Integrated Wireless Sensor Network Platform for STEM Outreach Activities

This paper identifies STEM project activities based on an integrated wireless sensor network platform comprising the physical wireless sensor network operating in conjunction with the virtual network simulation tool. WiFi sensor modules are configured in a grid to create the physical wireless sensor network. These modules transmit and receive radio frequency signal strengths. The virtual network simulation tool interfaces with the WiFi modules in the physical environment. The signal strengths from the physical sensor network are assigned to virtual sensor nodes in the simulation environment. CupCarbon is the wireless sensor network design and simulation tool used to interface with the WiFi modules of the physical wireless sensor network. The paper illustrates STEM outreach activities created on the platform which are suitable for the student evolving from the K-12 environment through the graduate engineering degree programs.