CONFORMAL ADDITIVE SOLUTIONS FOR ENERGY HARVESTING ON STRUCTURES
Abstract
In the execution of electromagnetic energy harvesting, the antenna provides a matched transition from available ambient energy to guided waves or circuits where it can be efficiently stored or applied. A useful approach implements the antenna as part of the electronic circuit whose function is to provide rectification; hence, this #rectenna# must also be integrated with electronic components.In this program, the VTNSI team will work closely with NAVSEA to help design and construct rectenna solutions to scavenge ambient power available from common RF systems found in the target environment. Among the sources of ambient electromagnetic energy, the primary examples include radar and communication systems. This energy harvesting system can be used to power a variety of devices including unattended sensors.This effort will yield a complete energy harvesting system including the rectenna, electronics and energy storage. The VTNSI team will build sample rectennas using traditional construction techniques; additionally, the team will leverage a unique additive manufacturing process and work with the VT DREAMS laboratory. This additive manufacturing solution was used to construct conformal antennas on surfaces. Enhancing and expanding the process will begin with prototype printer construction, material evaluation and process adaption. Consequently, success of this program will provide not only a potential solution for this problem addressed but also a larger problem of conformal antennas and other electromagnetic surfaces.The product will be evaluated internally using exceptional facilities in applied electromagnetics including a near-field scanner for antenna evaluation. Intermediate antenna solutions will be evaluated by partners at NAVSEA. The final additive manufacturing solution will be suitable for antennas and numerous other electromagnetic devices and systems. It will allow for industrial manufacturing of related devices as well as portable and isolated construction.The program will support a current employee, USMC veteran, who is planning to attend graduate school for electrical engineering starting Fall 2024. Additionally, as a senior military college with a large Corps of Cadets, many of whom are ROTC, the VT team expects to engage undergraduate students in support of this program. Currently, one Mechanical Engineering student, rising junior, has been identified and is planning to work on the programs. Since the proposed program is multidisciplinary, numerous opportunities exist for engineering and science military-affiliated students to engage. A sample of applicable disciplines include Electrical, Computer, Mechanical, Materials Science Engineering as well as Physics and Chemistry
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Nov 08, 2024
- Source ID
- N000142412428
Entities
People
- Bradley Davis
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- Virginia Tech