An efficient solar energy harvesting system for wireless sensor network nodes
Saji M. Antony, S. Indu, Rajeshwari Pandey
Abstract
A wireless sensor network is a network of spatially deployed sensor nodes with constrained energy resources. This research paper focusses to design a robust solar energy harvesting system to enhance life time of sensor nodes. Proposed solar energy supply system mainly consists of a solar panel, rechargeable battery and a control circuit. To obtain sufficient voltage to charge battery, electrical energy generated through panel is boosted by boost converter. Different sensor nodes are supplied with energy from this system. An inverter is also designed for AC applications. Complete structure of the system, design of each module, details of implementation and evaluation of performance are explained in this work. Experimental results show that this compact, self-sufficient system enables outdoor based wireless sensor network nodes to operate successfully.