Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.

31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

IoT BASED OVERCURRENT PROTECTION

IN DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
Reginald Andrew1 and Whitcomb Samuel Boateng1
1
Affiliation not available

June 11, 2024

Abstract
This project focuses on enhancing fault detection and location on a 240V distribution network to minimize
power outages. It introduces a system consisting of a main unit mounted on the distribution line, interfaced
with a GSM SIM800L model to relay fault information to a cloud service acting as the substation. The main
unit, equipped with current and voltage sensors, gathers real-time data and analyzes it to detect faults. In
case of an overcurrent fault, additional parameters such as the fault’s location relative to the main unit
are reported. A hardware implementation confirmed the system’s ability to identify overcurrent faults and
estimate their location on the distribution line. It features a liquid crystal display (LCD) to show voltage,
current, and line status, along with a buzzer to alert of detected faults.

Introduction
Power systems encompass power generation, transmission, and distribution systems. Distribution systems
play a vital role in transmitting power from generating points to distribution points [1]. However, distribution
lines incur significant losses compared to other power system classes. The vulnerability of modern power
infrastructure to various natural and malicious events affects overall performance and stability. With growing
demand for power, faults in distribution lines remain a challenge, affecting supply to consumers. Traditional
fault detection methods are slow and laborious, relying on circuit indicators and manual processes [2].
Engineers face difficulty in precisely locating faults, necessitating a shift towards automated fault detection
systems interfaced with high-performance data communication networks. This modern approach aims to
expedite fault detection, reduce downtime, and ensure uninterrupted power supply to consumers amidst
increasing demand and extensive distribution line networks [1].

Problem Statement
The demand for power across various sectors in Ghana is rapidly increasing, leading to a corresponding
rise in problems associated with distribution lines. Detecting the exact location of faults in these lines has
proven challenging, resulting in prolonged downtime and damage to infrastructure [3]. To address this issue,
a reliable and efficient fault detection system is essential to maintain power system stability. This project
introduces an Internet of Things (IoT) based fault detection and location system designed to accurately
detect and locate faults in distribution lines. By optimizing performance procedures, this system aims to

1
 preserve the lifespan of distribution lines, protect household devices, and reduce the frequency of power
outages experienced by consumers [3]. Implementing an IoT-based fault detection system, integrated with
a GSM model, will address the crucial challenge of delivering real-time information promptly. This system
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

will send overcurrent fault status or normal operation status in real-time to a cloud service, including
information about the faulted side of the distribution system. By eliminating the need for manual fault
identification processes, engineers can avoid trial-and-error methods, leading to quicker fault resolution.
Ultimately, reducing the duration of power outages endured by consumers.

Objective
The below outline the objectives of this project:
1. To detect and locate over-current faults in distribution lines with the implementation of an IoT
mounted system.
2. To intimate fault information to a cloud service.
3. To protect loads from the effects of over-current by disconnecting the loads from the faulted line.

Scope of Work
Implementing an IoT-based fault detection system, integrated with a GSM model, will address the crucial
challenge of delivering real-time information promptly. This system will send overcurrent fault status or
normal operation status in real-time to a cloud service, including information about the faulted side of the
distribution system. By eliminating the need for manual fault identification processes, engineers can avoid
trial-and-error methods, leading to quicker fault resolution. Ultimately, reducing the duration of power
outages endured by consumers.

