Environmental internet of things group backscatter

Abstract

Systems, methods, apparatus, and computer program products for locating an energy harvesting device. The method may include receiving, at a tag, a configuration from an activator, the configuration including a tag-specific phase switching pattern and a group identifier identifying a tag group including the tag and a plurality of other tags (S2010). A first activation signal is received from the activator. The first activation signal comprises a group identifier (S2020). The first response signal is backscattered in response to the first activation signal. The first response signal is adjusted by a first phase shift based on a first phase setting of the received tag-specific phase switching pattern (S2030).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Some example embodiments may typically involve mobile or wireless telecommunications systems, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) or 5G or New Radio (NR) or 6G or other communication systems. For example, some example embodiments may involve environmental IoT group backscattering. Background Technology

[0002] Examples of mobile or wireless telecommunications systems can include Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN), LTE Evolution of UTRAN (E-UTRAN), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), MulteFire, LTE-A Pro, fifth-generation (5G) radio access technology or NR access technology and / or advanced 5G. 5G radio systems refer to next-generation (NG) radio systems and network architectures. 5G network technology is primarily based on NR technology, but 5G (or NG) networks can also be built on E-UTRAN radio. It is estimated that NR can provide bit rates of 10 Gbit / s to 20 Gbit / s or higher and can at least support enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) and ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) as well as massive machine-type communication (mMTC). NR promises to provide extreme broadband and ultra-robust, low-latency connectivity and massive networking to support the Internet of Things (IoT). As the Internet of Things (IoT) expands and includes more devices, more devices are being connected.

[0003] Inventory in warehouses and other similar locations is tracked using various methods. These methods often require significant time and labor to track inventory. For example, Quick Response (QR) codes are commonly used to track boxes. However, if a box moves only a few feet without scanning the QR code and recording the movement, the box may be lost, and there is no easy way to find it. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The embodiment may relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include: at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions. The instructions stored in at least the memory, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the apparatus to at least perform the following: receiving a configuration from an activator at a tag, the configuration including a tag-specific phase switching mode and a group identifier identifying a tag group including the tag and a plurality of other tags. A first activation signal may be received from the activator. The first activation signal may include the group identifier. In response to the first activation signal, a first response signal may be backscattered. The first response signal may be adjusted by a first phase shift based on a first phase setting of the received tag-specific phase switching mode.

[0005] The embodiment may relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions. The instructions stored in at least the memory, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the apparatus to at least perform the following: receiving a tag group configuration from a session control unit (SCU). This configuration may include a group identifier, an identifier for each radio tag, and a group phase mode. At least one tag in the tag group may be configured using the group identifier and the tag-specific phase switching mode. Receiving a command for tag group beam scanning from the SCU. Sending an activation signal to at least one tag in the tag group. The activation signal may include the group identifier.

[0006] The embodiments may relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions. The instructions stored in at least the memory, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the apparatus to at least perform the following: send a configuration of a tag group to an activator, wherein the configuration includes a group identifier, an identifier for each tag, and a group phase mode; send a command for tag group beam scanning to the activator; and receive measurement results of the tag group from at least one reader.

[0007] An embodiment may relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions. The instructions stored in at least the memory, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the apparatus to perform: receiving a command for tag group beam scanning from a session control unit (SCU), wherein the command includes a group identifier for the tag group; receiving an activation signal from an activator. The activation signal may include the group identifier; receiving response signals from the tag group; each response signal may be adjusted by a phase setting based on a tag-specific phase switching mode; measuring the received response signals of the tag group; and reporting the measurement results of the tag group to the SCU.

[0008] An embodiment may relate to a method. The method may include: receiving configuration at a tag from an activator, the configuration including a tag-specific phase switching mode and a group identifier identifying a tag group including the tag and a plurality of other tags. A first activation signal may be received from the activator. The first activation signal may include the group identifier. In response to the first activation signal, a first response signal may be backscattered. The first response signal may be adjusted by a first phase shift based on a first phase setting of the received tag-specific phase switching mode.

[0009] An embodiment may involve a method. This method may include: receiving a tag group configuration from a session control unit (SCU). The configuration may include a group identifier, an identifier for each radio tag, and a group phase mode. At least one tag in the tag group may be configured using the group identifier and the tag-specific phase switching mode. A command for tag group beam scanning may be received from the SCU. An activation signal may be sent to at least one tag in the tag group. The activation signal may include the group identifier.

[0010] An embodiment may involve a method. This method may include: sending a tag group configuration to an activator, wherein the configuration includes a group identifier, an identifier for each tag, and a group phase mode; sending a command for tag group beam scanning to the activator; and receiving measurement results of the tag group from at least one reader.

[0011] An embodiment may relate to a method. This method may include: receiving a command for tag group beam scanning from a session control unit (SCU), wherein the command includes a group identifier for the tag group; receiving an activation signal from an activator. The activation signal may include the group identifier; receiving response signals from the tag group; each response signal may be adjusted by a phase setting based on a tag-specific phase switching mode; measuring the received response signals of the tag group; and reporting the measurement results of the tag group to the SCU.

