Carland J., Oberbeck A., Umeda M., Cumming J., Wilkey T., Fripp M., Kuh A., Garmire D.
University of Hawaii at Manoa, US
Keywords: smart grid, wireless sensor networks
Existing electrical grid infrastructure designs cannot reliably handle large intermittent power production fluctuations. Providing an autonomous, self-powered, and easily deployable meteorological sensor network can provide the tools to help mitigate this issue. With proper data at a high enough spatial and temporal resolution, it can be possible to model and predict weather patterns in areas containing a high penetration of solar photovoltaic installations. When coupled with a battery or another energy storage technology, this predictive capability can lessen the effects of the peak load on a system and provide the consumer with feedback on when to conserve. Through utilizing rapid prototyping techniques, specifically in-house 3D printing and open-source technologies, a sensor module connected in a self-contained wireless network is reported. Parameters analyzed include temperature, pressure, humidity and solar irradiance. The modules are inexpensive, portable, and self-powered. Data is transferred on a selfcontained radio mesh network.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Nanotechnology 2013: Electronics, Devices, Fabrication, MEMS, Fluidics and Computational (Volume 2)
Published: May 12, 2013
Pages: 762 - 765
Industry sector: Energy & Sustainability
Topic: Energy Storage
ISBN: 978-1-4822-0584-8