Power harvesting in wireless sensor networks and its adaptation with maximum power point tracking: current technology and future directions

Abstract

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is one of the most effective tools in collecting data autonomously going as recently as 5-10 years ago. A low deployment and maintenance cost WSN is highly recognized as one of the more advanced Internet of Things networks that can be deployed for a series of purposes namely environmental and industrial monitoring due to the majority of such systems run on expendable power source that offers WSN with a limited service lifetime. The aim of this paper is to review existing renewable energy and prospective approaches in energy harvesting strategy as a means of having a sustainable and low maintenance operation of WSN. Additionally, recent maximum power point tracking (MPPT) of solar energy harvesting is thoroughly discussed in a new perspective of the WSN framework. Semi-pilot cell fractional open-circuit voltage (SPC-FOCV) MPPT is a fairly new concept in WSN application that features less complicated configuration with reduced hardware requirements and lower cost. Recent research findings are evaluated throughout this paper leading to the SPC-FOCV MPPT materialization. A holistic discussion is made encompassing the advantages and disadvantages of the concept, its performance compared to conventional MPPT approaches and the future insight of the technology in WSN.