An Autonomous Wireless Sensor Node Based on Hybrid RF Solar Energy Harvesting

Abstract

The widespread deployment of the Internet of Things (IoT) requires the development of new embedded systems, which will provide a diverse array of different intelligent functionalities. However, these devices must also meet environmental, maintenance, and longevity constraints, while maintaining extremely low-power consumption. In this work, a batteryless, low-power consumption, compact embedded system for IoT applications is presented. This system is capable of using a combination of hybrid solar and radiofrequency power sources and operates in the 900 MHz ISM band. It is capable of receiving OOK or ASK modulated data and measuring environmental data and can transmit information back to the requester using GFSK modulated data. The total consumption of the system during its sleep state is 920 nW. Minimum power required to operate is -15.1 dBm or 70 lux, when using only radiofrequency or solar powering, respectively. The system is fully designed with components off the shelf (COTS).