UB Internship Report Update
UB Internship Report Update
KORONDO HANSEL
Matriculation Number: FE18A141
Academic Year: 2021/2022
Dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the Requirements for the award of Bachelor of
Engineering (B.Eng.) Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
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Certificate of Originality
We the undersigned, hereby certify that this dissertation entitled DESIGN AND
IMPLEMENTATION OF A HOUSEHOLD RAIN WATER ENERGY HARVESTING
SYSTEM presented by KORONDO HANSEL ABA, Matriculation number FE18A141 has
been carried out by him in the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Faculty of
Engineering and Technology, the University of Buea under the supervision of Prof.Tsafack
Pierre. This dissertation is authentic and represents the fruits of his research and efforts.
SIGNATURE DATE
SIGNATURE DATE
SIGNATURE DATE
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Dedication
This piece of work is dedicated to my mother KORONDO MONICA ESA and my late dad
KORONDO JOHN ABA, my Heavenly Father (God) who gave me the inspiration and ideas to
write this report, all tech enthusiasts, innovators, and Roboticists around the world.
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Acknowledgment
For the success of this work, I will like to express my profound gratitude towards all those who
contributed to the realization of this project report.
• To God almighty who guided and gave me all the ideas and inspiration to work and come
up with this project report.
• To my Academic supervisor Prof.Tsafack Pierre for reviewing and accepting my
proposal to work on this project. His time, ideas, and constant follow up to see that the
project was completed successfully.
• A big thank you goes to the Faculty of Engineering and Technology for allowing me to
study in the faculty, all my lecturers who have taught and impacted me positively
throughout my years in the faculty.
• My mother for her constant support, love, and prayers to see me succeed in my
academics.
• To my elder brothers and sisters for their financial support, resources, and encouragement
throughout this project.
• My sincere thanks go to all my classmates and peers for the encouragement they showed
during the implementation of this project report.
• A special thank you goes to Mr. Nzometiah Nervis Tetsop for his support and guidance
through this project implimentation and throughout my stay in the University of Buea.
• I want to equally thank Nervtek for the opportunity they gave me to enrol in to the Tech
world and to study leadership and personal development during the implementation of
this project report.
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Abstract
Now our days energy is the basis of every operation, from our phones to laptops, television, cars,
homes, industries, schools, churches, organizations they all depend on electrical energy. The
purpose of this project is to provide electricity that is sufficient for powering lights and charging
cell phones in rainy locations with limited electricity access. The system prototyped consisted of
a gutter assembly that collected and funneled water from the roof to a downspout. The
downspout shielded the stream of water from wind and directed it to a turbine at the ground
level. The turbine was connected through a gear train to a DC motor serving as the generator.
The device is optimal during high rainfall intensities that produce larger flow rates. These flows
were based on Buea rainfall intensities scaled to a representative house that was 5 by 3 meters in
roof area. The most suitable turbine was a 10-centimeter diameter Pelton wheel with 21 equally
spaced blades. The system produced a power of 0.612w
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Table of Contents
Certificate of Originality..................................................................................................................2
Dedication........................................................................................................................................3
Acknowledgment.............................................................................................................................4
Abstract............................................................................................................................................5
List of Tables...................................................................................................................................8
List of Figures..................................................................................................................................9
CHAPTER 1..................................................................................................................................10
GENERAL INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................10
1.1 Background and Context of the Study............................................................................10
1.2 Problem Statement..........................................................................................................11
1.3 Objectives of the Study...................................................................................................11
1.3.1 General Objectives...................................................................................................11
1.3.2 Specific Objectives..................................................................................................11
1.4 Proposed Methodology...................................................................................................12
1.5 Significance of study.......................................................................................................12
1.6 Scope of Study................................................................................................................12
1.7 Organization of the Dissertation.....................................................................................13
CHAPTER 2..................................................................................................................................14
LITERATURE REVIEW..............................................................................................................14
2.1 Introduction.....................................................................................................................14
2.1.1 Hydropower.............................................................................................................14
2.1.1 Types of Hydropower..............................................................................................15
2.1.2 Types of Turbine......................................................................................................18
2.1.3 Advantages of Hydropower.....................................................................................23
2.1.4 Disadvantages of Hydropower................................................................................23
2.2 General concepts.............................................................................................................24
2.3 Related Works.................................................................................................................24
2.4 Partial Conclusion...........................................................................................................25
