Harnessing Energy for Wearables: A Review of Radio Frequency Energy Harvesting Technologies

Ezekiel Darlington Nwalike, Khalifa Aliyu Ibrahim, Fergus Crawley, Qing Qin, Patrick Luk and Zhenhua Luo ()
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Ezekiel Darlington Nwalike: Centre for Energy Engineering, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK
Khalifa Aliyu Ibrahim: Centre for Energy Engineering, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK
Fergus Crawley: Centre for Energy Engineering, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK
Qing Qin: Centre for Energy Engineering, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK
Patrick Luk: Centre for Energy Engineering, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK
Zhenhua Luo: Centre for Energy Engineering, Cranfield University, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK

Energies, 2023, vol. 16, issue 15, 1-26

Abstract: Wireless energy harvesting enables the conversion of ambient energy into electrical power for small wireless electronic devices. This technology offers numerous advantages, including availability, ease of implementation, wireless functionality, and cost-effectiveness. Radio frequency energy harvesting (RFEH) is a specific type of wireless energy harvesting that enables wireless power transfer by utilizing RF signals. RFEH holds immense potential for extending the lifespan of wireless sensors and wearable electronics that require low-power operation. However, despite significant advancements in RFEH technology for self-sustainable wearable devices, numerous challenges persist. This literature review focuses on three key areas: materials, antenna design, and power management, to delve into the research challenges of RFEH comprehensively. By providing an up-to-date review of research findings on RFEH, this review aims to shed light on the critical challenges, potential opportunities, and existing limitations. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of further research and development in RFEH to advance its state-of-the-art and offer a vision for future trends in this technology.

Keywords: radio frequency energy harvesting; wearable device; power efficiency; antenna; power management (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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