Providing Energy Self-Sufficiency to LoRaWAN Nodes by Means of Thermoelectric Generators (TEGs)-Based Energy Harvesting

The aim of this paper is to present the viability an energy-harvesting system prototype, based on thermoelectric generators (TEGs), be embedded in a Long-Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN)-based wireless sensor node, allowing continuous quasi-real-time data transmission even for low temperature gradients and frequent transmissions. To end, RFM95x LoRa module used system. energy management entire node achieved by exploiting nano power boost charger buck converter integrated circuit, which allows extraction from source and, at same time, regulates charging/discharging process Li-Po battery that supplies node. first phase project was dedicated understanding electrical characteristics TEG. A series tests were performed study open circuit voltage, current generated TEG different gradients. Following phase, then set up changing two crucial parameters: between faces frequency transmissions transceiver. Experimental results show positive balance charging conditions, suggests important conclusions: all, with high gradients, it possible relatively frequencies LoRaWAN without discharging battery. second consideration concerns operation extremely minimum 5 °C reached during one measurements. This usability systems wide range applications conditions