Innovations in electrical tools provide advanced capabilities to enhance efficiency, accuracy and safety. These new designs range from thermal imaging cameras and advanced multimeters to sophisticated diagnostic software and drones equipped with sensors. Here’s how they make a difference.

This tech offers enhanced diagnostic capabilities and improved accuracy and efficiency, while increasing safety. Below are two examples of how beneficial innovations in electrical tools, devices and measuring parameters can be to stakeholders, while performing diverse functions in the electrical industry.

Measuring facets of electrical power

Seron Electronics, Vancouver, founded by Mo Mirvakili, has put together useful research using applications that could greatly affect electric power.

The core of the breakthrough is an unprecedented way of manipulating electrical properties. Using a combination of cutting-edge nanotechnology, quantum physics and sophisticated computational modeling, the team created extremely conductive and resilient materials. 

It all emerged from a vision to make scientific experimentation more accessible and democratic by developing advanced equipment, which is designed to precisely source and measure power, characterize materials and integrate data into a software platform.

Seron’s inaugural product line, SE Programmable Power Platforms, is revolutionizing how researchers source and measure electricity with precision and minimal interference. The platforms are tailored for a myriad of applications, from studying semiconductor devices and energy storage systems to high-resolution material performance tests and quality control assessments. These tools streamline experimentation and propel research in fields as diverse as semiconductor technology and biomedical engineering, enabling faster and more efficient innovations.

Using Seron’s technology, one recent study endowed thermal artificial muscles with machine learning for muscle memory, and another led to the discovery of a sustainable sensor material. This research underscores the platform’s potential for groundbreaking research. With plans to launch a more affordable, portable version of their devices, Seron anticipates a surge in creative and novel uses, from developing new medical monitors to facilitating fieldwork through remote sensors.

Mirvakili said this “democratization” of simple research, assessment and discovery was the underlying intent for the platform.

Better DIY diagnostic tools

Nationwide Insurance, Columbus, Ohio, recently entered a partnership with Teledyne Flir, Wilsonville, Ore., and PrevTech Innovations, St-Hyacinthe, Quebec, to bolster safety measures for farms and commercial agribusinesses by addressing electrical system risks. The intent is to equip Nationwide’s agriculture customers and partners with advanced tools for preventive maintenance that will mitigate electrical hazards before they escalate into severe incidents.

Teledyne Flir’s thermal imaging cameras will play a pivotal role in these preventive efforts, enabling users to visually detect and diagnose issues within electrical systems, insulation and mechanical equipment by identifying temperature variations.

The technology allows for early intervention in potential problem areas, thereby preventing operational disruptions and equipment damage. Nationwide’s initiative ensures its customers and partners can access the advanced thermal imaging devices at discounted rates, emphasizing the insurer’s commitment to incorporating cutting-edge technology in safeguarding agricultural operations against unforeseen electrical failures.

The partnership with PrevTech introduces real-time electrical monitoring, fault detection and diagnostic services designed to address potential electrical hazards. PrevTech’s solution, backed by a team of technical experts, offers ongoing support to clients, guiding them through diagnostic procedures and risk mitigation strategies to ensure operational continuity and safety.

Like Seron Electronics, Nationwide’s efforts are aimed at helping the agribusiness clients they insure to be more self-sufficient with tools to help them.

New and innovative electrical tools are empowering researchers and inspectors to conduct their work more effectively than ever before. By leveraging these advanced technologies, they can uncover previously unattainable insights, contributing to innovations and ensuring the reliability and safety of electrical systems across industries.

stock.adobe.com / Elena_Mitrokhina