http://current.com/1fff64c
August 26th, 2009
A Way to Harvest Electricity from Trees
One freezing day in February 2006, physicist Andreas Mershin
huddled with others around a tree on the Massachusetts Institute
of Technology campus to watch an unlikely demonstration. An
engineering company claimed it could produce electricity simply by
wiring a nail in the trees trunk to a metal rod in the ground.
Sure enough, the demo worked but nobody knew exactly why.
Two years later, Mershin and MIT undergraduate Christopher Love
have not only figured out the source of the trees electricity,
they've joined a new company Voltree Power that wants to use that
energy to power wireless networks of environmental sensors.
As reported in PLoS ONE, the electricity stems from an acidity
difference between trees and soil. The area that is more acidic
contains a higher concentration of positively charged hydrogen
ions. Those ions attract electrons, generating a tiny current that
travels between the tree and the ground.
Using a device that extends probes underground, Voltrees invention
harvests the energy and uses it to continuously recharge a
battery, which in turn powers radio-equipped sensors. Voltree is
now working to assemble a wildfire alert network that can feed
sensor data to a central location. The devices could also monitor
climate conditions or even detect illegal radioactive materials at
the border.
While other monitoring tools have been hampered by the need for
costly solar panels or frequent battery replacements, tree-powered
sensors could be deployed over vast areas with little maintenance.
And not to worry, Mershin says: the amount of energy harvested is
so tiny that the trees wont feel a thing.?
http://voltreepower.com/bioHarvester.html
Voltree Power
100 Energy Drive
Canton, MA 02021
Tel.: +1 (781) 828-8733
Fax: +1 (781) 821-2111
E-Mail: admin@voltreepower.com
Internet: www.voltreepower.com
Mailing Address
Voltree Power
P.O. Box 477
Canton, MA 02021
Bioenergy Harvester
Voltree Power’s patented bioenergy harvester converts living plant
metabolic energy to useable electricity, providing a unique
battery replacement alternative. When coupled with our software
and low-power transceiver hardware, this technology makes
practical the deployment of large-scale, long-term sensor networks
in a variety of previously inaccessible environments, such as
under triple-canopy or in hostile terrain. Voltree Power’s
bioenergy harvester can be used with temperature and humidity
sensors as shown below, or with a wide variety of other sensors.
Benefits of this technology include:
* Enables the use of mesh sensor technology where it would
otherwise be difficult to install power devices or hard-to-reach
sensor devices for maintenance.
* Eliminates the cost of (hundreds) of thousands of batteries,
labor costs associated with battery replacement/maintenance, along
with environmental and labor costs of responsible battery
disposition/recycling.
* Does not depend on wind, light, heat gradients, or mechanical
movement.
* Weather-resistant and completely quiet.
* Absence of any heat or noise signatures, making it ideal for
various covert, security-sensitive sensing applications.
* Environmentally benign to produce and operate.
* Parasitically harvests metabolic energy from any large plant
without harming it.
* Useful lifetime of the device is only limited by the
lifetime of the host.
POWER FROM A NON-ANIMAL ORGANISM
US Patent Appln 2007279014
BACKGROUND
[0002] Since the late-nineteenth century the use of, and uses for,
electricity has increased tremendously, becoming a fundamental
part of everyday life for most people. One only has to look at
remote parts of the world to see how drastically different life is
without electricity. Most electric devices in use today typically
draw between a few milliwatts to several megawatts of power,
depending on the application. Higher costs for the fuels needed to
generate electricity, and a higher electrical demand in general,
however, have led to increased electricity costs, thereby
increasing the attractiveness of alternative power sources.
[0003] One typical use of electricity is a light emitting diode
(LED). LEDs have seen increasing popularity in recent times due to
a lower per unit cost and a greater number of available colors.
LEDs are more energy efficient (i.e., less power is consumed) and
generally have a much longer life expectancy than conventional
filament-based light bulbs. In general, LEDs draw approximately 20
mA at 2V (i.e., 40 mW) when illuminated, which is far less than
conventional light bulbs.
[0004] Distribution of electricity from a generation plant to the
end-user is not a trivial problem. Thousands of miles of wires and
cables creating a transmission network are involved in delivering
power to consumers. The transmission network adds costs such as
material costs and the cost of lost energy due to the resistance
of the transmission wires. For the average consumer of
electricity, the transmission costs generally equal the cost of
the electricity itself. Furthermore, portions of the world have no
electricity because it is simply too far from the nearest
transmission line or the terrain itself prohibits installation of
transmission lines.
SUMMARY
[0005] A method for drawing electricity from a non-animal
organism, the method including coupling a first electrical
conductor to the non-animal organism, coupling a second electrical
conductor to a ground rod, embedding the ground rod into soil at a
predetermined depth as a function of a desired current level,
whereby the current available from the non-animal organism is
increased by increasing the depth that the ground rod is embedded
into the soil, coupling an electrical load between the first
electrical conductor and the second electrical conductor, the
electrical load being configured to draw electricity from the
non-animal organism via the first electrical conductor, and
operating the electrical load using electricity drawn from the
non-animal organism.
[0006] In general, in another aspect, the invention provides a
system including a non-animal organism, a first electrical
conductor electrically coupled to the non-animal organism, a
plurality of ground rods embedded into soil wherein a quantity of
the plurality of ground rods is a function of a desired current
level from the non-animal organism, whereby the current available
from the non-animal organism is increased by increasing the
quantity of the plurality of ground rods, a second electrical
conductor coupled to the plurality of ground rods, and an
electrical load coupled between the first electrical conductor and
the second electrical conductor to draw electricity from the
non-animal organism, the electrical load using electricity drawn
from the non-animal organism.
[0007] In general, in another aspect, the invention provides a
method of predicting weather using electricity from a non-animal
organism, the method including coupling a first electrical
conductor to the non-animal organism, coupling a second electrical
conductor to a ground, coupling a voltmeter between the first
electrical conductor and the second electrical conductor,
measuring a voltage potential between the first and second
electrical connectors, providing a weather prediction as a
function of the measured voltage potential.
[0008] Implementations of the invention may further include the
following features. The method of predicting weather including
determining a baseline voltage reading for the non-animal organism
under a first weather condition, determining a plurality of
voltage readings over time, comparing each of the plurality of
voltage readings to the baseline voltage reading to determine
differences between the baseline voltage reading and each of the
plurality of voltage readings, and calculating information
indicative of a second, future weather condition as a function of
the differences.
[0009] In general, in another aspect, the invention provides a
system for use with live vegetative matter growing in soil, the
system including a non-animal organism, a first electrical
conductor electrically coupled to the non-animal organism, and a
second electrical conductor coupled to the first electrical
conductor and coupled to the live vegetative matter, the second
electrical conductor providing electricity from the non-animal
organism to the live vegetative matter, wherein the growth of the
live vegetative matter is stimulated by the electricity provided
by the non-animal organism.
[0010] In general, in another aspect, the invention provides a
system including a non-animal organism, a first electrical
conductor electrically coupled to the non-animal organism, a
second electrical conductor coupled to a ground, and an electrical
load coupled between the first electrical conductor and the second
electrical conductor to draw electricity from the non-animal
organism, the electrical load using electricity drawn from the
non-animal organism, wherein the load is one of a battery, a
battery charging circuit, a sensor, a radio frequency
identification chip, a transmitter, a receiver, a global
positioning service (GPS) device, a light emitting device, and a
fire ignition system.
