BR102016010790A2 - METHOD FOR MEASURING TRANSMISSION LINE AND METHOD FOR CONNECTIVITY - Google Patents

Abstract

transmission line measurement method and connectivity method. This is a suspension clip connection assembly. The suspension clip connection assembly includes a staple unit, a support member, and a coronal ring. The stapling unit includes a base section, extension arms, and staple contact portions. the ex-tensioner arms are between the clamp contact portions and the base section. The staple unit is configured to attach to a suspension clamp. the support member has a first end and a second end. The first end of the support member is connected to the base section. The support member is configured to support an electronics housing. the coronal ring is connected to the second end of the support member.

Description

“TRANSMISSION LINE MEASUREMENT METHOD AND CONNECTIVITY METHOD” BACKGROUND

FIELD OF TECHNIQUE

The present application relates to data collection and, more particularly, to a connector (for example, a data acquisition suspension clip) for an electrical conductor or other transmission line (for example, a transmission line). power transmission, a communications line, a gas line, a water line, an oil line, a railway, a freeway, among others that are deployed over geographic distances) that collect data and report measured conditions conductor or transmission line to a monitoring device or systems. However, illustrative embodiments of the present invention need not be restricted to use as part of a clamp. For example, embodiments of the present invention may be implemented at a location near a clip or implemented without reliance on any clip or other device.

GROUNDS

Electric Networks Figures 1 to 4 illustrate the related technique in U.S. Patent No. 8,002,592. Figure 1 shows a transmission tower 200 that is used to suspend above-ground power transmission lines 202. Tower 200 has cantilever arms 204. The insulators 206 extend along the arms 204. One or more suspension clamps 208 are located at the lower ends of the insulators 206. Lines 202 are connected to the suspension clamps. Clamps 208 hold power transmission lines 202 over insulator 206.

Figures 2 to 4 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of suspension clamp 208 which generally comprises an upper section 210 and a lower support section 212. These two sections 210, 212 contain a body 214, 216 which forms a suspension casing. The bodies 214, 216 comprise a longitudinal trough (or conductor receiving area) 215, 217 which allows the transmission conductor 202 to be fixedly seated within the two sections and when the two sections are bolted (or secured) to each other. by threaded fasteners 201 (not shown). This fits the transmission conductor 202 between the two bodies to securely contain the transmission conductor 202 over the clamp 208. Threaded fasteners are not required and no other suitable fastening configuration can be provided.

The two bodies 214, 216 connected together are suspended via a metal bracket 218 which attaches to the lower body 216 at points via a screw 220.

The lower body, or lower body section, 216 comprises a first end 219 and a second end 221. The conductor receiving area (or conductor contact surface) 217 extends from the first end 219 to the end. second end 221 along an upper side of lower body 216. Conductor receiving area 217 forms a lower groove portion for contacting a lower half of conductor 202. A generic groove shape is not required, and no suitable configuration can be made. be proportionate.

In one implementation, the lower and upper sections 210, 212 have embedded in their respective bodies 214, 216 a half of a current transformer 222, 224 which is commonly referred to in the industry as a split core current transformer. When these components 222, 224 are joined, they form an electromagnetic circuit that allows, in some applications, the current pickup to pass through conductor 202. In one implementation, the current transformer is used to power pickup devices, collect power data analysis, data analysis and data formatting. In some implementations, the current transformer may be located outside the clamp or similar device or, in some implementations, power may be supplied by other means.

The upper section body 214 210 contains a first member 232 and a second member 234 which form a cover plate. First member 232 comprises a first end 233, a second end 235, and an intermediate section 237 between first end 233 and second end 235. The conductor receiving area (or conductor contact surface) 215 extends from from first end 233 to second end 235 along a lower side of first member 232. Conductor receiving area 215 forms an upper slot portion to contact an upper half of conductor 202. A generic slot shape is not required. , and no suitable configuration can be provided. In one implementation, first member 232 further comprises a recessed cavity 226 in intermediate section 237 that effectively contains an electronic circuit 228. In this implementation, electronic circuit 228 is designed to accept inputs from various pickup components. This cavity 226 may be surrounded by a Faraday cage 230 to effectively nullify the influence effects of high voltage EMF from conductor 202 on circuit assembly 228. The Faraday cage may also surround current transformer 222. cover plate member 234 may cover the upper opening of cavity 226 to retain the electronic circuitry within the body, or upper body section 214. The electronic components may be housed in a metal or plastic container, surrounded by the cited Faraday cage, and the entire assembly may be conserved, such as with epoxy, for example.

Electronic circuit 228 can significantly accept and quantify multiple inputs to monitor various parameters of conductor 202 and the surrounding environment. Inputs can also be derived from externally mounted electronic reference devices / components. Inputs may include, for example: 1) Line Voltage reference (as derived from Faraday cage 230 or other means); 2) Line Current reference (as derived from Current Transformer 222, 224 or other means); 3) Barometric pressure and temperature references - internal and ambient (as derived from internal and external thermocouples 236, 238 or other means); 4) Conductor Vibration references (as derived from accelerometer 240, such as a 10 to 50 KHz vibration sensor, for example, or other means); and 5) Optical references (as derived from phototransistor 242 in a fiber optic tube or other means). The optical reference portion may, for example, allow the clamp to see flashes of light from the corona discharge should the insulator begin to fail, or lightning storm activity, and / or tensile references (as derived from the tensile deformation device 244 which may be included in certain implementations). Traction references for traction indicators 244 may, for example, provide information indicating that ice is forming as the weight of the driver increases due to ice buildup.

In general, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) refers to an industrial control system, such as a computer system that monitors and controls a process. Information derived from the electrical / electronic circuitry may exit circuit 228 via a nonconductive fiber optic cable 246 and be provided above and over transmission tower 200 and ultimately at the base of the tower and fed into the system. SCADA to allow the end user to access and view electrical and environmental conditions at that location, or the information may be transmitted to a remote or central site.

However, this implementation proved problematic. For example, routing the fiber to a clamp that is operating at very high stress creates a stress strain path that can cause an arc even when fiberglass and plastic coatings are provided as insulators. Arcs form along the boundary between air and the solid insulator. If the insulator is just a single rod, it would need to be 3 times longer. The suspension clip or other pickup device may alternatively be configured to remotely transmit information from electronic circuit 228 to a receiving system. However, this implementation is also problematic due to the complexity of the software required to accommodate the distances over which staples are used and the number of staples being monitored.

Certain Networking Problems May Occur [010] Transmission lines face a number of problems. Wind causes vibration that can gradually crack the wire or completely destroy it. Excessive heat can cause lines to sag over trees or traffic. Corroded wires will generate more heat when current passes through them, but there is no way of knowing the extent of any corrosion as it occurs generically within the wire. Corona discharge is a type of electrical discharge that corrodes the wire, insulators, and anything in the vicinity. Ice buildup can break the wire due to weight. Trees can fall naturally on the wires and pose a danger if not pruned. Natural and man-made disasters such as earthquakes and forest fires can damage power transmission lines. In addition, wild animals, and squirrels in particular, may be charred when they pass through certain components of an electrical network, thereby causing interruption of power transmission through power transmission lines. Line optimization to increase capacity is temperature dependent and can only be performed through conservative estimates of local conditions.

Grid Monitoring [011] In conventional power grids, current and voltage are measured in substations. The current capacity of a line is estimated based on wire diameter, wire age, ambient temperature, and wind speed. However, due to many variables, this is a guess. In addition, there is no early warning of ice buildup and ice is detected when a wire breaks during freezing. Vibration dampers are routinely attached to power lines to reduce vibration; however, their effectiveness is only estimated at how many lines break due to vibration stress, even though shock absorbers are present. Power lines can generate a corona discharge that can be heard as a squeaking sound and can also be viewed using special cameras that can be seen in the ultraviolet spectrum. However, these cameras are big and expensive. Cameras are usually shipped to places where someone has heard a squeaking sound or where an insulator appears to be corroded, but may not be effective as corona discharge may be intermittent and may be affected by many environmental conditions such as humidity and humidity. air pressure. In addition, most of the proposed telemetering devices require battery power. The battery power is not adequate in these applications that are raised above ground and distributed over large geographical areas, making its maintenance unviable. In addition to motivating challenges, existing monitoring devices are relatively expensive and large, limiting their use to occasional applications or limited site installation. As a result, there is no opportunity to accumulate scattered data and make determinations, such as locating lightning through triangulation or a real-time power transmission capability based on transmission line weather conditions.

Repair or Maintenance of a Transmission Line [012] Initially, you must locate where a power transmission line is broken. However, power transmission lines can extend hundreds of kilometers between substations, and the only information generally available is information that one substation is providing power and the next is not receiving the supplied power. Accessibility to power transmission lines may vary. In some cases, power transmission lines may be accessible by motorized land vehicles. In other cases, lines may only be accessible by helicopter, where a service technician must be hung under the helicopter to maintain or repair a line. These repairs or maintenance can be very expensive.

Communication Problems [013] In order to restore system information, fast and secure communication is required. Radio communication via Ethernet is an option. However, organizing an Ethernet network requires the use of devices known as routers or switches. Each router or switch will search for an Ethernet packet of information and record the source address and destination address as the packet arrives at a port. If the destination is known, the packet is forwarded to only one port that is connected to such destination device. If this is not a known address, it is repeated for all ports except the port where it arrived. When the destination device responds, the source address appears in a packet on a single port that lets the router or switch know where to send the next packet with that particular destination address.

[014] There are specific protocols that optimize the route to distribute a packet and exclude the chance of a packet repeating in a network loop. Some of the most common protocols are Spanning Tree Protocol and Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol.

[015] A popular radio protocol for packet based transmission is Zigbee which is described in the IEEE 802.15.4 standard. This protocol is intended for relatively small radio networks in a small geographical area. It is well suited for a small building or on a multi-acre property. However, when radios are large and spread over a large area, the system becomes impractical. The farthest radio message should be repeated by coordinating elements (for example, a more capable radio) until the destination is reached. Because there is a time limit for a response, the physical dimensions of the network are limited.

