An Energy-Autonomous and Battery-Free Resistive Sensor using a Time-Domain to Digital Conversion with Bluetooth Low Energy connectivity

Abstract: This paper introduces an innovative Energy-Autonomous Wireless Sensing Node (EAWSN) that addresses power constraints by harnessing ambient light for energy. It combines this energy harvesting capability with the Time Domain to Digital Conversion (TDDC) technique for efficient and accurate measurements of resistive sensors. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication ensures data can be transmitted wirelessly to a base station, providing a promising solution for various applications, particularly in environments with limited access to wired power sources, enabling long-term, maintenance-free operation by eliminating batteries. Experimental results showed a linear relationship between the test resistance R_m and the measured number of clock pulses N_m within the sensor's operating range.