Probabilistic Methods for Model-Based Accelerator Control

65209 As distributed generation accounts for an increasing share of the total generated electrical power, real-time sensory information (to monitor voltage, current, power flow, power quality, etc.) that describes the status of each generation point is required to maintain reliable electrical grid operation and ensure safe maintenance practices. However, many of the monitoring points in today's electrical grid provide incorrect data due to faulty wiring, poor equipment performance, or lack of utility resources to process raw sensor data. In addition, many sensors are needed to replace aging instrument transformers, equip new generation plants, and monitor new locations within the transmission and distribution grids. The installation of new sensor technology should require as little infrastructure change as possible, in order to minimize total cost. This project will develop a low maintenance, self-powered, clamp-on power interface pod for metering, for identifying incipient equipment failure, and for power quality processing. It will rely on wireless communication to interface with a centralized control center such as an independent system operator, specific equipment at a distributed energy resource, and an individual consumer through a web-site. In Phase I, voltage and current sensors with metering class accuracy will be developed that permit a clamp-on sensor pod to be attached to an existing power line. A highly reliable power supply design will also be developed. Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by awardee: A clamp-on power interface pod, suitable for use at low, medium, or high voltages, should directly address an annual $1 billion worldwide electric utility market for voltage and current sensors alone. The clamp-on design, with no insulating structure between high voltage and ground, would permit improved installation flexibility, low installation and maintenance costs, and low manufacturing costs. Digitizing at the wire would complete the conversion of signals from analog to digital form in the electrical utility control system.