Electricity is essential to one’s life as it runs the household. However, power outages increase alongside the frequency of calamities in the Philippines, which also negatively impacts the economy of the country. With this, the researchers decided to assemble a simple prototype with a 15- piezoelectric sensor base that will utilize rainfall intensity of typhoons in order to generate alternative electricity during power outages. As previous studies have pointed out, the low output voltage produced by the sensors, the researchers focused on finding an optimal setup for the sensors to produce sufficient power from moderate and heavy rainfall intensity.
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Descriptive:
1. How much rainwater would be enough to consistently power a lightbulb for 3 minutes?
2. What range of voltage can be accumulated during a moderate (5.5mm/hr) to heavy rainfall (8.5mm/hr)?
3. Is the placement of the piezoelectric transducers optimal for generating sufficient voltage to power a lightbulb?
Inferential:
1. Is there a significant relationship between rainfall intensity and the voltage generated through the use of piezoelectric transducers?
Gathering the data through the observation of the experimental design, the fundamental measurement scales, nominal and ratio, were used for the rainfall intensity and voltage data respectively. Having that mentioned, in measuring these data, a rain gauge was used to measure the rainfall intensity, while the voltmeter was used in measuring the voltage data — measuring the accumulated output voltage from the piezoelectric transducers and the additional voltage stored by the capacitor if any.
As for the study design, it consists of a controlled setup and experimental setups. Where for the controlled setup, voltage was garnered through pressing the piezoelectric sensors with one finger. On the other hand, the experimental setups, a prototype is created, consisting of pipes and a base containing 15 piezoelectric sensors, having the simulated rainfall as its source of mechanical energy.
Descriptive: Throughout the 30 trials conducted for the simulated moderate rainfall, each trial generated an average of 2.54V and the total voltage generated across was 76.2V. In interpreting the table, each row denoted in bold text indicates the lightbulb being successfully lit. Furthermore, the rows marked with an asterisk have the previous value of voltage accumulated subtracted by 12V, of which that value is again subtracted from the new reading to get the voltage generated in that trial. The 12V subtracted comes from the lightbulb needing enough voltage in order for it to light up.
In contrast, with the 30 trials conducted for the simulated heavy rainfall, it had an average of 3.19V per trial. The data suggests that there is a directly proportional relationship between rainfall intensity and the voltage generated. Consequently, the lightbulb also lit up more frequently . However, with the 17th trial and onwards, it can be seen that the intervals of the bulb lighting up between the trials grew. This too marked the start of the water leaking onto the piezo component where the setup grew less effective. The average voltage generated within the first 17 trials is 4.54V, and an
average of 1.48V with the consequent trials, showcasing the contrast in effectiveness before and after the leakage. This demonstrated a 67.4% decrease of effectivity.
Inferential: The independent variable of the inferential question is rainfall intensity, hence the group mainly manipulated this through the variety of rainfall intensity — moderate and heavy rainfall intensity. Despite varying rainfall intensity, the constructed prototype containing a 15 piezoelectric transducer base is sufficient to enable the light source for at least 3-6 seconds. As such, results from the t-test analysis wherein the p-value acquired 0.124 which is greater than 0.05, this then indicates that there is no significant difference between the two variables — rainfall intensity and voltage generated. This implies that energy generation is still manifested despite the varying rainfall pressure. With the given evidence, electricity is produced in this makeshift roof gutter and rainfall reservoir prototype, which is mainly aligned with the primary purpose of the research which is to support the question of whether the energy produced is sufficient to power a light source for a certain period of time.
The study tackled the relationship between rainfall intensity and the generated voltage using piezoelectric transducers. The researchers' analysis reveals the influential role of varying rainfall intensities on the produced voltage, offering a glimpse into the potential of utilizing rainwater to power electronic devices like lightbulbs. Primarily, we examine the sustainability aspect, determining the optimal rainwater amount needed for consistent lightbulb powering and explore voltage ranges in different rainfall intensities, from moderate to heavy. These insights not only contribute to rainwater-based energy feasibility but also advance sustainable power solutions. Additionally, we critically evaluate the impact of piezoelectric transducer placement on voltage generation, providing a comprehensive understanding for environmentally friendly energy sources.
The researchers’ findings showcase existing research, highlighting the limited influence of varying rainfall on electricity production, while also exploring deeper into voltage accumulation under diverse rainfall conditions. However, limitations exist, including the restricted environmental conditions and specific rainfall intensity ranges, which may limit broader applications and overlook extreme rainfall impacts.
Despite these limitations, the study suggests avenues for future research. Exploring varied piezoelectric materials and setups under diverse conditions could enhance the understanding of rainwater-based electricity generation, potentially scaling up for practical renewable energy applications. Moreover, the study's implications extend to sustainable energy, particularly in regions with frequent rainfall, highlighting rainwater as a viable renewable energy source. The researcher’s conclusions align with initial objectives, reinforcing the study's validity and encouraging further exploration into rainwater-based electricity generation.
Ellemarie
"The Nocturnal Thinker"
Celestine
“Hidden Ace”
Yoan
"Proofread King"
Daniela
“Piezo Mastermind”
Carla
"MERALCO"
Resca
"Silent Writer"
References
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