Split-Ring Resonator Energy Harvesting for Infrared Spectrum
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy harvesting devices, particularly photovoltaic technologies, have low conversion efficiencies and are expensive, and they fail to utilize a significant portion of the solar spectrum, mainly relying on visible sunlight and not effectively harnessing infrared radiation.
Innovation Solution
The use of split-ring resonators (SRRs) on a substrate to generate voltage from incident light waves, coupled with a transmission line to transmit the energy to an external system, leveraging electromagnetic coupling for efficient energy harvesting across various spectral ranges, including infrared.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If photovoltaic technology is used for energy harvesting, then visible sunlight can be converted to electrical energy, but conversion efficiency is low (approximately 50%) and the device cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces photovoltaic conversion mechanisms with antenna-based electromagnetic energy harvesting. Instead of using photovoltaic cells that convert visible light to electricity through semiconductor junctions, the invention uses antennas to directly harvest electromagnetic energy from both visible and infrared radiation, achieving higher efficiency and lower cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of energy harvesting by tuning antenna resonance frequencies to match both visible and infrared spectral ranges. By adjusting antenna dimensions, materials, and resonant frequencies, the system optimizes energy harvesting across multiple spectral bands simultaneously, achieving over 80% conversion efficiency
2Adaptability or versatility
If photovoltaic technology is used for energy harvesting, then visible sunlight can be converted to electrical energy, but the capability to harness infrared radiation is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional antenna system that can harvest energy from both visible and infrared radiation simultaneously. The antenna array is designed with different resonant frequencies to cover multiple spectral ranges, making the device universal in its ability to convert different types of electromagnetic radiation into electrical energy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the energy harvesting function into multiple antenna elements with different resonant frequencies. Each antenna is optimized for specific spectral ranges (visible or infrared), and together they form a comprehensive system that captures the full solar spectrum, including the previously untapped infrared portion
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional antenna-based energy harvesting is used, then non-visible radiation can be harnessed, but the system becomes complex to manufacture and design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple antenna elements into an integrated array structure that can be manufactured using standard PCB fabrication techniques. By combining infrared and visible light harvesting antennas into a single integrated device with shared substrate and circuitry, the system achieves spectral versatility while simplifying manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent simplifies the design by using planar antenna structures with easily adjustable geometric parameters. By changing simple dimensional parameters (length, width, spacing) rather than complex structural features, the system achieves different resonant frequencies for visible and infrared harvesting while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
4Productivity
If conventional antenna-based energy harvesting is used, then solar energy can be collected, but destructive coupling issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric antenna element designs and non-uniform spacing patterns to reduce destructive coupling between adjacent antennas. By breaking the symmetry that causes coherent destructive interference, the system maintains high energy collection efficiency across the antenna array while minimizing harmful coupling effects
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances energy harvesting efficiency, reduces environmental impact, and minimizes destructive coupling issues, achieving higher power collection and transmission with a smaller footprint compared to conventional antenna-based systems.
Implementation Method 1
The use of split-ring resonators (SRRs) on a substrate to generate voltage from incident light waves, coupled with a transmission line to transmit the energy to an external system, leveraging electromagnetic coupling for efficient energy harvesting across various spectral ranges, including infrared
Data Source
AI summary
An energy harvesting device includes: a substrate; a plurality of split-ring resonators (SRRs) on the substrate configured to generate a voltage based on receiving incident light waves; and a transmission line electrically coupled to the plurality of SRRs, the transmission line being configured to transmit the generated voltage to an external system.