Design Challenges of Rectenna for Energy Harvesting from Microwave Pollution

Abstract

We are always exposed to a significant amount of microwave energy emitted by the wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), television broadcasting, and different wireless communication systems which has many adverse effects. However, by harvesting the microwave energy from the surrounding, the microwave pollution can be reduced as well as the microwave energy can be effectively utilized. Rectenna is an electronic device which is used to harvest the microwave pollution. In this paper, the design procedure of a rectenna system is described and the key design challenges are highlighted for wireless energy harvesting. The key design parameters include harmonic suppression, the design of low-power rectifier circuits and the effect of load conditions on the rectenna conversion efficiency. The effect of load conditions against rectenna performances is extracted using Advanced Design System (ADS). Effect of different rectifier circuits including Half Wave Configuration and voltage-doubler are in the context of wireless energy harvesting systems. The article gives a comprehensive exposure to the rectenna design, the possibilities of wireless energy harvesting and likewise useful for researchers working in the field of wireless power transfer systems.