Literature Review
In [4], an algorithm was presented for detecting single-phase ground faults (SPGF) in resonant ground (RG)
systems. This method combines a neutral voltage displacement technique with a mathematical morphology
algorithm to identify SPGF. By comparing pre-fault and post-fault voltages and analyzing the slope of
neutral voltage displacement, faulty phases and feeders can be determined. This technique successfully
localized faults on long feeders and detected faults within 15ms using local voltage and current information.
The paper described in [5] proposes a Fault Detection and Localization (FDL) system comprising a master
device located in a control room and slave devices installed on poles for fault detection. The master device
communicates with slave devices via GSM using short message service (SMS). Equipped with a graphical user
interface (GUI), the master device consists of a personal computer with a modem to facilitate communication.
The equipment described in [6] consists of a transmitter and a current transformer (CT) detector designed
for fault detection. Signals detected by the CT detector are transmitted to the distribution lines, while
current signals are monitored through the fault loop. If a signal is detected and relayed to the transmitter, it
indicates an earth fault in the distribution line; otherwise, no earth fault is present. When the CT detector
identifies a fault, both an LED and a buzzer are activated to emit light and sound respectively, signalling
an earth fault. By gradually determining the fault location using this principle, the faulty feeder can be
successfully detected.
The method discussed in [7] determines the fault position by analyzing the voltage and current of the faulted
line, relying on the impedance of the distribution line per unit length. Two impedance-based methods are

2
 employed: the single-ended impedance method and the double-ended impedance method. The single-ended
method offers a simple and rapid fault location process without requiring extensive communication. It finds
applications in power systems due to its solid sequence value and high resistance to faults, despite challenges
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

posed by non-homogeneous loads and tapping.

Electric Faults in AC Distribution Systems

A fault-free electrical system is an ideal that does not exist in reality due to the inevitability of electrical
faults. These faults, including overcurrent, over-voltages, and short circuits, pose significant threats to power
systems’ continuous operation. Overcurrent faults, in particular, involve abnormally high currents flowing
through conductors due to various causes such as mechanical effects, insulation failures, or atmospheric
conditions. These currents can lead to thermal damage and mechanical stresses on system components,
resulting in irreversible damage and safety hazards. Protective systems comprising relays and automatic
circuit breakers are crucial for detecting faults and isolating faulted parts to minimize service disruptions.
Planning and operating power systems must account for short circuits by estimating worst-case currents to
design system components to withstand overcurrent and define circuit breaker breaking capacities. Adjusting
relay settings ensures efficient detection of fault conditions, highlighting the importance of protective devices
in maintaining power system reliability [3].

Brief Introduction of Proposed Work

This project proposes a technique for recording voltage and current values of a distribution line using voltage
and current sensors respectively. A predetermined threshold current value is set, and if the measured current
exceeds this threshold, the microcontroller classifies the fault as an overcurrent fault, triggering a buzzer to
indicate its presence. If the measured current falls within a specified range, the system is classified as being
in a normal operating state. Additionally, the project involves interfacing a microcontroller with a GSM
SIM800L module, which will be embedded in the circuitry to send the distribution line’s state to a cloud
service. The block diagram for the proposed system for fault detection, location, and protection is illustrated
in Figure 2.7.

METHODOLOGY
The objective of this project is to design a system for detecting overcurrent in distribution systems, com-
prising two main components: the fault detection system and the centralized processing system. The fault
detection system, positioned at a specific distance from the distribution line, simultaneously measures current
and voltage levels in real-time. This setup enables the centralized processing system to accurately estimate
the side of the line where the fault occurred. When a fault occurs, the fault detection system reports abnor-
mal current and voltage to the centralized processing system for analysis. The main unit then analyzes this
data to determine the type of fault and identify the side of the line where the fault occurred.

Block Diagram
The figure below shows a block diagram for the proposed system.

Circuit Design
This section outlines the operation and interconnection of components utilized in the fault detection and
location system.

3
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

Figure 1: Block Diagram of the Proposed Method

i. DC Power Supply Unit: The voltage sensing unit’s crocodile clip acts as the DC power supply source for
the fault detection system. The HLK-5M05 AC-DC 110V-220V 5W Step-Down Power Supply Module recti-
fies the 220-240V AC power to 5V DC, which is then smoothed using capacitors. A step-down transformer
steps down the voltage supplied to the voltage sensor.
ii. Control Unit: The Arduino Nano microcontroller board, based on an 8-bit ATmega328P microprocessor,
forms the control unit. It operates at 5V, with 2kb RAM, 32kb flash memory, and 1kb EEPROM. The board
includes various components such as a crystal oscillator, serial communication, voltage regulator, etc., to
support the functioning of the microcontroller.
iii. Indicator System: The buzzer and LCD display receive the 5V DC voltage supply from the power
supply unit for their operation.
iv. Distribution Line: Crocodile clips of the voltage sensing unit obtain 240V from the distribution line for
voltage measurements.
v. Display Unit: The LCD display unit receives 5V DC power supply from the power supply unit to
display measured values and system status. System: The GSM SIM800L module, integrated with the
microcontroller, facilitates communication with a cloud service by sending the state of the distribution line.