[016] Although there are devices to monitor transmission lines, they face the power, diagnostics, and communication challenges noted above. There is a need for a system that allows for rapid analysis of any actual or potential repair issues and power optimization capabilities along transmission lines (eg to allow for increased peak loads based on operating conditions, for example). versus conservative estimates based on extreme weather conditions), with lower repair costs, better preventive maintenance, and faster restoration times. In addition, there is a need for a simple way to communicate and collect the substantial amount of data that can be accumulated by a widely spread installation of pickup devices over large geographic areas.

SUMMARY

Various aspects of the examples of the invention are set forth in the claims.

According to one aspect of the invention, a suspension clamp connection assembly is disclosed. The suspension clip connection assembly includes a staple unit, a support member, and a crown ring. The stapling unit includes a base section, extension arms, and staple contact portions. The extension arms are between the clamp contact portions and the base section. The staple unit is configured to attach to a suspension clamp. The support member has a first end and a second end. The first end of the support member is attached to the base section. The support member is configured to support an electronics housing. The coronal ring is connected to the second end of the support member.

According to another aspect of the invention, a stapling unit is disclosed. The stapling unit includes a base section, extension arms, and staple contact portions. The extension arms are between the clamp contact portions and the base section. The staple unit is configured to attach to a suspension clamp so that the main body of the suspension clamp is between the extension arms.

According to another aspect of the invention, a method is disclosed. A staple unit is provided which includes a base section, extension arms, and staple contact portions. The extension arms are between the clamp contact portions and the base section. The staple unit is configured to attach to a suspension clamp. A support member is attached to the stapling unit. The support member has a first end and a second end. The first end of the support member is attached to the base section. The support member is configured to support an electronics housing. A coronal ring is attached to the second end of the support member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other features of the invention will be explained in the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [022] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a transmission tower supporting transmission lines. transmission connected through suspension clamps;

[2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of one of the suspension clips shown in Figure 1;

[3] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the suspension clamp shown in Figure 2;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of a first suspension clamp member shown in Figure 2;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of an intelligent clip constructed in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the smart clamp of Figure 5;

Figure 7 is a top view of the clamp body of the smart clamp of Figure 5;

Figure 8 is a bottom view of the smart clamp of Figure 5;

Figure 9 is a perspective view of the smart clamp of Figure 5 showing the housing contents of electronics and various sensors according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 10 shows various components of an intelligent clip constructed in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 11a and 11b are respectively a top view and a side view of an electronics housing for an intelligent clip according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of a main plate of an intelligent clip according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 13a and 13b illustrate a communication network comprising data acquisition data (e.g., the smart clip in Figure 5) in radio communication according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 14 illustrates a more complex example of a communication network compared to that shown in Figure 13a or 13b;

Figure 15 illustrates a communication network with more than one adapter according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention; and Figures 16 and 17 are screen shots generated by an administrative system according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 18 is a perspective view of a suspension clamp connection assembly (attached to a transmission line suspension clamp) incorporating features of the invention;

[19] Figure 19 is another perspective view of the suspension clamp fitting assembly shown in Figure 18;

[20] Figure 20 is a side view of the suspension clamp fitting assembly shown in Figure 18;

[041] Figure 21 is another side view of the suspension clamp connection assembly shown in Figure 18;

[042] Figure 22 is a front view of the suspension clamp fitting assembly shown in Figure 18;

[043] Figure 23 is a top view of the suspension clip connection assembly shown in Figure 18;

[044] Figure 24 is a perspective view of the suspension clamp connection assembly shown in Figure 18 [with the stapling unit in a closed position];

[045] Figure 25 is a perspective view of the suspension clamp fitting assembly shown in Figure 18 [with the stapling unit in an open position];

[046] Figure 26 is a top view of the stapling unit and the support member [with the stapling unit in an open position];

Figure 27 is a side view of the stapling unit and the support member;

[048] Figure 28 is a front view of the stapling unit and support member [with the stapling unit in an open position];

[049] Figure 29 is a perspective view of the stapling unit and support member [with the stapling unit in a closed position];

[30] Figure 30 is a perspective view of the stapling unit and the support member [with the stapling unit in an open position];

[051] Figure 31 is a perspective view of the suspension clamp connection assembly shown in Figure 18 [with the stapling unit in an open position];

[052] Figure 32 is a front view of the suspension clamp connection assembly shown in Figure 18 [attached to a transmission line suspension clamp]; and [053] Figure 33 is a side view of another embodiment of a suspension clamp connection assembly (attached to a transmission line suspension clamp) incorporating the features of the invention.

[054] Throughout the drawings, it will be understood that similar numerical references refer to similar elements, features and structures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This description is provided to assist in understanding the illustrative embodiments of the present invention described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Correspondingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications to the illustrative embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Similarly, well-known descriptions of functions and constructs will be omitted for clarity and conciseness. Similarly, certain naming conventions, labels and terms as used in the context of the present disclosure, as would be understood by skilled artisans, are not limiting and provided for illustrative purposes only to facilitate the understanding of certain illustrative implementations of the embodiments of the present invention. .

Data Acquisition Device Overview Figures 5 to 17 illustrate illustrative embodiments of the present invention that provide a method, system and apparatus for an intelligent network comprising network data acquisition devices that monitor transmission lines or conductors. . The smart grid is illustrated using power transmission lines; however, it should be understood that the data acquisition device may be configured to monitor other types of transmission lines or conductors deployed over extended geographical distances (eg, a communications line, a gas line, a water line). , an oil line, a railway, a freeway, among others), and need to be restricted to use with connectors or clamps only, in accordance with the illustrative embodiments of the present invention. A data acquisition device is illustrated using a suspension clamp (for example, on a power transmission line) which will be referred to as a "smart clamp". Data acquisition devices, however, are understood to be any related smart connectors or smart accessories or devices for data acquisition and network monitoring.

Referring to Figures 5 to 9, a smart clip 1 is illustrated in Figure 5. The smart clip assembly includes a clip body 110, a protective body 310 situated on the clip body 110, a housing of electronics 50, and a thermal shield 70 that protects the electronics in the electronics housing 50. An illustrative clip hanger hardware 1 is also disclosed to a power line or other conductor 30, for example, and a cable A high temperature switch 80 for connecting a power supply (e.g., a power supply comprising a current transformer 330) to the electronics in the electronics housing 50 as described above.

As illustrated in Figures 5, 6 and 7, the clip body 110 includes a center trough or channel 112 along its length into which a power line / wire 30 is to be placed. Similarly, the protective body 310 includes a trough or center channel 312 along its longitudinal length to accommodate the power line 30 such that when the protective body 310 and the clip body 110 are secured, the power line 30 is secured between the two bodies 110, 310. Illustrative hardware for securing the protective body 310 and the clip body 110 together may include, but is not limited to, a U-bolt 210 inserted into screw holes 214 and secured by nuts 216. A similar configuration of two bolt holes 214 and nuts 216 for a U-bolt 210 may be provided at opposite ends of clamp 1.

[059] Protective body 310 includes a cooling chimney 111 as shown in Figures 5 and 6 to allow air to circulate and cool the smart clamp 1. The protective body assembly comprises protective body 310, springs 320 and an upper portion. Similarly, as shown in Figure 7, clamp body 110 also includes a cooling chimney 111 which also facilitates air circulation to cool smart clamp 1. Correspondingly, clamp body assembly The clip comprises the clip body 110 and the lower portion 332 of the transformer 330. The upper and lower portions 331 and 332 of the power supply transformer 330 may be provided with troughs or channels similar to channel 112 in the clip body (e.g. example, as illustrated in the lower portion 332 of the transformer described in Figure 7) to accommodate a conductor 30, and are positioned and secured to their respective protective body 310 and grain body 110 so that they are aligned with each other. When the clip body 110 and the protective body 310 are secured together, the springs 320 are carried or compressed by the upper and lower portions of the transformer 330. The spring fitting of the current transformer 330 to the protective body 310 allows the conductor 30 to float. strips to avoid conductor overpressure while still providing good sealing and minimizing vibration. Although the illustrated embodiments describe the power supply assembly with the current transformer 330 having portions 331 and 332 provided on the protective body 310 and the clip body 110, respectively, it should be understood that the current transformer 330 may be implanted in another location with respect to clamp 1. For example, portions 331 and 332 of transformer 330 may be secured to the conductor by a clamp adjacent to clamp 1. The underside of clamp body 110 is shown in Figure 8. and provides another view of the high temperature conductor 80 extending from the power supply comprising the current transformer 330 toward the electronics housing 50. The power supply comprises an electronics circuit board (not shown). ) configured to condition the AC voltage from current transformer 330 and convert it to DC voltage to be supplied to the control board. main electronic components 500 through 80 cable.

Power to Data Acquisition and Thermal Problem Solving Device [060] Although it seems unreasonable, conventional systems have difficulty getting a few watts of power (for example, to power a processor or sensors) from a line. of power that carries one million watts of energy. The present invention overcomes these difficulties, that is, the smart clamp 1 is capable of extracting a small amount of energy from a power line or wire 30 to which it is attached according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

[061] A practical means for extracting energy from the power line is a current transformer; however, to accommodate a 3 amps (A) 30 to 30 A conductor current range, this transformer becomes a substantial piece of iron (for example, about 1.81 kg (4 lb)) with copper windings (for example, about 9000 turns) that extracts energy from the magnetic fields surrounding the main conductor 30 created by the flow of electrons therein. For example, a conventional square and split current transformer can be used (for example, a model CTS-1250-300A current transformer available from Continental Control Systems LLC, Boulder, Colorado, USA). One side can be removed to allow transformer 330 to be secured to conductor 30. Extracted power is used to power smart clamp 1 and its various sensors, data analysis components and communication equipment, which can consume up to 10 watts. Alternatively to energy extracted (for example, through a power supply assembly with current transformer 330), batteries and solar cells can also be used to power clamp 1 electronics, among other power supplies for electronics.