[0011] Implementations of the invention may include one or more of
the following features. The load is the sensor and the sensor is
one of an oxygen sensor, an air-speed sensor, a humidity sensor, a
barometric pressure sensor, a camera, a photoelectric sensor, an
altitude sensor, a smoke detector, a microphone, and a vibration
sensor. The load is the GPS device and the GPS device is one of a
GPS receiver, a GPS transmitter, a GPS guidance system, and a GPS
navigation system. The load is the light emitting device and the
light emitting device is one of a light emitting diode configured
to emit visible light, and an infrared light emitting diode
configured to emit an infrared signal.
[0012] Various aspects of the invention may provide one or more of
the following capabilities. A non-animal organism, such as a
member of the plant and/or fungi kingdom, may supply electricity
to a load. Electricity may be available in remote areas without an
electricity transmission network. Alternative "clean" electricity
can be produced. An LED may be powered from a non-animal organism.
Infra-red LEDs used in military operations may be powered. A
traffic light may be powered from a non-animal organism. A
security light may be powered from a non-animal organism.
Dependence on fossil fuels to generate electricity may be reduced.
Lighting may be provided at campgrounds and/or ski areas using
power provided from non-animal organisms. Power derived from
non-animal organisms may be used to recharge batteries in hybrid
vehicles. Advance storm warning can be obtained by measuring the
voltage provided by the non-animal organism.
[0013] These and other capabilities of the invention, along with
the invention itself, will be more fully understood after a review
of the following figures, detailed description, and claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
FIG. 1 is a diagram of an
apparatus for drawing power from a tree.
FIG. 2 is a diagram of a charging
circuit used to provide power derived from a tree to a load.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a
process for deriving power from a tree using the charging
circuit shown in FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram of a
filtered charging circuit used in providing electricity from a
tree to a load, including the charging circuit of FIG. 2 and a
filter.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a
process of deriving power from a tree using the electrical
circuit shown in FIG. 4.
FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram of a
filtered charging circuit used in providing electricity from a
tree to a load and including a battery.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a
process of deriving power from a tree using the electrical
circuit shown in FIG. 6.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a
process of determining storm distance and/or severity using
voltage measurements taken from a tree.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] Embodiments of the invention provide techniques for drawing
electricity from non-animal organisms such as members of the plant
and/or fungi kingdom, and providing the electricity to a load.
Non-animal, non-mammal organisms such as spermatophytes,
pteridophytes, succulents, Marattiales ferns, Ophioglossales
ferns, Leptosporangiate ferns, Mycophycota fungi, Zygomycota
fungi, Basidiomycota fungi, and Ascomycota fungi may be used.
Specifically, electricity can be drawn from vegetative matter such
as a living tree. The amount of available electricity has been
found to depend on the location and type of non-animal organism,
and to be approximately 0.5-2 volts DC, plus some AC current. For
example, an apparatus for using this energy includes a conductor
inserted into a tree and connected to a positive terminal of a
load. A negative conductor of the load is connected to a grounded
conductor, thereby completing a circuit. Other circuitry, such as
charging circuits and/or voltage step-up circuits, may also be
used. Other embodiments are within the scope of the invention.
[0023] Referring to FIG. 1, an apparatus 1 for deriving
electricity from a tree 25 includes a tap 5, a conductor 10, wires
15, 20, and 25, a circuit 30, and a load 35. The tap 5 is
configured to attach to, and to conduct current flow from, the
tree 25. For example, the tap 5 may be configured to be inserted
into the tree 25, although other configurations are possible
(e.g., a non-invasive transformer core that surrounds the
circumference of the tree 25). The wire 15 is electrically coupled
to the tap 5 and the circuit 30. The wire 20 is electrically
coupled to the circuit 30 and the load 35. The wire 25 is
electrically coupled to the load 35 and the conductor 10. The
conductor 10 is electrically conductive and is configured to be
inserted approximately two feet into the ground while protruding
above the ground, although the conductor 10 may be configured to
be inserted to other depths. By increasing the depth that the
conductor 10 is inserted into the ground and/or using multiple
conductors 10, the load 35 can draw more current from the tree 25.
The conductor 10 is preferably a tinned copper rod. Other
materials and/or configurations of the conductor 10 are possible.
For example the conductor 10 may be aluminum and/or connected to a
"ground" connection of a typical household electrical system. The
circuit 30 is electrically conductive and is configured to filter
the power provided by the tree, to step-up (or step-down) the
voltage supplied by the tree 25, and/or to store the power
provided by the tree 25. The circuit 30 may perform functions
other than those listed above. Also, embodiments of the apparatus
1 without the circuit 30 are possible (e.g., connecting a load
directly between the tree 25 and the conductor 10).
[0024] The load 35 can be any of a number of different devices
used for a variety of purposes. For example, the load 35 can
include a lithium battery that is charged by the tree 25, a sensor
(e.g., capable of sensing temperature, air speed, humidity,
barometric pressure, video, audio, light, vibration, altitude,
oxygen levels), a remote sensor (e.g., over a LAN, WAN, the
Internet, WiFi), a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip, a
transmitter, and/or a receiver. The load 35 can be a device for
use with a global positioning system (GPS) such as a GPS receiver,
a GPS transmitter, a GPS guidance system, and/or a GPS navigation
system. The load 35 can include a fire and/or smoke detection
system, a system configured to charge a battery powered device
(e.g., a mobile phone, a laptop computer, a portable GPS system, a
flashlight, a radio), a lighting system (e.g., for recreational
use, for military use)(including, e.g., one or more light emitting
diodes (LEDs) such as infrared LEDs), a fire ignition system
(e.g., for campground use), a weather detection and/or monitoring
system, an emergency alert/assistance beacon, a solar lighting
backup system, and/or a wireless transmission system for use with
a computer. The load 35 can include a plant (e.g., as described
below in Experiment 4).
[0025] Various embodiments of the tap 5 are possible. Preferably,
the tap 5 is a stainless steel rod, e.g., a nail, having an
outside diameter of about 0.125 inches, but other materials and
sizes are possible. For example, brass plated or aluminum rods
having an outside diameter of about 0.06 inches may be used. The
tap 5 is electrically conductive material and is preferably of a
material (e.g., stainless steel) that has a relatively high
corrosion resistance, thus inhibiting increased resistance caused
by corrosion. For extended use, the tap 5 is preferably not copper
(at least on its exterior) as this can negatively affect (e.g.,
kill) many types of trees. The tap 5 is preferably configured to
be inserted between about 0.375 inches and about 0.75 inches into
the tree 25, although other depths are possible. In trees with
thick bark, the tap 5 may be inserted further into the tree 25.
For example, if a tree has bark 1 inch thick, the tap 5 may be
inserted about 1.5 inches into the tree 25. The tap 5 is
preferably inserted into the tree 25 between about one and about
six feet above ground level, although other heights may be used.
While the apparatus 1 includes the one tap 5, multiple taps may be
used. Using multiple taps in a single tree has been found to
increase the amount of current available from the tree. The taps
may all be the same, or one or more taps may be different (e.g., a
different material, configured for different insertion depth,
etc.) than another tap.
