Design of a solar energy harvesting system for supplying energy to an autonomous wireless sensor node

Introduction: This paper is the product of the research "Generation of a modular electronic platform for the conformation of a WSN" developed in the EAFIT University in 2019. Problem: Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) are used as a technology of information and communication (TIC) to automate processes. Their implementation is considered non-efficient because of their high cost concerning the requirement to replace node batteries. Objective: The objective of the research is to develop more efficient solar energy harvesting systems that can guarantee an average performance of the wireless sensor node at a low cost. Methodology: Here, we present the design and the implementation of a solar energy harvesting system that integrates a buck converter, a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control, and a wireless sensor node. We also measure the voltage at the output of the buck converter and provide an estimate of energy autonomy in the wireless sensor node. Results: Autonomous operation with the solar energy harvesting system was achieved for the node, sending packages each 20 min. Conclusion: This article presented a solar energy harvesting system with the implementation of an MPPT control. Originality: Through this research, parameters of the MPPT control are formulated for the first time for the solar energy harvesting system design, based on the duty cycle limits. Limitations: The availability of the devices used in the implementation of the proposed design.