Wireless sensor network for calibration and deployment of low-cost fluid flow-rate sensors

Abstract

This report focuses on low-cost networked fluid flow rate sensors for use in environmental studies and other applications requiring automated fluid flow rate measurements with high spatial density. The sensors are based on deflection of a flexible printed resistive element immersed in the stream. A wireless network is used for mass calibration of multiple sensors in a test flume. After individual sensor calibrations are obtained, the same wireless network can be used to collect flow rate data in the sensor application. A modular connection system enables the user to quickly reconfigure the system's physical layout for calibration or deployment purposes.