Analysis and Design of Energy Harvesting Wireless Sensor Networks with Linear Topology

An energy harvesting sensor network with a linear topology is investigated. The overall probability of packet loss in the network due to channel errors or lack of energy in the nodes is derived. Based on this result, a near-optimal design for sizing the storage and the harvesting components of sensors is obtained. A more practical design guideline assuming identical sensors is also provided. Simulations validate the analysis and demonstrate the near optimal performance of the proposed theoretical designs.