A revised methodology to analyze the rectenna power conversion efficiency based on antenna/rectifier interface losses

Abstract

Abstract Despite the high number of scientific reports on rectennas applications, the influences of antenna/rectifier interface over the power conversion efficiency have not yet been profoundly debated in the literature. In this context, equations that fully characterize the matching and power transmission processes within the antenna/rectifier interface are developed and presented in this work, applying the Two-Port Power Gain definitions in rectenna analysis. Rectenna designs presented in previous works were used here as test cases to introduce the problem and experimentally validate the revised methodology and results. The overall rectenna power conversion efficiency was equated as a function of the antenna/rectifier interface matching losses, which proved to be responsible for 20 to 50% of the power conversion efficiency reduction for the tested cases. In conclusion, the equations presented, based only on conventional power, S-Parameter and DC voltage measurements, represent an alternative tool in the design of matching and rectification solutions for rectennas.