Adaptive Radio Frequency Sensor Enabled by Electromechanically Controlled Stretchable Rectifying Antenna Systems

Zebin Zhu, Bingyang Li, Yajiao Ke, Yuchao Wang*, Zequn Wang, Shihao Sun, Ping Lu, Furong Yang, Chaoyun Song*, Hongxing Dong, Long Zhang, Cheng Zhang*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Traditionally, radio frequency detection or ambient spectrum sensing has required high-performance spectrum analyzers and RF signal analyzers, leading to relatively high costs due to the need for a local oscillator and signal mixer. To overcome this challenge, we propose a low-cost, substantially simplified solution utilizing a stretchable rectenna, a microcontroller unit (MCU), and feedback control systems. By exploiting the dynamic correlation between the resonant frequency and the tensile ratio of the stretchable antenna, the incoming frequency can be determined by recording the maximum rectifier DC power output as a function of the electromechanically controlled tension ratio of the stretchable antenna. Our measured results indicate that a frequency measurement range of 1.8 GHz to 2.5 GHz can be achieved through careful design of the stretchable antenna and broadband rectifier. We have experimentally demonstrated an over-the-air far-field frequency sensing system based on this concept, showcasing significant advantages in power consumption, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity when compared to state-of-the-art RF spectrum analyzers.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1229-1239
Number of pages11
JournalIEEE Open Journal of Antennas and Propagation
Volume5
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2024

Keywords

  • frequency sensor
  • MCU
  • rectenna
  • Stretchable antenna
  • wireless power transfer

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Adaptive Radio Frequency Sensor Enabled by Electromechanically Controlled Stretchable Rectifying Antenna Systems'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this