Energy Harvesting Techniques for Embedded Systems: Prospects, Challenges, and Applications

Abstract

Embedded systems are pivotal in the evolution of smart devices, where energy efficiency remains a critical constraint. Energy harvesting presents a sustainable alternative by utilizing ambient energy sources to power embedded systems, thereby reducing dependency on conventional power supplies. This paper explores various energy harvesting techniques including solar, thermal, piezoelectric, and RF energy methods. It highlights the integration challenges, circuit-level design considerations, and real-world applications in wireless sensor networks (WSNs), Internet of Things (IoT), and biomedical implants. The research aims to bridge the knowledge gap for energy-autonomous embedded solutions in Pakistani industrial and academic landscapes