From Lidar data risk of arcing is interpolated. 3D viewing provides context and verification. Photo: Pacific Data Integrators

Pacific Data Integrators, a service consulting provider for big data, cloud, data integration, data quality and data security solutions, and Informatica, provider of enterprise cloud data management solutions, have released Grid Health 360. The solution combines Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data with Informatica Master Data Management (MDM) in order to give utilities a better view into the state of their assets.

According to the companies, LiDAR has the potential to improve the classification of high-risk vegetation. The technology gives a precise measurement of the proximity of vegetation to transmission lines, which can be used to prevent tree arching and wildfires, among other applications. When overlaid with transmission line mapping, a precise assessment of tree canopy proximity to transmission lines can be interpolated. 3D satellite imagery can be used to provide context and verify the need for maintenance crews to be dispatched.

Pacific Data Integrators partnered with Informatica in order to take LiDAR data one step further. By using MDM, the Grid Health 360 solution is able to join LiDAR data with accurate asset information, the companies stated. This allows utilities to better access accurate asset data by creating a “golden record” of all information. This data can include meter usage, geo-location, meter manufacturer and installation technicians and more.

According to the companies, the benefits of Grid Health 360 include, resolution of missing pulses, prioritize vegetation management based on LiDAR assessment and calculated risk, identify the need for supplier involvement or technician training, identify unregistered solar panels or batteries, and improve load planning.