Sensor system for remote monitoring of cable systems under tension.

Abstract

An apparatus, system, and method for providing remote monitoring of a stationary cable system under tension for the prediction and / or notification of tower or cable failures. The apparatus includes one or more processors and memory in a controller, a cable tension sensor, and a communication module for wireless two-way communication with a central monitoring system. The system includes multiple devices and the central monitoring system for processing data and communicating with the devices and external entities.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 449,697, filed March 3, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.

[0002] The disclosed embodiments relate to devices, systems, and methods for providing remote monitoring of static cable systems under tension and prediction of tower or cable failures. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A first aspect provides a device configured to attach to a cable or wire under tension, such as a static cable, the device comprising one or more processors, a tension sensor configured to measure tension in the attached cable or wire, and a communications module for wireless bidirectional communication with a central monitoring system, the one or more processors configured to execute computer-readable instructions to receive tension measurements from the tension sensor and communicate the tension measurements to the central monitoring system via the communications module.

[0004] Embodiments of the apparatus include, alone or in any combination:

[0005] The one or more processors in the device are further configured to execute computer-readable instructions to determine whether the tension measurements received from the tension sensors include momentary or long-term deviations from a desired tension in the cable to which the tension sensors are attached, and to communicate the momentary or long-term deviations to a central monitoring system.

[0006] The device may be further configured to be attached to the power line and to receive power from the power line via electromagnetic induction, and optionally further comprising at least one additional sensor selected from a voltage sensor, an amperage sensor, or a tension load sensor, wherein the one or more processors are configured to execute computer readable instructions to receive measurements from the at least one additional sensor and communicate the measurements to a central monitoring system.

[0007] Further embodiments of the device include those disclosed in the embodiments section.

[0008] A second aspect provides a distributed network computer system for remotely monitoring a cable system under tension, the distributed network computer system comprising: a central monitoring system comprising one or more central servers configured to execute computer-readable instructions for receiving, collecting, storing, and analyzing data related to the remote monitoring; a plurality of devices attached to a plurality of static cables or wires under tension; each device comprising one or more processors; tension sensors configured to measure tension in the attached cables or wires; and a communications module for wireless two-way communication with the central monitoring system, wherein the one or more processors are configured to execute computer-readable instructions for receiving tension measurements from the tension sensors and communicating the tension measurements to the central monitoring system via the communications module.

[0009] Embodiments of the distributed network computer system include the following, alone or in any combination: Additional embodiments are listed in the Embodiments section. Additional embodiments also include the apparatus embodiments described above or in the Embodiments section.

[0010] A distributed network computer system, wherein the cable system comprises a high voltage power transmission system comprising towers and high voltage power transmission lines supported by the towers, and the devices are attached to guy wires that stabilize the towers, the high voltage power transmission lines, or a combination of the guy wires and the high voltage power transmission lines.

[0011] A distributed network computer system in which the stored data comprises information relating to each of a plurality of devices, including one or more of a device identification code, a device location, a communication channel ID, a device characteristic, a device status, and a device function.

[0012] The distributed network computer system, wherein the stored data further includes tension measurements received from each of the plurality of devices linked to information relating to each device.

[0013] The one or more processors in each of the plurality of devices or the one or more processors in each of the one or more servers are further configured to execute computer-readable instructions for determining whether tension measurements received from a tension sensor of each of the plurality of devices include an instantaneous or long-term deviation from a desired tension in a cable to which the tension sensor is attached.

[0014] The distributed network computer system may further include a plurality of local access nodes associated with the plurality of devices, one or more concentrator servers, or a combination of local access nodes and one or more concentrator servers configured to provide a secure communication link between the plurality of devices and a central monitoring system.

[0015] The distributed network computer system may further comprise secure communication links to a plurality of devices associated with a plurality of authorized human users of the distributed network computer system.

[0016] The distributed network computer system may further comprise secure communication links between a plurality of devices associated with a plurality of authorized human users of the distributed network computer system and a plurality of devices attached to a plurality of static cables or wires under tension.

[0017] A distributed network computer system, wherein one or more processors on a central server are configured to execute computer-readable instructions to receive data from a plurality of devices, store the data received from the plurality of devices, aggregate the data received from the plurality of devices, determine whether the aggregated data predicts or indicates a failure mode in the cable system, and communicate an alert related to the failure mode to one or more human users authorized to receive the alerts.

[0018] The one or more human users may be a central monitoring system operator, personnel associated with the owner or operator of a cable system, personnel associated with emergency response services, or any combination thereof, of a distributed network computer system.

[0019] A distributed network computer system, wherein one or more processors on the central server are further configured to execute computer-readable instructions to compare data received from the sets of devices via one or more variables selected from time, position, tension, tension load, twist, and video image progression to detect variations between the sets of devices.

[0020] The distributed network computer system, wherein one or more processors on the central server are further configured to execute computer-readable instructions to track trends in data from a single device for comparative analysis.

[0021] One or more processors on the central server are configured to execute computer-readable instructions to enable one or more of: detecting peripherals connected to a particular device; transmitting instructions to enable connection of peripherals to a particular device; and transmitting instructions to provide auxiliary power to peripherals connected to a particular device.

[0022] Another aspect provides a method performed by one or more computing devices for remotely monitoring a cable system under tension, the method including: receiving data from a plurality of devices attached to a plurality of static cables or wires under tension; each device comprising one or more processors, a tension sensor configured to measure tension in the attached cable or wire, and a communications module for wireless two-way communication with a central monitoring system, the one or more processors configured to execute computer-readable instructions to receive tension measurements from the tension sensor and communicate the tension measurements to the central monitoring system via the communications module; storing data received from the plurality of devices; aggregating the data received from the plurality of devices; determining whether the aggregated data predicts or indicates a failure mode in the cable system; and transmitting an alert related to the failure mode to one or more human users authorized to receive the alert.

