Sensor powering with integrated MOS compatible solar cell array

Distributed sensor networks are a fast developing scenario. Ambient assisted living (AAL) is among those scenarios, with ever-growing importance among developed countries with aging population. The smallest components of these systems are the chip size sensors that have embedded sensing, data processing and transmitting capabilities. A strong need is arising to develop integrated means of powering these sensors. Our paper investigates requirements against chips and powering issues and proposes a sample MOS technology compatible array of solar cells integrated on the same wafer as the integrated circuit. The aim of this design is to help to the development of "pin free" autonomous sensor packages