As stated above, smart clamp 1 uses the power supply assembly with current transformer 330 to draw energy from the magnetic field generated by current passing through the main conductor 30 to which current transformer 330 surrounds . Transformer 330 may be a split transformer having an upper portion 331 and a lower portion 332 such that it may be secured around power line or wire 30 as described below in connection with Figures 6, 7 and 8. As stated above, a high temperature wire 80 extends from an outlet of the power supply assembly to an input of the electronics housing 50 to provide power to the electronic circuits. An energy storage device may optionally be provided on smart clip 1 (e.g., a capacitor on main board 500 as shown in Figures 9 and 12) to allow smart clip 1 to operate long enough to send a last message ( for example, to a base station or other network monitoring device) before power is lost.

The conductor 30 confined by the clip body 110 and the protective body 310 may become very hot due to the very large current carried by the conductor. Typically, it allows older yarn to reach 75 ° C before it becomes soft and begins to sag. Newer wires that are still being implanted can reach 250 ° C before it becomes soft and begins to sag. In general, the electronics will not tolerate this temperature, so the electronics housing 50 is positioned next to and separated from the smart clamp main body by a thermal shield 70. Thermal shield 70 can be attached to the clamp side 1 (eg with separators 72 for thermal insulation) and the electronics housing 50 can be connected to thermal protection 70, for example. The thermal protection is constructed from aluminum. The electronics housing 50 may be made of non-metallic material to facilitate operation of the 540 radio and the GPS 510 unit.

[064] Current transformer 330 surrounds the main conductor to collect power, and in some implementations current transformer 330 will not tolerate temperatures above 85 ° C. The cooling holes or chimneys 111 in the protective body 310 and the clamp body 110 of the smart clamp 1 allow an air flow to cool the transformer 330. Alternatively, as previously stated, the power supply assembly with portions 331 and 332 of transformer 330 may be attached to conductor 30 by a clamp adjacent to clamp 1. In addition, smart clamp 1 itself acts as a heat sink to reduce the temperature. Transformer 330 may be confined to a thermal insulation material to provide additional protection.

Data Acquisition Device Sensors and Electronic Components [065] Smart Clip 1 includes multiple sensors inside or near the electronics housing 50, which is isolated from heat by thermal shield 70 as described above.

Referring to Figure 9, the electronics housing 50 is shown with a cover removed to expose an interiorly mounted mainboard 500 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 5, the electronics housing 50 has a section 52 extending from a main section 51. The parallel housing sections 54 are connected to opposite sides of section 52 and extend opposite each other and parallel to the longitudinal geometry axis of conductor 30 and clamp 1. Main plate 500 is secured in section 51. Additional sensor circuits for measuring wind speed and ambient temperature (e.g. generally indicated at 610 and 620 in Figures 9 and shown 11A and 12) are electrically connected to the mainboard 500 (e.g., via a ribbon cable) and extend therefrom for deployment to parallel sections 54 as described in more detail below.

Continuing the reference in Figure 9, mainboard 500 supports and processes inputs from a range of measuring device sensors including, without limitation, a Global Positioning Device (GPS) 510, a sensor 520 for measuring conductor temperature 30, a conductor current sensor 530, wind speed detector 610, vibration detector 630, audio corona discharge detector 640, ambient temperature sensor 620, and at least one 550 camera and its 504 interface. Additional sensors, such as additional cameras, may be included. The sensors will be described in more detail below. In addition, the motherboard 500 supports a 540 encrypted radio and 560 encrypted web access. These communications devices will be described in more detail below. Mainboard 500 comprises a central processing unit (CPU) 505 and an associated memory device 502 (e.g. non-volatile memory such as a flash disk) and a program code for processing data from sensors and communications. In another implementation, the circuitry may be located outside the clamp or transmission line in an outer housing that may or may not have a Faraday cage. This arrangement would be suitable, for example, for a gas pipeline as well as for certain electrical transmission lines.

[068] As shown in Figure 11A, the electronics housing 50 may also be provided with connectors 501 and 508 for power and fiber optics respectively. As shown in Figure 12, a 501 connector is electronically connected to a power subsystem on mainboard 500 so that when the high temperature cable carrying CD power is connected to connector 508, mainboard 500 can provide power to sensors and other electronic devices that support it.

Figures 11A and 12 illustrate a mainboard 500 and other components in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Figure 11A is a front view of a motherboard 500 in an electronics housing 50. The motherboard can be attached to a camera 550 having a lens mounted in an aperture provided in the electronics housing 50 as shown in a side of the housing 50 described in Figure 11B. The other side (not shown) of housing 50 and mainboard 500 may also be installed with another camera (ie, with a lens mounted in a housing opening 50) to allow images to be captured along conductor sections 30 extending from both sides of the clamp 1.

[070] A small illustrative camera 550 operates in the range of -40 ° C to +85 ° C, with the focus set at 0.6096 m (two feet), for example. The head is 8mm x 5.6mm. The camera (s) 550 can capture still images of line 30 conditions such as ice, warping, charred debris, and so on. Video images may also be provided as communication bandwidth permits. As described below, representing each smart clip 1 with its own web page, the respective smart clip web pages can present users with convenient information regarding various line conditions, such as ice images, and the like, and listings. measured parameters, such as temperature, wind, and others, and whether they are in a selected range or not, or if they meet the selected limits.

[071] There are no cost-effective practical means to pick up voltage directly from power line 30 today without trust in a grounding-based system. Although current can be picked up by a second current transformer, a smaller and less expensive Hall effect sensor (IC) integrated circuit (IC) 530 can be used on smart clamp 1 (for example, on board main 500). The 530 current sensor may be based on the Hall effect rather than a more traditional Rogowski coil, where the harmonic distortion of the current sine wave is measured by a distortion that may be caused by rare loads, a saturated transformer, or a malfunctioning generator.

[072] Conductor temperature can also be measured with an IC. For example, the smart clamp 1 may be provided with a thermal bridge 520 between the conductor or transmission line to an electronic component on the main board 500 that can empirically determine the temperature of the transmission line.

Smart clamp 1 may include detectors 610, 620 and 630 for measuring the wind speed sensor, ambient temperature and conductor vibration respectively as shown in Figure 9. Wind speed detector 610 is advantageous because it is implemented without moving parts. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the wind speed is captured by a heated element extended from the clip body 1. For example, two wind detection devices are arranged proximate to the electronics housing 50 and on the same axis. geometric as the conductor or transmission line 30 coupled to the smart clamp 1. The difference between the predicted element temperature in still air and the temperature drop in the other element caused by wind can be used to calculate wind speed.

More specifically, as stated above, the electronics housing 50 has parallel housing sections 54 extending parallel to the longitudinal geometric axis of conductor 30 and clamp 1 and wherein detectors 610 and 620 for measuring the wind speed and ambient temperature are deployed. As shown in Figures 11A and 12, a mainboard 500 may have a main section 506 and at least one section 507 extending therefrom (e.g., through a ribbon cable or other conductor). Section 507 supports at least wind sensor 610 and ambient temperature sensor. Wind speed detector 610 generally operates using the same principle as a hot wire anemometer characterized in that it comprises one of the parallel sections 54 (for example, see "503a" in Figures 11A and 12), which is heated by an element. (not shown). As wind blows through clamp 1 including parallel sections 54, heated section 503a cools. The other section 54 (for example, see "503b" in Figures 11A and 12) is provided with an ambient temperature sensor 620. The CPU 505 is programmed to determine the wind speed based on the difference between the measured ambient temperature. and the measured temperature of the heated section 503a. The room temperature sensor 620 is placed in the opposite section 503b from the heated section 503a so that its room temperature measurement is not diverted by the heating element to the heated section 503a. The CPU 505 can be programmed to determine wind speed in the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal geometric axis of conductor 30 (i.e., a parameter generally sought by utilities) using various geometrically based calculations.

It should be understood that wind speed detector 610 may be implemented using other configurations according to other illustrative embodiments of the present invention in relation to those shown in Figures 9, 11 and 12. For example, as shown in Figure 10 , a clip 1 may be provided with a protrusion from its housing 50 to accommodate a hot wire anemometer 612, and optionally a radio antenna 542 for a radio interface 540 described below.

[076] The 630 vibration sensor can be implemented in a number of different ways. For example, a suitable bandwidth (128Hz) voltage gauge can be used to measure vibration. If a relatively large strain gauge is not present, then a smaller accelerometer with 3 geometry axes may be installed 0.3048 or 0.6096 m (1 or 2 feet) away from clamp 1, or a similar device may be installed. integrated into the smart clamp itself 1. If an external sensor is used, motion can be measured and provided to main clamp 1 via four wires (ie two for force and two for communication), for example to interface the board 500 and its 505 CPU.

More specifically, voltage measurement on a 30-wire conductor can usually be performed using a device (eg, a Quick Balance strain gauge available from Dillon, an Avery Weigh-Tronix company in Fairmont, MN). , USA, which is installed at or near clamp 1 and fixed to conductor 30) which bends wire 30 slightly and measures the force that the wire exerts in an attempt to stand straight. The CPU 505 can use geometry-based calculations to provide a scaling factor between the force on the device and the voltage on wire 30. Voltage measurement can also be performed using an external sensor such as a load cell with a disadvantage. mechanics carry a maximum tension of 4,536 kg (10,000 Ib) to 45,36 to 90,72 kg (100 to 200 lbs.), as shown in Figure 10, which can be captured. Vibration can also be captured by capturing voltage variation or measured with an IC accelerometer attached to the line a short distance from clamp 1.

As stated above, clamp 1 also has a corona discharge detector 640. Corona in insulators is not in the visible spectrum. It is found in a deep ultraviolet spectrum (for example, about 280nm). Cameras that capture ultraviolet flash images are exaggeratedly expensive, particularly when considering that corona discharge is sporadic, intermittent, and significantly affected by air pressure, humidity, and other dynamic conditions. Silicon sensors are not very expensive in this range, ie they are about 10% efficient compared to sensitivity in visible light. A very good filter is required to remove visible light even at night. During the day the sensor would be flooded with visible light even with the filter. In general, visible light cameras do not withstand extreme ambient temperatures of the monitored line 30, even if the cameras are turned off. According to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a corona discharge detection method which employs audio corona discharge detection (e.g., storing corona discharge audio signatures and employing sensors to detect audio noise and perform comparisons with signatures to detect corona discharge). Corona discharge detected by audio can have the indicated time and its duration recorded, among other parameters.

