The Need

Only a small fraction of the radio frequency (RF) energy transmitted by smartphones and other wireless devices is used to communicate with a wireless access point. It would be useful to collect or harvest the unused RF signals in order to convert them to direct current (DC) power and supplement the capacity of the wireless device battery.

Technology

Researchers at The Ohio State University, led by Dr. Chi-Chih Chen have developed a system capable of collecting radio frequency energy from an associated wireless device and converting it into direct current (DC) power for use in prolonging or extending the battery life of associated wireless devices. The system may be embedded into a protective case or cover of or otherwise attached to a wireless device, such as a phone or tablet. The system is configured to self-harvest at least a portion of radio frequency signals transmitted by an associated wireless device and convert the collected radio frequency signals from radio frequency signals to a direct current signal compatible with charging requirements of the wireless device in order to supplement an electrical charge of a battery electrically connected to the wireless device.

Commercial Applications

• Prolonging or extending the battery life of smartphones
• Prolonging or extending the battery life of tablets
• Prolonging or extending the battery life of other wireless devices

Benefits/Advantages

• More efficient use of RF energy
• Increased battery life for wireless devices
• Reduced need for frequent charging
• Reduced environmental impact from discarded batteries
• Increased convenience for users