[0012] Another embodiment may relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include components for: receiving configuration at a tag from an activator, the configuration including a tag-specific phase switching mode and a group identifier identifying a tag group including the tag and a plurality of other tags. A first activation signal may be received from the activator. The first activation signal may include the group identifier. In response to the first activation signal, a first response signal may be backscattered. The first response signal may be adjusted by a first phase shift based on a first phase setting of the received tag-specific phase switching mode.

[0013] Another embodiment may relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include: components for receiving configuration of a tag group from a session control unit (SCU), wherein the configuration includes a group identifier, an identifier for each radio tag, and a group phase mode; components for configuring at least one tag in the tag group using the group identifier and a tag-specific phase switching mode; components for receiving a command for tag group beam scanning from the SCU; and components for sending an activation signal to at least one tag in the tag group, wherein the activation signal includes the group identifier.

[0014] Another embodiment may relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include: components for sending a configuration of a tag group to an activator, wherein the configuration includes a group identifier, an identifier for each tag, and a group phase mode; components for sending a command for tag group beam scanning to the activator; and components for receiving measurement results of the tag group from at least one reader.

[0015] Another embodiment may relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include: components for receiving a command for tag group beam scanning from a session control unit (SCU), wherein the command includes a group identifier for the tag group; components for receiving an activation signal from an activator, wherein the activation signal includes the group identifier; components for receiving response signals from the tag group, wherein each response signal is adjusted by a phase setting based on a tag-specific phase switching mode; components for measuring the received response signals of the tag group; and components for reporting the measurement results of the tag group to the SCU.

[0016] Another embodiment may relate to an apparatus including a circuitry system configured to perform a method. The method may include: receiving configuration at a tag from an activator, the configuration including a tag-specific phase switching mode and a group identifier identifying a tag group including the tag and a plurality of other tags. A first activation signal may be received from the activator. The first activation signal may include the group identifier. In response to the first activation signal, a first response signal may be backscattered. The first response signal may be adjusted by a first phase shift based on a first phase setting of the received tag-specific phase switching mode.

[0017] Another embodiment may relate to an apparatus including a circuit system configured to perform a method. The method may include: receiving a configuration of a tag group from a session control unit (SCU). The configuration may include a group identifier, an identifier for each radio tag, and a group phase mode. At least one tag in the tag group may be configured using the group identifier and a tag-specific phase switching mode. A command for tag group beam scanning may be received from the SCU. An activation signal may be sent to at least one tag in the tag group. The activation signal may include the group identifier.

[0018] Another embodiment may relate to an apparatus including a circuitry system configured to perform a method. The method may include: sending a configuration of a tag group to an activator, wherein the configuration includes a group identifier, an identifier for each tag, and a group phase mode; sending a command for tag group beam scanning to the activator; and receiving measurement results of the tag group from at least one reader.

[0019] Another embodiment may relate to an apparatus including a circuitry system configured to perform a method. The method may include: receiving a command for tag group beam scanning from a session control unit (SCU), wherein the command includes a group identifier for the tag group; receiving an activation signal from an activator. The activation signal may include the group identifier; receiving response signals from the tag group; each response signal may be adjusted by a phase setting based on a tag-specific phase switching mode; measuring the received response signals of the tag group; and reporting the measurement results of the tag group to the SCU.

[0020] Another embodiment may relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium including program instructions stored thereon that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least one method. The method may include: receiving configuration at a tag from an activator, the configuration including a tag-specific phase switching mode and a group identifier identifying a tag group including the tag and a plurality of other tags. A first activation signal may be received from the activator. The first activation signal may include the group identifier. In response to the first activation signal, a first response signal may be backscattered. The first response signal may be adjusted by a first phase shift based on a first phase setting of the received tag-specific phase switching mode.

[0021] Another embodiment may relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium including program instructions stored thereon that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least one method. The method may include: receiving a configuration of a tag group from a session control unit (SCU). The configuration may include a group identifier, an identifier for each radio tag, and a group phase mode. At least one tag in the tag group may be configured using the group identifier and a tag-specific phase switching mode. A command for tag group beam scanning may be received from the SCU. An activation signal may be sent to at least one tag in the tag group. The activation signal may include the group identifier.

[0022] Another embodiment may relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium including program instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least one method. The method may include: sending a configuration of a tag group to an activator, wherein the configuration includes a group identifier, an identifier for each tag, and a group phase mode; sending a command for tag group beam scanning to the activator; and receiving measurement results of the tag group from at least one reader.

