Development of an energy harvesting circuit and system-on-chip implementation

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Canada's economy has relied on its oil and gas industry over the past decades. As green energy technologies are adopted and the benefits are realized, Canada must diversify its investments and create new business sectors in order to respond to new trends and market opportunities. Solar power, wind power, nuclear power, and hydropower are typical green energy technologies. In addition to these traditional renewable energy sources, researchers are now actively exploring the potential for recycling energy from the surrounding environment, such as radio frequency (RF), heat, indoor light, and vibration. For example, RF energy from wireless communication can be recovered and utilized for alternative purposes. We propose to develop a unique RF energy harvesting device that allows for more efficient conversion of ambient energy into energy that can be readily used by Canadians on a daily basis. Our technology is particularly beneficial to portable and wearable devices because it can extend the battery life of these devices. Furthermore, it leverages unused energy in the environment with minimal waste. In this research project, we will design an energy harvesting circuit and implement it as a system on a chip (SoC). The project offers significant benefits to Canadians and its economy, including the development of highly qualified personnel to further advance the field, knowledge translation opportunities and commercialization opportunities which will support job creation, economic diversification and attract local and foreign investments. The project will also help position Canada at the forefront of the rapidly growing renewable energy industry and leverages the wealth of energy resources and research strengths in Canada.