CHAPTER 3..................................................................................................................................26
ANALYSIS AND DESIGN..........................................................................................................26
3.1 Introduction.....................................................................................................................26
3.2 Project Planning..............................................................................................................26
3.2.1 Cost Analysis...........................................................................................................27
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3.3 Design.............................................................................................................................28
3.3.1 Block Diagram.........................................................................................................28
3.3.2 Block Diagram explanation.....................................................................................29
3.3.3 3D Modell of Hard ware Structure..........................................................................29
3.4 Methodology...................................................................................................................29
3.4.1 Energy Harvesting from Rainwater for Household Systems...................................29
3.4.2 Power Calculation....................................................................................................30
3.5 Partial Conclusion...........................................................................................................34
CHAPTER 4..................................................................................................................................35
IMPLEMENTATION / REALIZATION AND PRESENTATION OF RESULTS.....................35
4.1 Introduction.....................................................................................................................35
4.2 Tools and Materials used................................................................................................35
4.2.1 Hardware Components............................................................................................35
4.2.2 Software...................................................................................................................41
4.3 Description of the Implementation Process....................................................................44
4.3.1Hardware Circuit design................................................................................................44
4.3.2 Hardware Implementation.......................................................................................45
4.4 Evaluation of the Solution...............................................................................................48
4.5 Partial Conclusion...........................................................................................................49
CHAPTER 5..................................................................................................................................50
CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORKS....................................................................................50
5.1 Summary of findings.......................................................................................................50
5.2 Contribution to engineering and Technology.................................................................50
5.3 Difficulties Encountered.................................................................................................50
5.4 Further Works.................................................................................................................50
Reference.......................................................................................................................................52
Appendix........................................................................................................................................54
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List of Tables
8
List of Figures
Figure 1: The five main blocks of a typical energy-scavenging system........................................14
Figure 2: Pumped-Storage Hydropower........................................................................................15
Figure 3: Offshore Hydropower....................................................................................................16
Figure 4: Run-of River Hydropower.............................................................................................17
Figure 5: Example Pelton Wheel...................................................................................................18
Figure 6: Example Turgo Turbine................................................................................................19
Figure 7: Example Crossflow Turbine..........................................................................................19
Figure 8: Example Propeller Turbine............................................................................................20
Figure 9: Example Archimedes Screw..........................................................................................20
Figure 10: Example Overshot Water Wheel..................................................................................21
Figure 11: Example Backshot Water Wheel.................................................................................21
Figure 12: Overview of a hydropower system..............................................................................23
Figure 13: Project Planning methodology used in designing the Household Rain water Energy
harvesting System..........................................................................................................................26
Figure 14 Block diagram of working process................................................................................27
Figure 15: 3D design.....................................................................................................................28
Figure 16 : DC Generators Classification......................................................................................35
Figure 17: Permanent Magnet DC Generator (RS-775VF)...........................................................36
Figure 18: Diode 1N4007..............................................................................................................37
Figure 19: Lithium battery.............................................................................................................38
Figure 20: Bearing........................................................................................................................38
Figure 21; 3D printer Filaments (PLA).........................................................................................39
Figure 22: Connecting Wires.........................................................................................................40
Figure 23: Screws..........................................................................................................................40
Figure 24: Easy EDA interface......................................................................................................41