[0023] Another embodiment may relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium including program instructions stored thereon that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least one method. The method may include: receiving a command for tag group beam scanning from a session control unit (SCU), wherein the command includes a group identifier for the tag group; receiving an activation signal from an activator. The activation signal may include the group identifier; receiving response signals from the tag group; each response signal may be adjusted by a phase setting based on a tag-specific phase switching mode; measuring the received response signals of the tag group; and reporting the measurement results of the tag group to the SCU. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To correctly understand the exemplary embodiments, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 An example flowchart illustrating communication between a session control unit (SCU), an activator, a radio tag, and a reader is shown according to certain example embodiments. Figure 2 An example flowchart of a method for controlling a radio tag according to certain example embodiments is shown; Figure 3 An example flowchart of a method for controlling an SCU according to certain example embodiments is shown; Figure 4 An example flowchart of a method for controlling an activator according to certain example embodiments is shown; Figure 5 An example flowchart of a method for controlling a reader according to certain example embodiments is shown; Figure 6 Example utilization of the label according to certain example embodiments is shown; Figure 7A An example utilization of tag groups according to certain example embodiments is shown; Figure 7B Example spacing of labels in a label group according to certain example embodiments is shown; Figure 7C An example implementation of a tag group according to certain example embodiments is shown; Figure 8 Another example of the use of tag groups according to certain example embodiments is shown; Figure 9A Another example of the use of tag groups according to certain example embodiments is shown; Figure 9B Another example spacing of labels in a label group according to certain example embodiments is shown; Figure 9C Another example implementation of a tag group according to some example embodiments is shown; Figure 10Example signals to the tag are shown according to certain example embodiments; Figure 11 Examples of radiation patterns according to certain example embodiments are shown; Figure 12 An example implementation of repeating label array activation according to some example embodiments is shown; Figure 13 Another example implementation of repeating label array activation according to some example embodiments is shown; Figure 14 Labels are shown according to certain example embodiments; and Figure 15 A set of apparatuses according to some example embodiments is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0025] As will be readily understood, as generally described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, components of certain example embodiments can be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. The following are detailed descriptions of some example embodiments of systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for locating IoT devices, such as energy harvesting devices.

[0026] The features, structures, or characteristics of the exemplary embodiments described throughout this specification can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more exemplary embodiments. For example, throughout this specification, the phrases “certain embodiments,” “exemplary embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “various embodiments,” or other similar language refer to the fact that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the phrases “in some embodiments,” “exemplary embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in other embodiments,” or other similar language appearing throughout this specification do not necessarily refer to the same set of embodiments, and the described features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more exemplary embodiments. Furthermore, the terms “base station,” “cell,” “node,” “gNB,” “network,” or other similar language throughout this specification are used interchangeably.

[0027] As used herein, “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar wording, where the list of two or more elements is connected by “and” or “or”, indicates at least any one of the elements, or at least any two or more of the elements, or at least all of the elements.

[0028] IoT devices can connect to networks and electronically share information over networks (e.g., cell networks). IoT devices, such as radio frequency identification (RFID) devices, have a limited range. The following description provides example embodiments that can allow for increased communication range with IoT devices.

[0029] Figure 1 An example flowchart 1000 illustrates communication between a Session Control Unit (SCU) 100, an Activator 200, a Radio Tag (Tag) 300, and a Reader 400 according to certain example embodiments. The SCU 100 may be implemented on a User Equipment (UE) or a network entity. The UE may be a cellular phone, computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, etc. The Activator 200 may also be implemented on the UE or on other devices capable of receiving and transmitting radio or wireless signals. The Tag 300 may be an RFID tag or other type of IoT device. For example, the Radio Tag 300 may be a 3GPP Environment IoT (A-IoT) device. The Reader 400 may be a UE or a base station or other hardware capable of receiving and transmitting radio or wireless signals.

[0030] At S1010, SCU 100 can obtain group constellation and capability information for each tag in the group. This information can be obtained from a database, from reader 400 based on previous communications with the tags, from communications via activator and reader 400 with tags 300, etc. The group constellation and capability information may include a unique identifier for each tag 300 (tag ID) in the group and a group identifier (group ID). The group constellation and capability information may also include model, configuration, communication protocol and / or other information used to determine the capabilities and communication methods of the tags 300.

[0031] At S1020, SCU 100 can communicate with Activator 200 the tag ID, group ID, and tag configuration of each tag 300 in the group. SCU 100 can transmit instructions to Activator 200 to configure the tags 300 in a transmit / reflect phase mode. The phase mode may include the same signal emitted by each tag 300 in the group (e.g., backscatter reflection or active transmission), wherein each tag 300 emits a signal with a specified phase shift for each emission of the signal. The signal may include the group ID of the tag group. Each tag may be able to emit a signal with at least two different phase shifts (e.g., 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 1 ... 0 and 120 0 , or 0 0 120 0 and 240 0 The signal is shown below. Examples of phase modes are discussed in more detail below.

[0032] At S1030, activator 200 may send configuration communication to each tag 300 in the group (e.g., tags: tag_A, tag_B, tag_C, and tag_D). Communication with each tag 300 in the group may be unique and may include the tag ID of the tag 300 to be configured. The configuration communication may indicate the phase shift mode (e.g., a phase switching mode for each tag 300); for example, a mode that switches between a first phase shift and a second phase shift, switches after two transmissions between the first and second phase shifts, switches after four transmissions between the first and second phase shifts, or has no switching between phase shifts. The form of the configuration communication may be varied based on the processing capabilities of the tag 300. For example, if the tag 300 has the ability to store phase shift modes across multiple transmissions, activator 200 may transmit configuration communication including instructions for the next phase shift. Then, a confirmation communication will be required to be repeated before each transmission.