DC Power Supply Unit

The crocodile clip of the voltage sensing unit is the source of DC power supply to the fault detection system.
This is achieved by connecting the terminals of the voltage sensor to the terminals of the HLK- 5M05 AC-DC
110V-220V 5W Step-Down Power Supply Module. This module rectifies the 220-240V AC power to a 5V
DC power. This 5V DC voltage, however, contains ripples. A capacitor is, therefore, connected in parallel
to the Arduino Nano microcontroller in order to filter output these ripples for a smoother waveform to be
supplied to the microcontroller to prevent it from malfunctioning.

4
 Transformer
A transformer is a static electrical device which transforms electrical energy from one circuit to another
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

circuit without any direct electrical connection but with the aid of mutual induction between two windings.
A step-down transformer is employed in the circuitry to decrease the voltage supplied to the voltage sensor.
The voltage transformation ability of a transformer depends solely on the mutual induction between two or
more windings in its core which is govern by Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction. This law states
that, the rate of change of flux linkage with respect to time is directly proportional to the induced EMF
in the coil. Therefore, an EMF must be induced in the secondary winding of the transformer in order for
current to flow. However, the rate of change of flux linkage depends on the amount of flux induced into the
secondary winding. A low reluctance path is vital for linking the two windings, and this is achieved through
the core of the transformer.

HLK- 5M05 AC-DC 110V-220V 5W Step-Down Power Supply Module

The HLK-5M05 is an AC-DC power supply module designed to convert high-voltage alternating current
(AC) input, ranging from 110V to 220V, to a lower-voltage direct current (DC) output of 5 watts (5V).
Below is a summary of its operation:
1. Input Voltage: The module accepts a wide range of input voltages, from 110V to 220V AC. This
makes it compatible with various power systems globally.
2. Step-Down Conversion: The primary function of the module is to step down the high input voltage
to a lower output voltage suitable for powering electronic devices.
3. DC Output: The output of the module is a stable 5V DC voltage, which is commonly used to power
microcontrollers, sensors, and other low-power electronic components.
4. Isolation: The module typically provides isolation between the input and output circuits for safety
and to prevent electrical interference.
5. Regulation: The output voltage is regulated to ensure a stable and consistent supply, even with
variations in input voltage or load.
6. Efficiency: These modules are designed for high efficiency, converting AC power to DC with minimal
energy loss.
7. Compact Size: The HLK-5M05 is often compact in size, making it suitable for integration into various
electronic devices and applications.
In essence, the HLK-5M05 is a reliable and efficient solution for providing low-voltage DC power from a wide
range of AC input voltages. It finds applications in various electronic devices, particularly those requiring a
stable 5V power source.

Voltage Sensor
Comprising a potential transformer and resistors, the voltage sensing circuit steps down the obtained 240V
voltage to 4.5V, further reducing it to 2.25V for microcontroller compatibility. A bias of 2.5V is added to
obtain a complete 5V DC voltage supply to the microcontroller.

Capacitor
Capacitors are used across the load to filter the output and smoothen the pulsating DC voltage, ensuring a
nearly constant voltage supply.

Control Unit: Arduino Nano

This microcontroller board serves as the control unit, with features including digital and analog input/output
pins, USB connection, power barrel jack, and a reset button, enabling a wide range of projects and applica-
tions [10]. The below is a brief description of each pin:

5
 1. Digital Pins (0-13): These pins can be configured as digital input or output pins. They support
digital signals (either HIGH or LOW).
2. Analog Pins (A0-A5): These pins can be used as analog inputs to read analog signals. They can
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

also function as digital inputs or outputs.

