A multi-agent condition monitoring architecture to support transmission and distribution asset management

This paper describes an architecture and methodology for transmission and distribution asset management. It is based on the use of multi-agent system technology to integrate all the condition monitoring and asset management functions. The concepts are described, and the design of the architecture detailed, through consideration of a power transformer monitoring application. The operation of a laboratory prototype is explained. This includes discussion of strategies for improving the system's diagnostic abilities. Finally, the paper describes how this methodology, architecture and technology can be extended to encompass all plant condition monitoring systems, supporting transmission and distribution network wide asset management.