AoI-Driven IoT Fault Detection for Smart Grids


Baghaee S., Aydar M. B., Yildirim G., FİRUZİ K., Acarturk A., Uysal E., ...More

33rd IEEE Conference on Signal Processing and Communications Applications, SIU 2025, İstanbul, Turkey, 25 - 28 June 2025, (Full Text) identifier

  • Publication Type: Conference Paper / Full Text
  • Doi Number: 10.1109/siu66497.2025.11112068
  • City: İstanbul
  • Country: Turkey
  • Keywords: Age of Information (AoI), IoT Fault Detection, Real-Time Monitoring, Semantic Communication, Smart Grids
  • Middle East Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Ensuring the reliability and efficiency of electric distribution grids necessitates real-time fault detection systems that prioritize data freshness and transmission efficiency. This paper presents the first Age of Information (AoI)-driven IoT fault detection system, powered by an AoI-optimized algorithm that dynamically adjusts transmission intervals to ensure timely and critical updates. By integrating ESP32 and STM32 micro-controllers with an MQTT-based communication framework, the system adapts to network conditions, mitigating congestion while improving data precision. As a pilot project, the system was deployed across five transformer stations on a live power grid, where it successfully detected 27 fault types with high accuracy. Experimental results show timely fault detection with minimal data use - 17 KB/year in fault mode and 55 MB/year in continuous mode - enabling long-term, battery-powered operation.