[0023] Embodiments of the method distributed network computer system include the following, alone or in any combination. Additional embodiments are listed in the Embodiments section. Additional embodiments also include the apparatus and / or distributed network computer system embodiments described above or in the Embodiments section.

[0024] A method in which one or more computing devices are instantiated in a distributed network computer system, the distributed network computer system comprising: a central monitoring system comprising one or more central servers configured to execute computer-readable instructions for receiving, collecting, storing, and analyzing data related to remote monitoring; and a plurality of devices attached to a plurality of static cables or wires under tension.

[0025] The one or more human users may include a central monitoring system operator, personnel associated with the owner or operator of the cable system, personnel associated with emergency response services, or any combination thereof.

[0026] Another aspect provides at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium for remotely monitoring a cable system under tension that, when executed by one or more computing devices of a distributed network computer system, causes at least one of the one or more computing devices to perform the following: receiving data from a plurality of devices attached to a plurality of static cables or wires under tension; each device comprising one or more processors, a tension sensor configured to measure tension in the attached cable or wire, and a communications module for wireless bidirectional communication with a central monitoring system, the one or more processors configured to execute computer-readable instructions to receive the tension measurements from the tension sensors and communicate the tension measurements to the central monitoring system via the communications module; storing the data received from the plurality of devices; aggregating the data received from the plurality of devices; determining whether the aggregated data predicts or indicates a failure mode in the cable system; and transmitting an alert related to the failure mode to one or more human users authorized to receive the alerts.

[0027] Embodiments of the method include the following, alone or in any combination: Additional embodiments are listed in the Embodiments section, which also include apparatus, distributed network computer systems, and / or methods described above or in the Embodiments section.

[0028] At least one non-transitory computer-readable medium, wherein the one or more computing devices are instantiated in a distributed network computer system, the distributed network computer system comprising: one or more central servers configured to execute computer-readable instructions for receiving, collecting, storing, and analyzing data related to remote monitoring and data of a plurality of devices connected to a plurality of tensioned static cables or wires.

[0029] At least one non-transitory computer-readable medium, wherein the one or more human users include an operator of a central monitoring system, personnel associated with an owner or operator of a cable system, personnel associated with an emergency response service, or a combination thereof. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates placement of a sensor package on a cable associated with a power transmission system, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0031] [Figure 2] 1 illustrates aspects of a communication system and network operations center associated with a power transmission system, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter.

[0032] [Figure 3A] 1 illustrates aspects of an exemplary sensor device for monitoring cable tension, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. [Figure 3B]1 illustrates aspects of an exemplary sensor device for monitoring cable tension, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. [Figure 3C] 1 illustrates aspects of an exemplary sensor device for monitoring cable tension, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. [Figure 3D] 1 illustrates aspects of an exemplary sensor device for monitoring cable tension, according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Methods, systems, user interfaces, and other aspects of the present invention will now be described. Reference will now be made to specific embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0034] While the invention will be described in conjunction with embodiments, it should be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to these particular embodiments. The invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that are within the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

[0035] Furthermore, in the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods, procedures, components, and networks that are well known to those skilled in the art have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the present invention.

[0036] Devices according to the present disclosure may also be described or designated interchangeably as a sensor subsystem, a sensor package, a sensor package subsystem, or an SPS.

[0037] The present invention provides an automated system and method for remotely monitoring and periodically reporting tension, twist, spatial variation, and other monitoring data (e.g., video and audio) of a static cable system under tension. In a typical system, these sensor subsystems can number in the thousands. Each individual sensor subsystem includes a unique ID, a communication link to a backend, and a central monitoring system at a network operations center (NOC) for data collection and analysis. As used herein, the term "network operations center" and the abbreviation "NOC" are used interchangeably with central monitoring system. Analysis of this data at the NOC enables quantitative cable and tower failure predictions, allowing maintenance to be initiated in advance of tower failure. The automated data analysis is performed by a computer system at the NOC. A human user or operator can also be present at or in communication with the NOC to respond to alerts generated by the automated computerized system.

[0038] While the initial application of the present invention as described herein is directed to utility transmission towers and their multiple cables, guy wires, and the power lines themselves, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that it is equally applicable to any structure with a cable system under tension, including cable-based, guy-wire-anchored towers, including, but not limited to, cellular infrastructure towers, microwave communication towers, television and radio towers, etc. Furthermore, this system can also provide a remote monitoring and fault prediction solution for the high voltage transmission lines of the utility tower itself. Other structures with cable systems under tension include, for example, cable-stayed bridges and floating bridges, where the tower is freestanding and the cables support horizontal loads, including the bridge deck and vehicles thereon.

[0039] Second, the sensor package subsystem monitors environmental factors such as structural changes to transmission towers and small utility poles, anchors and other connection points where cables are attached, non-system factors such as swaying of power lines and swaying / physical deterioration of insulation, and environmental hazards such as fire, smoke, wind, nearby trespassers and vandals.

