Caleb Summers
Research Mentor: Jordan Noey
Mentor Department: Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences, Engineering
Author(s): Caleb Summers, Artur Louro, Jordan Noey, Kimberlee Kearfott
Session: Session 3 (11:00 AM – 11:50 AM)
Presentation Type: Poster 13
Abstract
The radiation weather station system (RWS-Lite) is a low-cost radiation and environmental sensor network system with a focus on modularity, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. These traits make the RWS-Lite an excellent device for enhancing typical monitoring systems and as a learning tool for students. While the proof of concept has been implemented, in its current form, the RWS-Lite lacks a proper data collection framework and is relatively difficult to deploy. This research discusses the design iterations made upon the original RWS-Lite design, including more sensors, a modified physical layout, improved cases, and more rigorous sensor testing. Improved connectivity to radiological sensors was also addressed, as these closed-system sensors made it difficult to integrate into the overall framework of sensors. These include a custom Geiger counter, a scintillation detector, and a radon monitoring device. Improving sensor connectivity will allow the RWS-Lite to easily bridge to and manage the radiological sensors and collected data. A primary objective of this research was to modify the RWS-Lite system to be more user-friendly, easily deployable and create a strong base for the addition of a wider variety of sensors . This was achieved through the splitting of some of the sensors into two different printed circuit boards (PCBs), allowing for greater flexibility, direct integration of previously separate sensor systems, and a more resilient housing system. The second primary objective of this research was to streamline further development/iteration of the RWS-Lite. This was accomplished through extensive documentation of all systems and through the development of sensor test beds, both of which will decrease the duration of future testing and personnel onboarding.
