Publication

Abstract : This work describes the design and implementation of a novel monitoring system for small wind turbines. It is especially suited to small turbines that employ slip-rings between the turbine and tower for power transfer, since it is not practical to retrofit turbines and add more slip rings for transferring monitoring signals. We employ an Arduino based wireless system that measures and transmits the different mechanical and electrical turbine parameters. An Ethernet enabled data acquisition device is used to obtain the data from the receiver for remote data collection. This work was done as part of our Virtual Labs remote laboratories project, providing high quality labs for university students all over the world who do not have access to strong laboratory infrastructure or experienced faculty. The monitoring system is thoroughly described and initial test results are given.