Continuing with the reference of Figure 9, the audio corona discharge detector 640 may comprise a microphone and a digital signal processor (DSP) (not shown) for obtaining and processing an audio signature ("sound"). sizzle ”) of corona discharge. Samples of frequency sampled corona discharge sounds can be stored as signatures. Microphone output can be continuously or periodically sampled by the DSP. The DSP then compares the samples to signatures or otherwise processes samples against the selected threshold characteristics to determine if an alert should be generated where a corona discharge event has occurred. An alert can be sent, for example, whenever a corona discharge event is detected, or after a selected number of detected corona discharge events have occurred to assist with DSP calibration to more accurately characterize sounds as discharge events. in corona.

[080] One or more smart clips 1 can detect a lightning event. The smart staple system uses a GPS 510 unit to precisely locate the positions of the smart staples. 1. Using GPS also allows you to measure accurate time information to measure one or more events captured or detected by the smart staples 1 (for example, phase angle). An antenna is provided on the mainboard 500. A 300 kHz bandwidth filter is also provided for detecting lightning storms. Lightning need not fall on the line to detect lightning. For example, electrical discharges within a few kilometers of a smart clamp can be detected and have their time and date indicated. The shared geometry among three co-located smart clamps 1 allows triangulation of the discharge location.

[081] In addition, smart clamp 1 can be configured to collect power line voltage measurements. It is now very expensive to measure 110kv to 765kv, which is a typical range for a power transmission line. However, ground voltage can be measured using an external voltage detector that communicates over the same radio links (not shown).

[082] According to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a short-range radio network (e.g. 2 km) may be used in the smart grid system, thereby smart clips 1 or other data acquisition devices. may "skip" data along the transmission line 30 until the aggregated data can be taken to a remote terminal, which could interface with public or private area based transmission, as described according to Figures 13 to 15.

Referring to Figure 9, a clamp 1 is provided with a radio (for example, an encrypted radio) 540. For example, the 540 radio may be an FCC approved standard digital radio with a data rate of 250 kbps. , and low cost AES128 encryption that is environmentally robust and also saves development costs and minimizes deployment costs. A radio is a Synapse RF Engine ZigBee Radio Board (RFET) available from Synapse Wireless Inc., Huntsville, AL, USA. Having dimensions of approximately 3.37 cm (1.33 ”) per side, this can be provided on the mainboard 500 in the electronics housing 50, as shown in Figures 9 and 12. With a 12.7 cm (5” antenna ), as shown in Figure 11A, the 540 radio has a range of approximately 2 to 3 km.

[084] For interface to public or private area based transmission, an optional illustrative optical interface 600 may be provided to a 500 main board data acquisition device that operates as a standard 100Bbps Ethernet (100Mbps) Independent Media Interface to the processor plate 500 according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 10 and 11A depict an optional optical interface 600 installed on the mainboard 500 according to another illustrative embodiment of the present invention. Optical cables 602 may be provided with voltage release clamps. Optical splitters / combiners are generally indicated at 604. The optical interface 600 may comprise a small pluggable double form factor (SFP) to withstand linear fiber drop and continue topology.

[086] A 606 optical connector (for example, a weatherproof fiber optic connector) may be provided in the electronics housing 50, in addition to a 608 connector for the power cable 80. The optical interface 600 is useful in a grounding level or in lower voltage applications or applications when the optical cable does not deflect the effect of high voltage insulators. Alternatively, the motherboard 500 may be reused as a radio-to-Ethernet adapter 710 at certain locations and include, for convenience, a standard 0 / OOBaseT electrical RJ45 interface as well as or instead of the OOBaseFX optical interface.

[087] The low power radio 540 in each of the smart clips 1 in the smart clip system includes powerful encryption and is used to communicate back to a central location 700 as will be described according to Figures 13 to 15. For a long-force transmission line 30, there may be hundreds of smart clips 1 and thus hundreds of radio hops that would be required to reach a switch node 700. Illustrative embodiments of the present invention implement encryption and large numbers of switches. jumps between data acquisition devices over long distances and thus accommodate transmission delays that remain a problem for existing radio technology.

For ease of use and in accordance with an advantageous illustrative embodiment of the present invention, the smart clip system may require little or no knowledge of communication protocols, radio technology, or other technologies that are not currently familiar to the supplier companies. that would use the smart clamp system. As long as clips 1 are installed in your radio range, they will communicate with the main computer system (for example, a central monitoring location 700) upon installation. Once installed, clamp 1 begins to operate automatically. Power is automatically supplied to the 500 electronics, sensors begin to automatically detect in real time, the GPS 510 determines clamp location, the 540 radio detects neighboring clamps and 710 substation adapters, and communications begin. Therefore, this modality is superior to existing technology that requires central database programming to organize pickup devices or the need to program on individual nodes with cell phone numbers or IP addresses to administer a sensor network.

According to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, each smart clip 1 is configured to operate as a web server on the Internet. Communication can be set up on a private network, so there is no connection to the public Internet to enhance security. Smart clip 1 may include an encrypted web access unit 560 to allow secure Internet access, as shown in Figure 9, for email alerts and web browsing (that is, browsing web pages created for each 1 to obtain measured parameters and other information).

[090] When a leak is detected, smart clip 1 is configured (for example, via firmware provided to CPU 505) to send a message (for example, in the form of an email) to a programmable address with a short message to indicate the problem and the location. One arrangement may include measures to limit or coordinate the number of such messages so as to minimize the “overload” of a central monitoring point 700. The messages are then communicated via a radio communication link to an adapter 710, for example. , for aggregation, and optionally to other ground-based monitoring stations 700 (for example, via ground-based communications) other than co-located with adapter 710.

[091] The 540 radios used by smart clips 1 can be easily adapted to standard Ethernet and attached to an ordinary local area network. A user is able to access smart clip devices 1 by entering their web page addresses and thereby searching or querying the network. It is noted that conventional monitoring systems require a highly specialized and very expensive central computer system and software to gather measurements. The simplicity of expanding the system and the ability to access from many sites can be well established, and the system can be easily implemented using readily available inexpensive Ethernet equipment.

Radio Problems [092] Today, Zigbee radio is a standard packet-based low-power radio designed to provide communication with a building or just a few acres away. However, this does not include AES128 encryption that is currently considered effective. However, within 5 years, this encryption may be considered inappropriate. It should be noted that all Zigbee radios in a network must use the same encryption key. If the key changes, all radios must be updated at the same time. For about 20 radios on a property, which may be considered acceptable; however, for tens of thousands of radios spread over an electrical network or other network of data acquisition devices as proposed in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention, using conventional Zigbee radios in one network would not be considered a good system. For example, breaking the single encryption key would make the entire system vulnerable. In addition, the Zigbee standard sets a response delay limit that would be reasonable for 10 or 20 radio hops, but could not accommodate, for example, 500 hops as required by a powerline or other application. geographically expansive contemplated by the illustrative embodiments of the present invention.

[093] The Zigbee standard describes two types of radios: a coordinator and a peripheral. Coordinators are responsible for repeating messages to get them to the desired destination if a repetition is required. The provision of a coordinator or peripheral radio is a manual tuning operation that needs to be avoided based on the potential deployment of tens of thousands of smart staples. 1. In accordance with the illustrative embodiments of the present invention for simplicity and ease. In use, a technician can install clamp 1 with a ratchet wrench and complete the installation without knowing anything about communication protocols or network architecture.

Radio Protocol for Very Large Networks [094] While a conventional Zigbee radio may be a suitable starting point for a simple radio design, it is unsuitable for geographically expansive applications such as those accommodated by illustrative embodiments of the present invention. An illustrative embodiment of the present invention provides a custom Zigbee radio design that institutes advantageous changes for use with smart clip 1 in a smart clip system. Instead of having an encryption key for all 540 radios in the system, for enhanced security, the keys are dynamically provided (for example, negotiated in each transaction in a similar way to how Internet banking is handled). For example, they can be implemented in Secure Socket Layer (SSL) that is part of all web browsers. In addition, the delay tolerance is substantially extended. Instead of a few milliseconds, very long line responses may take a minute. If an Ethernet port consisting of 500 smart clip electronics with a 540 radio and a 600 optical or electrical Ethernet interface can be installed at the base of a tower at half the long line, the data can be routed over telecommunication lines. granted or proven lines owned by the energy supplier. This reduces the maximum number of hops and reduces the response delay. However, intelligent clip communications message routing is uniquely designed to be tolerant of the very long delays described to support large networks even if leased telecommunications lines or private lines are not available.

[095] Each smart clip 1 is configured (for example, through programmed CPU 505, radio 540 and other devices on mainboard 500) to implement message routing similar to a common Ethernet switch. Some of these same concepts are used, but substantial modification is provided in accordance with the illustrative embodiments of the present invention to accommodate the radio environment as described below.

Smart clamps 1 according to illustrative embodiments of the present invention are intended to be installed with a life expectancy of approximately 20 years or more. It should be noted that telecommunications equipment that lasts for a similar period outdoors is currently available. As an alternative to using 540 radios, smart clips 1 may be equipped with lasers for optical communication, but their life expectancy may be limited to 5 to 7 years, being much shorter than the life expectancy of 540 radio equipment. At ground level, where smart clips 1 having a 540 radio and a 600 optical or electrical Ethernet interface can be used to communicate over a conventional installation or telephone company circuit, a 600 optical interface is easily maintained if it is required.

[097] While smart clip 1 hardware can last as long as 20 years, the software, encryption, communication protocol, and other features of smart clip 1 are likely to become obsolete over this period. Smart clip 1, however, includes data storage that operates as a disk drive (e.g., flash drive 502). The software can therefore be updated remotely to accumulate most of these changes or updates.

[098] When future requirements simply exceed the capacity of existing hardware, new electronics can be installed without removing the entire clamp. The electronics side box or housing 50 containing the electronics can be replaced separately. This is also an important factor in replacing failed or malfunctioning smart 1 clamps.

