ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the problem of a battery with a limited energy supply, hence an operational lifetime of wireless sensor nodes. Computers track sensor data on operating performance of a jet engine or slight structural changes in an oil rig, looking for telltale patterns that signal coming trouble. Computers pull GPS data from railway locomotives, taking into account the weight and length of trains, the terrain, and turns to reduce unnecessary braking and curb fuel consumption by up to 10%. Wireless sensor networks represent a significant improvement over wired sensor networks with the elimination of the hardwired communication cables and associated installation and maintenance costs. In an energy harvesting system, there are generally four main components: energy collection and conversion mechanism, electrical power management/conditioning circuit, energy storage device, and electrical load. The chapter also presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in this book.