[0026] Referring also to FIG. 2, an exemplary embodiment 40 of the
apparatus 1 including an LED load 115, and an exemplary circuit 30
that is a charging circuit 50, which includes switches 55, 60, 65,
70, 75, 80, and 85, and capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105. The
switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85 are single-pole
double-throw (SPDT) switches. The switch 55 includes selective
connections 56 and 57. The switch 57 is connected on one side to
the switch 56 and the capacitor 90 and on its other side to an
output 125 configured to be connected to the load 115. The switch
60 also includes selective connections 61 and 62. When the
switches 55 and 60 are in a first state, the connections 56 and 61
are closed and the connections 57 and 62 are open, thereby
coupling the capacitor 90 between a power source 110 (here, a
tree) and a ground 120. When the switches 55 and 60 are in a
second state, the connections 56 and 61 are open, and the
connections 57 and 62 are closed, thereby coupling the capacitor
90 between the load LED 115, and the switch 65. Each of the
switches 55, 65, 75, and 85 are coupled to the tree 110 via the
tap 107. The switches 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85 operate as described
with respect to the switches 55 and 60.
[0027] The capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105 are coupled to the
switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85 such that when the
switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85 are in a first state, the
circuit 50 is in a charging state and each of the capacitors 90,
95, 100, and 105 are coupled between the power source 110 and the
ground 120. When the switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85 are
in the first state the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105 accumulate
an electrical charge. The capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105 are
further coupled to the switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85
such that when the switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85 are in
a second state, the circuit 50 is in a discharging state and the
capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105 are coupled in series between the
ground 120 and a load 115 thus providing power to the load 115.
The voltage provided to the load 115 is substantially equal to the
sum of the voltages across each of the capacitors 90, 95, 100 and
105. The capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105 are preferably about
10,000 [mu]F, but other capacitances are possible. While an LED is
shown as the load 115, other loads may be used.
[0028] While the charging circuit 50 is shown coupled to a single
tree (i.e., the tree 110), other configurations are possible. For
example, each of the switches 55, 65, 75, and 85 may be connected
to separate trees. The switches 55, 65, 75, and 85 could each be
connected to multiple trees (or other non-animal organisms). One
or more of the switches 55, 65, 75, and 85 could each be connected
to a single tree with multiple taps 107. One of the switches 55,
65, 75, and 85 could be connected to a single tree with a single
tap, with the remainder of the switches 55, 65, 75, and 85 being
connected to multiple trees, each with multiple taps. One of the
switches 55, 65, 75, and 85 could be connected to a single tree
with multiple taps, with the remainder of the switches 55, 65, 75,
and 85 being coupled to a single tree with multiple taps. Each of
the switches 55, 65, 75, and 85 may be coupled to a single tree or
multiple trees using more than one of the tap 107.
[0029] In operation, referring to FIG. 3, with further reference
to FIG. 2, a process 260 for providing power derived from a tree
to a load using the apparatus 40 includes the stages shown. The
process 260, however, is exemplary only and not limiting. The
process 260 may be altered, e.g., by having stages added, removed,
or rearranged.
[0030] At stage 264, the charging circuit 50 is coupled to the
living non-animal organism power source 110, such as a tree, a
plant, etc. Preferably, the tap 107 is inserted into the power
source 110. The tap 107 is inserted approximately 0.375 inches to
0.75 inches into the tree. Alternatively, a non-invasive tap may
be used, e.g., a transformer core can be placed around a
circumference of the tree.
[0031] At stage 268, the charging circuit 50 is grounded.
Preferably, the charging circuit 50 is coupled to a ground rod, or
other suitable electrical ground, such as a ground connection in a
typical residential power system. More current may be drawn from
the living non-animal organism by the load 115 by increasing the
depth that the ground rod is inserted into the ground and/or using
multiple ground rods.
[0032] At stage 272, the load 115 is coupled between the charging
circuit 50 and the ground 120. The load 115 is coupled on one side
to the output 125 of the charging circuit 50 and on its other side
to the ground 120.
[0033] At stage 276, the switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85
are actuated into the first (charging) state. The connections 56
and 61 of the switches 55 and 60 are closed, the connections 57
and 62 of the switches 55 and 60 are opened, and likewise for the
switches 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85. This couples the capacitors 90,
95, 100, and 105 to the taps 107.
[0034] At stage 280, the power is provided from the tree 110 to
the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105. The capacitors 90, 95, 100,
and 105 store energy received from the taps 107.
[0035] At stage 284, the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105 are
allowed to charge. The amount of time the capacitors 90, 95, 100,
and 105 are charged may vary to suit a specific application. For
example, to provide sufficient power to illuminate the LED, each
of the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105 is charged to 0.5 Vdc. The
amount of time for the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105 to reach
0.5 Vdc may vary depending on the amount of power supplied by a
particular power source.
[0036] At stage 288, the switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85
are changed from the first state to the second state to discharge
the power accumulated in the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105,
thereby providing power to the load 115.
[0037] The power from the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105 is used
to operate the load 115, here causing the LED to emit light. The
process 260 returns to stage 276 where the switches 55, 60, 65,
70, 75, 80, and 85 are changed from the second state to the first
state, thereby providing power from the taps 107 to the capacitors
90, 95, 100, and 105.
[0038] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, a filtered charging circuit 200
includes a filter circuit 205 and the charging circuit 50, which
are coupled to a power input 215, a load 220 (in FIGS. 2 and 4 an
LED), and a ground connector 250. The filter circuit 205 is
coupled between the power input 215 and the charging circuit 50,
and is configured to provide substantially DC power to the
charging circuit 50. The power input 215 is coupled to multiple
taps 225 configured to be inserted into one or more trees. As
described above with reference to FIG. 2, the charging circuit can
provide the load 220 with a stepped-up, substantially DC voltage.
[0039] The filter circuit 205 includes inductors 230 and 235, and
capacitors 240 and 245. The inductors 230 and 235 are coupled in
series between the power input 215 and the charging circuit 50 to
inhibit high-frequency power produced by the tree from reaching
the charging circuit 50. The capacitor 240 is coupled between the
junction of the inductors 230 and 235 and the ground 250. The
capacitor 245 is coupled between the junction of the inductor 235
and the charging circuit 50 and the ground 250. For example, the
inductors 230 and 235, and the capacitors 240 and 245 are arranged
in a 2-stage pie filter configuration. The capacitors short-out
(e.g., ground) high-frequency power produced by the tree, further
inhibiting non-DC power from being conducted to the charging
circuit 50. The inductors 230 and 235 are preferably about 10 mH,
although other inductances are possible. The capacitors 240 and
245 are preferably about 470 [mu]F, although other capacitances
are possible. The charging circuit 50 is configured to receive
substantially DC power from the filter circuit 205, and to output
intermittent DC power to the load 220 similar to the description
provided above with respect to FIG. 2.
[0040] In operation, referring to FIG. 5, with further reference
to FIG. 4, a process 500 for providing power derived from a tree
to the load 220 using the filtered charging circuit 200 includes
the stages shown. The process 500, however, is exemplary only and
not limiting. The process 500 may be altered, e.g., by having
stages added, removed, or rearranged.