[099] As stated above, implementing a radio network for a geographic transmission line network (for example, a power transmission network) presents challenges that are not present in a smaller geographic area. Transmission lines 30 are inherently linear covering extremely long distances - up to 800 kilometers (500 miles) or greater. Since most highways are generally monitored mile by mile, it is desirable to monitor transmission lines at least every 1.6 kilometers (one mile) to adjust for location issues and characterize performance. While there are cost-effective unlicensed radios with a nominal range of 1 mile, sending a message through these radios from one end of a 800-kilometer (500-mile) transmission line to the other could require 500 radio replays over each direction that requires a communication protocol that can accommodate very long delays. That is, the maximum response time (before the message is considered lost) would necessarily be measured in minutes rather than milliseconds.

[0100] Long transmission line 30 is not the only problem. The network for monitoring smart clamps 1 also branches when multiple 540 radios are in close proximity (for example, when smart clamps 1 are installed to monitor all 3 phases in a tower or when multiple transmission lines 30 converge in one substation). All smart clips 1 need to be able to mount in a coherent communication network without manual intervention according to an advantage of an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

According to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a more practical network is obtained by adapting the smart grid to a more common media and protocol stack, such as Ethernet and TCP / IP. Thus, a 710 optical or radio-to-copper Ethernet adapter is strategically placed around the power grid, for example. Of course, substations are a likely location for such an adapter, but there may also be convenient points along a transmission line 30 for an adapter. The 710 adapter comprises a 540 radio, a standard 712 Ethernet port, and a suitable protocol conversion. Therefore, the resulting Ethernet interface is suitable for interfacing with public communication lines (telcos), private networks, cable TV modems, DSL, and / or other Internet access technologies.

As stated above, a motherboard 500 may be used as a 710 radio-to-Ethernet adapter at certain locations. An example of a data acquisition device motherboard that can be configured as an adapter 710 is provided in Figures 10 and 11A. Adapter 710 may be physically different from the line data acquisition device (for example, a clip 1) Smart and has a different function. Adapter 710 can identify itself as a port where messages originate and are terminated. This is a guided guidance location. An illustrative operation of data acquisition devices (e.g., smart staples 1) and network organization is to reach one of these adapters 710 with minimum delay that is defined as the minimum number of repetitions or hops required.

When a packet is received by a data acquisition device (for example a smart clip 1), there are three options for arranging the message by way of example. If the message is destined for the same data acquisition device, the data acquisition device CPU 505 processes the message. If the message is not intended for that location data acquisition device, the message is repeated, or not, because it will be prorated by another device. Messages can be images (eg still or video images captured by 550 camera (s)), parameters measured or captured from the data acquisition device that can be reported in various formats, standardized messages or alerts. (e.g. text, audio, or graphics), emails, HTML files, and more. Messages are packaged by CPU 505, for example. As explained below, messages are aggregated (for example, via a 710 adapter) for access by a user (for example, using a web browser and an address assigned to each 710 adapter).

[0104] Each message can include an 8 byte long source address and an 8 byte destination address. These addresses consist of a Media Access Control (MAC) address that is programmed during manufacture and unique to each radio. The MAC address is used to route packets. Although a Layer 3 protocol, such as the Internet Protocol (IP), may seem more appropriate, some manual configuration (which may take time, require accurate registration, and be unfamiliar to technicians establishing smart staple or similar accessories in position) might be required to adjust the IP address. In addition, each of the data acquisition devices 1 is used as a web server in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the present invention. This requires a fixed IP address rather than an IP address that is automatically assigned as would be the case if Dynamic Host Control Protocol (DHCP) were used. To avoid this problem, routing by data acquisition devices such as smart clip 1 is performed at layer 2, the media layer.

[0105] With each smart clip 1 operating as a Layer 2 router, each smart clip or data acquisition device 1 will need to screen thousands of MAC addresses to know whether or not to repeat a message. This is not practical for a moderately sized 505 CPU. Preferably, each data acquisition device may have a 502 high-speed memory attached to standard hardware (not shown) on mainboard 500 that compares a list of MAC addresses. known to that of the destination address in the packet. When it finds a match, the data acquisition device will know if the packet needs to be repeated or simply ignored.

[0106] In an illustrative implementation, the number of MAC addresses is limited to a selected number (for example, in the order of 26,400) which is an agreement on processing speed, packet duration, and power consumption while still maintains the requirement for thousands of devices in a single subunit. If necessary, larger numbers of MAC addresses may be supported.

[0107] To create the MAC address table in 502 high-speed memory, each data acquisition device must announce its presence. In the simplest case, it starts with a broadcast message from an adapter 710. Each data acquisition device (e.g., smart clip 1) forwards the message but increases the hop count within the message. Each device also responds to the message with the minimum hop count received. Of course, each device 1 will see many copies of the message. In most cases, the earliest message will have the lowest hop count, and the device will respond to that hop count. However, there are less likely situations where a smaller hop count may be received later in the process. The device will respond to this lower hop count that appears later. However, it will not respond to adapter 710 with a higher hop count.

During this process, each data acquisition device (eg smart clip 1) will become familiar with the devices in the immediate vicinity. Each device will know the hop count for adapter 710 for its neighbors. In general, devices with the lowest hop count will be responsible for performing repeat operations for devices with higher hop counts. However, each device is configured to perform a repeat or jump even when it appears that a lower count path is available.

[0109] A simple linear case is considered as shown in Figures 13a and 13b. Data acquisition device # 1 will have 1 hop count from adapter 710. Data acquisition device # 2 will have 2 hop counts since Device # 2 is not in the direct connect range to adapter 710. Device # 3 has 3 hop counts from the adapter.

[0110] Adapter 710 broadcasts configuration broadcasting. Device # 1 repeats it with a hop count of one. It also responds to adapter 710 with a hop count of 1. Device # 2 will receive the repeated configuration message with a hop count of 1 and the response from Device # 1 with a hop count of 1. Device # 1 will take the answer from Device # 2 and repeat it to adapter 710 with an incremented hop count. Device # 2 repeats the configuration message with a hop count of 2 and also responds toward adapter 710 with a hop count of 2. Device # 3 receives repeated broadcasting from adapter 710 and responds to it with an incremented hop count. Device # 2 repeats Device # 3's response toward adapter 710 with an incremented hop count.

[0111] Device # 1 determines that it can communicate directly to adapter 710. It also determines that Device # 2's response does not have a hop count of zero, so Device # 2 must be Device dependent. # 1 to communicate to adapter 1. Device # 1 also determines from messages that another device is on the network (ie Device # 3) and has an even higher hop count. Correspondingly, Device # 1 repeats messages to adapter 710 from that device.

[0112] In a more complex situation, there are multiple valid paths returned to the adapter as shown in Figure 14. This example assumes that all 3 phases of a power transmission line 30 are being measured at the same points.

In this case, all devices A (for example, Devices Α1, A2, A3) can receive messages from each other and all devices B (for example, Devices B1, B2, B3) and adapter 710. Devices B can hear all devices A, B, and C (for example, Devices A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, B3, C1, C2, and C3), but not the adapter. All C devices (C1, C2, and C3 devices) can listen to B devices and C devices. The path decision is not the longest, but only a matter of the only available path. One factor of the decision in this case will be the MAC address. For example, the device with the lowest MAC address will be the repeater. Although the MAC address is 8 bytes long, manageably shorter numbers are used in this example. Device B1 will have addresses 10, B2 is 11, and B3 is 12. Devices B2 and B3 will be able to receive the response from Device B1 and realize that the number of hops delivered back to adapter 510 is the same as the number of hops. that these provide. Device B1's MAC address is the lowest, so Device B2 and Device B3 will be automatically deferred to allow Device B1 to perform repeats for Devices C1, C2, and C3. The use of the lowest MAC address is arbitrary. The decision can be made by using some other fixed relationships between the MAC address such as selecting the highest address or other factor.

[0114] In the example above, either device could fail and there could still be a path returned for adapter 710 on the left side. Some reconfiguration could be required. For this reason, the reset message is periodically broadcast from adapter 710 (for example, every 15 minutes). If a device realizes that it can no longer communicate with the 710 adapter, it may issue a request to reconfigure all devices that will repeat toward the 710 adapter.

A network, as shown in Figure 15, may have more than one adapter 710. For example, another adapter may be representative of a transmission line 30 between two substations where there is an adapter in each substation.

Device A1 is assumed to have the lowest MAC address among Devices Α1, A2, and A3. Device B1 has the lowest MAC address among Devices Β1, B2, and B3. Device C1 has the lowest MAC addresses among Devices C1, C2, and C3. The smallest number of hops for an adapter from devices A is to the left. The shortest path to an adapter from C devices is to the right adapter. Devices B could reach each adapter with 2 hops. The tie breaker will be the MAC address of Device A1 and Device C1. Devices B will use the path with the lowest MAC address of each Device A1 or Device C1.

[0117] A system with three or more adapters can be accommodated with the same algorithm. First is the nearest adapter in terms of the number of hops. Where there is a tie, the MAC address of the nearest repeaters is used to break the tie.

Still with reference to Figures 13a and 13b, an adapter 710 may be mounted externally on a wall or a pole and preferably within the line of sight of a clip 1. The adapter 710 may be provided with standard RJ45 10 / 100BT Ethernet electrical connection for terrestrial network connections, and use 90VAC to 264VAC, 50Hz or 60Hz power and approximately 2W. Other power connections, such as -48Vdc, may be used. If a telco provides only one T1 (commonly referred to as DS1) or E1 connection, the standard Ethernet-to-T1 or E1 adapters can be used to convert the Ethernet signal from adapter 710 to the T1 or E1 telco interface to establish a private T1 line. or E1 from the remote surveillance location location adapter 700. If neither a T1 or E1 private line nor a fully private network is used for the circuit between the 710 adapter and the remote surveillance location or central station 700, a VPN can be used to secure restricted access. The 710 adapter includes sophisticated encryption for additional address security issues.

In Figure 13b, the handoff from the intermediate utility to the telco VPN can be T1, E1, DSL, cable modem, microwave hopping to another location, among other methods. If the adapter connects the grid or network to a remote surveillance point or 700 central station over the internet, a communication port, firewall, and VPN connection may be used for security reasons.