3. Power Pins:5V: Provides a regulated 5V output for powering external components.3.3V: Provides a
regulated 3.3V output for powering low-voltage components.VIN: Accepts an external power supply
(7-12V) for powering the board.GND (Ground): These pins are connected to the ground reference
of the board.
4. Reset Pin (RESET): Used to reset the microcontroller.
5. Serial Communication Pins:RX (Receive): Used for serial communication. Receives serial
data.TX (Transmit): Used for serial communication. Transmits serial data.
6. I2C Communication Pins:SDA: Serial Data line for I2C communication.SCL: Serial Clock line for
I2C communication.
7. SPI Communication Pins:MISO: Master In Slave Out for SPI communication.MOSI: Master Out
Slave In for SPI communication.SCK: Serial Clock for SPI communication.SS: Slave Select for SPI
communication.
8. AREF (Analog Reference): Reference voltage for analog inputs. Can be used to set the reference
voltage for analog-to-digital conversion.
Regarding this project, the below depicts the algorithm used for the Arduino Nano microcontroller.

Figure 2: Flowchart of the Arduino Nano operation Flowchart of the Arduino Nano operation

Indicator Unit
The Indicator Unit is designed to emit an emergency sound to indicate a state of emergency. It consists
of a buzzer connected to a 5V DC supply and to digital pin 5 of the microcontroller. This configuration
allows the microcontroller to control the buzzer sound. The buzzer consists of piezo crystals between two
conductors. When a potential is applied, these crystals push and pull on the conductors, producing a sound
wave. It is simple, durable, and suitable for emergency devices like alarms.

6
 Distribution Line Section
To begin with, it comprises a distribution line with live and neutral cables, switches for regulating power
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

to the load and fault detection system, and voltage and current sensors. Additionaly, it capitalizes on a
potential transformer and resistors to step down the distribution line voltage to 5V DC for measurement.
The ADC of the microcontroller reads the positive voltage after biasing. Furthermore, a ACS712ELCTR-
30A-T current sensor utilizes a precise, low-offset, linear Hall circuit with a copper conduction path. The
sensor does not only converts current flow into a proportional voltage signal, suitable for AC and DC systems
but also provides electrical isolation and can withstand high current values. The ACS712ELCTR-30A-T is
commonly used in applications where non-invasive current sensing is required, such as in motor control,
power supply monitoring, and energy monitoring systems. It provides a convenient way to measure AC or
DC currents up to 30A without the need to break the circuit being measured. The below highlights the
description of the pins:
1. VCC (Supply Voltage): This pin is used to supply power to the sensor module. Typically, it requires
a DC voltage between 4.5V to 5.5V.
2. GND (Ground): This pin is connected to the ground reference of the system.
3. Output (OUT): The output pin provides an analog voltage proportional to the current passing
through the sensor. The output voltage varies linearly with the current being sensed.
4. Current Input (I+ and I-): These pins are the input terminals for the current being measured.
The current to be measured passes through these pins.

Relay Switch
A relay switch is a type of switch with three input and output terminals. In this setup, one input terminal
is linked to a digital pin, another to a five-volt source, and the third to ground. On the output side, the
neutral of the socket connects to the normally open terminal of the relay, while the live wire from the
source links with the common terminal of the relay. This configuration ensures that the relay can disconnect
any connected load during an overcurrent event and reconnect the load once the system returns to normal
operation.

