Background Information

µ_DAQ is a project team based at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow who are completing the design and implementation of a robust data acquisition system to facilitate the mechanical optimisation of a small scale wind turbine. Drawing on expertise from around the University’s Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) and Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE) departments, µ_DAQ’s efforts represent an advanced Masters level student project at Strathclyde.

Work is undertaken in conjunction with the university’s Wind Energy Centre for Doctoral Training, allowing µ_DAQ to benefit from the experience and expertise within the department. µ_DAQ have also worked closely with various members of Strathclyde’s technical staff in both mechanical and electrical design and fabrication. In working across departments, µ_DAQ are uniquely able to demonstrate advanced project work in a modern practical engineering scenario, spanning multiple disciplines and requiring a varied technical approach.

µ_DAQ’s scope of contribution covers delivery of a functional data acquisition (DAQ) system to the university. This is conceived, designed, developed and manufactured entirely by µ_DAQ, allowing the team to take advantage of cost savings associated with development of such a system. The team are also able to mould the performance of the DAQ around the requirements of the project, allowing for a highly accurate measurement of experimental variables at extremely low costs. µ_DAQ not only provide the university with a functional DAQ system, but all associated literature including user manuals, designs and component specs.

The use of the developed DAQ system is demonstrated in the context of mechanical optimisation of a Small Scale Wind Turbine (SSWT). A wide array of sensing units is employed in order to analyse and optimise such a unit, gathering experimental data which demonstrate the improved electrical performance of the unit. µ_DAQ meticulously document all data obtained under testing, so as to facilitate future work.

In doing so, µ_DAQ contribute to the University of Strathclyde’s already extensive catalogue of experience in renewable energy systems, paving the way for future project teams to build on work done and develop future solutions.