Inspenet, September 27, 2023.
Sony Semiconductor Solutions (SSS) has introduced an energy harvesting module designed to efficiently convert noise from electromagnetic waves into usable energy for Internet of Things (IoT)-related devices.
This innovative technology has the ability to take advantage of the constant electromagnetic noise emitted by electronic devices such as robots in industrial environments or televisions in homes, in order to power IoT sensors and low-energy communication devices.
Such an initiative arises due to the increase in the number of IoT devices and although each one consumes only milliwatts or microwatts of energy, when added together, the total consumption is significant.
Faced with this challenge, various proposals have emerged that seek to take advantage of alternative sources of energy such as solar, heat and vibration. However, Sony chose to explore a different avenue: capturing the electromagnetic noise generated by all electrical devices.
Sony innovates with a tiny chip
The chip is built with a unique architecture that combines an antenna with a high-efficiency rectifier circuit. While the antenna captures the electromagnetic noise, the circuit is responsible for converting it into direct current with significantly improved efficiency.
Although precise details regarding its efficiency have not been provided, it is important to note that this technology is capable of converting electromagnetic noise ranging from several Hz to 100 MHz into electrical energy .
What is truly outstanding in this innovative creation is its small size , with dimensions of just 7 x 7 x 1.2 millimeters. This feature provides great versatility in its installation. Additionally, energy can be harvested whenever electronic devices are connected, even if they are not in active use. This opens up a wide range of possibilities for deployment in various environments, both indoors and outdoors.
Although not all specifications have been disclosed, Sony claims that this small device can capture anywhere from several dozen microwatts to milliwatts of power from various everyday devices. Additionally, it can serve as a remote sensor for predictive maintenance applications.
Notably, the company plans to partner with companies from different sectors to develop products that use this technology, which has great potential in a variety of applications.
Source: https://www.sony-semicon.com/en/news/2023/2023090701.html
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