Abstract

Wireless power transmission is a method of supplying power to small electronic devices when there is no wired connection. One way to increase the range of these systems is to use a directional transmitting antenna, the problem with this approach is that power can only be transmitted through a narrow beam and directly forward, requiring the transmitter to always be aligned with the sensor node position. The work outlined in this article describes the design and testing of an autonomous radio frequency power transfer system that is capable of rotating the base transmitter to track the position of sensor nodes and transferring power to that sensor node. The system's base station monitors the node's energy levels and forms a charge queue to plan charging order and maintain energy levels of the nodes. Results show a radio frequency harvesting circuit with a measured S11 value of −31.5 dB and a conversion efficiency of 39.1%. Simulation and experimentation verified the level of power transfer and efficiency. The results of this work show a small network of three nodes with different storage types powered by a central base node.

Highlights

  • As wireless sensor technology develops, there are new applications being found causing networks to be situated in locations where direct connection or easy access to the node is not possible

  • One solution to this problem is by harvesting ambient energy to supply or extend the sensor nodes’ lifetime

  • This has led to research into power transmission through ultra high frequency (UHF) radio waves

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Summary

Introduction

As wireless sensor technology develops, there are new applications being found causing networks to be situated in locations where direct connection or easy access to the node is not possible. Examples of these locations include rainforest regeneration monitoring under dense tree foliage, inside buildings for comfort sensing, in mineshafts for safety monitoring, inside enclosed structures for structural monitoring or attached to animals for position and health monitoring [1]. Inaccessible sensor nodes are fitted with large capacity batteries that can supply power for the nominated lifetime of the sensor node This can become impractical where size, weight and long operation are important for the sensor network. This has led to research into power transmission through ultra high frequency (UHF) radio waves

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