RF Energy Harvesting Module Integrated Self Powered Multifunctional UWB Antenna

This article proposes a reconfigurable UWB antenna which can automatically detect and block an ambient interfering signal using an RF energy harvesting powered frequency notching system. The design concept is demonstrated using a coplanar waveguide (CPW) fed circular printed monopole antenna as UWB radiator and a slot antenna is integrated in the ground plane of the CPW feed of the monopole antenna, for creating a compact energy harvesting system. Switching between UWB and frequency-notched UWB modes are actuated by closing/opening the gaps of Split Ring Resonators (SRR) using low power RF switches, powered by the RF energy harvesting module. The proposed slot antenna integrated circular monopole antenna is simulated for UWB and frequency notch characteristics. The rectifier, powered by the slot antenna, for energy harvesting is also studied. It is demonstrated by simulation that the proposed system activates/deactivates the RF switch, creating a frequency notch, when a high power interfering signal is detected and restores the UWB operation when interfering signal is weak.