goal is to develop a solid-state
Hydrogen and Acetylene sensor for detecting
these fault gasses within oil-insulated systems
such as transformers, cables, or instrument
transformers.
On-line FRA
The project's goal is to perform field
demonstrations of the concept of on-line
Frequency Response Analysis (FRA).
On-line Infrared
This project aims to automate infrared substation
inspections.
Post Insulator Leakage Current Sensor
This project is developing an RF sensor that is
installed at the base of either substation or
transmission line post-type insulators.
SF6 Density Sensor
The project goal is to investigate the capabilities of
pressure, temperature, and density sensors to
accurately measure low levels of SF6 leakage.
Substation-Wide RF Detection
The project goal is to quantify and trend the RF
signals across a large substation. The project
concept is to adapt wireless mesh sensors (see

3. project summary for Wireless Mesh) to be able to
measure the local RF signals.
Wireless Acoustic Emission Sensors
The project goal is to perform field demonstrations
of wireless acoustic sensors to assess the benefits
for diagnostics of substation apparatus
Wireless Mesh
The project goal is first to explore the various
power management approaches suitable for large
lower-power wireless mesh deployments.
Power Harvesting for Sensors
This project is to investigate the feasibility of
robotic tools to inspect and maintain components
within an underground cable vault.
Sensor Lab
The aim of this project is to develop a laboratory
with a collection of sensors and sensor-enabling
technologies for use with EPRI sensor-related
projects.
Sensor-SCADA Integration
The project aims to provide a standardized access
to sensor data for utility RTU/SCADA systems,
archive sensor data in local substation databases,
and to provide advanced visualization and user
interfaces.
Listed below are EPRI's active projects grouped by the current project phase.
Fundamental R&D Development Lab Testing Demonstration Commercialization
3D Acoustic Emission
X
Transformer Monitoring
GIC Monitor X
Underground
X
Transmission Sensors
Conductor/Connector
X X
Sensor
Fault Current/Lightning
X X
Sensor
On-line Infrared X
Power Harvesting for
X
Sensors
Substation-Wide RF
X
Detection
Suspension Insulator
X X
Leakage Current Sensor
Vibration Sensor Suite X X X
Image Processing for
X X
Transmission Lines
Assessment of
Transmission Line X
Sensors

4. Fundamental R&D Development Lab Testing Demonstration Commercialization
Load Tap Changer
X
Sensor
Oil Pressure Sensor X
On-line FRA X
Post Insulator Leakage
X
Current Sensor
Sensor-SCADA
X
Integration
SF6 Density Sensor X
Suspension Insulator
X
Leakage Current Sensor
Wireless Acoustic
X
Emission Sensors
Wireless Mesh X
In addition to developing a suite of Transmission Line sensors, EPRI has been
testing and evaluating a range of other sensor technologies. The sensors being
evaluated have applications ranging from dynamic rating to component
condition. Utility experience when implementing the sensor technologies is also
being documented.
Project Phase: Demonstration
The annual research portfolio and supplemental projects are underway. Information on supplemental projects can be found
in the Supplemental Projects section. As part of the annual research portfolio, a database of sensors and documentary utility
experience will be created.
Sensor Development Approach
Dynamic Thermal Circuit Rating Technologies
Emerging Line Surveying Technologies
This project is developing and demonstrating low-cost RF sensors to assess
conductors and compression connectors on overhead transmission lines. The
sensors measure the following parameters:
Temperature
Current
Three axes of inclination
Vibration in three axes (see the project summary for the Vibration Sensor
Suite)
Depending on the application, the sensors are configured with different algorithms and data transmission rates. They harvest
their power from the current flowing in the transmission line, although they have an onboard battery as back-up. The sensors
are designed to be installed under energized conditions using hotsticks. Applications include the assessment of compression
connectors (splices and dead-ends).
Continual improvement of the sensors is underway. Areas of improvement include increasing the security of the RF
transmission, lowering the current required for power harvesting, refinement of algorithms, and improvement in reliability and
manufacturability.
Project Phases: Development and Demonstration
Sensors that measure temperature and current have been developed and are being demonstrated in numerous locations.
Sensors that measure inclination have been developed and tested with the first demonstration underway. Refinement will
continue. Sensors that measure vibration are currently under development and testing. A solar-powered base station has
been developed, which can collect the data from sensors, record weather parameters, and transmit the data to a central
server.

5. Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Development of Temperature and Current Measurement 2008 100%
Development of Inclination Measurement 12/2011 80%
Development of Vibration Measurement 6/2011 50%
Sensor Sensor Installation Hotstick Hotstick
Components Animation Installation Video Installation Video 2
Animation
Demonstration Site Map Installed Sensor Photo Installed Sensor Photo 2
Base Station Photo Base Station Photo 2 Sensor Data Output
Sensor Data Output 2
Sensor Development Approach
This project is developing an RF sensor that is installed either on the shield
wire or the down conductor of a transmission line to continually measure the
magnitude and time of both fault and lightning currents. Sensors can be polled
after an event to understand the location of a fault or the magnitudes of the
lightning currents.
Improvements to range, security, and manufacturability from other sensors will
be included in the final sensor design.
Project Phases: Development and Lab Testing
All of the individual components of the sensor have been successfully tested. A technology demonstrator has been built and
is being tested in the laboratory.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete

6. Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Laboratory testing of technology demonstrator 9/2011 0%
Refinement of packaging, electronics and algorithms 3/2012 0%
Sensor Development Approach
This project is developing image processing cameras that can be installed on
transmission lines to automatically measure and report activity. The cameras
measure the following:
Conductor motion
ROW intrusion
Avian interactions
The cameras are paired with the solar-powered base stations that collect the
RF sensor data.
Project Phases: Lab Testing and Demonstration
Algorithms have been developed and implemented on commercially-available cameras to measure conductor blowout and
instruction. Images can be collected based on the measurements or when commanded. The cameras have been paired with
the base stations and are currently being tested in the laboratory for reliability and integration with reporting software.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Complete integration with base stations and reporting software 6/2011 100%
Complete laboratory testing 8/2011 95%
Field deployment 6/2012 0%
Camera Installed Camera Installed 2 Camera Installed 3
Sensor Development Approach
This project is developing an RF sensor that clips onto the end of a
transmission suspension insulator string to measure the leakage currents
flowing on the insulator. The leakage currents are stored in histograms or
reported real-time for analysis. Applications include:
Improving washing schedules
Understanding the contamination environment for dimensioning of insulators
Understanding the rate of aging
Project Phases: Development, Lab Testing, and Demonstration
The first versions of the sensors have been developed and deployed at three locations. Susceptibility to high magnetic fields
in certain orientations was identified as an issue in one of the field applications. A revised design is being developed and
tested in the laboratory to address this. Improvements in the manufacturability are also underway. Improvements in the RF
transmission security and the addition of inclination and vibration to the sensors will be transferred from the

7. conductor/connector sensor development.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Increase in RF transmission range 3/2011 95%
Reduction in susceptibility to high magnetic fields 6/2011 50%
Improvement in manufacturability 7/2011 40%
Sensor Sensor Installation
Components Animation
Animation
Demonstration Site Map
Sensor Installed on Porcelain Sensor Installed on Composite
Insulator Insulator
Sensor Development Approach
This project is developing a suite of low-cost RF sensors that measure
vibration in three axes. The sensors can report the results in real-time or store
the results for future analysis. The sensors can be attached to:
Conductors (see the project summary for the conductor/connector sensor)
Insulator assemblies
Structures
Further research and development is underway to improve algorithms and to
provide accurate time syncing between individual sensors so that relative motion between sensors can be more accurately
determined.
Project Phases: Development, Lab Testing, and Demonstration
Sensors that collect three dimensional acceleration have been developed and tested on laboratory vibration test rigs. The
data is transmitted to a local base station where it is collected and delivered to a central server. Initial algorithms are under
development, which are implemented on the server. When finalized, these algorithms will be implemented on the individual
sensors. Two demonstrations are planned for mid-2011.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Sensor development 6/2012 50%
Initial field demonstration 6/2011 90%

8. Demonstration Site Map
Vibration sensor test
Sensor Development Approach
This project is developing an RF sensor for measuring oil pressure in
components, such as oil-filled terminations. The RF sensor uses a 4-20mA
input so the sensor can be applied in a range of other applications.
Project Phase: Demonstration
The sensor has been developed and has passed laboratory testing. The first
field testing is planned for May 2011, where field experience will be gained and
any necessary revisions identified.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Field installation 5/2011 80%
Review of field experience 12/2011 0%
Demonstration Site Map Installed Sensor Photo Sensor Data Output
Sensor Development Approach
This project is to investigate, evaluate, and demonstrate technologies in
extruded dielectric transmission cable system monitoring. The following
properties and components are of interest for real-time monitoring:
Partial discharges in cables, joints, and terminations
Grounding and sheath bonding effectiveness (e.g., through monitoring of
cable sheath current, grounding impedance, and sheath voltage limiter and
link box condition)
Cable movement through measurements of displacement of cable, cable racking, and clamps as a function of load current
and surface temperature of joints and cables
Strain and compression on cable cleats and racks as a function of load current and surface temperature of joints and
cables
Vibration of manhole walls, joints, cables, and racking systems caused by, for example, nearby traffic or construction work
Project Phase: Fundamental R&D