[0033] At S1032, tag 300 may transmit an acknowledgment signal that at least one reader 400 can register. The acknowledgment signal may include a tag ID and an indication of a configured phase pattern. Reader 400 may include multiple readers, such as reader A, reader B, and reader C. Reader B 400 may be a proximity reader, located near the activator to be close enough to the tag to receive the acknowledgment signal, while tag 300 is not configured with a group phase setting that allows the signal to have increased directional gain. In some example embodiments, activator 200 and reader B 400 may be implemented in the same device for transmitting and receiving communications with tag 300. The typical maximum range for receiving signals from the tag using backscattering technology may be, for example, about 50 meters. Typically, the activation range of activator 200 activating tag 300 using backscattering technology may be, for example, about 5 meters.

[0034] At S1032, reader B 400 can report a configuration success acknowledgment signal from tag 300 to SCU 100. SCU 100 can then determine that tag 300 is configured for phase mode. If some acknowledgments for some tags 300 are not received or the correct phase mode configuration is not performed, SCU 100 can determine that correction is needed, or that one or more tags 300 in the group are defective.

[0035] At S1040, SCU 100 can communicate with activator 200 and reader 400 to configure tag group beam scanning. Communication may include commands for performing beam scanning. A phase mode can define the beam scanning mode. Communication with activator 200 may include instructions to cause activator 200 to communicate with tag 300 as a group using the group ID to perform the phase mode. Communication with reader 400 may include instructions for receiving (e.g., listening to) transmissions from tag 300 in the group and the frequencies of those transmissions.

[0036] At S1050, activator 200 can send a series of activation messages to tag 300 using a group ID, causing tag 300 to simultaneously emit according to a phase pattern. For example, if there are four tags 300, each with two phase shifts, the phase pattern can include eight emissions, such that eight different combinations of the phases of the four tags' emissions are emitted. Differences in phase combinations can lead to significant gains at different angles relative to the tag plane due to constructive interference. This is illustrated in more detail below.

[0037] At S1060, tag 300 can transmit according to the phase pattern, and reader 400 can receive the transmission. Some transmissions may not be recorded by reader 400 because the signal does not have sufficient power in the reader's direction. Each transmission may include an indication of the number of transmissions to inform the reader which transmission in the phase pattern is being received.

[0038] At S1070, reader 400 can measure the group signal (e.g., backscattered signal) for the combination of activations for each tag group. The measurement can be a power measurement to determine which transmitters have sufficient power or gain to register at reader 400. Reader 400 can be located at different positions, and therefore the measurement at each reader 400 location can be different for each transmitter. Each transmitter can have a phase setting (e.g., a combination of phase shifts for each tag 300 in the group). Measurements can include demodulating the received response signal via a group identifier and determining the signal strength of the demodulated response signal.

[0039] At S1080, the reader 400 can measure the tag group received level (e.g., signal strength or received power) for each transmit report in the phase mode. Operations S1050 to S1080 can be performed for each phase setting of the phase mode, such that the SCU receives the measurement for each phase setting.

[0040] At S1090, SCU 100 can select a tag group phase setting for reaching at least one of readers A, B, and C. The selection of the group phase setting can include the phase shift of each tag 300 in the group. This selection can be based on the highest signal strength and the maximum number of readers that can register transmissions to that group phase setting. SCU 100 can also store one or more groups of phase settings for each reachable reader and then target a specific reader (e.g., the reader with the highest received signal strength) for subsequent communication by configuring the tag group with the optimal phase setting for that reader; this selection can be based on a threshold signal strength. For example, a group phase setting can be selected where most readers receive transmissions with signal strengths exceeding a threshold.

[0041] At S1100, SCU 100 can enable Activator 200 to configure Tag 300 according to the selected phase setting. Activator 200 can receive instructions from SCU 100 and send configuration messages with phase shifts for future transmissions to each Tag 300 in the group. In this way, Tag 300 in the group can be configured to communicate with Reader 400 when activated.

[0042] In some example embodiments, reader A 400 and reader C 400 may be base stations. In some example embodiments, when the base station is able to receive transmissions but cannot activate tag 300 in a group, an activator 200 (which may be a UE or other portable device) closer to tag 300 can activate tag 300, and the base station can receive transmissions. In this way, only activator 200 may need to move through the warehouse (or be strategically positioned in a warehouse area to allow activation of tags in all groups). Therefore, inventory can be acquired by moving a single activator 200 through the warehouse, or the warehouse's inventory can be acquired without any person or machine moving through the warehouse by using strategically placed activators.

[0043] The hardware and operations disclosed herein can also be used for a variety of other purposes, such as triangulation, to locate a group of tags based on a known signal strength pattern with a known position of the reader and a specific phase setting.

[0044] Figure 2 An example flowchart of a method 2000 for controlling a radio tag 300 according to certain example embodiments is shown. In the example embodiments, Figure 2 The method can be performed by a network entity or a group of multiple network elements in a 3GPP system such as LTE or 5G-NR. For example, in an example embodiment, Figure 2 The method can be performed by a radio tag 300, etc. A radio tag can be similar to... Figure 14 The radio tag 300 shown.