Ada adapter 710 clip 1 has a full 560 web page server. An IP address is assigned at the remote surveillance point or central station 700 for each 710 adapter. For example, only one IP address needs to be assigned per adapter 710, while an IP address for each clip 1 need not be assigned. This IP address is programmed into one or two 710 adapters in a network. The 710 adapters then automatically discover the remote surveillance point or central station connection and all staples 1 in the network as described above.

[0120] Surveillance staff can then be provided with a browser address to access the 710 remote adapter. Once the browser address is entered, a private web page appears to provide access to the data for each clip 1, longitude and latitude for each clip that can be linked to a map means renaming the clips (Route 43 and Highway 22, for example), means setting limits (vibration, temperature etc.), and entering email addresses that should be used to notify specific staff if the limits are exceeded. Addresses may be staple-specific in the case where transmission lines cross multiple maintenance regions. The number of email alerts that are sent may be limited.

Thus, according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, an administrative system is provided to facilitate monitoring and processing of collected data received from various data acquisition devices (e.g., a clip 1). The administrative system may be implemented on processing devices used to aggregate and analyze collected data such as a 710 adapter, 700 central monitoring point, or an internet connectivity computing device provided on a base station (s) or other locations. The administration system may use screens or web pages and web servers, which may be embedded. Firmware is provided to data acquisition devices. Thus, no external software is required.

Figures 16 and 17 are illustrative web pages generated through the administrative system. A user (for example, monitoring network administrator) is provided with an assigned Internet Protocol (IP) address to type in a web browser (for example, Internet Explorer, Foxfire, and the like) to navigate the home page. shown in Figure 16. The home page provides numerous options for managing individual data acquisition devices and data acquisition device network (s), that is, by selecting one of the options, a user can observe system conditions as well as provide your device (s) and / or network (s). In the illustrated embodiment, the data acquisition devices are staples 1 and referred to as Data Acquisition Suspension Staples (DASCs). The IP address can be assigned to a base station, for example. A base station may be provided for each isolated network. By way of example, selecting the DASC List option causes a screen or web page (not shown) to be provided to the user who lists DASCs by device identifiers. The user can then select one of the listed DASCs to navigate to a data page for that DASC as shown in Figure 17.

[0123] With reference to Figure 17, the data page indicates the parameters of the selected DASC (eg clamp 1) and their corresponding dates / times or measurement that have been communicated with an aggregate device (eg adapter 710) via the multi-hop radio communication system described above in conjunction with Figures 13-15. The parameters can be, but are not limited to, maximum and minimum ambient temperatures, maximum and minimum wind speeds, maximum and minimum current, maximum and minimum vibration, and maximum and minimum wire temperatures, among others. Data page 7 may also indicate events such as corona discharge events and tilt events (for example, number and duration of such events as determined by deviations from conditions at installation or by a reset command for a particular smart clamp). ) and numbers of discharge and impulse events, among others. Event history logs can be created based on this data, allowing a user to select the Logs option on the page shown in Figure 16 to view event histories.

[0124] Referring to Figure 6, a user can select a DASC Samples option to navigate to a page (not shown) listing numerous available databases. For example, a user can get a CSV file (that is, comma separated values) by selecting one of the listed items.

Also with reference to Figure 16, by selecting the DASC Map option on the home page, a user may be provided with a map showing the locations of data acquisition devices within a designated geographic area. Location coordinates can either be collected by the administrative system and corresponding database dynamically using the GPS device 510 provided on each of the data acquisition devices (eg via message exchange) or pre-configured at the time of devices are installed or otherwise deployed.

[0126] For example, the integral GPS system 510 within each clamp 1 again reports its precise longitude and latitude. This data can be linked, for example, to utility-based mapping or, if appropriate, firewall and gateway protections are in place, Google maps. A typical Go-ogle map will show a tack for each clip location 1, including the ability to zoom, and usually provides the ability to retrieve satellite imagery stored from the terrain around each clip. If there is no direct connection between a smart grid network and Google maps, longitude and latitude information can be entered into Google maps manually on a separate network and the information used to establish a meaningful name for each clip 1. Alternatively, the location may be entered into an owner map system already in use.

GPS positioning and DASC self-learning function may be provided on each data acquisition device 1 to allow DASC networks to develop automatically. For example, a DASC 1 may be configured to obtain its position information and generate a location alert for a base station 700 and / or adapter 710 during startup and / or periodically, and send the parameter measurement. Thus, each new DASC 1 can be automatically recognized by a base station 700 and / or adapter 710 with its location automatically determined so that the corresponding data accumulation and reporting begins immediately and automatically after an initial deployment or reboot. The administration system illustrated in conjunction with Figures 16 and 17 is advantageous as it provides a comprehensive view of driveline conditions to enable confident dynamic line ratings (eg to help meet peak and emergency demands) , immediate and accurate line fault identification, proactive maintenance, recurring problem diagnosis. The staples themselves communicate with each other and this enables self-learning and awareness of long-term trends to aid in predictive maintenance.

[0128] By selecting an Alerts option on the homepage shown in Figure 16, a user can access email alerts that are automatically generated by data acquisition devices 1 and transmitted to base station 700 and / or adapter 710 or another. device that implements the administrative system. As stated earlier, data acquisition devices 1 may be configured to send alerts (for example, e-mail messages or other transmitted signal alert) when the measured parameters are outside a selected range or vary from a selected limit by a selected amount. The Home Page Setup option (Figure 16) provides one or more pages (not shown) that allow a user to provide devices and / or device networks. For example, configuration pages may be provided to allow adjustment of parameter limit deviations required for automatic alerts (for example, a parameter exceeds a limit that can be a selected quantity or an event that has occurred a selected number of times within a selected time period). Determination of these deviations can be performed on data acquisition devices (for example, through CPU 505 on mainboard 500 according to firmware). Alternatively, data acquisition devices may merely report parameter measurements to the base station or other monitoring location 710, 700, which instead makes the determination.

[0129] It will be understood that other options and web pages are available. For example, the data page (Figure 17) and / or home page (Figure 16) might provide a link or navigation option to another page or a popup on the same page that provides the view (s) of the live camera to a selected DASC. For example, one or both camera views on a clamp 1 (for example, respective views of opposite extension sections of monitored line 30) may be provided to allow a user to make a visual assessment to determine if a warp or gallop can occur. is occurring or otherwise assesses damage to a line (eg freezing, mechanical line or tower failure, and so on). Image processing may also be provided (for example, at the base station or other monitoring station) to automatically evaluate the images provided by the cameras (for example by comparing different images) to determine if certain conditions are present (for example). , warping) and automatically generate alerts when needed.

As described above and in accordance with illustrative embodiments of the present invention, a clamp 1 or other data acquisition device configuration may be provided with one or more sensors to monitor selected transmission line conditions 30 inclusive, but without limit, ambient temperature, conductor temperature, wind speed perpendicular to the line (eg measurement is done without moving parts to ensure long term quality and reliability), vibration, current amplitude, current quality (eg harmonic distortion), current discharges, precise GPS location, accurate GPS timing, accurate location or unloading by precise timestamp and automatic clip-to-clip communication, corona discharge, tilt changes ( (as measured by clamp geometry axis 3 accelerometer), gable changes (eg, as displayed by a pair of integral clip cameras 1 looking down in both directions of line 30), gallop (eg as detected by the vibration sensor and observed by the cameras), local conditions (eg through static visual images in both directions of line 30 to help detect freezing or mechanical failure of the line or tower, internal operation through continuous self-diagnosis (eg as programmed on CPU 505), operating conditions of neighboring staples at other stages, and so on.

Thus, the data acquisition device (e.g., clip 1) provides unprecedented capability to integrate real-time transmission line operating conditions. Rather than fragmented visibility into a single location or reliance on inferred data such as commitment to line temperature estimation, new Dynamic Line Rating capabilities and visibility are made possible by staples that deliver accurate mile-by-mile data that can be integrated and used. to dynamically vary line load 30 with confidence. Risks associated with relying on some data points can be dramatically reduced and replaced with a Dynamic Line Rating based on (a) accurate real-time wind speed determination that automatically measures the wind cooling effect perpendicular to the line; (b) accurate total current measurements taken along a line 30 to reveal varying parasitic losses and other capacity limiting problems; and (c) real time broadband bandwidth current measurements. Broadband current measurements reveal harmonics that waste energy and increase warming. This real-time data can then be used to optimize network operation and reveal stresses associated with components such as transformers.

As stated above, another advantage of the data acquisition device (e.g., clip 1) constructed in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention is self-feeding. Clamp 1 includes an integral or associated current transformer 330 that provides all the necessary force. No battery or connection to external power is required. Energy storage without batteries is also provided (for example, a capacitor (s)) to support end messages if a line 30 fails. Therefore, clamp 1 may continue to operate (for example, for several seconds) to provide final reports.

As described above, wireless communications are established between staples 1 and between a staple matrix (e.g., as illustrated in Figures 13-15) and a substation or other convenient ground location 710. Data is then communicated. over a private or public network with surveillance locations 700. The multi-hop radio communications described herein according to an illustrative embodiment of the present invention provide resilient communications. Failure of a staple 1 for this reason is detected and reported by neighboring staples without interrupting end-to-end communications. In addition, communications are secure. Security to that used for online banking is used in conjunction with other measures to help ensure network integrity as described above in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] 0 Integral GPS 510 provides precise timing and automatically locates each clip 1. A 560 full web browser greatly simplifies data acquisition through boundary web page selection, alerting email addresses and comprehensive display ( for example, up to 7 days from the cumulative date).

[0135] There are several ways to use data collected by a network. Some will be discussed now for illustrative purposes.

[0136JFlexible reporting is obtained by reports and images that appear as web pages (that is, HTML files). Basic files display data collected in a series of tables on multiple pages. If a different presentation or aspect of the data is preferred, the system allows new HTML files to be loaded for each clip. Each clip 1 is independently operated and can have its own unique HTML files. This may seem very complicated at first, but larger arrays that span multiple transmission facilities may benefit from this ability to optimize data presentation to suit varying circumstances.

[0137] Fault or alarm conditions are immediately reported via e-mail. Each incident can then be investigated through the report and image pages.