9. Prototype parts are under evaluation. Lab testing and demonstration are planned.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Develop vision document and conduct industry survey Yes 100%
Define project objectives Yes 100%
Develop prototype parts TBD 20%
Inspection and Monitoring
Process
Sensor Development Approach
Project Technical Update
The project goals are to explore improved techniques and algorithms for
diagnosis of power transformers using Acoustic Emission. Through the
deployment of multiple Acoustic Emission sensors on the faces of the
transformer, information on the location of internal defects can be extracted.
Project Phase: Demonstration
The project has two systems presently out in the field gathering data from
gassing transformers. An ongoing parallel effort is analysis of the data to improve noise reduction and detect location
accuracy.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Field tests to gather data TBD ??%
Algorithm development to improve location accuracy and interpretation 12/2010 50%
Sensor Development Approach
Online Component Monitoring for Increased Reliability
Condition monitoring of substation equipment has an inherent value based on
preventing failure; maximizing future operation of the equipment; appropriately
scheduling and determining the extent of inspections and maintenance;
providing for personnel safety; and protecting the environment. New and
emerging sensing and diagnostic technologies play a strong role in helping
utilities achieve this goal. Many utilities are unaware of these technologies and
how best to interpret and implement them. This project documents the latest
inspection, monitoring, and diagnostics technologies for substations, as well as
early adopters' experiences, thus providing supporting industry data and
research results to make these important decisions. It also researches new technologies and develops novel methodologies
to help develop the foundations for improved condition monitoring strategies.
Project Phase: Development
This project is ongoing as part of the base project Next Generation Condition Monitoring and Diagnostics (P37.113).

10. Task Due Date Completed % Complete
2011 Sensor Database Development 12/2011 70%
Evaluation of sensor developments from multiple industries 12/2011 80%
Evaluation of sensor technologies for substations 12/2012 0%
Infrared Pocket Guide Updating 12/2012 0%
Research into Surge Arresters failure modes and monitoring techniques 12/2012 0%
Sensor Development Approach
EPRI has a network of sensors on the neutrals of large network transformers
that are susceptible to GICs (Geomagnetically Induced Currents). The network
of monitors sends GICs, as well as voltage, currents, and harmonic levels back
to a central server for visualization. Members of the project (called
SUNBURST) can view their data at a 2s cadence. The data is used by EPRI
for research on GIC forecasting, mitigation strategies, and vulnerability
assessments.
Project Phase: Fundamental R&D
Monitoring of the SUNBURST network is on-going.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
SUNBURST network monitoring Yes 100%
Demonstration Site Map
Sensor Development Approach
Minimizing Risks from Geomagnetic Disturbances
A lower cost technology has been developed to monitor gas ratios in Load Tap
Changers (LTCs) without measuring each gas individually. This project is
based on previous EPRI research, in which an LTC fault gas analyzer was
designed, built and bench-tested using commercially-available technologies.
The work program for this project consists of building LTC fault gas monitors
intended for mobile field applications and on-line use in LTCs at participants'
site.
Project Phase: Demonstration
The first prototype LTC on-line monitor was installed July 2010. In addition to
monitoring the key gases acetylene and ethylene, this monitor was also
equipped with a contact wear add-in. The field trial is on-going and is expected
to continue in 2011. Oil samples are been taken approximately every month
and the results compared to the monitor response.

11. Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Laboratory tests on a bench-top LTC 12/2007 Yes 100%
Design and fabrication of the on-line monitor 12/2009 Yes 100%
Installation and commissioning of the on-line monitor 7/2010 Yes 100%
Field evaluations of the on-line monitor 12/2012 10%
Demonstration Site Map
Sensor Development Approach
Online Component Monitoring for Increased Reliability
Novel Sensors for Transformer Diagnosis
The project goal is to develop a solid-state Hydrogen and Acetylene sensor for
detecting these fault gasses within oil-insulated systems such as transformers,
cables, or instrument transformers.
Project Phase: Fundamental R&D
The semiconductor sensor designs have been developed within laboratory
settings. Testing has been completed in laboratory set-ups designed to
replicate many of the parameters the sensors would encounter in the field.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Hydrogen sensor design Yes 100%
Acetylene sensor design 12/2011 50%
MIS Sensor Animation
Demonstration Site Map Schematic: MIS Hydrogen Sensor Prototype Acetylene MIS Sensor
Layers Pre Lab Testing
Lab Testing of MIS Sensor
Sensor Development Approach

