Performance Analysis of Wireless Sensor Network Node Based on Thermoelectric Generator Using SPICE Model

In this paper, a performance analysis of a wireless sensor network (WSN) node based on a thermoelectric generator was performed using a one-dimensional SPICE-compatible equivalent model. Combinations of four miniature commercial thermoelectric modules used as generators and three heatsinks made of dissimilar materials and having different geometries were considered for the WSN node. Based on the simulation results, the power delivered to the load, cold boot time, efficiency, and maximum application temperature were analyzed.