[0045] According to certain example embodiments, Figure 2 The method may include: at S2010, receiving configuration from an activator at a tag, the configuration including a tag-specific phase switching mode and a group identifier identifying a tag group including the tag and a plurality of other tags; at S2020, receiving a first activation signal from the activator, wherein the first activation signal includes the group identifier; and at S2030, backscattering a first response signal in response to the first activation signal, wherein the first response signal is adjusted by a first phase shift based on a first phase setting of the received tag-specific phase switching mode.

[0046] Figure 3 An example flowchart of a method 3000 for controlling an SCU according to certain example embodiments is shown. In the example embodiments, Figure 3 The method can be performed by a network entity or a group of multiple network elements in a 3GPP system such as LTE or 5G-NR. For example, in an example embodiment, Figure 3 This method can be executed by a user equipment (UE) implementing an SCU, etc. The UE can be similar to... Figure 15 One of the devices 10 or 20 shown.

[0047] According to certain example embodiments, Figure 3 The method may include: at S3010, receiving a tag group configuration from a session control unit (SCU), wherein the configuration includes a group identifier, an identifier for each radio tag, and a group phase mode; at S3020, configuring at least one tag in the tag group using the group identifier and a tag-specific phase switching mode; at S3030, receiving a tag group beam scanning command from the SCU; and at S3040, sending an activation signal to at least one tag in the tag group, wherein the activation signal includes the group identifier.

[0048] Figure 4 An example flowchart 4000 of a method for controlling an SCU according to certain example embodiments is shown. In the example embodiments, Figure 4 The method can be performed by a network entity or a group of multiple network elements in a 3GPP system such as LTE or 5G-NR. For example, in an example embodiment, Figure 4 This method can be executed by activator 200, etc. Activator 200 can be similar to... Figure 15 One of the devices 10 or 20 shown.

[0049] According to certain example embodiments, Figure 4The method may include: at S4010, sending a tag group configuration to the activator, wherein the configuration includes a group identifier, an identifier for each tag, and a group phase mode; at S4020, sending a tag group beam scan command to the activator; and at S4030, receiving the tag group measurement results from at least one reader.

[0050] Figure 5 An example flowchart of a method 5000 for controlling an SCU according to certain example embodiments is shown. In the example embodiments, Figure 5 The method can be performed by a network entity or a group of multiple network elements in a 3GPP system such as LTE or 5G-NR. For example, in an example embodiment, Figure 5 The method can be executed by reader 400, etc. Reader 400 is similar to... Figure 15 One of the devices 10 or 20 shown.

[0051] According to certain exemplary embodiments, Figure 5 The method may include: at S5010, receiving a command for tag group beam scanning from a session control unit (SCU), wherein the command includes a group identifier for the tag group; at S5020, receiving an activation signal from an activator, wherein the activation signal includes the group identifier; at S5030, receiving response signals from the tag group, wherein each response signal is adjusted by a phase setting based on a tag-specific phase switching mode; at S5040, measuring the received response signals of the tag group; and at S5050, reporting the measurement results of the tag group to the SCU.

[0052] Figure 6 An example utilization of label 300 according to certain example embodiments is shown. Figure 6 The example shown is a warehouse where boxes have tags 300 attached to them. Activator 200 can send an activation signal to tag 300, and tag 300 can emit a backscattered signal to reader 400. Reader 400 can be located on the ceiling of the warehouse.

[0053] Figure 7AAn example utilization of a tag group according to certain example embodiments is shown. The tag group may include four tags arranged in a horizontal line on a flat surface of a box, crate, or similar object. Uneven surfaces may also be used, as long as the tags can be mounted without damage. Activator 200 may activate tag group 300 using a group ID. Tag group 300 may transmit to reader 400 via backscattering an activation message (e.g., by backscattering an activation signal using at least the modulated group ID to the reflection). The horizontally arranged tags 300 allow constructive interference in the horizontal plane. Tags may be backscattered by reflecting an activation signal with applied phase shift and modulation (payload data) to a reselection of the activation signal. Payload data may include individual IDs and / or group IDs.

[0054] Figure 7B An example spacing of tags in a tag group according to some example embodiments is shown. The tag group may include tag_A 300A, tag_B 300B, tag_C 300C, and tag_D 300D. The distance between tag_A 300A and tag_B 300B may be distance d. Distance d may be approximately half the wavelength of the activation / backscattered signal of tag 300 (measured from the center of each tag). The distance between each tag 300 and its adjacent tag may be distance d. A consistent distance of half the wavelength of the activation / backscattered signal of tag 300 can allow a constructive gain of up to 6 dB with four tags compared to using a single tag. However, other distances with similar effects can be used.

[0055] Figure 7C An example implementation of a label group according to certain example embodiments is shown. The label group is attached to a sticker or other type of adhesive strip. The labels are installed with a distance of 300 between adjacent labels, as shown. Figure 7B An embodiment of the strip may include a restricted area surrounding the label to prevent interference, short circuits, damage, etc. The label 300 attached to the strip allows the label 300 to be placed on the surface of a box or other device, with a desired distance between the labels and their orientations.