12. The project's goal is to perform field demonstrations of the concept of on-line
Frequency Response Analysis (FRA). The project will help to both understand
the unique benefits of this new approach and to refine the approach by
optimization of the on-line FRA algorithms.
Project Phase: Demonstration
The installation for the pilot was successfully completed on a distribution
transformer with an LTC. This is the first demonstration that includes an LTC. This is significant, as a unique on-line FRA
baseline exists for each LTC position and thus adds significant learning to this phase of the project. The next step is a further
novel application to three single-phase 765kV transformers.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Field deployment on a 3-phase network transformer Yes 10%
Field deployment on three single-phase 765kV transformer bank 12/2012 10%
Field deployment on an LTC-equipped transformer 12/2012 10%
Demonstration Site Map
Sensor Development Approach
Online Component Monitoring for Increased Reliability
Utilities are continuously looking for technologies that can help them maintain
or improve equipment reliability. One available technology, infrared imaging, is
already used because of its fault detection capabilities. However, most infrared
cameras are portable and require manual operation. This project aims to
automate infrared substation inspections in order to:
Increase employee safety, as walk-rounds are reduced
Decrease inspection costs in overheads and deployment
Increase the reliability, as maintenance decisions can be made based on
consistent, empirical information
Allow issues to be addressed when the first indications of impending equipment failure are detected
Increase security at the site by detecting unauthorized access or animal intrusion to site
Some of the key research questions this research will aim to answer are:
What are the factors that contribute to the difference in actual temperature measurements obtained and how can they be
measured and corrected for?
How can the information provided by these systems be implemented into present monitoring and maintenance strategies
and what effect would this have?
Project Phases: Development and Demonstration
This is a new project started in November 2010.

13. Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Proof of concept 10/1/2011 80%
Concept demonstration and field trials 11/31/2012 0%
System refinement and development of adoption strategies 11/31/2012 0%
Infrared Monitoring Presentation
Demonstration Site Map
Sensor Development Approach
Online Component Monitoring for Increased Reliability
This project is developing an RF sensor that is installed at the base of either
substation or transmission line post-type insulators. The leakage currents are
continuously measured and stored in histograms or reported real-time for
analysis. Applications include:
Improving washing schedules
Understanding the contamination environment for dimensioning of insulators
Understanding the rate of aging
Project Phase: Demonstration
Three demonstration sites are in-service with more than three years experience at one test site where 30 sensors are
installed to investigate road-salt contamination. Two new test sites are being planned to addressed pole fires. A solar
powered base station has been developed, which can collect the data from tens of sensors, record weather parameters, and
transmit the data to a central server.
Research is underway to develop improved algorithms to identify when washing is necessary or a high risk condition is
occurring. Full-scale laboratory tests have been completed at 138kV and 345kV for porcelain, RTV coated, and resistive
glaze post insulators. Continual improvement in the post insulator leakage current sensor is underway. Areas of improvement
include increasing security of RF transmission, lowering the current required for power harvesting, refinement of algorithms,
improvement in reliability, and manufacturability.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Develop algorithms to identify when to wash insulators 8/2011 80%
Sensor Sensor Installation
Components Animation
Animation

14. Demonstration Site Map Testing Site Photo Sensor Test Photo
Sensor Development Approach
Online Component Monitoring for Increased Reliability
The project goal is to investigate the capabilities of pressure, temperature, and
density sensors to accurately measure low levels of SF6 leakage. This
information will serve as a tool for anticipating SF6 top-up actions and
quantifying SF6 mass loss for SF6 emissions tracking needs.
Project Phase: Demonstration
Two field demonstrations are presently underway: one in a 765kV substation and one in a 50kV substation. The data
gathered over daily and seasonal variations is helping establish the conclusions on accuracy and stability.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Field data gathering in two substations in different climates Yes 100%
Laboratory validation of field data 12/2011 0%
Demonstration Site Map
Sensor Development Approach
The project goal is to quantify and trend the RF signals across a large
substation. The project concept is to adapt wireless mesh sensors (see project
summary for Wireless Mesh) to be able to measure the local RF signals. The
low cost of the wireless sensors in the mesh would allow for dense deployment
in a substation.
Project Phase: Development
Substation-wide RF surveys are being started to quantify the background noise and typical RF discharge signals from
substation apparatus. The photo shows early work in the characterization of the RF signals in the substation.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Scoping study 6/2011 30%
Proof of concept 12/2011 0%