[0041] At stage 505, the filtered charging circuit 200 is coupled
to the power input 215 such as a tree, a fungus, or other suitable
non-animal organism, here by inserting the taps 225 into a single
tree. Each of the taps 225 is inserted approximately 0.375 inches
to approximately 0.75 inches into the tree. If any of the taps 225
are non-invasive, then that (those) taps(s) 225 (e.g., a
transformer core) is (are) mounted accordingly. (e.g., placed
around the circumference of a tree).
[0042] At stage 510, the filtered charging circuit 200 is coupled
to ground. The filtered charging circuit 200 is connected to the
ground connector 250, such as a rod, or other suitable electrical
ground connector (e.g., a ground connection in a typical
residential power system). More current may be drawn from the
living non-animal organism by the load 220 by increasing the depth
that the ground rod is inserted into the ground and/or using
multiple ground rods.
[0043] At stage 515, the switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85
are actuated into a first (charging) state coupling the capacitors
90, 95, 100, and 105 to the filter circuit 205. Power flows from
the filter circuit 205 to the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105.
[0044] At stage 520, the power derived from the tree is filtered
to substantially remove alternating current (AC). At stage 520 the
filter circuit 205 filters the power derived from the taps 225
into substantially DC power. The combination of the inductors 230
and 235 and the capacitors 240 and the 245 substantially filters
out non-DC frequencies produced by the tree. The inductors 230 and
235 choke the high-frequencies produced by the tree. The
capacitors 240 and 245 inhibit low frequency power and conduct
high-frequency power to the ground connector 250. The filter
circuit 205 provides the filtered substantially DC power to the
charging circuit 50.
[0045] At stage 525 the filtered substantially DC power from the
filter circuit 205 is provided to the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and
105. The switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85 are put in the
first state to couple the circuit 205 to the capacitors 90, 95,
100, and 105 to provide power to, and charge, the capacitors 90,
95, 100, and 105. At stage 530, the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and
105 are allowed to charge. The amount of time the capacitors 90,
95, 100, and 105 are charged varies, and may be tailored to suit a
specific application. For example, to provide sufficient power to
illuminate the load 220, each of the capacitors is charged to 0.5
Vdc. The amount of time required to reach 0.5 Vdc may vary
depending on the amount of power supplied by a particular power
source.
[0046] At stage 535, the switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and 85
are changed from the first state to the second state to discharge
the power accumulated in the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105,
thereby providing power to the load 220.
[0047] After stage 535, the switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, and
85 are actuated from the second state to the first state, thereby
providing filtered substantially DC power from the filter circuit
205 to the charging circuit 50. The stages 515, 520, 525, and 530
may be repeated.
[0048] At stage 540, the power from the capacitors 90, 95, 100,
and 105 is used to operate the load 220, here causing the LED to
emit light. The process 500 returns to stage 515 where the
switches 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, and 85 are changed from the second
state to the first state, thereby providing power from the taps
225 to the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105
[0049] Referring to FIG. 6, a filtered charging circuit 300
includes a filter circuit 305 and a charging circuit 310, which
are coupled to a power input 315 and a load 320 (in FIG. 6, an
LED). The filter 305 is coupled between the power input 315 and
the charging circuit 310, and is configured to provide
substantially DC power to the charging circuit 310. The power
input 315 is coupled to multiple taps 325 that are each configured
to be inserted into a tree. The load 320 is preferably a
SSL-DSP5093UWC LED (manufactured by Lumex Incorporated, of
Palatine, Ill.), although other LEDs, and other types of loads,
may be used.
[0050] The filter circuit 305 includes inductors 330 and 335,
capacitors 340 and 345, and an output node 347. The inductors 330
and 335 are coupled in series between the power input 315 and the
output node 347 and are of inductances to serve as chokes of any
high-frequencies received at the power input 315. The capacitor
340 is coupled between the junction of the inductors 330 and 335
and the ground 348. The capacitor 345 is coupled between the
output node 347 and the ground 348. For example, the inductors 330
and 335, and the capacitors 340 and 345 are arranged in a 2-stage
pie filter configuration. The inductors 330 and 335 are preferably
about 10 mH, although other inductances are possible. The
capacitors 340 and 345 work in conjunction with the inductors 330
and 335 shorting-out high frequency signals that may have passed
through the inductors 330 and 335, respectively. The capacitors
340 and 345 are preferably about 470[deg.] F., although other
capacitances are possible.
[0051] The charging circuit 310 includes capacitors 350, 355, 360,
and 365, diodes 370, 375, and 380, a switch 385, a battery 390,
and a ground connection 349 connected to the ground 348. Coupled
between the output node 347 and the ground connection 349 are the
capacitors 350, 355, 360, and 365, and the diodes 370, 375, and
380, in an alternating series of capacitors and diodes. Anodes
371, 376, and 381 of the diodes 370, 375, and 380, respectively,
are coupled to the output node 347. Cathodes 372, 377, and 382 of
the diodes 370, 375, and 380, respectively, are coupled to the
ground connection 349. The capacitor 350 is coupled between the
cathode 372 of the diode 370 and the output node 347. The
capacitor 365 is coupled between the anode 381 of the diode 380
and the ground connection 349. The capacitors 350, 355, 360, and
365, and the diodes 370, 375, and 380 act as a voltage multiplier
circuit to allow filtered substantially DC power to charge the
capacitors 350, 355, 360, and 365 (e.g., by summing the voltages
across the capacitors 350, 355, 360, and 365). Using the
capacitors 350, 355, 360, and 365, and the diodes 370, 375, and
380, a higher voltage (e.g., 2-2.5 V) is produced to charge the
battery 390. The capacitors 350, 355, 360, and 365are 5,000 [mu]F,
although other capacitances are possible, such as 10,000 [mu]F.
The diodes 370, 375, and 380 are preferably 1N5417 diodes, but
other diodes are possible.
[0052] The battery 390 is coupled between the output node 347 and
the ground 348 such that it may receive power from the output node
347. The battery 390 is preferably a lithium-ion battery, but
other batteries may be used. A positive terminal 391 of the
battery 390 is coupled to the output node 347 and the switch 385.
A negative terminal 392 of the battery 390 is coupled to the
ground 348. Other configurations are possible (e.g., coupling the
negative terminal 392 to the output node 347, and coupling the
positive terminal 391 to the ground 348).
[0053] The switch 385 is coupled between a terminal 322 of the
load 320 and output node 347 to control a power flow to the load
320. When the switch 385 is in an open state (as shown), power is
inhibited (and preferably prevented) from flowing to the load 320.
When the switch 385 is in a closed state, power may flow to the
load 320. A terminal 321 of the load 320 is coupled to the ground
348.
[0054] In operation, referring to FIG. 7, with further reference
to FIG. 6, a process 600 for providing power derived from a tree
to the load 320 using the filtered charging circuit 300 includes
the stages shown. The process 600, however, is exemplary only and
not limiting. The process 600 may be altered, e.g., by having
stages added, removed, or rearranged.
[0055] At stage 605, the filtered charging circuit 300 is coupled
to the power input 315 such as a tree, a fungus, or other suitable
non-animal organism, here by inserting the taps 325 into a single
tree. Each of the taps 325 is inserted approximately 0.375 inches
to approximately 0.75 inches into the tree. If any of the taps 325
are non-invasive, then that (those) taps(s) 325 (e.g., a
transformer core) is (are) mounted accordingly. (e.g., placed
around the circumference of a tree).
