Author: Chet Udell
Evaporometer team meeting at OPEnS Lab. Bo Zhao (OSU GeoVisualization) and Chet Udell (Director, OPEnS) center holding Evaporometer transmitter node. Marissa Kwon and Manuel Lopez (far right) Evaporometer technical team. Shaozeng Zhang (front-right) from Anthropology plans to study the interplay of data, translation, mapping, and public engagement with this project.
Abstract
The Evaporometer wireless star network system is weeks away from being prepared for the Andrew’s Cyber Forest! This post details the features and improvements leading up to the current state of the system.
Objectives
Bo Zhao (OSU GeoVisualization) and Chet Udell (Director, OPEnS) have teamed up to deploy a number of wireless environmental sensors in the Andrews Cyber Forest. The Evaporometer wireless star network currently consists of one receiver hub connected to the web and a group of sensor transmitter devices. Devices communicate through LoRa long-range low-power radios up to 20km line of sight. Data will be publicly accessible and visualized in realtime by Bo Zhao’s group.
Devices
Transmitter nodes consist of the following:
- Adafruit Feather 32u4 RFM95
- uxcell 0 – 5kg load cell for measuring rainfall/evaporation
- HX711 24bit precision ADC with Amplifier (for load cell)
- SHT31D Temperature/Humidity sensor breakout
- DTS3231 Precision RTC for sleep/wake timing
- TSL2591 High Dynamic rage digital light sensor (IR and Visible spectrum)
- 900MHz antenna kit 50ohm impedance
- 2000 mAh Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery
Hub consists of:
- Adafruit Feather 32u4 RFM95
- Feather Ethernet Shield
- Micro SD Breakout for Local Data Logging
- 2.1mm barrel jack for 5V power
Method of use
Multiple Transmitter nodes will be distributed in a star network arrangement around the central hub. They will each transmit data from their sensors in 15min intervals. Receiver Hub will log each transmission onto a local micro SD card. It also uploads transmissions in near real-time onto a secure Google spreadsheet. Bo Zhao’s bots will dynamically pull data from this sheet for visualization.
Deployment will take place July 27.