A 26 GHz Rectenna based on a Solar Cell Antenna for IoT applications

Abstract

The emergence of 5G technology holds significant promise for enhancing the intelligence of various IoT applications in our current digital era, spanning smart cities, smart buildings, smart agriculture, and smart healthcare. This technology has the potential to elevate the speed and responsiveness of wireless networks, thereby enhancing overall efficiencies. The utilization of 5G antennas is undoubtedly crucial in 5G communications, providing superior connectivity, data rates, low latency, minimal path loss, and a stable radiation pattern compared to preceding generations. This paper outlines the design of a 5G printed multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) millimeter-wave antenna specifically tailored for the deployment of satellite-based sensor systems (SRSS) supporting IoT applications. The printed antenna is meticulously crafted and simulated at the 26GHz frequency bands. Evaluation of simulation results encompasses key performance indicators, including return losses, radiation patterns, gain, directivity, and voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR). These indicators collectively demonstrate commendable performance aligning with the requirements of space communication via satellite sensor networks. Based on the performance results of the proposed and studied 5G antenna, in this work we describe an optimal and environmentally friendly solution to energy consumption issue, this is renewable energy harvesting technology (solar, electromagnetic) which can extend the life of these sensors. This vision gave birth to a conversion system called” Solar Rectenna”. Our contribution allows a drone's energy autonomy thus it ensures a combination of cellular and satellite networks allowing commercial drones to fly quickly and safely in urban areas.