Wireless Sensor Energy Harvesting Circuit for Continuous Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional monitoring devices require invasive, wired connections for charging and data communication, restricting patient movement and causing discomfort, and they lack a reliable method for sustained operation without manual charging or replacement.
Innovation Solution
A wireless monitoring apparatus with an energy harvesting circuit that captures ambient kinetic and environmental energy using multiple devices such as photovoltaic, magnetic induction, piezoelectric, and thermoelectric sources, converting it into usable energy to power sensors and communication circuits for extended periods without the need for manual charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wired connections are used for charging and data communication, then power supply and data transmission are reliable, but patient movement is restricted and comfort is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring device harvests ambient energy (kinetic, thermal, light) to power itself autonomously, eliminating the need for external wired charging. The energy harvesting circuit converts environmental energy into electrical power, enabling the device to operate wirelessly while maintaining reliable power supply through self-sustained energy generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical wired connections with wireless energy transfer and wireless data communication. The mechanical plug-and-charge interface is substituted by electromagnetic-based wireless power transmission and Bluetooth/wireless data links, freeing the patient from physical constraints while maintaining communication reliability.
2Duration of action of moving object
If manual charging is required, then device structure can be simpler, but operational continuity is interrupted and maintenance frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The energy harvesting circuit is designed to capture multiple forms of ambient energy (kinetic motion, thermal gradients, light) simultaneously using different harvesting mechanisms. This multi-functional approach allows the single circuit to adapt to various environmental conditions and maintain continuous operation without manual intervention, extending operational duration significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The device continuously harvests and stores energy in advance during periods of high ambient energy availability, building up power reserves before they are needed. This preliminary energy accumulation ensures continuous operation during low-activity periods without requiring manual charging intervention.
3Measurement precision
If high detection and communication frequencies are used, then data accuracy and responsiveness are improved, but power consumption increases beyond available harvested energy
Solution Approach 1:
The controller dynamically adjusts the detection frequency and communication frequency based on the real-time power level from the energy harvesting circuit. When harvested energy is abundant, the system operates at high detection and communication frequencies for accurate monitoring. When energy is scarce, it automatically reduces frequencies to match available power, ensuring continuous operation without compromising critical monitoring functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback loop where the controller continuously monitors the power output from the energy harvesting circuit and adjusts operational parameters accordingly. This closed-loop control ensures that detection and communication frequencies are optimized to match the available energy supply, preventing power depletion while maintaining adequate monitoring accuracy.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables continuous, wireless monitoring without restricting patient movement, sustaining operation for months or longer by harnessing ambient energy, reducing the need for manual charging or replacement and improving operational efficiency by adjusting sensor and communication frequencies based on available power.
Implementation Method 1
photovoltaic, magnetic induction, piezoelectric, and thermoelectric sources
Implementation Method 2
photovoltaic, magnetic induction, piezoelectric, and thermoelectric sources
Implementation Method 3
photovoltaic, magnetic induction, piezoelectric, and thermoelectric sources
Implementation Method 4
photovoltaic, magnetic induction, piezoelectric, and thermoelectric sources
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor apparatus configured to detect at least one physiological parameter of a subject includes a sensor that detects at least one physiological parameter of the subject as sensor data. An energy harvesting circuit includes a plurality of energy harvesting devices configured to harvest ambient energy from an environment of the subject. The energy harvesting devices generate power at a plurality of voltage potential levels from ambient energy. A conditioning circuit is configured to adjust the plurality of voltage potential levels to a bus voltage supplied to a supply bus. A controller receives operating power via the supply bus and controls the activation of the sensor and the wireless communication circuit.