15. Demonstration Site Map
Sensor Development Approach
Online Component Monitoring for Increased Reliability
The project goal is to perform field demonstrations of wireless acoustic sensors
to assess the benefits for diagnostics of substation apparatus. The wireless
aspects allow for sensor deployments in areas otherwise inaccessible. The
acoustic emission aspects allow for detection of internal partial discharge
activity without the need to modify the apparatus (i.e., the acoustic emission
sensors simply attach to the outer enclosure). The field demonstrations to-date
have focused on current transformers.
Project Phase: Demonstration
The project presently has ten wireless acoustic emission sensors in a 765kV
substation. The sensors are harvesting solar energy. The sensor system has
been recently upgraded to improve range and robustness.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Short-term field demonstrations on 69kV CTs and PTs Yes 100%
Long-term field demonstrations on 765kV CTs 12/2011 80%
Demonstration Site Map
Sensor Development Approach
Online Component Monitoring for Increased Reliability
The project goal is first to explore the various power management approaches
suitable for large lower-power wireless mesh deployments. The second goal is
to use the benefits of wireless sensors to demonstrate the value of a sensor
suite that could be rapidly deployed to address short-term problems that arise
in a substation. The third goal is to demonstrate integration of the wireless
sensors into an IEC61850 compliant architecture.
Project Phase: Demonstration
The learnings from an earlier demonstration of a large wireless mesh are now being applied to the application of a new

16. wireless mesh deployment. The focus of the next deployment is wireless sensor integration into a laboratory environment
that mimics the corporate architecture.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Research into power management approaches Yes 100%
Development of temporary, rapidly deployable sensor mesh 12/2011 20%
Demonstration of integration of the wireless sensors into an IEC61850 compliant
TBD 0%
architecture
Demonstration Site Map
Sensor Development Approach
Sensors require a power source to measure and communicate results. EPRI
has research and demonstration of power harvesting and storage options for
sensors that will eliminate the need for batteries or mains power. While wireless
technologies offer significant potential advantages to utility operations, the
regular replacement of batteries represents a significant hurdle to realizing
these benefits. Power harvesting and storage could overcome this hurdle.
Project Phase: Development
In 2010, the State of the Science review was completed, the test bed was designed, and components were acquired and
built. Implementation of the automation and control for the power harvesting test bed components and the design of the test
protocols is underway.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
State of the Science review Yes 100%
Test bed development Yes 100%
Test protocols 12/2011 0%
Laboratory tests 12/2011 0%
Power Harvesting and Storage
The aim of this project is to develop a laboratory with a collection of sensors
and sensor-enabling technologies for use with EPRI sensor-related projects.
The main aim is to use the laboratory as a test bed to develop, evaluate, and
demonstrate the latest advancements in sensor technologies.
The physical laboratory has been developed. Sensors have been implemented
and are communicating.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Purchase hardware 1/1/2011 100%

17. Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Set up networking infrastructure 6/1/2011 100%
Software development 12/12/2011 60%
Sensor Lab Photo Sensor Lab Photo 2
Sensor Development Approach
The project aims to provide a standardized access to sensor data for utility
RTU/SCADA systems, archive sensor data in local substation databases, and
to provide advanced visualization and user interfaces. The goal is to improve
the availability of sensor data for utility use, standardize the sensor
communication interface to facilitate data integration, and provide enhanced
visualization to support better situational awareness and decision making.
Project Phase: Demonstration
A demo system has been set up in the EPRI Charlotte lab. Tests have been performed using overhead sensors, EPRI ZAP
(Wireless Sensor Access Point), and utility SCADA and substation automation systems.
Task Due Date Completed % Complete
Research on standardizing the communication interface 12/2010 Yes 100%
Implement the communication interface 12/2010 Yes 100%
Develop GUI and local database 12/2010 Yes 100%
Demonstrate the overall system in the EPRI lab 12/2010 Yes 100%
Transmission Line sensor
visualization example
Visualization Technologies

18. Conductor /
Connector
Sensor
Vibration
Sensor Suite
Oil Pressure
Sensor
GIC Monitor
Load Tap
Changer
Sensor
Suspension
Insulator
Leakage
Current
Sensor
MIS Sensor for
Gas in Oil

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On-Line FRA
On-line
Infrared
Post Insulator
Leakage
Current
Sensor
SF6 Density
Sensor
Substation-
Wide RF
Detection
Wireless
Acoustic
Emission
Sensors
Wireless
Mesh