[0040] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a sensor package disposed on a cable associated with an electric power transmission system. Multiple, spaced-apart towers are installed to support wires that carry electricity from one geographic location to another, and these towers may be hundreds of kilometers or more apart and may have to traverse remote or difficult terrain. Often, multiple power transmission lines emanate from power generating facilities, such as hydroelectric power plants, solar panel farms, wind turbine farms, coal-, oil-, or natural gas-fueled power plants, or nuclear power plants, and any combination thereof, to form part of the electric power transmission grid. It can be appreciated that an integrated power grid can include thousands of individual towers, each of which can support multiple power lines and require support from multiple guy wires to remain upright. It can also be appreciated that direct inspection of each tower by a human operator on a modern electric power transmission grid is an extremely challenging task. The system described herein provides remote monitoring of power transmission lines by autonomous sensors that communicate with a centralized facility with a central monitoring system, providing regular, continuous monitoring of the status of the electric power transmission system without the need for human inspectors to visit and monitor each individual site in the system.

[0041] FIG. 1 shows side and front views of a single representative tower 10 for supporting high-voltage transmission cables. The illustrated tower 10 is supported by one or more cable stay guy wires 11 under tension to hold the tower in an upright configuration. The cable stays 11 typically consist of straight, diagonal structures extending from the top of the tower to anchors at ground level. The cable stays 11 may be considered stationary cables in that they do not move, but the tension on each cable may change as environmental forces, such as wind, precipitation, etc., act on the tower they support. As shown in FIG. 1, the tower 10 may typically have four guy wires 11, although this number is not limiting. Alternatively, the cable stays may be anchored to a structure near the tower rather than directly to the ground. A sensor package 12 (SPS) as described herein is positioned on each cable stay 11, as shown in the first position, to measure cable tension and other parameters. The location of the sensors 12 on the guy wires 11 is not critical, but preferably they are positioned high enough on the guy wires 11 to prevent tampering with the sensors 12. The power lines 13 are strung between the towers in a series of catenary curves. A sensor package 14, as described herein, can be placed on each transmission line 13, as shown in the second position, to measure tension and other parameters of the transmission line 13 as environmental forces act on the transmission line. In some embodiments, the power lines 13 may be supported by load cables (not shown) that do not carry electricity but have a higher tensile strength than the power lines 13. Some towers are freestanding and therefore do not require cable stays 11 to keep them upright. However, such towers will have sensor packages 14 on the transmission lines 13 to measure tension in the transmission lines 13.

[0042] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates aspects of a communication system and network operations center associated with a power transmission system for monitoring the status of the power transmission system. The communication system and network operations center can be implemented in a distributed networked computer system including the sensors and central monitoring system described herein. Multiple transmission lines 20, each with a tower 10 having sensor packages 12 and / or 14, are linked to a network operations center (NOC) 30. As shown in FIG. 1, each individual sensor package 12 or 14 for every sensor package-enabled tower is configured to communicate wirelessly with the centralized network operations center (NOC) 30, either directly or via access point nodes 21 located throughout the facility's operating area. For example, local access point nodes 21 are associated with (installed on) a given individual high-voltage transmission tower, and each local access node 21 is configured to receive data from multiple SPS devices on the cable associated with the given tower and communicate these data to the NOC. Additional sensor packages, such as weather stations, cameras, and sensor packages for wildfire detection, may also be installed on or associated with the tower and linked to the NOC 30 via local access point nodes 21. The access point nodes may also include solar cells and / or batteries to power the access point nodes.

[0043] Utility staff 25 in the field can access the data on each sensor package by scanning a UPC or QR code at any tower and receive the data over a secure wireless link from the NOC 30. Field utility staff 25 can also read tension data directly from a digital readout display on the SPS. Utility staff 25 can also access data from a sensor package by entering or selecting its identifier code on a mobile device, such as a cell phone or smart pad, linked to the sensor package through an associated local access node, concentrator server 40, or NOC. Once installed and enabled by a field installer, each sensor package can autonomously transmit data to the NOC 30, either directly or aggregated via a communications system, and human operators and computer-implemented methods can monitor the transmitted data.

[0044] For example, the concentrator server 40 provides a secure connection directly to the network operations center (NOC), e.g., via a high-capacity fiber optic connection 41. All data collected from the field sensor package units 12 and 14 is managed at the network operations center (NOC) through a dedicated virtual private network (VPN) server. The VPN server encrypts internet traffic over insecure networks to ensure data privacy. The VPN extends access to the sensor monitoring system's private network (a network that prohibits or restricts public access) to users who do not have direct access to the NOC (e.g., an office network that allows field personnel, utility managers, and other authorized users to access the network securely off-site via the internet).

[0045] Authorized users or operators can interact with the distributed network computer system through a user interface linked to the communication system. The user interface may be physically located in the NOC or instantiated on any external device, such as any computer, mobile device, etc., such as a cell phone, tablet, smart pad, smart watch, or other remote resource, that connects to a computing device in the system 310 via a communication network. The user input device may comprise one or more push buttons, a touch screen, or other device that allows a user to input information. In these embodiments, the computer system and devices linked to the computer system may further comprise a display for providing visual output to the user. The display may comprise any of a variety of visual displays, such as a visible screen, a set of visible symbols or numbers, etc. System status, errors, alerts, and other management information are located and processed in the NOC by the central monitoring system. Personnel 35 within or communicating with the NOC can manage the NOC and address warnings, errors, etc., and / or direct them to personnel at the facility or in the field. In some embodiments, the NOC's servers can autonomously forward status, error, alert, and other management information directly to devices associated with users authorized to receive the information without the intervention of a human operator. The NOC interfaces with utility 50's management and maintenance personnel via a secure internet connection.

