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Project Code [2019-W-PhD-18]
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Project title
Vibration Energy Harvesting for Health Monitoring of Water Pipelines
Primary Funding Agency
Irish Research Council
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
Environmental Protection Agency
Lead Organisation
University College Dublin (UCD)
Lead Applicant
Favour Okosun
Project Abstract
This project is centered on the pro-active assessment and quantification of such damages which result in leaks and the actual leaks arising from pipe deterioration by developing a smart, next-generation type vibration energy harvesting (VEH) based technology and related real-time damage assessment algorithms. The vibration responses of pipes due to internal water flow fluctuate with the onset of damage and leaks. The developed VEH monitors converts this vibrational response to electrical energy. These are output-only sensors with no requirement for batteries or electricity to operate and fluctuations in harvested energy is directly used as a marker for the structural health of the pipelines. This is not possible using existing water meters. The developed technology, a first of its kind, has the potential to be a game-changer in maintenance, management and de-risking of water distribution networks. From the foregoing, it is clear that the proposed research is in line with the objectives of the EPA Research's Water Pillar under the thematic area of Innovative water technology.
Grant Approved
�24,000.00
Research Hub
Healthy Environment
Research Theme
Safe water
Initial Projected Completion Date
31/08/2020