Dual-Source Energy Harvesting for Wearable Electronics

This study investigates a hybrid energy harvesting system that combines a thermoelectric generator (TEG) and a piezoelectric generator (PEG) to power low-power wearable electronic devices. The system utilizes an LTC3108-1 DC-DC converter for efficient voltage regulation, with a MAX40200 diode integrated to prevent reverse current flow. Simulation results reveal that dual-source operation (simultaneous use of DC and AC inputs) achieves faster voltage regulation compared to single-source configurations. Experimental validation involved a DC input (DPS3010U) set to 30 mV and an AC input (JDS6600) at 1 V, both of which led the LTC3108-1 output to rise from 0 V to a regulated 3.7 V. To demonstrate practical applicability, an ECG sensor (AD8232) was successfully powered using energy stored in supercapacitors charged by the dual-input converter. These findings underscore the potential of hybrid energy harvesting systems in wearable biomedical applications, with ongoing efforts aimed at further enhancing system performance and integration.