[0056] Figure 8 Another example utilization of the tag group according to certain example embodiments is shown. In this example utilization, the tags 300 can be arranged in a vertical line. Arranging the tags 300 in a vertical line can allow for tag group reflection gain in the vertical plane. This can be helpful when the reader 400 is on the ceiling of a warehouse or in similar situations. Therefore, it is possible to target the area above the tags 300 (e.g., +40). 0 The reader or the tag below 300 (e.g., -40) 0 The reader 400 adjusts the phase setting of the tag group. The spacing between tags 300 can be adjusted accordingly. Figures 7A to 7C The examples shown may be the same or different.

[0057] Figure 9A Another example of the use of a tag set according to certain example embodiments is shown. Tag 300 can be attached to the surface of the box in a square pattern. The square pattern allows for some constructive interference in the horizontal plane and some constructive interference in the vertical plane.

[0058] Figure 9B Another example spacing of tags 300 in a tag group according to some example embodiments is shown. The tags may be spaced vertically and horizontally by a distance d equal to half the tag emission wavelength.

[0059] Figure 9C Another example implementation of a tag group according to some example embodiments is shown. The tag group can be attached to a strip having a no-facade area around the tag.

[0060] Figure 10 Example signals to tag 300 are shown according to certain example embodiments. Messages to individual tags may include a preamble, a group ID of the tag group, and a tag ID of the tag, as well as a command associated with the phase mode. The command may be a command to perform beam scanning. The phase mode may define the beam scanning mode. Messages to the group may include a preamble, a group ID, and a scrambling ID (an indication of each tag to be responded to in the group), as well as the beamforming group on which the transmission is based.

[0061] Figure 11 An example radiation pattern according to certain example embodiments is shown. Figure 11 A 2D cross-section of the antenna radiation pattern for a single tag and three different phase settings of the combined antenna radiation pattern for four tags in a linear configuration are shown. The radiation patterns represent the tag / tag group backscatter antenna gain directivity in degrees at different angular directions at an activation frequency of 28 GHz, in decibels / dBi. The increase in combined antenna gain in the three latter cases compared to the antenna gain of a single tag is caused by constructive interference of the tag's emissions, where the tag is mounted horizontally on a flat surface, while the decrease in combined antenna gain is caused by destructive interference of the tags, where the tag is mounted horizontally on a flat surface. The difference in relative phase settings at the tags results in constructive and destructive interference of the combined radio emissions, causing the maximum and minimum antenna gains to differ at different angles. The distance from the center represents the antenna gain (dBi) at a given angle.

[0062] The radiation pattern includes three example phase settings and radiation from a single tag. The first signal is the radiation pattern of a single tag emitting the signal.

[0063] The second signal is at 00 An optimized signal strength is provided at a location that can be considered directly in front of the plane with tag 300 (in the line of sight direction). Each tag 300 in the tag group has the same phase in the phase setting of the second signal (e.g., tag_A0). 0 tag_B 0 0 tag_C 0 0 tag_D 0 0 The third signal is offset by -40° compared to the line of sight. 0 And using 120 of the tags in the tag array 0 Relative phase shift (e.g., tag_A 0) 0 tag_B 120 0 tag_C 240 0 tag_D 0 0 This is obtained by [method name missing]. Compared to the line of sight, the fourth signal offset is +40 [units missing]. 0 And using the -120 of the tags in the tag array 0 Relative phase shift (e.g., tag_A 0) 0 tag_B 240 0 tag_C 120 0 tag_D 0 0 (to obtain)

[0064] By comparison Figure 11 At points 1 and 3, the second signal can be understood as allowing an increase of approximately 5.5 dB compared to a single tag at zero degrees (e.g., the first signal). By connecting point 2 with... Figure 11 By comparing point 4 in the diagram, the fourth signal can be interpreted as allowing a signal of +40. 0 The gain is approximately 5.7 dB compared to a single tag. Therefore, by selecting the correct phase setting, the transmission from the tag group can have a significantly greater signal strength at the reader 400. The strategy disclosed herein allows for steering the reflection gain. This can be a significant advantage compared to using only a single tag and / or when the phase setting configuration strategy disclosed herein is not implemented.

[0065] Figure 12An example implementation of a repeating tag array activation (phase mode) according to certain example embodiments is shown. The group comprises four tags, each with two possible phase shifts. The first tag 300 may not change its phase. Because phase is a generally periodic property relative to the radio signal transmitted by tag 300, one tag 300 may not switch its phase setting. The second tag 300 may switch with each transmission between phase a and phase b. The third tag 300 may switch with every two transmissions between phase a and phase b. The fourth tag 400 may switch with every four transmissions between phase a and phase b. Thus, eight different phase settings (combinations of phases of the first to fourth tags 300) can sequentially cause transmissions. Each transmission is caused by the tag group ID of the backscattered activation group. As an example, phase a may be 0. 0 And phase b can be 120. 0 .