[0056] At stage 610, the filtered charging circuit 300 is coupled
to ground. The filtered charging circuit 300 is connected to the
ground connector 349, such as a rod, or other suitable electrical
ground connector (e.g., a ground connection in a typical
residential power system). More current may be drawn from the
living non-animal organism by the load 320 by increasing the depth
that the ground rod is inserted into the ground.
[0057] At stage 615, the switch 385 is actuated into the first
state (i.e., open) where the load 320 is disconnected from the
filtered charging circuit 300 and current is inhibited/prevented
from reaching/operating the LED 320.
[0058] At stage 620, the power derived from the tree is filtered
to substantially remove alternating current (AC). At stage 620 the
filter circuit 305 filters the power derived from the taps 325
into substantially DC power. The combination of the inductors 330
and 335 and the capacitors 340 and the 345 substantially filters
out non-zero frequencies produced by the tree. The inductors 330
and 335 choke the high-frequencies produced by the tree. The
capacitors 340 and 345 inhibit low frequency power and conduct
high-frequency power to the ground connector 349. The filter
circuit 305 provides the filtered substantially DC power to the
charging circuit 310.
[0059] At stage 625, the filtered substantially DC power is
provided to the charging circuit 310 via the output node 347.
Power provided from the output node 347 is conducted through the
capacitors 350, 355, 360, and 365, and the diodes 370, 375, and
380. The configuration of the diodes 370, 375, and 380 allows
substantially only filtered DC power to charge the capacitors 350,
355, 360, and 365.
[0060] At stage 630, the battery 390 is charged using power from
the output node 347 and the capacitors 350, 355, 360, and 365. The
amount of time the battery 390 is charged varies, and may be
tailored to suit a specific application. The battery 390 may be
charged for a specific predetermined amount of time, or may be
charged until a certain power threshold is reached.
[0061] At stage 635 the switch 385 is actuated into the second
state (e.g., closed) coupling the load 320 across the terminals
391 and 392 of the battery 392, thereby providing power from the
battery 390 to the LED 320. Power may also be provided to the load
320 from the output node 347 and/or the capacitors 350, 355, 360,
and 365. The stages 615, 620, 625, 630, and 635 may be repeated.
[0062] At stage 640, the power from the capacitors 350, 355, 360,
and 365, and the battery 390 is used to operate the load 320, here
causing the LED to emit light. The process 600 returns to stage
615 where the switch 385 is changed from the second state to the
first state, thereby decoupling the load 320 from the positive
terminal 391 of the battery 390, the output node 347, and the
capacitor 350. The switch 385 thus alternates between the first
state and the second state to provide intermittent power to the
LED 320. Alternatively, the switch 385 can remain in the second
state to provide substantially constant power to the LED 320.
Other modes of operation are also possible.
[0063] In operation, referring to FIG. 8, with further reference
to FIG. 1, a process 1000 for determining storm distance and/or
severity by measuring the voltage provided by the tree 25 includes
the stages shown. The process 1000, however, is exemplary only and
not limiting. The process 1000 may be altered, e.g., by having
stages added, removed, or rearranged.
[0064] At stage 1005, the voltage provided by the tree 25 is
measured using the apparatus 1. Voltage values are recorded, e.g.,
at regular time intervals such as every 30 seconds, although other
intervals are possible. Preferably, the apparatus 1 is not used to
provide power to a load (e.g., the load 35) during stage 1005,
although the apparatus 1 can provide power to a load
simultaneously with the voltage measurements. The voltage can be
measured, for example, by a computer and/or manually.
[0065] At stage 1010, the voltage measurements are tracked. For
example, a computer system can collect the voltage readings at
regular intervals and store the values in a data table with each
entry in the table representing a discrete voltage measurement at
a known time. Alternatively, a person taking manual measurements
can record the measurements manually.
[0066] At stage 1015, the voltage measurements are compared to a
baseline voltage for the tree 25 (e.g., a voltage value collected
on a clear day). If the voltage measurements decrease relative to
the baseline voltage of the tree 25, then a conclusion can be
reached and an indication can be provided that a storm (e.g., a
lightning storm) is approaching. The amount of the voltage drop
and/or the speed of the voltage drop when compared to the baseline
voltage can be used to determine the severity and/or the distance
of an approaching storm. For example, a 0.5V drop in twenty
minutes (with the baseline voltage as a reference point) can
result in a determination that a more severe storm is approaching
than a 0.2V drop in an hour (with the baseline voltage as a
reference point). The voltage readings collected and tracked at
stages 1005 and 1010 can be used at stage 1015 to determine
information about an approaching storm alone (e.g., distance
and/or severity), or can be combined with other weather tools,
such as Radar and/or satellite imagery, used in predicting weather
conditions.
Experiment 1
[0067] Referring to Appendix A, exemplary results of voltage yield
tests from different trees using different tap configurations,
different ground rod quantities, and different numbers of taps are
shown. The tests were performed using the configuration shown in
FIG. 1, and described in the corresponding written description,
where the load was a voltmeter. The circuit 30, however, as shown
in FIG. 1, was omitted in the tests. The tests were performed
selecting different geographic locations of the trees, different
types of trees, different tap materials, different tap depths,
different tap diameters, different tap heights (i.e., height from
ground level), different tree altitudes, varying numbers of taps,
and varying soil conditions. As shown in Appendix A, factors such
as the species and/or the variety of a particular plant, e.g.,
tree, affects the available voltage and/or current. For example,
an oak tree located 40 feet above sea level and a maple tree
located 200 feet above sea level provided differing amounts of
voltage and/or current. Trees produced a substantially constant DC
voltage (and some AC voltage), while other plants produced a
less-constant DC voltage than trees. Furthermore, two trees,
providing about 0.75V and 0.8V (DC), respectively, were coupled in
series. Approximately 0.8V was measured from the second of the two
tree coupled in series.
Experiment 2
[0068] The charging circuit 50 (of FIG. 2) was used to
successfully power an LED. The charging circuit 50, using four
10,000 [mu]F (35 Vdc) capacitors, successfully illuminated an
SSL-DSP5093UWC LED (manufactured by Lumex Incorporated, of
Palatine, Ill.) for approximately one second. The charging circuit
50 was placed in the charging state for approximately 1.75 hours,
thereby charging the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105. At the end
of the charging period, there was approximately a 0.5 Vdc
potential in each of the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105, storing
approximately 0.0125 Joules of energy in each of the capacitors
90, 95, 100, and 105. To light the LED, the switches 55, 60, 65,
70, 75, 80, and 85 were actuated, changing the switches 55, 60,
65, 70, 75, 80, and 85 from the first (charging) state, to the
second (discharge) state, thereby providing 2 Vdc to the LED
(4*0.5 Vdc) and illuminating the LED. After approximately one
second of the LED being illuminated, the voltage across the LED
dropped to 1.5 Vdc and the LED no longer illuminated (the lower
operating threshold of the SSL-DSP5093UWC LED is approximately
1.5V). The capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105 were allowed to
recharge for approximately one hour to again reach a 0.5 Vdc
potential across each of the capacitors 90, 95, 100, and 105.