Figure 25: Autodesk Fusion 360 work interface...........................................................................42
Figure 26: Ultimaker Cura work interface.....................................................................................43
Figure 27: General circuit setup of the Household Rain water energy Harvesting System..........44
Figure 28: Sketch of the Design of the Household rain water energy harvesting system.............45
Figure 29 Assembled Chassis........................................................................................................45
Figure 30: Circuit connection, setup, and Testing of the Household rain water energy harvesting
system............................................................................................................................................46
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CHAPTER 1
GENERAL INTRODUCTION
Hydropower has been used since ancient times to grind flour and perform other tasks. In the late
18th century hydraulic power provided the energy source needed for the start of the Industrial
Revolution. In the mid-1770s, French engineer Bernard Forest de Bélidor published Architecture
Hydraulique, which described vertical- and horizontal-axis hydraulic machines, and in 1771
Richard Arkwright’s combination of water power, the water frame, and continuous production
played a significant part in the development of the factory system, with modern employment
practices.[1] In the 1840s the hydraulic power network was developed to generate and transmit
hydro power to end users. By the late 19th century, the electrical generator was developed and
could now be coupled with hydraulics.[2] The growing demand arising from the Industrial
Revolution would drive development as well.[3] In 1878, the world's first hydroelectric power
scheme was developed at Cragside in Northumberland, England by William Armstrong. It was
used to power a single arc lamp in his art gallery.[4] The old Schoelkopf Power Station No. 1,
US, near Niagara Falls, began to produce electricity in 1881. The first Edison hydroelectric
power station, the Vulcan Street Plant, began operating September 30, 1882, in Appleton,
Wisconsin, with an output of about 12.5 kilowatts.[5] By 1886 there were 45 hydroelectric
power stations in the United States and Canada; and by 1889 there were 200 in the United States
alone.[2]
At the beginning of the 20th century, many small hydroelectric power stations were being
constructed by commercial companies in mountains near metropolitan areas. Grenoble, France
held the International Exhibition of Hydropower and Tourism, with over one million visitors. By
1920, when 40% of the power produced in the United States was hydroelectric, the Federal
Power Act was enacted into law. The Act created the Federal Power Commission to regulate
hydroelectric power stations on federal land and water. As the power stations became larger,
their associated dams developed additional purposes, including flood control, irrigation and
navigation. Federal funding became necessary for large-scale development, and federally owned
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corporations, such as the Tennessee Valley Authority (1933) and the Bonneville Power
Administration (1937) were created.[3] Additionally, the Bureau of Reclamation which had
begun a series of western US irrigation projects in the early 20th century, was now constructing
large hydroelectric projects such as the 1928 Hoover Dam.[5]
Hydroelectric power stations continued to become larger throughout the 20th century.
Hydropower was referred to as WHITE COAL.[6] Hoover Dam's initial 1,345 MW power
station was the world's largest hydroelectric power station in 1936; it was eclipsed by the 6,809
MW Grand Coulee Dam in 1942.[7] The Itaipu Dam opened in 1984 in South America as the
largest, producing 14 GW, but was surpassed in 2008 by the Three Gorges Dam in China at 22.5
GW. Hydroelectricity would eventually supply some countries, including Norway, Democratic
Republic of the Congo, Paraguay and Brazil, with over 85% of their electricity.
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1.3.2 Specific Objectives
The main objective of this study is to design a Pico hydro system which;
Can be able to run house hold equipment and charge phone in the absence of
electricity.
Equipping everyone with their own source of energy to power their gadgets.
Well characterize and every and anyone can be able to use it and knowing the
desire output power.
Our methodology for this project consisted of setting the minimal viable objectives to be attained
with the available components and electronic materials, developing a workflow, and designing a
block diagram to get an overview of the household rain water energy system. The next step was
to design a rough sketch of the Pico-Hydro system, develop the operational algorithm process.
After all, this was done, Next, I proceeded by designing the structure of the machine using CAD
software, Fusion360 followed by testing the different components and compartments of the
system. After a successful test of the whole system, we sent the design STL file of the system for
printing. As soon as printing was done, we began assembling the various parts.
1.5 Significance of study
The significance of the study in this project is building a low-cost Household Rain water Energy
generating system that can be used to power household low energy devices.
At the beginning of the design, we had to research on the different types of Hydro power systems
turbines from which we will choose a model for my prototype. They are Impulse turbine,
Reaction turbine and water. After an analysis of available parts, materials, and the difficulty of
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technique, we finally choose the Impulse turbine for our prototype, which makes the design and
troubleshooting easy.
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CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
2.1.1 Hydropower
Energy harvesting is by no means a new idea Hydroelectricity, or hydroelectric power, is
electricity produced from hydropower. Renewable energy is becoming the fastest growing
energy type as countries switch from fossils fuels to various renewable sources. The benefits of
obtaining energy from sources such as the sun, wind, and water are trifold. Renewable energy is
helping tackle climate change, energy security, and energy access. A global transition to
renewable energy not only would combat climate change, but also has the potential to close the
gap between those with and without electricity.
Hydro power offered a relatively “green” and sustainable source of electric power on a
very large scale. However, as this type of power source is greatly dependent on the natural
terrain, large and expensive transmission networks are required. Since transmission losses rise
with distance, this dramatically reduces the amount of available power. A much more cost-
effective and electrically efficient solution is to keep the power source very close to the load
creating a point-of-load design that eliminates transmission losses. However, in order to create
these designs, there needs to be a readily available power source that can operate in remote areas,
is cost effective and is self-sustaining, thereby requiring no servicing over many years.
