Efficient Integration of Ultra-low Power Techniques and Energy Harvesting in Self-Sufficient Devices: A Comprehensive Overview of Current Progress and Future Directions

Abstract

Compact, energy-efficient, and autonomous wireless sensor nodes offer incredible versatility for various applications across different environments. Although these devices transmit and receive real-time data, efficient energy storage (ES) is crucial for their operation, especially in remote or hard-to-reach locations. Rechargeable batteries are commonly used, although they often have limited storage capacity. To address this, ultra-low-power design techniques (ULPDT) can be implemented to reduce energy consumption and prolong battery life. The Energy Harvesting Technique (EHT) enables perpetual operation in an eco-friendly manner, but may not fully replace batteries due to its intermittent nature and limited power generation. To ensure uninterrupted power supply, devices such as ES and power management unit (PMU) are needed. This review focuses on the importance of minimizing power consumption and maximizing energy efficiency to improve the autonomy and longevity of these sensor nodes. It examines current advancements, challenges, and future direction in ULPDT, ES, PMU, wireless communication protocols, and EHT to develop and implement robust and eco-friendly technology solutions for practical and long-lasting use in real-world scenarios.

Keywords

• Internet of Things (IoT)
• ultra-low-power design techniques (ULPDT)
• micro energy harvesting techniques (MEHT)
• power management unit (PMU)
• energy storage (ES)
• ultra-low power wireless communication protocol for IoT (ULP WCP)