Experiment 3
[0069] The apparatus was used to collect weather related
information (exemplary data is shown in Appendix B). Voltage
readings were collected as a lightning storm approached from the
West of a test site including a tree. As the storm approached the
test site, a voltage provided by the tree decreased relative to
prior levels. The closer the storm was relative to the test site,
the larger the voltage drop. For example, when the storm was
several miles away, the voltage provided by the tree dropped about
0.2V compared to a voltage measured from the tree on a clear day.
As the storm had substantially reached the test site, the voltage
provided by the tree had dropped approximately 0.5V compared to
the voltage measured from the tree on a clear day. The approaching
storm was an intense lightning storm, including positive
lightning. Data consistent with the above description was recorded
during other lightning storms. Observations indicate that stronger
electrical activity (e.g., lightning) produced by a storm caused a
quicker and larger voltage drop. Thus, by measuring the voltage
provided by the tree 25, it was possible to gather information
regarding the severity of an approaching storm. After a storm had
passed over the test site, the voltage provided by the tree would
return to "normal" levels within about thirty-five to forty
minutes.
Experiment 4
[0070] A modified version of the apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1 was
used to stimulate/enhance the growth of plants including tomato
and broccoli plants. Providing electricity produced by a tree to a
plant was found to increase growth of the plant, to increase the
plant's resistance to pests, and to increase the plant's
resistance to frost. A tree was coupled to a plant using the tap 5
and the wire 15, with the plant being the load 35. The plant's
root system replaced the conductor 10.
Broccoli Plant
[0071] One of several broccoli plants in a group near each other
was coupled to an apple tree as described above during an entire
growing season. Prior to coupling the apple tree to the broccoli
plant, the apple tree produced about 1.1 Vdc and the broccoli
plant produced an average of about 0.3 Vdc. As the growing season
progressed, the "energized" broccoli plant showed increased growth
and increased resistance to pests relative to the other
neighboring broccoli plants. For example, the energized broccoli
plant grew taller than the other neighboring broccoli plants, and
produced a larger center head and more side heads than the other
neighboring broccoli plants. An additional experiment was
performed by energizing the smallest and weakest broccoli plant of
the group of broccoli plants. Within about two to three days of
being energized, the newly-energized broccoli plant was about the
same size and height as the neighboring non-energized broccoli
plants.
[0072] The energized broccoli plant was not bothered by pests,
whereas the non-energized broccoli plants were attacked by pests.
As determined by several visual inspections during the growing
season, the energized broccoli plant was substantially untouched
by pests, whereas the non-energized broccoli plants' leaves were
eaten by pests. As a further experiment, a worm was placed on the
energized broccoli plant and then onto one of the other broccoli
plants. After being placed on the "energized" broccoli plant, the
worm did not eat the broccoli plant and fell off. When the same
worm was placed on the non-energized broccoli plant, the worm
began eating the broccoli plant soon thereafter. An additional
experiment was performed by energizing a pest-inhabited broccoli
plant. Within about one hour of being energized, the pests
inhabiting the broccoli plant vacated the plant.
Tomato Plant
[0073] One of several Cherokee Purple tomato plants in a group
near each other was coupled to an elm tree. Prior to coupling the
elm tree to the tomato plant, the elm tree produced about 1.2 Vdc.
The energized/connected tomato plant included four shoots, each of
which were coupled to the elm tree. Visual inspections of the
tomato plant revealed that the energized tomato plant grew
approximately thirty-three percent higher than the non-energized
plants. The energized tomato plant also produced more tomatoes
than the non-energized tomato plants. Furthermore, the energized
tomato plant survived the first two frosts of the winter season,
whereas the non-energized tomato plants died after the first
frost.
[0074] Other embodiments are within the scope and spirit of the
invention, including the appended claims. Features implementing
functions may be physically located at various positions,
including being distributed such that portions of functions are
implemented at different physical locations. Loads other than LEDs
may be used, such as a transmitter, receiver, microchip,
incandescent light source, infrared light source, a laser, a DC/DC
voltage converter, a DC/AC inverter, etc. Power may be drawn from
non-animal organisms other than trees. For example, broccoli
plants, tomato plants, soybean plants, and mushrooms may be used.
Also, potted plants, and potted trees may be used. The tap may be
inserted into a branch of the tree. The load can draw more current
from the tree using multiple ground rods.
[0075] While the tap has been disclosed as a nail, other
configurations are possible such as a staple. Non-invasive
embodiments of the tap are possible, e.g., a donut-shaped
transformer core placed around the circumference of a tree. The
surface area of a tap may be increased by, for example, being
threaded (e.g., being a screw) and/or placing outwardly disposed
barbs on the tap. A tap may have a flange disposed around the
circumference of the tap to help a user insert the tap correctly
into a tree (e.g., to the correct depth). A tap may include a
handle to help in insertion into the tree and/or removal from the
tree.
[0076] While the terms "connected," "connector," "coupled," and
"connection" have been used to indicate a direct connection, other
configurations are possible. For example, referring to FIG. 6,
when the diode 380 is "coupled" to the capacitor 360, this may
include indirect connection through another component (e.g., a
resistor coupled between the cathode 382 of the diode 380 and the
capacitor 360).
[0077] The word "or" is to be construed as including the
conjunctive and disjunctive definition.
[0078] Further, while the description refers to the invention, the
description may include more than one invention.