[0138] A web based form is provided to set alarm or warning limits for various parameters such as maximum current, current discharge, maximum conductor temperature, or maximum vibration. Local conditions like corona discharge can be adjusted to trigger an email or be ignored. The form also allows entry of email addresses for notifications and a means to limit the number of emails each clip 1 can be sent in one hour.

When a failure occurs, the network can identify the problem and the area where the problem occurred according to illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Emails can be sent to first responders so that a group can be sent (or not) based on real-time location data. Time is saved, dispatchers may be able to bring in appropriate repair equipment, repair progress can potentially be observed and repairs can be monitored.

[0140] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention also improve upon finding pressured or compromised installations. Excessive temperature, inclination and other factors can lead to failures. Knowing that these lines are compromised allows proactive maintenance to prevent interruptions. For finding and monitoring vibration problems, dampers are implanted to limit vibration. While the true effectiveness of dampers has been demonstrated and they work well in many applications, real-time effectiveness based on wind and tower conditions can be monitored to optimize effectiveness and uncover unknown or suspicious issues.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention allow for maximizing capacity. Transmission facilities have been conventionally designed for extreme conditions. In such cases, a 25% safety margin is used to ensure resilience. Knowing real-time wind conditions and temperature in accordance with the illustrative embodiments of the present invention can allow loads to be safely increased during peak periods or when another segment is out of service.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention provide a cascade failure analysis. A cascade failure occurs when one element breaks and causes several other network elements to fail unexpectedly. For transmission lines 30, most observations recorded are limited to measurements at substations or originating points. The distributed intelligence available from an intelligent staple network helps you understand such a flaw, what happened to it, and how to engineering modifications to existing and future lines.

[0143] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention improve network planning. Detailed knowledge of operating conditions allows a better prediction of transmission line requirements and supports the justification of a new construction.

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention provide an intelligent network system, method and apparatus that measures conductor temperature to provide feedback on the actual capacity, as well as other information, of a transmission line 30 (e.g., a transmission line). power transmission) at many points. The power transmission line may be overpressure-nothing, but could have a larger capacity than currently used. The illustrative system of the present invention may measure wind speed and ambient temperature to determine conditions along a power transmission line that may be hundreds of kilometers long. Some parts of the power transmission line wire may become hotter than other parts because the power transmission line may extend along a valley where there is no wind, for example, or for other reasons. For example, an anemometer with no moving parts can be used to determine the wind cooling effect.

[0145] The smart grid system is capable of detecting corona discharge even when intermittent using corona discharge audio detection. The smart grid system is capable of measuring the current in the line. If it is determined that the measured current is different from the current released at a substation, current leakage or leakage may occur somewhere. The smart grid system is capable of capturing a photograph of the power transmission line and its surroundings in order to visualize ice, fallen trees, vegetation, and the like, growing over the power transmission line as well as warping transmission lines. or even wildlife that could damage power transmission lines and smart grids.

[0146] The smart grid system can quickly determine if there is an immediate or long term power transmission line problem and report it to a user / technician. The smart grid system is easy to install, very robust, simple to administer, and requires no regular maintenance, such as replenishing or recharging batteries. In addition, the system is cost-effective and safe. The web server integrated into the intelligent network data acquisition device simplifies and reduces backend software costs. An improved radio protocol and routing algorithms are provided which are particularly well suited for long extensions with modest branching; however, they can be used for more generic applications where Zigbee and Zigbee type technologies are lacking in range or capability.

The exemplary embodiments described above of an apparatus, system and method in computer readable media include program instructions for implementing various operations incorporated by a computer. Media may also include, alone or in combination with other program instructions, data files, data structures, and the like. The media and program instructions may be those specially designed and constructed for the purposes of the present invention, or may be of the well known type and available to those skilled in computer software techniques. Examples of computer readable media include magnetic media such as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes; optical media, such as CD-ROM and DVD discs; magneto-optical media, such as optical discs; and hardware devices that are specially configured to store and execute program instructions, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), flash memory, and the like. Media can also be a transmission medium, such as optical or metallic lines, waveguides, and so forth, and include a carrier wave that transmits signals specifying program instructions, data structures, and so on. Computer readable recording medium may also be distributed by networked computer systems such that computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed manner. Examples of program instructions include both machine code as produced by a compiler, and files containing higher level code that can be executed by the computer using an interpreter. The described hardware devices may be configured to act as one or more software modules for performing the operations of the above described embodiments of the present invention.

Referring now to Figures 18 to 23, another exemplary embodiment of the invention is described. Figures 18 to 23 show a suspension clamp connection assembly. Similarly to the above embodiments, the suspension clip connection assembly provides a method, system and apparatus for an intelligent network comprising network data acquisition devices that monitor transmission lines or conductors. However, in this embodiment, the data acquisition device is illustrated as a connecting fastener attached to an existing conventional suspension clamp (for example, on a power transmission line).

The suspension clamp connection assembly 810 comprises a stapling unit 812, the electronics housing 50, and a coronal ring 816. The stapling unit 812 is configured to attach to a suspension clamp attached to a Transmission tower. The electronics housing 50 and electronics operate generally in the same manner as previously described for the above smart clamp 1 embodiment. The coronal ring 816 comprises any suitable type of coronal ring and may be attached to the suspension clamp connection assembly. anyway appropriate.

[0150] The staple unit 812 is appropriately sized and shaped to attach to an existing suspension clamp. For example, Figures 21,22 illustrate views of a conventional suspension clamp 818 connected to a lower end of an insulator 206 extending downward from the cantilever arms 204 of the transmission tower 200 (as shown in Figure 1). .

Suspension clamp 818 may be any suitable type of conventional transmission suspension clamp that is common in the industry and extensively used, which is designed to merely provide a mechanical means for suspending the transmission conductor (or transmission line). 202 securely to the transmission tower 200. The suspension clamp can be connected via various hardware, commonly referred to as “cord fittings” to the insulators 206, which are successively attached to the transmission tower 200 (as shown in Figure 1). ).

In accordance with this exemplary embodiment of the invention, the electronic pickup circuitry is incorporated into the suspension clamp connection assembly to allow installations to gather key information about electrical and environmental conditions occurring at a remote site. Similar to the above embodiments, the device can operate in a high voltage environment ranging from 765,000 volts and above. This environment creates electromagnetic and electric fields that create stress on the pickup electronics. The features of this suspension clamp connection assembly can capture and record electrical parameters (Voltage and Current), temperature, optics, traction and vibration that are present in / about and around the conductor / line being suspended. These key parameters will allow additional user diagnostics of the operating condition of the line many miles away.

As shown in Figures 21, 22, the stapling unit 812 is configured to attach to a portion of the hanging clamp 818. The hanging clamp 818 generally comprises an upper section 820 and a lower support section. 822. These two sections 820, 822 may contain a body that includes a longitudinal truss (or conductor receiving area) that allows the transmission conductor 202 to be securely seated in the two sections and when the two sections are bolted (or secured). each other. In general, this sandwiches the transmission conductor 202 between the two bodies to securely contain the transmission conductor 202 in clamp 818. In the embodiment shown, the stapling unit 812 attaches to the lower support section 822 ( which generally forms a main body portion of the suspension clip) of the suspension clip 818.

Referring now to Figures 23 to 31, further views of the suspension clip connection assembly 810 are shown. The stapling unit 812 comprises a base section 824, extension arms 825, 826, portions of clamp contact 827, 828, and a clamp adjusting portion 829. The extension arm 825 is movably connected to the base section 824 by fasteners 830, 831. The extension arm 826 is movably connected to the 824 by clamping members 832, 833. Clamp contact portions 827 are movably connected to extension arm 825 by clamping members 834, 835. Similarly, clamp contact portions 828 are movably connected. to the extension arm 826 by fasteners 836, 837.

Clamp adjusting portion 829 may comprise any suitable configuration allowing for adjustment of the extension arms and clamp contact portions between an open position (e.g. as shown in Figure 30) and a closed position (e.g. as shown in Figure 29). According to various exemplary embodiments, the clamp adjusting portion may include a fastener 838 (such as a threaded eye bolt, for example) and adjusting members 839, 840. Adjusting member 839 is movably fixed to the arm 825 by fasteners 841,842. The adjusting member 840 is movably secured to the arm 826 by fasteners 843, 844. The eye bolt 838 is suitably sized and shaped to extend through the openings 845, 846 of the adjusting members 839, 840.

The clamp adjusting portion is configured such that rotation (such as clockwise or counterclockwise) of the eye bolt 838 causes the arms 825, 826 to pivot (around the locking elements). 830, 831, 832, 833) between the open position (Figure 30) and the closed position (Figure 29). Several exemplary embodiments may include aperture 845 or aperture 846 as a threaded aperture for receiving eye bolt 838 and providing relative movement therebetween. In some embodiments, a clockwise rotation of the eye bolt allows the arms 825, 826 to pivot to the open position, and a counterclockwise rotation of the eye bolt allows the arms 825, 826 to pivot to the open position. closed position. However, in alternative embodiments, a clockwise rotation of the eye bolt allows the arms 825, 826 to pivot to the closed position, and a counterclockwise rotation of the eye bolt allows the arms 825, 826 to pivot to the open position.

The clamp contact portions 827, 828 are suitably sized and shaped to contact an external portion of the suspension clamp 818. For example, in this embodiment, the contact portions 827, 828 extend over the outer portions of the clamp section. bottom suspension bracket bracket 822, and contact portions 827, 828 extend downwardly to the bottom outer portions of the bottom suspension bracket bracket section 822. This causes the curved inner surfaces 847, 848 of the contact portions 827, 828 contact the upper outer portions of the lower suspension clip support section 822, and the lower inner surfaces 849, 850 contact the lower outer portions of the lower suspension clip support section 822 (best shown in Figure 32), and provide a connection attached to the suspension clamp 818 so that the clamp connection assembly 810 is removably connected to the suspension clamp 818. It should be noted that while the figures illustrate the clamp contact portions by contacting the suspension clamp 818 on surfaces 847, 848, 849, 850, in alternative embodiments, any Proper contact surfaces, or contact configuration may be provided. Additionally, in some embodiments, the contact portions 828, 829 may be spring oriented to a desired position.