[0046] The backend NOC system 30 includes or is linked to the following:

[0047] A set of high-end server racks and local disk-based storage 31, optionally backed up to the cloud 32.

[0048] Human interface units, such as one or more display panels, e.g., LCD displays, to provide system status and management. Other human interface units may include special alarm screens, speakers, and / or lights to signal SPS alarms.

[0049] A software tool to manage up to 10,000 SPS units in the field, which may be scalable to handle many more units.

[0050] An advanced software analytics tool for performing predictive failure analysis on streams of data collected from field-installed SPSs.

[0051] Modems for communication with installed SPSs and human interface units outside the NOC (e.g., mobile devices for field utility personnel, field offices, utility control centers).

[0052] Uninterruptible power supply (UPS).

[0053] The back-end NOC system can:

[0054] Monitoring and control of SPS units i.e. from the Network Operations Center (NOC).

[0055] Groups of SPS units are established to facilitate management. For example, an individual tower may group four SPSs located on a cable stay in a first location and / or a second set of SPSs on a power line in a second location. A particular individual tower sensor implementation may include wired and / or wireless connections to a shared sensor controller on each sensor package, a communications module such as a local access node 21, and / or a power source to minimize the size of each sensor package and simplify communications to the back-end NOC. Individual towers or structures within a particular geographic area and / or along a particular transmission line may define a supergroup.

[0056] Bidirectional communication with individual SPSs, several SPS groups, or all SPSs can occur via Wi-Fi, cellular connectivity, or other suitable bidirectional wireless connectivity, including Bluetooth, LoRaWan, Zigbee, Zwave, and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), to send commands to individual SPSs, specific SPS groups, or all SPSs, and to receive data, including cable tension data and data collected by other sensors, from individual SPSs, several SPS groups, or all SPSs. All communications can be encrypted to provide system security. BLE is designed to consume low power and operate for long periods of time, such as months or years. An appropriate connection protocol or combination of protocols can be selected based on power consumption, needs, data rate, or other considerations.

[0057] In an embodiment, communication between the sensor and the NOC can include a self-organizing network (SON). SON is an automation technology designed to make planning, configuring, managing, optimizing, and recovering radio access networks easier and faster. SON can be organized architecturally as distributed SON, centralized SON, and hybrid SON. In distributed SON, functions are distributed among network elements at the edge of the network (e.g., individual sensors). In centralized SON, functions may be centralized near higher-order network nodes or the network OSS to provide broader visibility of more edge elements and enable coordination, such as load balancing, across a larger geographic area. Hybrid SON includes a mix of centralized and distributed SON elements. Self-organizing network capabilities include self-configuration, self-optimization, self-healing, and self-protection.

[0058] Self-configuration aims for a "plug-and-play" paradigm in which new nodes, such as local wireless access points 21, are automatically configured and integrated into the network. When a new node is introduced to the network and powered on, it is instantly recognized and registered by the network. Neighboring nodes automatically adjust their technical parameters (e.g., radiated power, antenna tilt) to provide the required coverage and capacity while simultaneously avoiding interference. Each node can contain hundreds of configuration parameters that control various aspects of the cell site. The SON may automatically establish neighbor relationships (ANR) or optimize random access parameters depending on how many nodes are transmitting to the NOC. If a node in the network becomes inoperable, self-healing mechanisms aim to reduce the impact of the failure, for example, by adjusting parameters and algorithms in neighboring cells so that other nodes can support communication with the device supported by the failed node. Self-protection is a system's proactive approach to defending itself against the intrusion of any unauthorized users into the system and against any active or passive attacks.

[0059] Sends OTA (over-the-air) firmware / software updates to SPS units.

[0060] Monitoring the status of SPS units. Monitoring involves collecting, processing, organizing, and analyzing data using state-of-the-art software tools. This includes comparing data from other similar, similar, or different SPS units across multiple variables (e.g., time, space, tension load, torsion, video image progression, etc.) to detect variations. Monitoring also includes tracking short-term and long-term trends in data from a single field unit, specifically analyzing it against required criteria (e.g., minimum cable tension from a tension meter, cable deflection from an accelerometer and spatial data from video). Monitoring and analyzing video data from field units to detect changes in the physical environment: (1) against required criteria (e.g., maximum allowable insulator sway in wind or allowable degradation of insulator attachments), (2) over time, or (3) set to specific triggers (e.g., smoke or fire detection). Monitoring video data from field units may also include detecting and analyzing corona video events associated with severe power line interruptions. Monitoring may also include periodically checking the "health" of the SPS and providing information to the backend server relating to the characteristics, condition, and functionality of the SPS, including functional irregularities.

[0061] Provides operators and utility company management with emergency triggers designed to initiate immediate action / response to critical events such as cable faults, cable degradation, downlines, and fires. Data collection and analysis from multiple sensor packages enables field crews to immediately identify the location of critical problems and address critical events. In some cases, an alert from a single sensor package may indicate a failure of that sensor package and not a system-critical event, and restarting / repairing / replacing the sensor package can resolve the alert. Alarms from multiple sensor packages may signal a true system-critical event, especially if the alarm comes from a specific locus, such as a specific utility tower or transmission line segment.

[0062] Create reports and / or data packages (e.g., time tension data, locations, video clips, etc.).

[0063] Sending / routing reports and / or alerts to authorized personnel (e.g., within the operations team or to utility company personnel, including field staff or managers, regulatory authorities, and / or emergency response services such as fire departments, departments or districts or public safety organizations at the local, state or national level in the event of an emergency).