[0066] Figure 13 Another example implementation of repeating label array activation according to some example embodiments is shown. Similar to Figure 12 The diagram in the middle, Figure 13 The diagram can illustrate the phase settings of the four tags. Each emission from tag group 300 can be caused by the tag group ID of the backscattering of the activating group. Each tag 300 can have three possible phases (0, 1, 2, 3, 4). 0 120 0 and 240 0 Tag_D 300D can be emitted without phase switching, and combinations of the three phases of tag_A 300A, tag_B 300B, and tag_C 300C can be emitted in activations 1 through 27, as shown below. Figure 7B and Figure 9B As shown. Typically, the number of activations can be (number of phases)^(number of tags - 1). For example, in... Figure 13 In the middle, four labels with three phases are used, and 3^(4-1) = 27.

[0067] Various other examples of phase patterns are also possible. For example, if five or six tags are used, the number of phase settings in the phase pattern can be increased. Furthermore, if five phase settings are used for each tag, the number of phase settings can be increased. To reduce the time required to determine the phase settings for a tag, the number of phase settings can also be reduced. For example, Figure 11 The second, third, and fourth phase settings can be configured for +20 0 and -20 0 Two other optimized phase settings are used together.

[0068] As another example, multi-round phase patterns can be executed. For example, if including Figure 11 The first phase mode with second, third, and fourth phase settings, and for +20 0 and -20 0 Two other optimized phase settings indicate that the optimal gain should be at +20. 0 and +40 0 Between, it is also possible to execute with +20 0 and +40 0 The second phase mode of the optimized gain phase setting within the range (e.g., S1020 to S1090 can be executed twice).

[0069] As another example, the orientation of the tag group can be recorded, and the beam scanning mode can be adjusted based on the known orientation of the tag group and the position of the reader.

[0070] Figure 14 A tag 300 is shown according to some example embodiments. Tag 300 may be a 3GPP A-IoT device, an RFID tag, or a tag of a similar type. Tag 300 may include hardware necessary to perform the operations described with respect to tag 300. Tag 300 may include an antenna 315, a processing circuitry system 320, an energy harvester 330, a phase shifter 360, and an on / off keying (OOK) or binary phase shift keying (BPSK) modulation switch 380. Antenna 315 may be a wire or other type of antenna that receives electromagnetic radiation at a specific frequency or a set of frequencies. The processing circuitry system may include a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or other programmable hardware. Energy harvester 330 may include a capacitor or other type of energy storage hardware that can absorb energy from radio signals received from antenna 315 to power processing circuitry system 320 and OOK or BPSK modulation switch 380. Phase shifter 360 may include phase shift circuitry that is activated when processing circuitry system 320 controls phase shifter 360 and modulation switch 380 based on received configuration / commands. The OOK or BPSK modulation switch 380 may include circuitry that enables the antenna 315 to transmit an electromagnetic signal based on a signal from the processing circuitry 320. For backscattered tags, there is no active RF transmitter. Instead, there is a modulator (e.g., modulation switch 380) that modulates the tag response data onto the activation signal. The modulator can phase-shift the reflection coefficient, thereby causing BPSK modulation of the activation signal or switching between a perfectly matched antenna (energy harvesting) and perfect reflection, thus causing on / off keying modulation.

[0071] Figure 15A set of apparatuses according to some example embodiments are shown. In some example embodiments, apparatuses 10, 20 may be elements in or associated with a communication network. For example, apparatus 10 may be an activator 200 or SCU 100 implemented on a computing device or machine (such as, for example, a UE), and apparatus 20 may be an activator 200 or a reader 400 (e.g., a UE, a base station, etc.).

[0072] In some example embodiments, devices 10, 20 may include one or more processors, one or more computer-readable storage media (e.g., memory, storage device, etc.), one or more radio access components (e.g., modem, transceiver, etc.), and / or a user interface. In some example embodiments, devices 10, 20 may be configured to operate using one or more radio access technologies, such as GSM, LTE, LTE-A, NR, 5G, WLAN, WiFi, NB-IoT, Bluetooth, NFC, MulteFire, and / or any other radio access technology. It should be noted that those skilled in the art will understand that devices 10, 20 may include... Figure 15 Components or features not shown in the diagram.

[0073] like Figure 15 As shown in the example, devices 10, 20 may include or be coupled to processors 12, 22 for processing information and executing instructions or operations. Processors 12, 22 may be any type of general-purpose or special-purpose processor. In practice, as an example, processors 12, 22 may include one or more of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an FPGA, an ASIC, and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture. Although in Figure 15 A single processor 12, 22 is shown, but multiple processors may be utilized according to other example embodiments. For example, it should be understood that in some example embodiments, devices 10, 20 may include two or more processors that can form a multiprocessor system capable of supporting multiple processing (e.g., in this case, processor 12 may represent multiple processors). According to some example embodiments, the multiprocessor system may be tightly coupled or loosely coupled (e.g., to form a computer cluster).