Display Unit
This section utilizes a 20 x 4 liquid crystal display (LCD) to present the output of the control unit. The LCD
provides information about the status of each line and the distance of the fault when a fault is introduced into
the line via a fault switch with the corresponding phase. A 20x4 LCD module is commonly used due to its
cost-effectiveness, ease of programmability, and versatility in displaying special characters and animations.
This type of LCD can display up to four lines, each capable of showing a maximum of twenty characters
arranged in a 5x7 pixel matrix. The LCD has two registers: the command register, which stores instructions
for tasks like initialization and cursor positioning, and the data register, which holds the ASCII values of
characters to be displayed. Explored below are the features of a 20 x 4 LCD.
1. VSS (Ground): This pin is connected to the ground reference of the system.
2. VDD or VCC (Supply Voltage): This pin is used to supply power to the LCD module. It typically
requires a DC voltage between 4.5V to 5.5V.
3. VO (Contrast Adjustment): This pin is used to adjust the contrast of the display. By adjusting the
voltage applied to this pin, the user can control the brightness and clarity of the characters displayed
on the screen.
4. RS (Register Select): This pin is used to select between data mode (when high) and command
mode (when low). In data mode, the data sent to the LCD is treated as characters to be displayed. In
command mode, the data sent to the LCD is treated as commands for controlling its operation (e.g.,
clear display, set cursor position).
5. RW (Read/Write): This pin is used to select the direction of data transfer between the microcon-
troller and the LCD. When RW is high, data is read from the LCD. When RW is low, data is written

7
 to the LCD.
6. E (Enable): This pin is used to enable the LCD module for data or command reception. When a
high-to-low pulse is applied to this pin, the LCD processes the data or command present on the data
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

bus.
7. D0-D7 (Data Pins): These pins are used for bidirectional data transfer between the microcontroller
and the LCD. In 4-bit mode, only D4-D7 pins are used for data transfer, while in 8-bit mode, all D0-D7
pins are utilized.
8. A (Anode) and K (Cathode): These pins are used to control the backlight of the LCD. Applying
a voltage across these pins turns the backlight on or off.

Communication System
The communication system in this project is comprised of a GSM module, specifically the SIM800L GSM
module. This module facilitates the transfer of information from the fault detection system to a cloud website
via GPRS, effectively serving as the substation’s control center. Essentially, the project utilizes the SIM800L
GSM module for external communication purposes.

SIM800L GSM Module

SIM800L GSM module is a miniature GSM modem, which can be integrated The SIM800L GSM module is a
compact GSM modem suitable for integration into various IoT projects. It offers functionalities similar to a
standard cell phone, including sending SMS text messages, making or receiving phone calls, and connecting
to the internet via GPRS and TCP/IP. The module features 12 pins for interfacing with external components,
facilitating communication with the outside world [11]. The SIM800L module has total 12 pins that interface
with the outside world. The below sheds light on a SIM800L GSM Module connection:

Figure 3: SIM800L GSM Module Pin-Out

1. NET: is a pin where you can solder Helical Antenna provided along with the module.
2. VCC: supplies power for the module. This can be anywhere from 3.4V to 4.4 volts.
3. RST (Reset): is a hard reset pin. If you absolutely got the module in a bad space, pull this pin low
for 100ms to perform a hard reset.
4. RXD (Receiver): is used for serial communication.
5. TXD (Transmitter): is used for serial communication.

8
 6. GND: is the Ground Pin and needs to be connected to GND pin on the Arduino.
7. 32 RING: acts as a Ring Indicator. Essentially, it interrupts the out pin from the module. It is by
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

default high and will pulse low for 120ms when a call is received. Additionally, it can be configured to pulse
when an SMS is received [11].
8. DTR: activates/deactivates sleep mode. Pulling it HIGH will put module in sleep mode, disabling
serial communication. Pulling it LOW will wake the module up [11].
9. MIC+/MIC-: is a differential microphone input. The two microphone pins can be connected directly
to these pins.
10. SPK+/SPK-: is a differential speaker interface. The two pins of a speaker can be tied directly to
these two pins.

System Circuit Operation

The system comprises an Arduino Nano microcontroller interfaced with an ATmega328 microprocessor,
equipped with a 10-bit ADC with six channels. Three channels measure voltage and current from the
distribution line, while the third senses reference voltage. The current sensing circuit uses a potential
transformer with a 100A:500mA turns ratio and a 100 resistor across its secondary terminals, converting
current to voltage. A voltage sensor, connected to a 220VAC to 5VAC transformer, uses voltage dividers and
biasing to adapt the AC signal to the microcontroller’s range. A rectifier converts 220-230VAC to 5VDC,
powering the microcontroller, LCD, and buzzer. Capacitors remove ripples from the DC supply and ensure
stable voltage for the GSM module. The LCD connects via I2C to minimize pin usage. Communication
between the microcontroller and GSM module occurs via UART. The buzzer provides notifications, and all
components work synchronously for system operation.

