Solar buoy for live telemetry system

The project focused on developing an underwater vertical profiler capable of providing reliable water quality measurements in extreme cold conditions, from ice-in to ice-out. The system was designed to be durable, scalable, and capable of live telemetry, ensuring it met the needs of the Jefferson Project for long-term environmental monitoring. Key components included a central connecting platform housing the electronics, a central buoy with navigation and communication systems, and supplemental solar buoys designed to provide additional power to the system.

My primary responsibility in this project was designing the solar buoy subsystem. This subsystem was needed to ensuring the system's energy independence during extended deployment periods. I designed the solar buoy to include a durable clear polycarbonate tube for UV and cold resistance, with end caps and a base made of HDPE plastic for strength and ease of manufacturing. The tapered base was specifically designed to slip under ice, mitigating potential damage from ice movement. The solar mount supported high-efficiency solar cells, arranged to optimize power generation from all angles. Additionally, I ensured that the assembly was robust, scalable, and capable of integrating seamlessly with the overall system to meet the project's power requirements.

This project provided a valuable opportunity to combine design and analysis to solve a real-world engineering challenge. I applied Finite Element Methods (FEM) to evaluate structural integrity, conducted real-world testing to validate performance, and utilized solar irradiance databases to optimize the energy system. Through this process, I gained practical experience in integrating theoretical tools with hands-on experimentation to develop a robust and reliable solution.