Distributed Energy Systems

Networking protocols for autonomous devices must be energy conscious for the whole system. Functional priorities can be made on the basis of the well-being of the whole network and its surroundings. The system is based on a framework consisting of a number of autonomous electronic devices in a real world setting/geometry. The functions level is described by a few general abstractions (energy optimization, lifetime, variable purpose). Physical devices are equipped with an energy system, a method of mobility, communications capabilities and functionality. Networking is broadcast multi-hop and network organization can be optimized through physical movement and query responses. For long-life systems, energy utility is the priority which is balanced with a directive of sustainable development.

Device description:

Solar Cell and Li-ion Battery

Charging Circuit

Electrostatic Suspension and Propulsion

Core, Clock, Memory

RF Antenna, Transmitter and Receiver

RGB OLEDs

This project will investigate energy-sharing systems in the lifetime of a network. Priorities of protocols will be varied via simulation and experiment to evaluate energy-based computational models. The network will be operated in an active mode where the devices receive information for their location and display a color and in a passive mode to sense and relay information.

This project is in accordance with the future necessities of embedded networks (Embedded Everywhere) where it is suggested that research should be conducted in adaptive self-configuration, system health, computational models, network geometry and enabling technologies for information everywhere.

The purpose of technology is to convey meaning.

Dust Inc. - your communications small and everywhere

Millennial Net - sensor networks with vibration energy harvesting by Ferrosi

Micropropulsion Inc. - working on the motion of motes

Front Edge Technology - small batteries

TinyOs at Berkeley

Berkeley Wireless Research Center

Center for Embedded Networked Sensing at UCLA

Laboratory for Embedded Collaborative Systems at UCLA

Embedded Networks Laboratory at USC

Efforts at MITRE for -on-a-chip and networks

A continuous review of interfaced art, science and society by Beverly Tang