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In a joint research effort by Intel and BP, a crude oil tanker based in the Shetland Islands in Northern Scotland was used as a test site for deploying wireless sensor networks to continuously monitor machinery vibration. |
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Intel recently collaborated with BP, one of the world's largest petroleum and petrochemicals companies, to test the use of sensor networks to support preventive maintenance on board an oil tanker in the North Sea. BP wanted to determine whether a sensor network could operate in a shipboard environment, where it would have to withstand temperature extremes, substantial vibration and significant rf (radio frequency) noise in certain parts of the ship.
A sensor network was installed onboard the ship and operated successfully for over four months. During this trial deployment, the system gathered data reliably and recovered from errors when they occurred.
An interior view of the ship's main engine room. |
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The project was recognized by InfoWorld as one of the top 100 IT projects in 2004, an award given to "innovative new projects that highlight the resourcefulness of the IT community." BP is now exploring the use of sensor network technology throughout the company, in shipping, manufacturing and refining operations.
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