Current Measurement Procedure

In order to obtain the actual current value read by the sensor, the digital value of 3.3V is subtracted from
the read value. This is given in the equation below

3.3 ×1023
zeroV alue = 5 (3.4.1)

zeroV alue = 675.18 (3.4.2)

V s = analogRead(Xpin) − zeroV alue (3.4.3)

Further, the resulting value us converted into its equivalent voltage value by multiplying the current (I) with
the resolution. Subsequently, the current value can be determined by multiplying the digital value (Vs) by
the turns ratio. The below depicts the mathematical representation:
19×V s×5
I = 1023 (3.4.4)
The overcurrent fault detection and location units continuously monitor current and voltage levels in the
distribution line. These units consider the direction of the fault, distinguishing between faults occurring
towards the power source (right side of the device) and those towards the load side (left side of the device).
This distinction aids in detecting overcurrent and undercurrent faults. The project focuses on two broad
types of faults: open circuit (undercurrent) and short circuit faults (overcurrent). The main unit classifies
faults based on these criteria, as illustrated in the table below:

9
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

Fault Condition Type of Fault Fault with Reference to the System Design

V=0 && I=0

Undercurrent
Left hand side (AC source)

V=pv && I[?] 0 Undercurrent (No load) Right Hand Side (Load)

V<pv && I>6

From the above table, if the current and voltage recorded at the left-hand-side of a detection device are
zero, the main unit categorizes this as an open circuit fault. Conversely, if there is a non-zero voltage at
the right-hand-side and zero current, it connotes an open circuit fault or no-load condition. An overcurrent
fault caused by overloading the distribution system is evident when the voltage value at the right-hand-side
exceeds 210V and the current surpasses 6A. The fault detection system aided by the microcontroller identifies
abnormal voltage and current values and distinguishes between open circuit faults and overcurrent faults
due to system overload. Additionally, pv from the table represents present value.

ANALYSIS AND DISCUSSIONS

In this section, the proposed fault detection system’s performance is thoroughly tested and analyzed. The
section delves into the principle used by the system for detecting the type of fault and estimating the fault
distance.

Implementation of Proposed Fault Detection and Location System

The proposed fault detection system, detailed in Chapter 3, was put into practice, and a physical model was
constructed. This system was implemented in a 240V distribution line, introducing fault detection, location,
and protection capabilities.
The system consists of current and voltage sensors that transmit recorded current and voltage values to
the main unit. A 20x4 liquid crystal display (LCD) is employed to exhibit the distribution line’s status.
Additionally, a buzzer emits a sound when the measured current surpasses the threshold current.

Performance Analysis of the Proposed System

Two different scenarios are considered for assessing performance of the proposed fault detection and location
system.

10
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

Figure 4: Fault Detection Unit

1. Normal Operating Condition

2. Overcurrent Condition

Normal Operating Condition of the Proposed System

The fault detection, location, and protection system are tested under normal operating conditions in a single-
phase 240V distribution network. The main unit, equipped with current and voltage sensors, records 4.02A
and 185.90V, respectively. The LCD displays these values and indicates a “normal” status. Similarly, the
GSM SIM800L module transmits the voltage, current values, and “normal” status to the cloud service.