[0064] 3A-3D show various views of a particular exemplary sensor package subsystem 100 for use in remote monitoring, according to embodiments described herein. Figure 3A shows a top view, Figure 3B shows a side view, Figure 3C shows an end view, and Figure 3D shows a perspective view. The illustrated sensor package subsystem (SPS) 100 includes an electronics package 110 with one or more processors, a controller or microcontroller for autonomously controlling the functions of the sensor package, memory for storing operating instructions and collected data before communicating the data to a central monitoring system and / or other devices linked to the system, a backup battery, and an optional status display 112 for displaying measured tension and optionally other data. The SPS further comprises: a tension sensor 130 capable of measuring and capturing instantaneous and long-term deviations from the initially installed and calibrated tension (e.g., 4000 kg to 10,000 kg, e.g., 5000 kg); a sturdy physical connection 131 for attaching the SPS to the cable 133 being monitored; and a communications module within the electronics package 110, comprising one or more modems for communication to a back-end NOC system, either through an intermediate communications system such as a local wireless access point 21, directly, or in communication with a nearby authorized device such as a handheld device. As shown, the connection 131 may comprise a clamp engaged with a bolt or screw to the base plate of the tension sensor 130 to securely hold the cable. A weatherproof housing 115 is designed for the type of environment in which it will be operating and is used to package and protect the electronics and other components from the expected ambient conditions once installed. As shown, housing 115 houses electronic package 110, while other components, such as solar cell 140, are mounted outside of housing 115 or mounted separately and connected to the electronic package using external wiring. In other embodiments, additional components may be further integrated within the housing.

[0065] An embodiment of a Type 14 sensor may include a toroidal shaped housing for placement on a high voltage line configured to clamp around the high voltage line. Toroidal shaped versions of the device may further include sensors for measuring / reading electrical parameters in the transmission line, including inductively read voltage, current, and / or tension load sensors.

[0066] An uninterruptible power supply provides power to the sensor package system. In embodiment 100, the sensor package includes a solar cell 140 for generating electricity, a rechargeable battery (not shown) that can be recharged using electricity from the solar cell, and circuitry 141 for providing uninterruptible and surge-resistant power to the device. A digital clock or other timing unit (not shown) may be included. When installed, the device can receive continuous, uninterruptible power from a solar panel that charges an internal lithium battery, with a current typical lifespan of 15 days or more without solar power. A battery connection switch 145 allows the battery to be electrically connected to the solar panel 140. In other embodiments, a single solar panel can be mounted on a transmission tower, such as the one shown in FIG. 1, to power multiple sensors on multiple cables associated with the tower. When mounted on a high-voltage power line (embodiment 14), the device can receive uninterruptible power via electromagnetic induction to charge an internal lithium battery, with a current typical lifespan of 15 days or more without power. A device configured to receive power from a transmission line via induction need not include a solar cell.

[0067] The devices may further include a unique identifier for each device, such as a UPC or QR code for unique device identification and communication purposes. The QR code is visible on the exterior of the sensor package to facilitate authorized installers' activation, inspection, and / or communication with the device via a handheld device. The unique identifier may be instantiated in an RFID chip within the device housing. In addition to field operators communicating with individual sensor units, the sensor packages may also communicate with one or more centralized facilities, such as the NOC mentioned above, using the identifier and, for example, a handshake protocol. Through the UPC code or other device identifier code, individual sensor packages can uniquely identify themselves to back-end systems (1) upon installation / activation and (2) for all subsequent communications.

[0068] Preferably, the device includes a GPS sensor for locating the SPS unit. When activated upon installation, the device can determine its location and transmit that location to a database for retention. The device can send an alert if it determines from the GPS sensor that the controller has been moved from its assigned location, indicating theft or tampering.

[0069] The sensor package may further include one or more digital cameras 125 and lens systems (such as BW and RGB cameras) capable of capturing high-speed frames at HD resolution at a fixed or variable rate determined by the needs of the application, or within a time frame specified by instructions from the NOC, such as during a wildfire. In an embodiment, the camera may be a wide-angle camera. Optionally, additional IR or UV cameras may be included.

[0070] The sensor package may further include a five-axis motion sensor, accelerometer, and / or gyroscope sensor for multi-axis motion detection. Other sensors may include a hygrometer, magnetometer, particle sensor, and / or temperature sensor for measuring environmental parameters.

[0071] An ePaper or LCD display can provide a human inspector with a visual indicator of the equipment's current status. The ePaper display requires power only when it is updated. To conserve power, the LCD display is turned on by the user only when needed, either by a physical switch or an electronic signal from a handheld device. The display can provide utility personnel with cable tension measurements and / or other parameters or status via a digital readout on the field unit.

[0072] The Sensor Package System (SPS) is easy to install. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment 131 includes two connection bolts for attaching to the cable. Simple startup is possible via a UPC scan by an installer with a cell phone or other handheld device, which can instantly and automatically provide the back-end NOC system with the field unit's location, including its GPS location or location number associated with the tower on which it is located, Mac or PC ID serial number, and communication protocol. Additional startup operations include verifying the correct functioning of all sensors and communications.

[0073] A key capability of the SPS includes measuring and capturing data to detect instantaneous and long-term deviations from the originally installed and calibrated tension. Once a desired cable tension is set for a device, a processor within the device controller can determine when a deviation from the desired tension has occurred and initiate an alert notification to the NOC. Alternatively, the device can communicate tension data to the NOC, and a processor at the NOC can determine deviations in the tension data. Deviations can be determined by tension readings that differ from a defined (e.g., installed) tension by a defined threshold. Depending on the sensors included on the device, other measurement data can be processed at the device or at a server at the NOC. Data from multiple sensor devices can be aggregated at the NOC for group analysis.

