In an attempt to make a better grid, Pollsters at the University at Buffalo (UB), in New York are working on a new technology that will diffuse sensors with incorporated processors and wireless competence> all through the grid, combining nanotechnology with wireless sensor networks, which will not only provide a cost-effective and efficient way to monitor grid and assist repair damage promptly but facilitate communication between sensing devices as well.
The new tiny chip would only require to be placed near the equipment to catch the electromagnetic signals, instead of built into it, and after gathering the data, the processor would toss up the data, and transceivers would exchange the data with different sensor nodes.
The UB researchers are considering the conventional semiconductor material, which includes silicon, gallium arsenide, or gallium nitride, to build their nano sensors. They are expecting the sample nano-scale sensor system within five years.
Though, the nanotechnology shows great promise, it is still in its early phase and requires a lot of research work to lead the way in future.
Via: technologyreview
