Characterizing and Modelling Non-Linear Rectifiers for RF Energy Harvesting

Wagih, M. , Weddell, A. S. and Beeby, S. (2020) Characterizing and Modelling Non-Linear Rectifiers for RF Energy Harvesting. In: 2019 19th International Conference on Micro and Nanotechnology for Power Generation and Energy Conversion Applications (PowerMEMS), Krakow, Poland, 02-06 Dec 2019, ISBN 9781728156385 (doi: 10.1109/PowerMEMS49317.2019.82063202439)

Abstract

Radio Frequency Energy Harvesting and power transfer, using rectifying antennas, are increasingly seen as an enabling technology of power-autonomous devices. The non-linearity of the rectification element, the diode, adds challenges when experimentally characterizing and comparing the performance of different rectifiers, requiring complex measurement techniques to characterize a diode experimentally, and adds to the challenges of designing a matching network. This paper presents a method for characterizing the power conversion of a mismatched rectifier using a single-port vector network analyzer, omitting the need for impedance tuners and accurately reflecting the non-linearity of the diode. The proposed approach minimizes uncertainty sources in the test setup and shows close agreement with optimized harmonic balance simulation. Finally, harmonic balance simulation is utilized to compare the source and load impedance of the two most common rectifier topologies, a single series and a voltage doubler, acting as a guide for matching network and antenna design.

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Additional Information: This work was supported by the European Commission under H2020-EU.1.4.1.2.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Wagih, Dr Mahmoud
• Authors: Wagih, M., Weddell, A. S., and Beeby, S.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Electronics and Nanoscale Engineering
• Journal Name: PowerMEMS 2019, Krakow, Poland, 3/12/19
• ISBN: 9781728156385