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PCB Integration of Dye-sensitised Solar Cells for Low-cost Networked Embedded Systems

Authors:
Jerker Delsing
Jens Eliasson
Simon J. Thompson
Yi_Bing Cheng

Keywords: Dye sensitised solar cells, energy harvesting, networked sensors, wireless sensor networks

Abstract:
Abstract—Wireless sensor networks are envisioned to make a large impact on how sensor data from physical phenomena can be utilized by millions of users on the Internet. However, one concern in deploying a large number of real-world physical sensors is that replacing spent batteries might not be feasible. One solution to this issue may involve energy harvesting technology, e.g. solar panels. Solar panels are currently relatively expensive because they require a time-consuming and therefore costly assembly process. As an alternative, this paper suggests a new approach to powering networked sensors: the direct integration of a solar cell onto the sensor nodes printed circuit board. This approach eliminates the need for manual assembly and the use of expensive connectors. This article presents test results and a feasibility analysis of the direct integration of a dye-sensitised solar cell onto a circuit board. Preliminary results indicate that this approach is feasible for networked sensors. The aim of this work is to develop a method for the assembly of complete systems, consisting of a printed circuit board, components, and power supply, using a single production process. The first steps towards this aim have been taken, and the authors believe that the proposed approach may be one enabling technology for future large-scale, low-cost wireless sensor networks.

Pages: 215 to 222

Copyright: Copyright (c) IARIA, 2011

Publication date: August 21, 2011

Published in: conference

ISSN: 2308-4405

ISBN: 978-1-61208-144-1

Location: Nice/Saint Laurent du Var, France

Dates: from August 21, 2011 to August 27, 2011