A real-time adaptive high-power radio-frequency wireless energy transfer and harvesting system
Satellite, energy transfer

Unmet need

Current radiofrequency (RF) wireless energy transfer and harvesting systems are primarily designed for static and low-power applications, often based on ambient RF signals. They generally assume fixed antenna alignment and simple, predictable load conditions. These systems often rely on basic control strategies, such as the use of multiple combined rectennas or fixed impedance-matching networks, which makes them inefficient or difficult to use in real and dynamic environments. Their main limitations include sensitivity to antenna misalignment, variations in distance between the transmitter and the receiver, changes in the energy demand of the powered devices, as well as variable environmental conditions. In addition, most existing solutions do not have a dedicated RF power transmitter architecture or intelligent control mechanisms on the receiver side, which limits their efficiency, scalability, and large-scale deployment. Finally, the energy conversion circuits used generally rely on diodes, whose performance decreases when the electrical conditions are not perfectly matched. Aspects related to regulatory compliance and safety monitoring are also often absent or remain very limited.

Technology overview

This technology is a dynamic radiofrequency (RF) wireless energy transfer and energy harvesting system that employs real-time adaptive control across both the transmitter and receiver. This technology features an integrated real-time control system designed to address challenges such as dynamic positioning, frequency variations, and changing load demands under real-world conditions including distance fluctuations between antennas, antenna misalignment, variable loads, and environmental changes.

The innovation features adaptive control capabilities on both the transmitter and receiver sides, enabling efficient and intelligent energy transfer without the need for manual tuning. The receiver includes mechanisms for real-time adjustment and optimization of power delivery to match varying loads, while the transmitter responds dynamically to changes in system conditions using feedback and adaptive algorithms. Together, these elements ensure improved power transfer efficiency, system robustness, and compatibility across diverse applications.

Principal Investigator

Prof. Gunes Karabulut Kurt

Full Professor
Department of Electrical Engineering
Expertise

Roger Miller
Technology Transfer Manager