In Cameroon the year 2015 the total energy consumption was estimated to be 526ktoe with 75%
of it from hydroelectricity while the global energy consumption for that same year was 575
quads, and is expected to increase by 28% by the year 2040 [8]
In 2020 hydropower generated one sixth of the world's electricity, almost 4500 TWh, which was
more than all other renewables combined and also more than nuclear power.[9] Hydropower can
supply large amounts of low-carbon electricity on demand, making it key to many secure and
clean electricity grids.[9] With a dam and reservoir it is also a flexible source of electricity, since
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the amount produced by the station can be varied up or down in seconds or minutes to adapt to
changing energy demands.
There is a connection between access to electricity and the ability for economic and human
development to occur, termed energy poverty [10]. In today's world, over 1.4 billion people face
energy poverty. The challenge of energy poverty is concentrated in rural areas, where 85% of the
population lacks electricity access (Stram, 2016). Rural renewable electrification programs are
an opportunity to help combat energy poverty. Our Major Qualifying Project will work to target
rural electrification and clean water access in areas with high levels of rainfall through a
rainwater collection and pico-hydropower harvesting device [11].
The solution for these applications has re-introduced the concept of energy harvesting from a
very different perspective, creating an emerging market for compact, predominantly wireless
applications at the very low end of the power spectrum [12].
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accounts for 71% of all renewable electricity [4]. Overall, 16.4% of the world’s total electricity is
generated from hydropower systems [13]. There are four main types of hydropower: storage
hydropower, pumped-storage hydropower, offshore hydropower, and run-of-river
hydropower [13].
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2.1.1.3 Offshore Hydropower
Offshore hydropower systems use waves and tidal currents in the ocean to produce
electricity. Among the different types of hydropower, offshore is the least established, but still
growing. This category includes technology such as underwater turbines (tidal), buoys (wave),
and oscillating water columns (wave) [14].
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Figure 4: Run-of River Hydropower
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considering water wheels as an alternative to a traditional turbine. Water wheels differentiate
from turbines because they generate energy from the weight of the water rather than from the
water’s velocity or impulse [17]. The type of water wheels that are the most applicable are the
Overshot and the Backshot water wheels, because the source of water comes from above, as
opposed to below.
Turgo turbine: The Turgo turbine is a modification of the Pelton wheel, except it uses
only half of the blade, or just one “bucket.” Similar to the Pelton, the jets are aimed
tangential to the turbine. This turbine functions in similar heads and flows to the Pelton
wheel, but can have more efficient operations in lower head ranges [18].
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Figure 6: Example Turgo Turbine
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to keep the runner in balance. The typical head for this system is low to medium (1.5 - 20
meters) and functions in medium to high flows (3- 30 cubic meters per second) [9].
Kaplan: This turbine is a variation of the propeller, with adjustable blades and guide
vanes. It can achieve high efficiency under varying input conditions [18].
Turgo turbine This turbine is best suited for low head (2-10 meters) and higher flow
sites. It is closest in relation to reaction turbines, but is not actually considered a “turbine”
[18]. This structure is typically used to raise water from a lower elevation to a higher
elevation, but can be turned in reverse to generate power, Figure 9.
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2.1.2.3 Waterwheels
Overshot Water Wheel: The Overshot water wheel is rotated by water entering at the top
of the wheel and filling up the buckets formed by adjacent tangential blades, Figure 10. The
weight of the water turns the wheel to generate power. This type of water wheel typically
applicable for a low head (1- 5 meters) and medium flow (0.3-1.5 cubic meters per second).
The efficiency of this turbine is typically in the 80-90% range [19].
Backshot Water Wheel: The Backshot water wheel is similar to the Overshot, except for that
the blades are in the opposite direction, Figure 11. The efficiency of this turbine is typically in
the 80-90% range [19].
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2.1.3 Advantages of Hydropower
• Food Security. As a reliable source of water for irrigation, hydropower facilities support
food production activities. According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ National
Database of Dams, at least 276 dams in the U.S. provide both hydropower and irrigation
services [20].
• High Paying Jobs: The hydropower workforce is expected to grow and evolve toward a
more digitalized future. And based on retirements alone, the industry is projected to need
thousands of new workers over the next decade—offering many high-wage jobs across
the country [20].
• Savings for Consumers: Did you know that globally, hydropower remains the cheapest
form of electricity? That’s why some U.S. states with a high percentage of hydropower
generation, such as Washington, Oregon, and Idaho can boast about having some of the
lowest electricity rates in the country on an annual basis [20].
