An Efficient Maximum Power Point Tracking Architecture for Weakly Coupled Piezoelectric Harvesters based on the source I–V curve

Abstract

This paper describes a novel Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) architecture for weakly coupled piezoelectric harvesters. It is based on a new algorithm, called the I–V curve algorithm for Current-Voltage curve. It enables a fast calculation of the optimal electrical loads for different extraction techniques like Standard Energy Harvesting (SEH) and parallel/series Synchronized Switch on Inductor (p/sSSHI) without requiring any open circuit measurement on the piezoelectric harvester. This architecture has been validated thanks to Simulink simulations. Optimal loads are obtained after 1.5 mechanical period and the obtained electrical power is always greater than 90% of the optimal power.