Design of a micro photovoltaic system for wireless sensor network

Sustainable operation of the sensor nodes powered by limited lifetime batteries is a key challenge. To solve this problem, a micro photovoltaic system was fulfilled and integrated with the sensor node to develop an autonomous self-powered micro system. The micro photovoltaic system contains solar cells, Lithium polymer battery and energy management subsystem. This paper presents the design, performance test and analysis of the micro system. Experimental results demonstrate the micro photovoltaic system can continually self-replenish its energy consumption and extend the lifetime of sensor network.