Project/Energy Research
From Drexel Smart House
The purpose of this committee is to analyze the energy needs of Drexel Smart House.
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Mission Statement
The mission of the DSH Energy Research Committee is simple: Drexel Smart House wants to create more than we use. This committee's mission is to ensure the on-site power production and monitor and the energy needs of the house.
Vision Statement
Current Endeavors
Drexel Smart House is looking into several different possibilities for on-site energy production.
Piezoelectric: The Energy committee previously was working with Professor Kimblery Cook-Chenault of the Mechanical Engineering Dept. and is now working with Professor Wei-Heng Shih of the Materials Engineering Dept. With the aid of his research, we are going to experiment with different piezoelectric devices to harness the power of human footsteps in the modular walls and flooring and also to pick up vibrations made buy common household appliances.
Solar: Through a senior design project, a power grid will be created for use on the roof to effectively utilize solar cells. Several different types of cells are being looked into, including stationary and multiple-axis tracking systems.
Wind: Through freshman design and other projects, we will be trying to examine the feasibility of a wind turbine for use in an urban setting.
Geothermal: Through freshman design and coordination with SLA, we will be examining the feasibility of a geothermal system in an urban setting.
Current Projects
Composite Solar Lighting The purpose of this research is to design and build a fiber-optic daylighting solution for the residential built-environment. Additionally, the fiber-optic system will be supplemented with LEDs to provide consistent light output from the system. The system will detect changes in light throughout the day and adjust the LED brightness accordingly.
• Currently awaiting arrival of parts fabricated by machine shop for prototype LED light engine • Communicating with leading manufacturer Sunlight Direct about possible partnership • Writing software and designing electronic package • Awaiting additional LED donation from Future Lighting Solutions
Architectural Coatings Glass hollow microspheres will be dispersed in a transparent binding medium to selectively reflect infrared radiation from the sun, reducing solar gain of a building's exterior. Preliminary experimental data suggests that such coatings are effective at blocking infrared radiation in comparison to traditional titanium dioxide paints. Future applications of glass hollow microspheres include filled extruded or solution cast films for use as infrared reflective window treatments and solar panel films, coated fabrics for use as IR reflective drapes and curtains, high gain projection screens, and interior substrates for reflective luminous surface lighting. Currently, further background research and a theoretical model based on Mie theory are being drawn up. We are awaiting the status of the EPA P3 grant application.
CEELIGHT
Transparent Solar Cells - Possibly used for windows
