A Simple Wireless Sensor Node System for Electricity Monitoring Applications: Design, Integration, and Testing with...

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Energy Systems
• Wireless Sensor Networks

Background:

• Real-time electricity monitoring is essential for intelligent energy management in buildings.
• Existing systems may be costly, invasive, or lack robustness.
• A need exists for low-cost, non-invasive, and self-powered monitoring solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, integrate, and test a simple, low-power, non-invasive, and low-cost system for real-time electricity monitoring.
• To develop a self-contained wireless sensor node powered by piezoelectric energy harvesters.
• To ensure robustness against grid fluctuations and ease of maintenance.

Main Methods:

• The system utilizes piezoelectric energy harvesters (EHs) based on PZT for power.
• It incorporates a microcontroller unit (MCU) and a central hub for data processing and communication.
• Dynamic power management was implemented to accommodate various PZT EHs and input power levels.

Main Results:

• The system accurately measures and transmits 60 Hz alternating current (AC) sensor signals with over 91.4% accuracy.
• It demonstrates robustness against fluctuations in electricity grid current.
• Achieved operation duty cycles range from under 1 minute to 18 minutes for currents between 7.6 A and 30 A.

Conclusions:

• The developed system provides a dependable and promising solution for wireless, real-time electricity monitoring.
• Its self-powered nature and dynamic power management enhance its applicability and adaptability.
• The system facilitates customized energy management in residential, educational, and commercial buildings.