APPENDIX A
POWER SOURCE
DATA COLLECTION Height
Test Time Voltage Nail
Penetration Nail from No. of
No. Intervals DC Tree Type Nail Type
Depth Diameter Ground Nails Soil
Type Altitude
1 7:00 PM 0.9 VDC PINE STAINLESS
[3/4]'' [1/8]'' 3 FT 2 LOAM
2 7:25 0.9 VDC PINE STAINLESS
[3/4]'' [1/8]'' 4 FT 2 LOAM
3 7:40 0.9 VDC PINE STAINLESS
[3/4]'' [1/8]'' 5 FT 2 LOAM
1 1:00 PM 1.0 VDC PINE STAINLESS
[3/4]'' [1/8]'' 5 FT 2 CLAY-SAND
1 10 MIN -1.2 EIM [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
2 -1.6 BLUE SPRUCE [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
3 -1.0 MAPLE [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
4 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
5 -1.2 EIM [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
6 -1.1 WALNUT [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
7 -0.8 LILAC BUSH [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
8 -1.1 ELM [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
9 -1.6 BLUE SPRUCE [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
10 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
11 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
12 -1.4 BIRCH [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
13 -1.4 BIRCH [3/4]''
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
14 -1.5 BIRCH [3/4]''
[3/8] 2'' 1 SAND 40
15 -1.2 OAK [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 4 SAND 40
16 -1.2 ELM [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
17 -1.5 APPLE [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
18 -1.5 APPLE [3/4]''
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
19 -1.3 OAK [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
20 -1.2 MAPLE [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
21 -0.8 ? BUSH [3/4]''
[3/8] 12'' 1 SAND 40
22 -1.1 ELDER [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
23 -1.6 SPRUCE [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
24 -1.2 OAK [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
25 -1.1 GREEN [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
26 -1.1 SPRUCE [3/4]''
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
27 -1.1 [3/4]''
[3/8] 48'' 1 SAND 40
28 -1.1 [3/4]''
[3/8] 8'' 1 SAND 40
29 -1.1 [3/4]''
[3/8] 2'' 1 SAND 40
30 -1.1 [3/4]''
[3/8] 4'' 1 SAND 40
31 -1.0 BIRCH [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
32 -1.0 BIRCH [3/4]''
[3/8] 12'' 1 SAND 40
33 -1.0 BIRCH [3/4]''
[3/8] 5'' 1 SAND 40
34 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
35 -1.4 OAK [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
36 -0.9 ? [3/4]''
[3/8] 12'' 1 SAND 40
37 1.1 ELM [3/4]''
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
38 1.2 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND APPOX 60
39 1.1 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND APPOX 60
40 1.1 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND APPOX 60
41 1.2 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND APPOX 60
42 1.0 BIRCH [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND APPOX 60
43 1.2 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND APPOX 60
44 1.4 BLUE SPRUCE [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND
APPOX 60
45 1.1 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND APPOX 60
45 1.3 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND APPOX 60
47 1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND APPOX 60
48 -1.2 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 5 SAND 40
49 -1.2 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 30'' 4 SAND 40
50 -1.3 WILLOW [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
51 -1.3 WILLOW [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 24'' 1 SAND 40
52 -1.3 WILLOW [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
53 -1.0 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
54 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 40
55 -1.2 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
56 1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND CLAY 120
57 1.1 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND CLAY 120
58 1.4 SASAFRAS [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND CLAY 120
59 1.0 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND CLAY 120
60 1.0 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 38'' 1 SAND CLAY 120
61 1.2 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND CLAY
120
62 1.3 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND CLAY 120
63 1.4 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 30'' 1 SAND CLAY 120
64 1.2 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND CLAY 120
65 1.1 CEDAR [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
66 1.4 CHERRY [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
67 1.4 CHERRY [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 12'' 1 SAND 40
68 1.5 CHERRY [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 40
69 1.4 CHERRY [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
70 1.1 CEDAR [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
71 1.2 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
72 1.2 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
73 1.3 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 40
112 0.9 CEDAR [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40'
113 0.9 CEDAR [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40'
114 1.0 CEDAR [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 40'
115 1.0 CEDAR [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 40'
116 1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 200'
117 1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 24'' 1 SAND 200'
118 1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 48'' 1 SAND 200'
119 1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 200'
120 1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 200'
121 1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 24'' 1 SAND 200'
122 1.2 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 200'
123 1.4 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 200'
124 1.5 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 200'
125 1.2 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 200'
126 1.2 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 24'' 1 SAND 200'
127 1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 200'
128 1.0 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 200'
129 1.0 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 24'' 1 SAND 200'
130 1.0 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 200'
131 1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 200'
132 -1.2 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 24'' 1 SAND 200'
133 -1.2 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 24'' 4 SAND 200'
134 -1.2 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 200'
135 -1.2 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 30'' 1 SAND 200'
136 -1.3 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 44'' 8 SAND 200'
137 -1.2 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 60'' 1 SAND 200'
138 -1.4 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 8'' 1 SAND 200'
139 1.2 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 20'' 1 SAND 140'
140 1.2 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 28'' 1 SAND 140'
141 1.2 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 140'
142 1.4 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 140'
143 1.6 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 140'
144 1.6 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 30'' 1 SAND 140'
145 1.4 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 140'
146 1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 140'
147 1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 24'' 1 SAND 140'
148 1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 46'' 1 SAND 140'
149 1.3 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND 140'
150 1.1 OAK [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 18'' SAND
140'
151 1.1 OAK [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 28'' SAND
CLAY 140'
152 1.1 OAK [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 38'' SAND
CLAY 140'
153 1.2 OAK [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 49'' SAND
CLAY 140'
154 1.2 OAK [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 0'' SAND
CLAY 140'
155 0.9 RED OAK [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
156 0.9 RED OAK [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 30'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
157 0.8 RED OAK [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 56'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
158 1.1 RED OAK [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND
CLAY 140'
159 1.2 SUGAR MAPLE [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
160 1.2 SUGAR MAPLE [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 25'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
161 1.3 SUGAR MAPLE [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND
CLAY 140'
162 1.4 SUGAR MAPLE [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
163 1.2 BLACK CHERRY [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 17'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
164 1.2 BLACK CHERRY [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 25'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
165 1.3 BLACK CHERRY [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND
CLAY 140'
166 1.4 BLACK CHERRY [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 20'' 12 SAND
CLAY 140'
167 1.4 PEAR [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND
CLAY 140'
168 1.1 PEAR [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
169 1.1 WILLOW [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 27'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
170 1.3 WILLOW [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND
CLAY 140'
171 1.6 WILLOW [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
172 1.1 SPRUCE [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 20'' 1 SAND CLAY
140'
173 1.1 BEECH [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 30'' 1 SAND 40'
174 1.1 BEECH [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 40'' 1 SAND 40'
175 1.1 BEECH [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 50'' 1 SAND 40'
176 1.0 BEECH 3 inch
[1/4]-[3/8] 20'' 1 SAND 40'
177 1.0 BEECH 5 inch
[1/4]-[3/8] 20'' 1 SAND 40'
178 1.2 BEECH staple
[1/4]-[3/8] 20'' 1 SAND 40'
179 1.0 ELM [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40'
180 1.0 ELM 3 inch
[1/4]-[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40'
181 0.9 ELM 5 inch
[1/4]-[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40'
182 1.2 ELM staple
[1/4]-[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40'
183 1.1 BIRCH [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40'
