Wind and Solar Communications Node
The purpose of this project was to provide an inexpensive communications network that does not rely on pre-existing infrastructure. Currently the system utilizes wind and solar energy to power a wifi repeater and VOIP phone. The power produced by the wind turbine and solar panel is monitored remotely using a hall-effect sensor and microcontroller.
A more detailed view of the project is shown in the poster below and on the other pages on this website. Please enjoy!
The presentation below was given at the RIT IEEE Student Design Contest where our project won the prize for Most Innovative Project. It gives a good overview of the project design and potential applications.
The proposed system relies on access (through multiple repeaters if necessary) to an internet uplink in order to provide internet access. To overcome this limitation, the system could easily be expanded to be deployable anywhere through the use of a satellite phone/modem. However, the use of satellite phones would significantly increase the cost of the project. Since this project was funded by college students and a wifi network was readily accessible on campus, this was not a viable option for our prototype system.
