The Fuel Cell experiment, merging oceanographic instrumentation with the Internet

Abstract

Funded by the Center for Biomolecular Science and Engineering of the Naval Research Laboratory, Neptune Sciences, Inc (NSI) developed a system capable of quantifying the power that can be harvested from the ocean floor using fuel cells and capable of being remotely monitored and controlled using the Internet. The instrument, called the Fuel Cell Datalogger is to be deployed in max depth of 30 meters, later versions to 1500 meters. Real-time control and monitoring is possible through a 250-ft umbilical connected to a laptop on the pier that can be accessed and remotely controlled through the Internet. Anticipated use for Fuel Cell technology is self-powered underwater instrumentation. Available Internet technology is used in this system to greatly simplify remote data acquisition, control tests and disseminate data.