An Iowa State University research team led by Arun Somani, chair and Jerry R. Junkins professor of electrical and computer engineering, is working to develop a network of wireless sensors that could monitor the country's electricity transmission system.

While the sensors could pick up suspicious activity at power poles, they'd be especially useful at quickly locating any breakdowns, which could allow power companies to react in time to prevent power disruptions from cascading into blackouts.

The monitoring system could also help power companies quickly locate problems when severe weather tears down electrical lines.

With networks of sensors, "Power companies would have additional abilities to view their systems and that would assist in disaster recovery," Somani said.

The monitoring system depends on sensors housed in black boxes just a few inches across. A tiny camera can also be mounted in the sensor to look for suspicious movements around power lines.

The project is supported by a $400,000 grant from the National Science Foundation and $150,000 from Iowa State 's Information Infrastructure Institute.

•Date: 27th June 2006• Region: US •Type: Article •Topic: Power management
Rate this article or make a comment - click here