184 1.3 ELM [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 140'
185 1.3 ELM [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 140'
186 1.4 ELM [3/4]
[1/4]-[3/8] 0'' 1 SAND
140'
187 1.4 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 140
188 1.4 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 34'' 1 SAND 140
189 1.5 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 0 1 SAND 140
190 1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 140
191 1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 140
192 1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 48'' 1 SAND 140
193 1.4 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0 1 SAND 140
194 1.3 APPLE? [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 140
195 1.3 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 30'' 1 SAND 140
196 1.1 PINE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 140
197 1.1 PINE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 140
198 1.0 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
199 1.0 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
200 1.2 BLACK CHERRY [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 12'' 1 SAND 40
201 1.2 BLACK CHERRY [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 20'' 1 SAND 40
202 1.2 BLACK CHERRY [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 48'' 1 SAND 40
203 1.3 BLACK CHERRY [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 0 1 SAND 40
204 1.1 LILAC [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 14'' 1 SAND 40
205 1.1 LILAC [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 22'' 1 SAND 40
206 1.1 LILAC [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 40'' 1 SAND 40
207 1.1 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
208 1.1 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
209 1.1 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 50'' 1 SAND 40
210 1.3 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
211 1.3 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 30'' 1 SAND 40
212 1.3 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 50'' 1 SAND 40
213 1.3 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 74'' 1 SAND 40
214 -1.2 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 20'' 8 SAND 40
215 -1.2 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
216 -1.3 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0 1 SAND 40
217 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
218 -1.3 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 14'' 1 SAND 40
219 -1.3 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 25'' 1 SAND 40
220 -1.3 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 50'' 1 SAND 40
221 -1.4 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 14'' 1 SAND 40
222 -1.4 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 22'' 1 SAND 40
223 -1.4 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
224 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
225 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
226 -1.0 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 20'' 1 SAND 40
227 -1.0 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 40'' 1 SAND 40
228 -1.0 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 50'' 1 SAND 40
229 -1.2 BEECH [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
230 -1.2 BEECH [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 24'' 1 SAND 40
231 -1.2 BEECH [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 38'' 1 SAND 40
232 -1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 16'' 1 SAND 40
233 -1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 28'' 1 SAND 40
234 -1.3 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 38'' 1 SAND 40
235 -1.4 OAK [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0 1 SAND 40
236 -1.2 BIRCH [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
237 -1.3 BIRCH [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 30'' 1 SAND 40
238 -1.3 BIRCH [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 44'' 1 SAND 40
239 -1.2 BIRCH [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 0 1 SAND 40
240 -1.1 POPLAR [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
241 -1.1 POPLAR [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 24'' 1 SAND 40
242 -1.2 POPLAR [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
243 -1.2 POPLAR [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 48'' 1 SAND 40
244 -1.1 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
245 -1.1 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 28'' 1 SAND 40
246 -1.2 BLACKBERRY [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] ?10''? 1 SAND
40
247 -1.2 BLACKBERRY [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 16'' 1 SAND 40
248 -0.9 WILLOW [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 12'' 1 SAND 40
249 -1.0 WILLOW [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 20'' 1 SAND 40
250 -1.1 WILLOW [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 0 1 SAND 40
251 -0.8 BROCOLLI [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 8'' 1
SAND 40
252 -0.7 BROCOLLI [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] LEAF 1 SAND 40
253 -1.1 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 14'' 1 SAND 40
254 -1.1 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] t0
[3/8] 20'' 1 SAND 40
255 -1.0 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
256 -1.0 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
257 -1.1 WALNUT [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
258 -0.3 WALNUT [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
259 -0.4 PINE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 16'' 1 SAND 40
260 -0.9 PINE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0 1 SAND 40
261 -1.2 PINE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 20'' 1 SAND 40
262 -1.2 PINE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 40'' 1 SAND 40
263 -1.3 PINE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0 1 SAND 40
264 -1.1 LILAC [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 12'' 1 SAND 40
265 -1.1 LILAC [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
266 -1.0 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 2'' 1 SAND 40
267 -1.0 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 0 1 SAND 40
268 -1.1 PINE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
269 -1.0 PINE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 32'' 1 SAND 40
270 -1.3 LEMON [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
271 -0.9 TOMATO [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 6'' 1 SAND 40
272 -0.8 CAULIFLOWER [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 2'' 1
SAND 40
273 0.0 GRASS [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 0 Alligator SAND 40
clip
274 -1.1 PINE [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 16'' 1 SAND 40
275 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 15'' 1 SAND 40
276 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 28'' 1 SAND 40
277 -1.0 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
278 -1.0 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 25'' 1 SAND 40
279 -1.1 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 35'' 1 SAND 40
280 -0.9 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
281 -1.0 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
282 -1.0 CEDAR [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
283 -1.1 CEDAR [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 30'' 1 SAND 40
284 -1.0 BASSWOOD [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 20'' 1 SAND 40
285 -1.0 BASSWOOD [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 36'' 1 SAND 40
286 -1.0 BASSWOOD [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 48'' 1 SAND 40
287 -1.0 BASSWOOD [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 65'' 1 SAND 40
290 0.0 TELE POLE [3/4]''
[1/4] to [3/8] 24'' 1 SAND 40
291 -0.9 LILAC [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 16'' 1 SAND 40
293 -1.4 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
294 -1.4 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 28'' 1 SAND 40
295 -1.3 SPRUCE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 40'' 1 SAND 40
296 -1.1 ELM [3/4]'' [1/4] to
[3/8] 16'' 1 SAND 40
297 -1.2 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 16'' 1 SAND 40
298 -1.2 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 24'' 1 SAND 40
299 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 18'' 1 SAND 40
300 -1.1 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 30'' 1 SAND 40
301 -1.2 MAPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 0 1 SAND 40
302 -1.2 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 16'' 1 SAND 40
303 -1.2 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 1 SAND 40
BROCCOLI
304 -1.2 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 1 SAND 40
BROCCOLI
305 -1.2 APPLE [3/4]'' [1/4]
to [3/8] 1 SAND 40
BROCCOLI
[0000]
No.
of
No. of ground Ground DC
AC Current
taps Material rods material Voltage
Voltage (mA)
1 Roofing 1 Copper 1.02 1.20
15
Nail
1 Roofing 2 Copper 1.02 1.20
21
Nail
1 Roofing 3 Copper 1.02 1.20
28
Nail
1 Roofing 6 Copper 1.00 1.20
45
Nail
2 Roofing 1 Copper 1.02 1.20
20
Nail
2 Roofing 2 Copper 1.00 1.20
27
Nail
2 Roofing 3 Copper 1.00 1.20
35
Nail
2 Roofing 6 Copper 1.01 1.20
57
Nail
[0000]
Conductor Conductor DC
AC Current
1 Media 2 Media Voltage
Voltage (mADC)
Copper Tree Copper Earth 0.50
0.60 10
Copper Tree Copper Tree 0.01
0.00 0.00
Roofing Tree Copper Earth 0.72
0.80 30
Nail
Roofing Tree Copper Tree 0.85
0.00 20
Nail
Roofing Tree Roofing Tree 0.02
0.00 0.00
Nail Nail
Roofing Tree Roofing Earth 0.46
0.50 1.0
Nail Nail
DC AC
Current
Conductor 1 Media Conductor 2 Media
Voltage Voltage ([mu]ADC) Elevation
Roofing Potted Copper Earth 0.60
0.20 22 Ground
Nail
Tree
level
Roofing Potted Copper Earth 0.60
0.20 21 1'' thick
Nail
Tree
pine
board
Roofing Potted Copper Earth 0.59
0.59 21 16''
Nail
Tree
wooden
box
Roofing Potted Copper Earth 0.00
0.00 0.00 Held
Nail
Tree
waist
high
[0079] The potted tree was a Norfolk Island Pine approximately
three feet tall, which was potted in a plastic pot about 40 mils.
thick.
APPENDIX B
Test 1:
DC Voltage
Time Storm distance from tree
Baseline Voltage - 1.2 V
11:00 AM About 100 miles 1.1 V
12:00 PM About 50-60 miles 1.0 V
0.5 V
1.0 V
0.5 V
2:00 PM Dissipated 1.2 V
[0080] The 12:00 PM measurements reflect fluctuations when
lightning strikes occurred.
Test 2:
DC Voltage
Time Storm distance from tree
Baseline Voltage - 1.2 V
3:00 PM 50-60 miles 1.1 V
3:15 PM 40-50 miles 1.0 V
0.3 V
1.0 V
0.3 V
3:30 PM Dissipated 1.2 V
[0081] The 3:15 PM measurements reflect fluctuations when
lightning strikes occurred.
Test 3:
DC Voltage
Time Storm distance from tree
Baseline Voltage - 1.1 V
7:45 PM 50-60 miles 1.1 V
7:55 PM 40-50 miles 0.72 V
0.85 V
0.72 V
9:16 PM Dissipated 1.1 V
[0082] The 7:55 PM measurements reflect fluctuations when
lightning strikes occurred.
