Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation (SSS) has recently developed an energy harvesting module that utilizes electromagnetic wave noise. This module incorporates the technology developed by SSS during the tuner development process to efficiently generate power from electromagnetic wave noise. The technology can harness constant electromagnetic wave noise generated by various electronic devices such as robots in factories, office monitors and lighting, and store and home monitors and televisions. By converting this noise into electrical energy, the module can provide a stable power supply for low-power consumption IoT sensors and communication devices.
The increasing popularity and complexity of IoT devices pose challenges in providing them with sufficient power. However, SSS's highly efficient energy harvesting technology holds promise for a wide range of applications. SSS aims to integrate this new technology into their power circulation model to contribute towards the development of a sustainable IoT society.
The energy harvesting framework using electromagnetic wave noise can be applied in various scenarios such as factories, offices, and retail settings. This technology has the potential to contribute not only to the development of IoT but also to the sustainability of the global environment. Research in the field of energy harvesting has primarily focused on electrical waves, light, heat, and vibration. SSS's new technology stands out by utilizing the electromagnetic wave noise generated by all electrical equipment as a power source.
The module's design is based on antenna technology developed during tuner development, utilizing the metal parts of electronic devices as part of the antenna. Additionally, it incorporates a rectifier circuit with enhanced electricity conversion efficiency, enabling the conversion of electromagnetic wave noise in the range of several Hz to 100 MHz into electrical energy. Despite its compact size, the module can supply power to low-power IoT sensors and communication devices and can even charge batteries.
One of the key advantages of this technology is its ability to harvest energy even when electronic devices are not in active use. Being able to efficiently utilize previously ignored electromagnetic wave noise allows for a stable power supply in various usage situations, whether indoors or outdoors. Additionally, the module's minimal number of components enables a compact design and greater flexibility in installation.
Furthermore, this energy harvesting technology can provide insights into device status. By continuously harvesting electromagnetic wave noise, it can detect changes in the harvested voltage, allowing for the identification of internal device conditions. For example, it can be used to monitor the normal functioning of lighting or predict device failure in robots with built-in motors.
