An integrated RF energy-harvesting system with broad input voltage range and high power conversion efficiency

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Sustainable Energy Technologies
• Microelectronic Systems

Background:

• Growing global demand for sustainable energy solutions.
• Need for self-powered devices and reduced reliance on conventional power sources.
• Advancements in energy harvesting technologies for environmental applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and fabricate a high-efficiency radio frequency (RF) energy harvesting system.
• To develop a system-on-chip (SoC) solution for scavenging and storing ambient RF energy.
• To enable self-powered charging for smart devices and other electronic applications.

Main Methods:

• Design and fabrication of a high-efficiency RF energy-harvesting chip using AMS 350 nm technology.
• Integration of an off-chip antenna and rectifier for ambient RF energy scavenging.
• Implementation of a system-on-chip (SoC) with cold start block, boost converter with MPPT, and charging block.

Main Results:

• Achieved a cold start voltage of 380 mV using an optimized cold start architecture.
• Demonstrated continuous charging capability up to 4.5 V across a wide input voltage range (100 mV to 10 V).
• Attained a peak charging efficiency of 82% with an improved power conversion control strategy.

Conclusions:

• The developed RF energy harvesting system provides an efficient and adaptable solution for powering electronic devices.
• The system's design facilitates integration into smart devices, promoting energy autonomy.
• The technology shows potential for harvesting various energy sources beyond RF, including mechanical and thermal energy.