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Title: Thermoelectric Generator Powered Wireless Sensor Node Prototype for Nuclear Applications

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/1467405· OSTI ID:1467405
 [1];  [2];  [3]
  1. Idaho National Lab. (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
  2. Univ. of Notre Dame, IN (United States)
  3. Boise State Univ., ID (United States)

This report presents the development a TEG-powered WSN prototype that could be used in nuclear applications. Different design considerations that are important in assembling different components of a WSN were carefully taken into consideration. In designed WSN is compatible to operate with low-power generating TEG and high-power generating TEG based on application requirements. Also, to maintain appropriate power level across different sensor node components, direct current-to-direct current converter with maximum peak power tracking algorithm is implemented. Storage device with real-time clock is embedded to enable local data storage and real-time time stamping. The wireless communication module selected and implemented is Zig Bee protocol. To accommodate different operating conditions and any loss of power from TEG due to unforeseen reasons, backup battery system is also implemented. Entire assembly is performed on a 2-layer printed circuit board and tested for operation. The outcome was successful and it also provided data to validate the mathematical model developed to estimate average power consumption of a WSN under different operating conditions.

Research Organization:
Idaho National Lab. (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Nuclear Energy (NE)
DOE Contract Number:
AC07-05ID14517
OSTI ID:
1467405
Report Number(s):
INL/EXT-18-44497; TRN: US1902731
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English