• Recreation and Tourism: Most hydropower installations offer access to the reservoir,
allowing the public to take full advantage of opportunities for recreational activities such
as—fishing, swimming, and boating. River releases provide opportunities for kayaking
and white-water rafting. And, many of our nation’s largest hydropower facilities are a
draw for tourists [20].
• Low emission: The action of generating electricity with hydropower energy does not
emit carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas that drives global climate change [21].
• Reliable: Hydroelectricity is a very reliable renewable energy source. Water flow is
usually very predictable and is taken into consideration when determining where a
hydropower plant is built, either on an actively flowing river or built with a dam to
manage water flow [21].
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• Limited Reservoirs: It is challenging to find a suitable spot that has a large year-round
water supply, with the right amount of water and is close enough to existing power lines.
It is also a delicate balancing act to keeping enough river water wild (meaning without
dams), versus damming up many rivers for power [21].
The figure below represents the general concept, block diagram, and process of how
Hydropower syetem works, from kinetic energy of water to energy to move turbine to generator
to electricity [22].
• Hydropower is by far the largest renewable energy source and is projected to become
more dominant in the coming years. The innovations and government initiatives have
helped hydropower generation to become prominent. Last year, China unveiled its
smartest and the world's seventh-biggest mega hydropower station [23].
• Currently, hydroelectric power is the largest source of renewable energy in the U.S.
Moreover, it is responsible for around 7% of the total energy production in the country.
Apart from the U.S., China is the world's largest producer of hydroelectric energy, which
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includes the world's largest power station that produces more than 15% of the country's
total energy [23]
• Hydropower is regarded as a big battery of the nation where you can store power in the
form of water. Today, energy from the river is responsible for one-fifth of the world's
electricity generation, and in the future, it is projected to increase. While wind and solar
power are gaining importance, the cost of hydropower generation is still lower [23].
For this reason, we chose to make a hydropower system which is affordable to almost everyone.
Therefore, making a Household Hydro Power system will be a suitable solution for hobbyists or
students interested in learning how to innovate what they already possess. This will also be a
solution to saving money instead of wasting hundreds of dollars on electric bills. The Household
rain water electrical energy generator will not only be a learning experience for the ideal person
and cheaper, but it will also be an answer to energy dilemma that we face in today’s world [25].
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CHAPTER 3
ANALYSIS AND DESIGN
3.1 Introduction
It is very tempting to start a project by jumping right in to building it without a proper planning.
Doing so is fun and grants an immediate sense of progress. However, this approach often has
significant drawbacks. Beginning a project without proper planning may tie the project to
unspoken assumptions, cause you to overlook critical information, or introduce design flaws that
manifest as the project progresses. Generally, it is best to start by confirming requirements,
designing data flow, and sketching a prototype of the graphical user interface (GUI) layout. After
this step comes to the design.
Project planning here is the process of bringing the financial resources, human, and materials
resources towards the achievement or completion of the project. It is the most vital part of the
project. The project is broken down into smaller sections, where combining them results in the
implementation of the project.
The project-planning tool chosen here is the CPM (Critical path method). The Critical Path
Method is the sequence of scheduled activities that determines the duration of the project. These
scheduled activities must be performed if the project is to be considered a success. Moreover,
they must be completed in a specific order. If someone is building a house, he/she can’t construct
the walls and then dig the foundation; you have to do it in a sequence.
A study of existing Hydropower systems
Find and purchase components with the optimal utility to the system.
Test individually the working operation of the components.
Implementing the circuit into the device.
Optimal laying out of the circuit in the hardware structure to
minimize surface area coverage.
Test the functioning of the whole system.
Document the project.
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Buils nad
Designing of
Research and prototype System test
phase – Final
Analysis Hardware execution.
implementation
and testing.
Figure 13: Project Planning methodology used in designing the Household Rain water Energy harvesting System
The total time taken to complete the sequence along this critical path would give an idea of the
project’s minimum duration. It took a total of 10 weeks to successfully complete this project.
3.2.1 Cost Analysis
Table 1: Cost analysis of project implementation
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This analysis helped in budgeting money to buy the necessary materials and components for the
implementation of this project. During the purchase, some components were slightly higher than
what was expected, so I finally budgeted a total of 200000XAF.
