In the late 1800s, Nikola Tesla and Heinrich Hertz had developed the concept of power transmission via electromagnetic waves. Ever since, the concept still continues as research is constantly being done. Several companies such as Sony, Qualcomm, and Witricity are developing wireless power transfer (WPT) systems.

These systems function based off an inductive coupling mechanism in which the distance of power transmission is fairly small, less than three feet; hence, these systems are regarded as near-field WPT systems. The usage of radio frequency (RF) or microwave frequency electromagnetic signals allows for the development of a system in which the distance of power transfer is approximately 10 feet.

This system is of interest to us. In this project two systems having different center frequencies, 915MHz and 2.4GHz, will be designed and tested.

This system will be centered at a frequency of 915MHz. This design consists of an RF transmitter and an RF receiver that will convert the RF signal to a usable direct current (DC) signal. (Check deliverables page for more detail)

This system is centered at a frequency of 2.4GHz. This system follows a different approach. The difference is noticeable in the receiver in which a rectifier circuit is embedded in an antenna; this configuration is referred to as a rectenna. (Check deliverables page for more detail)