RF Energy Harvesting for Embedded Sensor Networks in the Natural Environment
Motivation and Drivers
One emerging wireless sensor networks (WSN) application is in agriculture sector, where sensor nodes are deployed in fields to monitor humidity, temperature and soil moisture. Energy supply to such sensors is an issue as they are typically powered by conventional batteries which have a limited lifespan. Cost is often prohibitive when replacing exhausted batteries since the sensor devices need to be unearthed. An attractive solution is to use radio frequency (RF) energy harvesting, in which the radiated RF energy from ambient is extracted and converted into usable energy to power up the sensors.
Objectives
The main objective of this project is to investigate and demonstrate the feasibility of using radio frequency (RF) energy harvesting in powering a wireless soil sensor network deployed in an outdoor field. A proof-of-concept RF energy harvesting device will be designed, built, optimised and tested in the field.
Expected End Result
A novel outdoor RF energy harvesting system capable of powering a wireless soil sensor network deployed in a garden/field.
Research Undertaken (so far)
Feasibility of the proposed scheme has been investigated through a series of lab and field trials using a crude RF energy harvesting model. A novel receiving antenna structure for the proposed RF energy harvesting system has been designed, built, and tested.
Next Steps
- Optimisation of the receiving antenna design to improve energy transfer performance.
- Design and testing of the energy harvesting circuit.
- Validation of the complete RF energy harvesting system in field.
Publications Associated with this Project
No publications currently released to the public domain.