Smart Energy Analytic Disaggregation System (SEADS)
Engineering
CE 129B/C
The SEAD project aims to create a power system monitoring device which measures real/apparent power, power factor, and non-intrusively detects when devices are operational. While other non-intrusive load disaggregation techniques currently exist, our project will leverage cutting edge research and new embedded processing solutions to create a system capable interfacing with a cloud service without relying on said service for processing and analysis of data.
Generally speaking, transmission and distribution (T&D) losses between 6% and 8% are considered normal. According to the Energy Information Administration, T&D losses were about 6.1% of net generation for the United States in 2005. The final estimated losses amounted to just under $19.5 billion for the economy [1]. This project aims to help create the framework to perform research toward creating a more efficient, and better managed power distribution grid. This framework will allow for separation of loads by type through high signal bandwidth power spectral analysis of current and voltage waveforms. Other heuristics like RMS current, RMS voltage, power factor, and carrier voltage harmonics can also be produced in the event that researchers are interested in them, though the flexibility of the system allows for further integration of measured values.
In short, we are creating a cheap, accessible system which will enable the collection of useful data, and make it readily available to power systems engineers around the world, whom are working toward micro-grids and cloud based energy applications.
References:
1. http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2007/07/energy-efficiency-in-the-power-grid-49238
