New Velocimeters Provide Improved Sensing Capabilities in Aquatic Environments
Introducing the Automatic Pulse Tracer Velocimeter (Cross-type and Arc-type)
Researchers at the University of Central Florida have developed two novel devices: Cross-type automatic pulse tracer velocimeter (Cross-type APTV) and Arc-type automatic pulse tracer velocimeter (Arc-type APTV). The devices assist in the measurement of velocity and direction of water in both wells and wetland environments. They are cost-efficient, have improved accuracy, are easy to use, and are equipped with wireless communication units.
Benefits
- Easy to use
- Cost-efficient
- Enable frequent measurements
- Improved accuracy
- Can be integrated with existing devices to provide additional sensing capabilities
Applications
- Non-cohesive, small diameter grained aquifers
- Wells
- Wetland systems
- Stormwater ponds
- Estuaries and bays
- Flow monitoring stations
- Groundwater monitoring
For more information, refer to the technology sheet.
Wrong-Way Driver Detection Technologies can Help Prevent Head-On Collisions
Technology #33441, 33714
Researchers at UCF and the Central Florida Expressway Authority (CFX) have patented methods for systems that help prevent head-on collisions when drivers wrongfully enter roadways. The technologies (UCF IDs: 33441 and 33714) can be used to alert and stop wrong-way drivers (WWDs) and to also notify right-way drivers, authorities and police of possible oncoming danger. Employing unique Rectangular Flashing Beacon (RFB) signs, motion sensors, controllers, wireless communication devices and navigation servers, the technologies integrate with existing transportation infrastructures and driver assistance technologies in cars (called “connected vehicles”).
Benefits
- Easily integrates with existing driver-assistance technologies and highway infrastructures
- Attracts the attention of wrong-way drivers much better than existing light emitting diodes (LEDs)
- Data collected for over 3 years at Florida exit ramps where technologies are deployed shows that more than 80 percent of wrong-way drivers at exit ramps have safely self-corrected without incident
- Effectively prevents catastrophic injuries and fatalities
Applications
- Exit ramps of limited access highways (toll roads and freeways)
- Any public or private high-speed roadways where wrong-way driving may occur
For more information, refer to the technology sheet.
Omnidirectional, Polarization-Independent, All-Dielectric Light Trapping Scheme
Technology #33979
UCF researchers have developed a new light trapping scheme that uses nanoparticles to mimic the essential light trapping mechanisms found in a leaf: focusing, waveguiding and light scattering. The novel architecture and process enable the production of low-cost, ultrathin, flexible and durable solar cells that can be easily fabricated using roll-to-roll processing. Unlike conventional solar cell architectures, the invention incorporates the use of lightweight, pliable 2D semiconductor materials and an all-dielectric approach which is lossless in the visible spectrum of light. It also offers broadband polarization-independent reflection features, so that solar cells can capture sunlight from almost any angle.
Benefits
- Produces ultrathin, flexible, lightweight, durable and reliable solar cells
- Omnidirectional features enable solar cells to efficiently capture light at different angles
- Cost-efficient, providing for the highest watt/gram silicon use
- Enables mass-fabrication via roll-to-roll processing
Applications
- Solar cell manufacturing and production
- Wearable, flexible electronics
For more information, refer to the technology sheet.