3.3 Design
The system design consists of a block diagram, the algorithm flow chart on which the household
rain water energy harvesting system operates the Easy EDA circuit design, and the 3D model
design of the rain water energy harvesting system using Autodesk Fusion360.
3.3.1 Block Diagram
Kinetic Energy
of water from Turbine Gears
roof
Battery
DC Electric
Motor RS-
775VF
Household
Use
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3.3.2 Block Diagram explanation
Firstly, the system is mounted on the rain-gutter outlet at home. When it starts raining the kinetic
energy from the rain collected through the gutter and is used to turn the turbine of the system, A
gear turn ration of 1:3 is used to amplify the speed before connecting the motor. The from there
the motor generates electrical energy which is store in a battery and supplied in the house for
home use
3.4 Methodology
3.4.1 Energy Harvesting from Rainwater for Household Systems
Household hydropower systems provide energy by extracting power from high head
water pipes. Kanth, Ashwani, Sharma (2012) explored a theoretical household system that would
combine energy harvesting with water catchment from rooftops for individual buildings located
in regions where typhoons or heavy rains are common [26]. The gravitational potential energy of
29
the rainwater would be converted to kinetic energy. The stream of water would strike a turbine to
cause the turbine to rotate. The turbine would be connected to a generator to produce electrical
power. I would use the gutters on the roof to funnel the rainwater from the rooftop to a storage
tank located at ground level. The turbine would be placed in the downspout and above the
storage tank, locations can vary depending on the type of the turbine used.
The calculations outlined below estimate the power production from a 10-centimeter diameter
Pelton wheel during the heaviest rain. The Pelton wheel was chosen for the calculations because
this turbine is highly efficient at high head and low flow applications.
The first step was to calculate the flow rate of the water off the roof based on the roof area and
rainfall intensity. The roof area used for the project was 5 meters in length by 3 meters in depth.
Thus, the roof area is 15 meters squared.
The southern and northern regions of Cameroon are two distinct climatic areas. On the coast, the
average annual rainfall ranges between 2500 and 4000 mm, the inland south, between 1500 and
2500 mm. The western slopes of Mt. Cameroon receive 6000 to 9000 mm a year [27].
In Buea, Cameroon, in May, during 23.9 rainfall days, 167mm of precipitation is typically
accumulated [28].
The volumetric flow rate of the water entering the pipe is determined by Equation 1:
Where
m3
𝑄=𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒 ( )
s
30
𝐴=𝐴𝑑𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐴𝑟𝑒𝑎 (m 2)
m
𝐼=𝑅𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑓𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝐼𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑦 ( )
hr
1
Q=15∗0.167∗( )
3600
Q=0.0006958333(m 3 /s)
P = 𝜌 ∗ 𝑄 ∗ ℎ ∗ g ………………………..eqn 2
P=20.46W
To be conservative in our estimates, and because the open channel flow calculations proved the
velocity of the water the gutter to be small, we neglected this velocity and only considered the
potential energy of water at the top of the downspout. Assuming all of the potential energy from
the height of the water is converted into kinetic energy, the velocity of the water exiting the pipe
is found using Equation 3:
𝑉= √2𝑔ℎ………………………..eqn 3
Where:
m
v = Velocity Exiting the Pipe ( )
s
m2
g = Gravity ( )
s
The height of the roof is estimated to be 3 meters above the ground due to standard ceiling
heights. Thus, the velocity of water exiting the downspout is:
𝑉= √2∗9.8∗3
𝑉 =7.67m/s
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The maximum power for a Pelton wheel is modeled by Equation 4: (Munson et al., 2013, pg.
700):
Where:
𝑃=𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 (𝑊)
kg
𝜌= Density of water ( )
m3
𝑈=𝐵𝑙𝑎𝑑𝑒 𝑆𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑
m3
𝑄 = 𝐹𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒 ( )
s
Beta is the exit angle of the blade. Ideally, the water would exit at a 180-degree angle. However,
this is not physically possible as the exiting water would collide with the entering water. It has
been determined that an exit angle of 165 degrees is optimal (Munson et al., 2013, pg. 700).
U is the blade speed. At maximum power, the optimal blade speed is one half of the water
velocity (Munson et al., 2013, pg. 700). Replacing U with ½ V, the power produced by the
Pelton wheel can be calculated in Equation 5:
v
()
P= ρQ 2 ¿ – V ] (1−cosβ) ………………………..eqn 5
𝑃 = 20.12 𝑊
The above calculations estimated the maximum potential power for a house with a roof area of 3
meters by 5 meters and a height of 3 meters at a rainfall intensity of 167 millimeters per hour.