[0074] The camera included in the sensor package provides a field of view along the length of the cable, allowing observation of cable anomalies over time. Other camera functions can provide surveillance via video of the physical environment. It can be appreciated that the camera locations within the device will vary depending on the purpose of the video or still images collected. For example, the camera for sensor 12 installed in a first location may be positioned to look downward toward ground level to observe whether there are humans or wildlife near the tower. The camera for sensor 14 installed in a second location may be positioned to observe the cable itself and / or its engagement with the insulators on the tower. Other cameras may also be positioned to view and capture video or still images of the general environment.

[0075] The device's controller is programmed to trigger the collection of data from the sensors periodically or as needed (e.g., data measurements collected four times an hour from all sensors). Other options may include periodic collection of data by a subset of sensors, where collecting data indicating an error or warning event may trigger another sensor to collect data. The controller on the device is also programmed to autonomously trigger alerts if a measured parameter is outside a set range. Signals to collect data, such as collecting still images or video by an on-device camera, may be triggered by a motion detector on the device or communicated to the device.

[0076] The sensor package can communicate bidirectionally with a back-end NOC system or other devices (e.g., local communication access nodes or handheld devices). Communications are preferably encrypted to deter hacking or other unauthorized attempts at communication from unauthorized sources.

[0077] The sensor package firmware / software can be updated over-the-air (OTA) via firmware / software updates securely transmitted by the NOC.

[0078] Depending on the sensor in the sensor package, the sensor may measure temperature, tension, sag, and sway, or other parameters when placed on a high voltage transmission wire.

[0079] The first embodiment of the sensor package subsystem is targeted at high-voltage utility transmission towers. Its primary purpose is to monitor and verify that cable tension and spatial variations remain within their design parameters over the life of the cable. Second, the SPS monitors environmental factors such as structural changes in transmission towers and small utility poles, anchors and other connection points where the cable is attached, environmental hazards such as fire, smoke, and wind, nearby trespassers and vandals, line temperature, line sway, and insulator sway / physical degradation.

[0080] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that although the initial application of the present invention as described herein is directed to electrical transmission towers and associated stays and wire rods, it is equally applicable to any guy wire fixed tower, including but not limited to cellular infrastructure towers, microwave communication towers, and the like.

[0081] Other structures with cable systems under tension include, for example, cable-stayed bridges and floating bridges, where the towers are freestanding and the cables support horizontal loads, including the bridge deck and vehicles thereon. Other structures with cables under tension can include cable cars, cranes, and the like. The sensors and back-end notification operations center (NOC) system described herein can be adapted to provide monitoring and supervision for such structures. The sensors described herein can be used to measure cable tensions in such structures and communicate the measured tensions to a back-end system to manage the identification and reporting of status and / or faults of the parameters measured by the sensor package subsystems (to and from the field and to other entities). Additionally, the central back-end system can perform analysis, organize data, and / or generate reports to enable periodic monitoring of cable tension parameters and determine whether the parameters indicate a predicted performance degradation for failure modes up to and including catastrophic failure.

[0082] Additionally, the sensors and back-end network operations center (NOC) systems described herein can be adapted to provide monitoring and surveillance systems useful for monitoring infrastructure beyond power lines and other cable-carrying structures. For example, if the sensor package is capable of measuring parameters other than cable tension, such as flexure, strain, compression, etc., the back-end system can be used to monitor parameters of other structures, such as bridges, overpasses, buildings, radio, television, or other antennas, to determine whether the parameters indicate erosion of performance predictions for failure modes up to and including catastrophic failure.

[0083] Embodiment In the following embodiments, the device may be described as a sensor package subsystem or SPS.

[0084] Embodiment 1. An apparatus for attachment to a static cable or wire system under tension, comprising a controller, a cable tension sensor, and a communications module for wireless two-way communication with a central monitoring system.

[0085] Embodiment 2. A device as described in embodiment 1, wherein the tension sensor is configured to measure and capture instantaneous and long-term deviations from a desired tension in the cable to which it is attached.

[0086] Embodiment 3. The device of embodiment 1, further comprising a modem for communication to a backend and a central monitoring system.

[0087] Embodiment 4. The device of embodiment 1, further comprising a unique device ID and a UPC code for communication purposes.

[0088] Embodiment 5. The apparatus of embodiment 1 further comprises a digital camera and lens system capable of capturing frames at high speed.

[0089] Embodiment 6. The device of embodiment 1, further comprising an optional IR or UV capable camera and / or lens system.

[0090] Embodiment 7. A device as described in embodiment 1, further comprising a GPS sensor.

[0091] Embodiment 8. The device of embodiment 1 further comprising a 5-axis motion sensor accelerometer (3-axis) and a gyroscope sensor (2-axis).

[0092] Embodiment 9. The device of embodiment 1, further comprising a magnetometer.

[0093] Embodiment 10. The device of embodiment 1, further comprising a temperature sensor.

[0094] Embodiment 11. The device of embodiment 1, further comprising a digital clock or other timing unit.

[0095] Embodiment 12. The device of embodiment 1, further comprising an uninterruptible power supply.

[0096] Embodiment 13. The device of embodiment 1, further comprising a hygrometer for measuring humidity.

[0097] Embodiment 14. The device of embodiment 1 further comprises a toroidal shaped version (housing) for placement on the high voltage line configured to clamp around the high voltage line.