Figure 5: Normal Operating Condition of the Proposed System

Overcurrent Condition of the Proposed System

The fault detection, location, and protection system are tested under an overcurrent fault condition in a
single-phase 240V distribution network. The main unit records a current of 7.82A and a voltage of 173.63V

11
 using current and voltage sensors. The LCD displays these values and indicates a “normal” status. Similarly,
the GSM SIM800L module transmits the voltage, current values, and “normal” status to the cloud service.
Additionally, the buzzer emits a sound to indicate the presence of an overcurrent fault.
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

Figure 6: Overcurrent Condition of the Proposed System

Fault Location
The GSM SIM800L module, integrated with a global positioning system (GPS), provides precise location
data for the fault detection system. As per the system design, the detection system identifies overcurrent
faults on the right side. If placed between two poles 50 meters apart and detecting an overcurrent fault, it
implies that the fault lies between the detection system and the right pole.

Figure 7: Fault Location of the Proposed System

12
 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

Summary
The project proposed a fault detection and location system for a 240V transmission network. Voltage and
current sensors obtained respective values, conveyed to an Arduino Nano microcontroller for analysis. The
microcontroller determined the distribution line’s state, displayed on an LCD. Additionally, via a GSM
SIM800L module, system information was transmitted to the cloud. Results indicated the system effectively
identified overcurrent faults and estimated fault locations per the system design. Furthermore, it detected
undercurrent faults on both sides of the circuit, aiding in fault type detection and protection against over-
current damage. Overall, the system reduced fault detection time and safeguarded household devices.

Future Work and Recommendation

The proposed fault detection and location system could be enhanced by introducing features for pinpoint-
ing the exact fault location, rather than just indicating the side of occurrence. Additionally, upgrading
the communication model to a higher network generation could accelerate fault data transmission to the
cloud. To boost reliability, multiple systems could be deployed at various points along the distribution
network. Moreover, streamlining the design to require fewer units for fault detection could optimize system
functionality.

REFERENCES
[1] L. Niranjan, “IOT BASED TRANSMISSION LINE FAULT,” no. August, pp. 1–5, 2020.
[2] H. H. Goh, S. Y. Sim, A. Shaykh, M. H. Kabir, C. W. Ling, Q. S. Chua, and K. C. Goh, “Transmission
line fault detection: A review,” Indonesian Journal of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, vol. 8,
no. 1, pp. 199–205, 2017.
[3] T. Danawardana and S. Ireshika, “Fault Detection in Distribution Lines Using Artificial Neural
Networks,” no. October, pp. 1–5, 2017.
[4] M. A. Barik, A. Gargoom, M. A. Mahmud, M. E. Haque, H. Al-Khalidi, and A. M. Than Oo,
“A decentralized fault detection technique for detecting single phase to ground faults in power distribution
systems with resonant grounding,” IEEE Transactions on Power Delivery, vol. 33, no. 5, pp. 2462–2473,
2018.
[5] S. S. U. H. Mohani, M. S. Ameer, and A. Jabbar, “Design and development of fault detection and
location system for electrical distribution network,” 2018 3rd International Conference on Emerging
Trends in Engineering, Sciences and Technology, ICEEST 2018, pp. 1–4, 2019.
[6] G. Wu, W. Zhang, and G. Chen, “Novel strategy of detecting earth fault location and its application
in power transmission line,” 2008 China International Conference on Electricity Distribution, CICED 2008,
pp. 2–6, 2008.
[7] S. Das, S. Member, S. Santoso, and S. Member, “Impedance-based fault location in transmission
networks : Theory and application,” no. August 2015, 2014.
[8] L. D. Andrade, T. P. D. Leão, F. D. Engenharia, and R. R. Frias, “Travelling wave based transmission
lines fault location analysis for,” vol. 04005, 2012.
[9] H. Jia, “An Improved Traveling-Wave-Based Fault Location Method with Compensating the Dispersion
Effect of Traveling,” vol. 2017, 2017.
[10] “Atmega328p, 8-bit avr microcontroller with 32k bytes in-system programmable flash, datasheet.

13
 Posted on 11 Jun 2024 — The copyright holder is the author/funder. All rights reserved. No reuse without permission. — https://doi.org/10.22541/au.171813263.31037103/v1 — This is a preprint and has not been peer-reviewed. Data may be preliminary.

[11]

14
“Sim800l gsm module, hardware overview of sim800l gsm/gprs module sim800l gsm module pinout.