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A 167 millimeter per hour rainfall intensity would last six minutes, from this peak storm the
Energy harvested would be calculated in Equation 6: [29].
𝐸= 𝑃 ∗ 𝑡 ………………………..eqn 6
Where:
𝐸=𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 (𝐽)
𝑃=𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 (𝑊)
𝐸=20.12∗360
𝐸=7243.2 𝐽
Therefore,
The Power the turbine is calculated to be 20.12W and the energy at the turbine is
calculated to be 7243.2 𝐽
A cell phone battery charge requires about 20,000 Joules (assuming cell phone battery holds 5.45
watt hours) and lighting one LED for one hour requires 36,000 Joules (assuming 10 W light
bulb), the energy can be put into perspective by Equation 7 and Equation 8:
Energy
Number of cell phones= ………………………..eqn 7
Energy per Charge
7243.2
Number of cell phones=
20000
Energy
Number of Light Hours= ………………………..eqn 8
Energy per cell phone
7243.2
Number of Light Hours=
36000
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Over the course of the day the rainfall intensity would vary, this is just the cell phone charges
and light-hours from a short 6 minute storm. Depending on the rainfall more power may be
generated over the course of an entire day.
Pin = 20.46
Pout = 20.12
This chapter presents a detailed analysis that was carried out to develop a Household Rain Water
Energy Harvesting System and an appropriate mythology that was used for the resolution of the
problem. It also clearly defines each stage of the design that was used to implement the solution.
The next chapter will demonstrate the proper implementation of the project, followed by the
results with pictures and screenshots.
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CHAPTER 4
IMPLEMENTATION / REALIZATION AND PRESENTATION
OF RESULTS
4.1 Introduction
The purpose of this section is to highlight the implementation environment of the Household
Rain water Energy Harvesting System. This covers the hardware and software environments for
the implementation phase of the system design and development.
For the development of this project, the materials used were categorized into two categories;
Hardware components and the Software.
The key materials for this project were bought from an electronic store and there were others like
the filament which was used for printing. This combination worked well without complications.
All the hardware components used to realize this project are listed below;
DC Generator
Diode
Battery
Bearing
3D printer Filament (PLA)
Cables
Screws
4.2.1.1 DC Generator
A dc electric generator is an electrical machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical
energy. Most electric generators operate through the interaction between the generator's magnetic
35
field and mechanical force of the turning shaft to generate electrical energy. These generators
produce a direct current (DC).
Types of DC generators
DC generators are categorized into three main types based on the methods of field excitation:
Permanent Magnet, Separately Excited, and Self-Excited DC generators. The first type excites
the field coils by using Permanent magnets, while the separately excited one includes an external
force for excitation. A self-excited DC generator includes another generator itself and field coils
excited by it [30].
36
coils with the load and strengthening the pole flux. By increasing the pole flux, the EMF and
the current increase, and the accumulative process is continuing until the excitation is
necessary.
37
4.2.1.2 Diode 1N4007
A diode is a dispositive made of a semiconductor material, which has two terminals or electrodes
(di-ode), that act like an on-off switch. When the diode is “on”, it acts as a short circuit and
passes all current. When it is “off”, it behaves like an open circuit and passes no current [31].
The 1N4007-T is a Rectifier Diode with molded plastic case. The rectifier diode has high current
capability and low forward voltage drop. Diffused Junction. High Current Capability and Low
Forward Voltage Drop. Low Reverse Leakage Current.
The diode is used to block current from the battery to power the Generator.
4.2.1.3 Battery
Lithium batteries are primary batteries that have metallic lithium as an anode. These types of
batteries are also referred to as lithium-metal batteries.
They stand apart from other batteries in their high charge density and high cost per unit.
Depending on the design and chemical compounds used, lithium cells can produce voltages from
1.5 V (comparable to a zinc–carbon or alkaline battery) to about 3.7 V.
The lithium battery is used store electrical energy produce by the generator and to supply when
needed
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Figure 19: Lithium battery
4.2.1.4 Bearing
a component that separates moving parts and takes a load. It is used to;
Reduce Friction
Support the load
Guide the moving part (turbine)
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4.2.2.5 3D printer filament (PLA)
3D printing filament is the thermoplastic feedstock for fused deposition
modeling 3D printers. There are many types of filaments available with different
properties, requiring different temperatures to print. The filament is commonly
available in the two standard diameters of 1.75 mm and 2.85 mm. 2.85 mm
filament is sometimes erroneously referred to as "3 mm", but should not be
confused with the less common filament size that measures 3 mm in diameter
(Wikipedia, 2020).