[0098] Embodiment 15. The device of embodiment 14, further comprising a voltage sensor.

[0099] Embodiment 16. The device of embodiment 14, further comprising an amperage sensor.

[0100] Embodiment 17. The device of embodiment 14, further comprising a tension load sensor.

[0101] Embodiment 18. A computer-implemented method using the apparatus of any one of embodiments 1 to 17, comprising: a concentrator server providing communication means for the device of claim 1; back-end servers and network operating centers (NOCs) for processing data and communicating with external entities; Equipped with.

[0102] Embodiment 19. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising a concentrator server that provides a secure connection and feeds directly into a network operating center (NOC).

[0103] Embodiment 20. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising collecting and managing all data from the field SPS at the NOC via a dedicated VPN server.

[0104] Embodiment 21. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising connecting authorized utility staff to each and every SPS on any tower via a secure wireless link from the NOC.

[0105] Embodiment 22. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising two-way communication with individual SPSs, several groups of SPSs, or all SPSs via Wi-Fi or cellular connections.

[0106] Embodiment 23. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising connecting the NOC to customer management and maintenance personnel via a secure internet.

[0107] Embodiment 24. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising storing SPS-related information in the backend server and associated databases.

[0108] Embodiment 25. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 24, wherein the SPS-related information includes at least a subset of the following: SPS ID, location, communication channel ID, and wireless protocol type.

[0109] Embodiment 26. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18 further includes sending instructions from the NOC to individual SPSs, or specific SPS groups, or all SPSs via a back-end server to control SPS functions related to observation, monitoring, and notification.

[0110] Embodiment 27. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising providing power consumption data of the SPS to the backend server.

[0111] Embodiment 28. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising transmitting over-the-air firmware / software updates to the air SPS unit.

[0112] Embodiment 29. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising providing information related to the characteristics, conditions, and functionality of the SPS, including functional irregularities, to a backend server.

[0113] Embodiment 30. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising enabling discovery of peripheral devices connected to a given SPS.

[0114] Embodiment 31. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising enabling an external device to connect to the given SPS.

[0115] Embodiment 32. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 31, further comprising communicating instructions to the controller to provide auxiliary power to external devices connected to the given SPS.

[0116] Embodiment 33. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising enabling network topology identification including grouping and zoning of SPSs.

[0117] Embodiment 34. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising enabling multi-dimensional grouping of SPSs for programmatic control and monitoring of customer assets, e.g., guy wires, towers, high voltage lines.

[0118] Embodiment 35. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising enabling determination and sharing of SPS configuration information among a group of SPSs.

[0119] Embodiment 36. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising enabling one or more sensors on a given SPS to report information regarding the functionality and condition of the SPS to a backend server.

[0120] Embodiment 37. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising collecting, processing, organizing, and analyzing data.

[0121] Embodiment 38. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 37, further comprising comparing data of other similar, comparable, or different SPS units across multiple variables (e.g., time, space, tension load, torsion, and video image progression) to detect changes.

[0122] Embodiment 39. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 37, further comprising tracking near-term and long-term trends in data from a single field unit and comparative analysis against specifically required standards.

[0123] Embodiment 40. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 37 further includes monitoring video data from the field unit to detect changes in the physical environment 1) relative to required criteria, or 2) over time, as set forth in a specific trigger.

[0124] Embodiment 41. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 18, further comprising providing an application for implementing an emergency alert notification system using the backend associated with the NOC.

[0125] Embodiment 42. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 41, wherein the emergency alert notification system is directed to one or more appropriate entities, e.g., a utility, a fire district, and / or public safety.

[0126] Embodiment 43. The computer-implemented method of embodiment 41, wherein the emergency alert notification system is part of a community-wide alert system.

Claims

1. 1. A device configured to be attached to a cable or wire under tension, the device comprising: one or more processors; a tension sensor configured to measure the tension of the attached cable or wire; and a communications module for wireless two-way communication with a central monitoring system, the one or more processors configured to execute computer readable instructions to receive tension measurements from the tension sensor and to communicate the tension measurements to the central monitoring system via the communications module.

2. 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to execute computer-readable instructions to determine whether the tension measurements received from the tension sensors include momentary or long-term deviations from a desired tension in the cable to which the tension sensors are attached, and to communicate the momentary or long-term deviations to the central monitoring system.

3. 3. The device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the device is configured to be attached to an electric power transmission line and to receive power from the electric power transmission line via electromagnetic induction, and optionally further comprises at least one additional sensor selected from a voltage sensor, an amperage sensor, or a tension load sensor, and wherein the one or more processors are configured to execute computer-readable instructions to receive measurements from the at least one additional sensor and communicate the measurements to the central monitoring system.

4. 1. A distributed network computer system for remotely monitoring a cable system under tension, comprising: a central monitoring system comprising one or more central servers configured to execute computer readable instructions to receive, collect, store, and analyze data associated with the remote monitoring; a plurality of devices attached to a plurality of cables or wires under tension, each device comprising: one or more processors; tension sensors configured to measure tension in the attached cables or wires; and a communications module for wireless two-way communication with the central monitoring system, the one or more processors configured to execute computer readable instructions to receive tension measurements from the tension sensors and to communicate the tension measurements to the central monitoring system via the communications module; A distributed network computer system comprising:

5. 5. The distributed network computer system of claim 4, wherein the cable system comprises a high-voltage power transmission system comprising a tower and a high-voltage transmission line supported by the tower, and the device is attached to a guy wire that stabilizes the tower, the high-voltage transmission line, or a combination of the guy wire and the high-voltage transmission line.

