A Workshop for Integration of Internet of Things into Green Energy Manufacturing

This paper describes enhancement of green energy manufacturing subjects using a project based learning workshop with Internet of things (IoT). The Internet of things is a collection of all physical devices that are controlled or monitored over the Internet. The evolution of IoT has led to the diffusion of wireless personal devices, such as smart mobile phones, personal computers and wearable devices, designed to operate over the Internet. It is a growing area in the field of engineering and is aimed at reducing human effort. While the IoT may have tremendous applications in engineering, its potential in the field of green energy manufacturing is often neglected. In this workshop we aimed to spread awareness about the uses and possible contributions of Internet based devices in clean energy and energy efficiency. The workshop was designed to provide students with a firm grounding in the principles of sustainable manufacturing environment and real-world energy efficiency improvements on general systems. Our training materials were designed for various students in engineering so that they become interested in green energy manufacturing. This workshop allowed the students to explore the possibilities of the application of the Internet of things to areas beyond green energy and inspire them to create sustainable manufacturing for a better future. The paper presents an educational strategy to integrate IoT into green energy manufacturing and to cultivate leaders in the field among minority and female engineering students. Successful completion of the projects in the workshop has led to excellence in green energy and advanced engineering education.