Methods and apparatus for determining conditions of power lines

Abstract

Techniques for determining conditions of power lines in a power distribution system based on data collected by a plurality of sensor units deployed in the power distribution system. The techniques include obtaining data associated with measurements collected by at least two sensor units in the plurality of sensor units, and determining, by using at least one processor, at least one condition of at least one power line in the power distribution system by using the data obtained by the at least two sensor units.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 529,554, filed on Aug. 31, 2011, titled “Communications and Analytics Architectures for Distributed Sensing”, Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 529,509, filed on Aug. 31, 2011, titled “Analytics for Distributed Smart Grid Sensing”, Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 598,664, filed on Feb. 14, 2012, titled “Power Line Management System,” and Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 640,777, filed on May 1, 2012, titled “Power Distribution Line Fault Distance Measurement.” Each of the above-identified applications is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND[0002]Power lines are widely used in many settings. They form an important part of the power distribution system, carrying power from generation facilities all the way to the locations where it is used. The power distribution system may include many types of powe...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a system for managing power lines in a power distribution system by using sensor units to collect data about the lines. This data is then analyzed to determine conditions that may require maintenance. The system can identify potential faults and predict when maintenance will be needed. The sensor units can be placed on different conductors of the lines or at different locations in the system. The system can also use data from multiple sensor units to determine conditions of power lines. Overall, the system helps to improve the management of power lines in a more efficient and effective way.

Problems solved by technology

High voltage lines are generally routed through open spaces, but medium and low voltage lines, which are closer to locations that use power, are more likely to run over roads and near trees or other objects.

A power company may spend significant amounts of resources repairing and maintaining these power lines.

Environmental conditions may damage the power lines.

For example, ice and snow buildup on a power line may load the line to the point that it stretches and breaks.

Wind can also be a contributing factor to breakage or wear of a power line.

Wind can directly cause damage to a line or can cause tree limbs or other obstacles to come in contact with the line, thus damaging it.

Animals (e.g., squirrels) can come into contact with a power line causing a temporary fault.

A power line may also be damaged by objects such as fallen tree branches.

Further, power lines can experience damage or wear through overloading.

When large amounts of current flow through a power line, the line may heat up, causing the line to stretch.

Too much stretching, in turn, may lead to breakage of the line and, as such, create a dangerous scenario for people and property under the overhead line.

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