SBIR-STTR Award

A dynamic line rating (DLR) system operates in real time and extracts maximum performance data from overhead transmission and distribution lines. Historically, the costs of such systems have been too high to justify widespread adaption into transmission control systems. This project will develop and demonstrate a low cost, dynamic overhead line rating system that delivers dynamic ratings in a useable manner to the system operator. Phase I involves the installation and testing of a preproduction version of the new technolgy. The project will be hosted by the American Electric Power Service Company, which will assist with monitoring and evaluation.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:
Initial commercial applications include dynamic line rating. Future platform applications include waveform capture for fault monitoring. The device will have multifunction capability with a very low cost per function

Historically, the cost of systems that operate in real time and extract performance data from overhead transmission and distribution lines has been too high to justify widespread adaption into transmission control systems. This project will develop a low cost, wireless sensor for the real time monitoring of overhead transmission lines. The sensor, developed and demonstrated in Phase I, provided real-time wireless data with more than 99% availability. Analytical results derived from the sensor measurements were verified using high-accuracy field-monitoring equipment. Phase II will involve: (1) adding signal processing/waveform analysis capabilities, including current, voltage, and voltage phasors; (2) engineering the product for manufacturing; (4) carrying out additional field tests; and (5) manufacturing a first lot of devices.

Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:
The device should have multifunction capability with a very low cost per function. Commercial applications include dynamic line rating, clearance monitoring systems, load survey systems, fault and event recording systems, and grid monitoring for security and reliability