Innovate gas sensor network for leakage monitoring of industrial and natural gas infrastucture
Based on the experience gained in IoT4Gas, we are investigating possibilities to improve the performance of individual sensor nodes as well as testing the suitability using the data from the network to detect and localize gas leaks in real time. Industrial plants or pipelines could be comprehensively monitored for methane leaks the first time by integrating IoT technologies with modelling and big data analysis. Leaks and unwanted fluxes could be detected, visualized and localized.
The aim of the project is to derive the optimal sensor specifications necessary for cost efficient production. This is achieved by solving the inverse problem of determining the leak’s gas flow using concentration readings from a set of individual sensor data. The gas flow and the origin of the leaks may be computed by taking into account environmental parameters such as wind and pressure. Sensor node parameters like accuracy of the measured data are crucial for estimating the leak’s strength. Furthermore, different algorithms may show different responses to the accuracy of the individual sensor nodes.
This project applied for funding at the InnoTop program of Rhineland-Palatinate, No P1-SZ2-6, funded by the the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).