PiCUS TMSO Manual
39
IV.
You want to monitor trees in an avenue:
The difficulty with an avenue is that each row of trees shadows each other and thus
creates obstacles in the radio path, which reduces the range. Up to a certain length of
the avenue it still works, but beyond that, you have to look for other possibilities.
Of course, you can mount the central unit on a tree in the opposite row, but if you want
to monitor both sides, this is only a limited solution. Another possibility is to position the
central unit at an offside object from which the trees of the back row of avenues can be
seen through the gaps of the front ones (see
Figure 11
).
In individual cases, the radio connection must be tested from different positions in such
constellations (see also
6.5.2Optimization of the Radio
Depending on the extent of the avenue, several clusters and control sensors should be
used. In the example in
Figure 11
the trees closest together are grouped into clusters,
with reference trees No. 4 and 16.
6.5 Planning of the Definite Positions of the System Components
In addition to the mounting height, which is selected depending on the planned sensor type,
the orientation of the TMSO.IM in the horizontal plane is also important, as this influences the
two parameters power supply and radio link!
6.5.1 Optimization of Energy Supply
As already described, the devices are partly supplied with energy by solar cells.
The energy yield depends on the time and light intensity with which the cells are illuminated.
Accordingly, the devices should therefore be aligned in such a way that they receive direct
sunlight for as long a period of the day as possible.
In general, this is the southern direction.
If this alignment is not possible or if there are large shady obstacles, then a compromise must
be found where at least part of the daytime energy can still be collected. Removing the
obstacles is also a possible solution.
If necessary the devices are also capable of generating energy from scattered light (for
example in the shade or when the cloud cover is closed), but the yield drops drastically under
these conditions.
1
4
Cluster
2
CU
2
3
9
8
6
5
10
13
12
18
17
15
14
16
7
11
N
Cluster
1
Figure 11
– Practical examples - Scenario 4