[0158] The electronics housing 50 is attached to a support member 851 of the suspension clip connection assembly 810. The electronics housing 50 and the electronics (for example, the electronics main board 500, and so forth) generally operate in the same manner as described above for the above smart clamp mode 1. However, instead of securing the housing 50 to a thermal shield on the smart clamp side, in this embodiment, the electronics housing 50 is mounted to the suspension clamp connection assembly for attachment to an existing suspension clamp. For example, in some embodiments, the electronics housing 50 may be secured to the support member 851 in the openings 852 (see Figure 27). However, in alternative embodiments, a suitable configuration may be provided.

Referring now to Figure 33, in this embodiment, the electronics housing 50 further comprises a fixed articulated arm 853. Articulated arm 853 comprises an arm section 854 and a sensor housing section 855. The sensor housing may comprise a substantially cylindrical shape (with a longitudinal opening 856 to allow installation on the conductor 202) having a suitably sized and shaped inner surface for mounting the sensors 857 (such as vibration, temperature, Hall effect sensor, or other sensors, for example). The spring-loaded hinged arm is generally configured to have a downward pressure of 0.453 to 0.906 kg (1 to 2 lb) on the drive conductor 202 to ensure that sensors 857 (which are internally mounted and contained within the sensor housing section) ), stay in contact with the transmission conductor 202. Arm section 854 comprises an insulated / shielded wire 858 that connects sensor housing section 855 to the electronics in the electronics housing 50. However, in alternative embodiments, it may be provide any connection.

[0160] As noted above, the electronics housing 50 and the electronics generally operate in the same manner as described above for smart clamp mode 1 above. However, in this embodiment, the electronics in the electronics housing 50 are connected to a separate power supply (instead of current transformer 330). Additionally, according to some embodiments of the invention, various temperature sensors may be removed from the suspension clamp connection assembly configuration.

In general, several exemplary embodiments of the invention provide a mechanical stapling apparatus that securely retains the data acquisition electronics (e.g., in the electronics housing 50) and the coronal ring to a line clip. existing force (and also serves as an attachment point for the spring-loaded articulated arm 853).

It should be understood that the components of the invention may be operably coupled or connected and that any number or combination of intervening elements may exist (including no intervening elements). Connections may be direct or indirect and, in addition, there may merely be a functional relationship between the components.

Below, additional descriptions of various non-limiting exemplary embodiments are provided. The exemplary embodiments described below may be practiced in conjunction with one or more other exemplary aspects or embodiments. That is, exemplary embodiments of the invention, such as those described below, may be implemented, practiced or used in any combination (for example, any combination that is suitable, practicable and / or possible) and is not limited to those combinations described only. herein and / or included in the appended claims.

In an exemplary embodiment, a suspension clip connection assembly comprises: a stapling unit comprising a base section, extension arms, and clip contact portions, wherein the extension arms are between the contact portions. clamp and base section, and wherein the stapling unit is configured to attach to a suspension clamp; a support member having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the support member is connected to the base section, and wherein the support member is configured to support an electronics housing; and a coronal ring connected to the second end of the support member.

[0165] A suspension clamp connection assembly as above wherein the electronics housing is connected to the support member, and wherein the electronics housing comprises electronics configured to acquire data from a transmission line.

[0166] A suspension clamp connection assembly as above wherein the electronics include at least one sensor to determine at least one between a parameter and image associated with the transmission line; a radio interface for communicating with at least one between a monitoring device and at least one neighboring data acquisition device over a radio communication link in a selected range; and a processing device connected to at least one sensor and the radio interface, wherein the processing device is programmed to receive and process inputs from at least one sensor and generate messages for transmission over the radio interface; wherein the processing device is configured to participate in multi-hop communications over the radio communication link receiving messages generated by other data acquisition devices, and determining from the information provided in each message which operation to perform. between processing the message, repeating the message, and ignoring the message.

[0167] A suspension clamp connection assembly as above wherein the electronics housing further comprises a spring loaded hinged arm.

[0168] A suspension clamp connection assembly as above wherein the spring loaded articulated arm comprises an arm section and a sensor housing section.

A suspension clamp connection assembly as above wherein the stapling unit further comprises a clamp adjusting portion, wherein the clamp adjusting portion is configured to allow adjustment of the extension arms and portions. of clamp contact between an open position and a closed position.

[0170] A suspension clamp connection assembly as above wherein the clamp contact portions are movably connected to the extension arms.

[0171] A suspension clamp connection assembly as above wherein the extension arms are movably connected to the base section.

[0172] A suspension clamp connection assembly as above wherein the clamp contact portions are configured to contact a main body portion of the suspension clamp.

[0173] In another exemplary embodiment, a stapling unit comprises: a base section, extension arms, and clamp contact portions, wherein the extension arms are between the clamp contact portions and the base section, and in that the stapling unit is configured to attach to a suspension clamp so that a main body portion of the suspension clamp is between the extension arms.

A stapling unit as above wherein the stapling unit further comprises a staple adjusting portion, wherein the staple adjusting portion is configured to allow adjustment of the extension arms and the staple contact portions. between an open position and a closed position.

A stapling unit as above wherein the staple adjusting portion comprises an eye bolt.

[0176] A stapling unit as above wherein the staple contact portions are movably connected to the extension arms.

[0177] A stapling unit as above wherein the extension arms are movably connected to the base section.

[0178] A stapling unit as above wherein the staple contact portions are configured to contact a main body portion of the suspension staple.

[0179] A stapling unit as above wherein the stapling unit is movable between an open position and a closed position.

[0180] A suspension clip connection assembly comprises: a stapling unit as above; and a support member having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the support member is connected to the base section, and wherein the support member is configured to support an electronics housing.

[0181] A suspension clamp connection assembly as above wherein the electronics housing is connected to the support member, and wherein the electronics housing comprises electronics configured to acquire data from a transmission line.

In another exemplary embodiment, a method comprises: providing a stapling unit comprising a base section, extension arms, and clamp contact portions, wherein the extension arms are between the clamp contact portions and the section. base, and wherein the stapling unit is configured to attach to a suspension clamp; attach a support member to the stapling unit, wherein the support member has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the support member is connected to the base section, and where the support member is configured to support an electronics housing; and attaching a coronal ring to the second end of the support member.

[0183] A method as above further comprises: mounting the electronics housing to the support member, wherein the electronics housing comprises the electronics configured to acquire data from a transmission line.

It should be understood that the above description is illustrative only of the invention. Various alternatives and modifications may be developed by persons skilled in the art without departing from the invention. Correspondingly, it is intended that the invention adopt all such alternatives, modifications and variances that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (20)

1. Suspension clamp connection assembly, characterized in that it comprises: a stapling unit comprising a base section, extension arms, and clamp contact portions, wherein the extension arms are between the contact portions of clamp and base section, and wherein the stapling unit is configured to attach to a suspension clamp; a support member having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the support member is connected to the base section, and wherein the support member is configured to support an electronics housing; and a coronal ring connected to the second end of the support member. Suspension clamp connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the electronics housing is connected to the support member, and wherein the electronics housing comprises electronics configured to acquire data from from a transmission line. Suspension clamp connection assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that the electronic components include at least one sensor for determining at least one between a parameter and image associated with the transmission line; the radio interface for communicating with at least one between a monitoring device and at least one neighboring data acquisition device over a radio communication link in a selected range; and a processing device connected to at least one sensor and the radio interface, wherein the processing device is programmed to receive and process inputs from at least one sensor and generate messages for transmission over the radio interface; wherein the processing device is configured to participate in multi-hop communications over the radio communication link receiving messages generated by other data acquisition devices, and determining from the information provided in each message which operation to perform. between processing the message, repeating the message, and ignoring the message. Suspension clamp connection assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that the electronics housing further comprises a spring loaded articulated arm. Suspension clamp connection assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that the spring-loaded articulated arm comprises an arm section and a sensor housing section. Suspension clamp connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the stapling unit further comprises a clamp adjusting portion, wherein the clamp adjusting portion is configured to permit a adjusting the extension arms and clamp contact portions between an open position and a closed position. Suspension clamp connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the clamp contact portions are movably connected to the extension arms. Suspension clamp connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the extension arms are movably connected to the base section. Suspension clamp connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the clamp contact portions are configured to contact a main body portion of the suspension clamp. 10. Stapling unit, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises: a base section, extension arms, and clamp contact portions, where the extension arms are between the clamp contact portions and the base section, and wherein the stapling unit is configured to attach to a suspension clamp such that a main body portion of the suspension clamp is between the extension arms. Stapling unit according to claim 10, characterized in that the stapling unit further comprises a staple adjusting portion, wherein the staple adjusting portion is configured to allow adjustment of the extension arms. and the clamp contact portions between an open position and a closed position. Stapling unit according to claim 11, characterized in that the staple adjusting portion comprises an eye bolt. Stapling unit according to claim 10, characterized in that the staple contact portions are movably connected to the extension arms. Stapling unit according to claim 10, characterized in that the extension arms are movably connected to the base section. Stapling unit according to claim 10, characterized in that the staple contact portions are configured to contact a main body portion of the suspension staple. Stapling unit according to claim 10, characterized in that the stapling unit is movable between an open position and a closed position. Suspension clamp connection assembly, characterized in that it comprises: a stapling unit as in claim 10; and a support member having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the support member is connected to the base section, and wherein the support member is configured to support an electronics housing. Suspension clamp connection assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that the electronics housing is connected to the support member, and wherein the electronics housing comprises electronics configured to acquire data from of a transmission line. 19. Method, characterized by the fact that it comprises: providing a stapling unit comprising a base section, extension arms, and clamp contact portions, wherein the ex-tensioner arms are between the clamp contact portions and the base section, and wherein the stapling unit is configured to attach to a suspension clamp; attaching a support member to the stapling unit, wherein the support member has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the support member is connected to the base section, and wherein the support member is configured to support an electronics housing; and attaching a coronal ring to the second end of the support member. A method according to claim 19, further comprising: mounting the electronics housing to the support member, wherein the electronics housing comprises electronics configured to acquire data from a line. transmission