The process of transforming 3D printing filament into a 3D model
40
4.2.1.6 Cables
The cables facilitate the connection of different sensors, switches, stepper motors, LCD, and
other devices from different sections of the printer together.
4.2.1.7 Screws
A screw and a bolt are similar types of fasteners typically made of metal and characterized by a
helical ridge, called a male thread (external thread).
4.2.2 Software
41
c) Fritzing
d) Autodesk Fusion360.
e) Ultimaker CURA.
Description of the software used during the implementation of the project.
4.2.2.2 Fritzing
Fritzing is an open-source initiative to develop amateur or hobby CAD software for the design of
electronics hardware, intended to allow designers and artists to build more permanent circuits
from prototypes. It was developed at the University of Applied Sciences Potsdam. Fritzing
is free software under the GPL 3.0 or later license, with the source code available on GitHub and
the binaries at a monetary cost, which is allowed by the GPL. This software was used to draw a
visual connection between the Arduino microcontroller and other components of the system.
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4.2.2.3 Autodesk Fusion360
Fusion360 is a commercial computer-aided design (CAD) software used for 3D modeling of
objects, but it has another software integrated inside called Eagle used for circuit design. This
software was used to design and model the 3D structure of the e-waste 3D printer machine.
(Autodesk, Fusion 360, 2020)
43
Figure 26: Ultimaker Cura work interface
For small scale electricity generation, another option for electricity generation is to use a
permanent magnet DC motor as a generator. Permanent magnet DC motors operate at a range of
input powers to provide a range of output powers. When they are run in reverse by rotating the
shaft, they can convert the input mechanical power to electrical power. The ability to generate
power at a range of input conditions make permanent magnet DC motors a good option for a
generator.
The figures below represent the detailed circuit design of the Household Rain Water Energy
Harvesting System, showing connections of all the components.
44
Figure 27: General circuit setup of the Household Rain water energy Harvesting System
Reaction turbines were eliminated based on background research because they require a fully
submerged pipe in order to operate at the highest efficiencies. In addition, the Turgo turbine was
eliminated early in the design process due to structural imbalance.
The Crossflow, Pelton wheel, and Overshot water wheel were evaluated based on Fussion 360
static simulations and RPM and stall torque readings at different flows. Fussion 360 CAD
models were downloaded from GrabCad and modified using basic geometry to fit within our
system.
I choose the Pelton wheel turbine due to my structure and its high efficiency in High Head Low
Flow applications
45
For the implementation process, I carefully followed the circuit diagram as shown in the figure
above, and connected all the components. After doing the circuit connections, I went and
mounted the printed design parts
Figure 28: Sketch of the Design of the Household rain water energy harvesting system
I continue mounting the chassis of the system following the sketch above.
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Figure 29 Assembled Chassis
Lastly, I connected all the components and began testing the functioning of the system
47
Figure 30: Circuit connection, setup, and Testing of the Household rain water energy harvesting system
Below shows the complete mounted structure of the Household rain water energy harvesting
system
48
Complete structure of the Household rain water energy harvesting system
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Maximum Actual Voltage Output= 6.8V
The high difference between the calculated value and the actual value is due to;
This chapter presented a theoretical and practical implementation of the project, ending with a
visual portrayal of the results. There is much room for improvement in the system design, rpm,
control mechanism and other limitations.
50
CHAPTER 5
After researching, designing, and implementing this project (Household rain water energy
harvesting system), the goal and objectives were met. The system worked well as expected and it
will be a great idea to scale and market it as a product. The results from the power output so far
are encouraging and in summary, to build a good, reliable, and low-cost Household rain water
energy harvesting system, one has to be able to build a circuit, design a model, implement what
has been demonstrated above to be able to generate power from the Household rain water energy
harvesting system.
Replacing the turbine with a much smoother turbine which helps reduce friction and
increase efficiency
Using a much stronger motor to increase the power out put
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Replacing the gears with a smoother gear to reduce friction and equally increase
efficiency
Adding pressure to control pressure the flow and produce require result of power needed
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Appendix
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/17aKeUjDkuQH3CF2779kzzzRvz-gYlrlR?usp=sharing
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