A Wireless Sensor Network Communication Model for Automation of Electric Power Distribution

Automation of electric power distribution in a cost-efficient and reliable manner can be accomplished by complete automation of the load dispatch centers and substations on a large scale. For efficient load balancing among the feed lines, a continuous monitoring of parameters, such as voltage, current in the line, temperature, pressure, and oil level of the transformers is required. Currently, automation is done with the help of Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA). This paper proposes a novel method of communication among the sensors. The paper proposes a cooperative wireless sensor network architecture for communication of the monitored signals and the employment of a virtual MIMO model, which would considerably reduce errors due to transient surge of charges and other interferences. Further, the paper proposes the use of a location aware protocol, GEAR, which is suitable for the sensor network architecture, as compared to the currently used protocols. The appropriate placement of sensors and adoption of additional signaling schemes can also prevent theft of electrical power, which is not a new problem in many areas.