Power Grid Demonstration

This will help students learn about the power grid

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Inspiration

Our project is inspired by our knowledge of renewable energy and wanting to help spread awareness on why they are important by teaching kids how the power grid works and how it relates to renewable energy.

What it does

Our project is meant to be a educational learning tool that simulates the power grid on a small scale such that kids middle through high school can understand how the grid works including variable factors like weather conditions and time of day. The simulation is very dynamic allowing kids to pause and resume it to see how different methods of power generation are more effective in certain conditions while balancing the supply and demand of the grid each hour.

How we built it

We decided on what aspects of the grid we wanted our simulation to demonstrate and then we added features one by one refining the overall project as we went.

Challenges we ran into

One of the largest issues we faced was creating an idea that we were capable of building with the materials we were given. A lot of the ideas we had would require a few 3D printed parts or containers but we were not able to use any. Another issue we had was our 7 segment display did not have constant behavior, it would at random start and stop working and displaying random data. We decided to switch to a LCD output module to not waste much time. Another major issue we ran across was having to scrape the relay module. We did not have a screw driver or any method to screw down the terminals so the connections were not good.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Despite all the challenges, we are proud that we created a well working dynamic simulation of the power grid that can be used to educate others.

What we learned

We learned how to create a unique solution to a real world problem in a time pressured environment. We also learned how to utilize a lot of micro controller sensors and components.

What's next for IEEE southeast con

IEEE Southeast Con always room for improvement and innovation to inspire and celebrate the engineers of tomorrow. We look forward to seeing what next years conference will entail.

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