HYDRO POWER ELECTRIC
Go With The Flow
A smart, self-powered water monitoring system using piezoelectric energy harvesting technology developed for the Marine Energy Collegiate Competition.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Hydro Power Electric, also known as "Go With The Flow," is an innovative ocean energy harvesting system developed for the Marine Energy Collegiate Competition. The project aimed to create a self-powered water monitoring solution that could sustainably power environmental sensors using piezoelectric technology.
Led an interdisciplinary team of engineering students from mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering backgrounds, along with business students from Manhattan College. The project was presented at Waterpower Week 2023 in Washington D.C., showcasing cutting-edge sustainable technology for marine applications.
The system successfully demonstrated the capability to harvest energy from wave motion and convert it into usable electricity for powering water quality monitoring sensors, eliminating the need for external power sources or battery replacements.
PROJECT OBJECTIVES🎯
Self-Powered System
Design a completely self-powered water monitoring system without external power requirements
Piezoelectric Harvesting
Utilize piezoelectric energy harvesting to capture and convert wave energy into electricity
Robust Housing
Create robust, waterproof sensor housing capable of withstanding marine environments
Real-Time Monitoring
Develop real-time water quality data collection and analysis capabilities
TECHNICAL APPROACH
Energy Harvesting Mechanism
Developed a proof-of-concept piezoelectric energy harvester that converts mechanical wave motion into electrical energy. The system captures the kinetic energy from ocean waves and transforms it into a reliable power source for onboard sensors.
Sensor Integration
Integrated multiple environmental sensors including water quality, temperature, and pressure sensors. Used Arduino and embedded systems to process sensor data and manage power distribution from the energy harvesting system.
3D Printing & Prototyping
Utilized 3D printing technology to rapidly prototype and iterate on sensor housing designs. Created waterproof enclosures that protect sensitive electronics while allowing water flow for accurate sensor readings.
Data Analysis System
Implemented real-time data collection and analysis capabilities using IoT protocols. Developed systems to monitor water quality parameters and transmit data for remote monitoring and analysis.
KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Successful Power Generation
Successfully demonstrated power generation through piezoelectric implementation, proving the viability of wave energy harvesting
Functional Prototype
Created a fully functional environmental monitoring prototype with real-time data collection capabilities
National Competition Presentation
Presented project at Waterpower Week 2023 in Washington D.C., receiving positive feedback from industry experts and judges
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Successfully led an interdisciplinary team combining engineering and business expertise for comprehensive project development
TEAM COMPOSITION
Engineering Students
Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Engineering disciplines
Business Students
Manhattan College School of Business for project management and presentation
Faculty Advisors
Expert guidance from faculty across multiple departments