Self-powering gas and environment wireless sensor platform for fixed or portable deployment in building automation, horticulture and medical applications

This project addresses the need for an energy harvesting method compatible with economic deployment and extended battery life/ self powering for autonomous electronics, focussing on use of innovative patented high efficiency photovoltaics (HEPV) as the energy harvesting medium. The autonomous electronics platform used for the project comprises wireless multiple sensors (carbon dioxide (CO2) /temperature /humidity /light /dew point) combined with embedded data processing and datalogging electronics for use in applications such as building/ home automation, horticulture and medical devices. A key objective is demonstration of HEPV for use in various lighting scenarios, in particular indoor low lighting conditions. Other key activities include power management interface with sensors & embedded electronic modules and use with long life rechargeable thin film batteries and/or super capacitors. The HEPV power harvesting method provides potential for low cost “fit and forget” deployment of autonomous electronics based controllers in smart wireless sensor networks. The consortium includes end user assessment in the building, horticulture and medical sectors.