Wireless networks comprise of small devices that are typically deployed in environments where paucity of energy seriously restricts essential operations. The energy source of these devices decreases very quickly during continuous operation and it is pivotal to replace or recharge frequently the power sources. Sometimes, it is very difficult to perform these functions through conventional methods. One attractive solution to this problem is the use of the energy, scattered around us in the environment. The availability of energy from the environment is random and uncertain. In this paper, we present a model, schematically and analytically, for solar energy harvesting with appropriate energy management. We provide analysis and simulations for a solar cell for standard and different irradiance levels. The power of the storage device is also simulated for different times of the day. The proposed model not only scavenges the energy but also assures the connectivity of the network by optimizing the energy consumption.

Ad hoc wireless networks are self-generating and self-organizing networks consisting of mobile and static nodes, which are small and have limited power resources. In a typical setup, these nodes communicate with each other through wireless medium and may act as source, destination and/or relaying nodes. As the power of the remote nodes is depleted very quickly, it is important to have a renewable energy source to support the network operations and increase lifetime. The availability of energy from the environment is unpredictable, random and uncertain, therefore energy harvesting with appropriate management plays an important role in continuous operations of ad hoc networks. In this paper, an energy harvesting and management model is presented for ad hoc networks. Along with harvesting energy, the proposed model ensures the connectivity requirements of the network for its perpetual operation.

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