6. 6. The distributed networked computer system of claim 4, wherein the stored data comprises information associated with each of the plurality of devices, including one or more of a device identification code, a device location, a communication channel ID, a device characteristic, a device status, and a device function.

7. 7. The distributed network computer system of claim 4, wherein the stored data further includes tension measurements received from each of the plurality of devices linked to the information associated with each device.

8. 8. The distributed network computer system of claim 4, wherein the one or more processors in each of the plurality of devices or the one or more processors in the one or more servers are further configured to execute computer readable instructions to determine whether the tension measurements received from the tension sensor in each of the plurality of devices include an instantaneous or long-term deviation from a desired tension in the cable to which the tension sensor is attached.

9. 9. The distributed network computer system of claim 4, further comprising: a plurality of local access nodes, one or more concentrator servers, or a combination of local access nodes and one or more concentrator servers associated with the plurality of devices, configured to provide a secure communication link between the plurality of devices and the central monitoring system.

10. 10. The distributed network computer system of claim 4, further comprising secure communication links to a plurality of devices associated with a plurality of authorized human users of the distributed network computer system.

11. 11. The distributed network computer system of claim 4, further comprising secure communication links between the plurality of devices associated with a plurality of authorized human users of the distributed network computer system and the plurality of devices attached to the plurality of cables or wires under tension.

12. 12. The distributed networked computer system of claim 11, wherein the secure communications link comprises a self-organizing network.

13. The one or more processors on the central server execute computer readable instructions to: receiving data from the plurality of devices; storing the data received from the plurality of devices; aggregating the data received from the plurality of devices; determining whether the aggregated data predicts or indicates a failure mode within the cable system; communicating a warning associated with the failure mode to one or more human users authorized to receive the warning; configured to perform 13. A distributed network computer system according to any one of claims 4 to 12.

14. 14. The distributed network computer system of claim 13, wherein the one or more human users include an operator of the central monitoring system, personnel associated with an owner or operator of the cable system, personnel associated with an emergency response service, or a combination thereof.

15. 15. The distributed network computer system of claim 4, wherein the one or more processors on the central server are further configured to execute computer-readable instructions to compare data received from the set of devices across one or more variables selected from time, position, tension, tension load, torsion, and video image progression to detect changes between the set of devices.

16. 16. The distributed network computer system of claim 4, wherein the one or more processors on the central server are further configured to execute computer-readable instructions to track trends in the data from a single device for comparative analysis.

17. 17. The distributed network computer system of claim 4, wherein the one or more processors on the central server are further configured to execute computer readable instructions to enable one or more of: discovering peripherals connected to a given device; communicating instructions to the given device to enable connecting a peripheral to the given device; and communicating instructions to one or more processors on the given device to provide auxiliary power to a peripheral connected to the given device.

18. 1. A method performed by one or more computing devices for remotely monitoring a cable system under tension, comprising: receiving data from a plurality of devices attached to a plurality of cables or wires under tension, each device comprising one or more processors, a tension sensor configured to measure tension in an attached cable or wire, and a communications module for wireless two-way communications with a central monitoring system, the one or more processors configured to execute computer readable instructions to receive tension measurements from the tension sensors and transmit the tension measurements to the central monitoring system via the communications module; storing the data received from the plurality of devices; aggregating the data received from the plurality of devices; determining whether the aggregated data predicts or indicates a failure mode in the cable system; communicating a warning associated with the failure mode to one or more human users authorized to receive the warning; A method having the following.

19. The one or more computing devices are instantiated in a distributed network computer system, the distributed network computer system comprising: one or more central servers configured to execute computer-readable instructions for receiving, collecting, storing, and analyzing data associated with said remote monitoring; said plurality of devices attached to said plurality of cables or wires under tension; Equipped with 20. The method of claim 18.

20. 20. The method of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the one or more human users include an operator of the central monitoring system, personnel associated with an owner or operator of the cable system, personnel associated with emergency response services, or a combination thereof.

21. 21. The method of any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the communication comprises a self-organizing network.

22. At least one non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-readable instructions for remotely monitoring a cable system under tension, the instructions, when executed by one or more computing devices of a distributed network computer system, causing at least one of the one or more computing devices to: receiving data from a plurality of devices attached to a plurality of cables or wires under tension, each device comprising one or more processors, a tension sensor configured to measure tension in the attached cable or wire, and a communications module for wireless two-way communication with a central monitoring system, the one or more processors configured to execute computer readable instructions to receive tension measurements from the tension sensors and to communicate the tension measurements to the central monitoring system via the communications module; storing the data received from the plurality of devices; aggregating the data received from the plurality of devices; determining whether the aggregated data predicts or indicates a failure mode of the cable system; communicating a warning associated with the failure mode to one or more human users authorized to receive the warning; At least one non-transitory computer-readable medium implementing the method.

23. The one or more computing devices are instantiated in a distributed network computer system, the distributed network computer system comprising: one or more central servers configured to execute computer-readable instructions for receiving, collecting, storing, and analyzing data associated with said remote monitoring; a plurality of devices attached to said plurality of cables or wires under tension; 23. At least one non-transitory computer-readable medium as recited in claim 22, comprising:

24. 24. At least one non-transitory computer-readable medium as described in claim 22 or 23, wherein the one or more human users include an operator of the central monitoring system, personnel associated with an owner or operator of the cable system, personnel associated with emergency response services, or a combination thereof.

25. 25. At least one non-transitory computer-readable medium according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein the communication comprises a self-organizing network.

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