[0074] Processors 12 and 22 can perform functions associated with the operation of devices 10 and 20, including, for example, precoding antenna gain / phase parameters, encoding and decoding of individual bits forming communication messages, formatting information, and overall control of devices 10 and 20. Figures 1 to 14 The process and examples are shown below.

[0075] Devices 10 and 20 may also include or be coupled to memories 14 and 24 (internal or external), which may be coupled to processors 12 and 24 respectively for storing information and instructions executable by processors 12 and 24. Memories 14 and 24 may be one or more memories and may be of any type suitable for the local application environment, and may be implemented using any suitable volatile or non-volatile data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory and / or removable memory. For example, memories 14 and 24 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), static storage such as a disk or optical disk, hard disk drive (HDD), or any other type of non-transitory machine or computer-readable medium, and any combination thereof. Instructions stored in memories 14 and 24 may include program instructions or computer program code that, when executed by processors 12 and 22, enable devices 10 and 20 to perform the tasks described herein.

[0076] In some example embodiments, devices 10, 20 may also include or be coupled to an (internal or external) drive or port configured to accept and read external computer-readable storage media, such as an optical disc, USB drive, flash drive, or any other storage media. For example, the external computer-readable storage media may store data for execution by processors 12, 22 and / or devices 10, 20. Figures 1 to 14 A computer program or software of any of the methods and examples shown.

[0077] In some example embodiments, devices 10, 20 may further include or be coupled to one or more antennas 15, 25 for receiving downlink signals and for transmitting from devices 10, 20 via UL. Devices 10, 20 may also include transceivers 18, 28 configured to transmit and receive information. Transceivers 18, 28 may also include a radio interface (e.g., a modem) coupled to antennas 15, 25. The radio interface may correspond to one or more of various radio access technologies, including GSM, LTE, LTE-A, 5G, NR, WLAN, NB-IoT, Bluetooth, BT-LE, NFC, RFID, UWB, etc. The radio interface may include other components such as filters, converters (e.g., digital-to-analog converters, etc.), signal demappers, signal shaping components, inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) modules, etc., to process signals carried by the downlink or UL (such as OFDMA signals).

[0078] For example, transceivers 18 and 28 may be configured to modulate information onto a carrier waveform for transmission by antennas 15 and 25, and demodulate information received via antennas 15 and 25 for further processing by other elements of devices 10 and 20. In other example embodiments, transceivers 18 and 28 may be capable of directly transmitting and receiving signals or data. Additionally or alternatively, in some example embodiments, device 10 may include input and / or output devices (I / O devices). In some example embodiments, devices 10 and 20 may also include a user interface, such as a graphical user interface or a touchscreen.

[0079] In some example embodiments, memories 14, 34 store software modules that provide functionality when executed by processors 12, 22. These modules may include, for example, an operating system that provides operating system functionality for devices 10, 20. The memories may also store one or more functional modules, such as applications or programs, to provide additional functionality to devices 10, 20. Components of devices 10, 20 may be implemented in hardware or as any suitable combination of hardware and software. According to some example embodiments, devices 10, 20 may optionally be configured to communicate with each other (in any combination) via wireless or wired communication link 70 according to any radio access technology, such as NR.

[0080] According to some example embodiments, processors 12, 22 and memories 14, 24 may be included in or form part of a processing circuit system or control circuit system. Furthermore, in some example embodiments, transceivers 18, 28 may be included in or form part of a transceiver circuit system.

[0081] It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention as described above can be practiced with processes of a different sequence and / or with hardware elements in a configuration different from the disclosed configuration. Therefore, although the invention has been described based on these exemplary embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain modifications, variations, and alternative constructions will be readily apparent while remaining within the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments. Although the above embodiments refer to 5G NR and LTE technologies, the above embodiments can also be applied to any other current or future 3GPP technologies, such as Advanced LTE and / or fourth-generation (4G) technologies.

[0082] Partial vocabulary list

Claims

1. A method comprising: At the tag, receive configuration from the activator, the configuration including a tag-specific phase switching mode and a group identifier that identifies a tag group including the tag and multiple other tags; Receive a first activation signal from the activator, wherein the first activation signal includes the group identifier; as well as In response to the first activation signal, a first response signal is backscattered, wherein the first response signal is adjusted by a first phase shift based on a first phase setting of the received tag-specific phase switching mode.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Receive a second activation signal from the activator, wherein the second activation signal includes the group identifier; as well as In response to the second activation signal, a second response signal is backscattered, wherein the second response signal is adjusted by a second phase shift based on a second phase setting of the received tag-specific phase switching mode.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising: In response to receiving the configuration, a configuration confirmation message is sent.

4. A method comprising: Receive the tag group configuration from the session control unit (SCU), wherein the configuration includes a group identifier, an identifier for each radio tag, and a group phase mode; Configure at least one tag in the tag group using the group identifier and the tag-specific phase switching mode; Receive a tag group beam scan command from the SCU; as well as Send an activation signal to at least one tag in the tag group, wherein the activation signal includes the group identifier.

5. The method according to claim 4, The group phase mode includes a corresponding tag-specific phase switching mode for each tag in the tag group, and each of the corresponding tag-specific phase switching modes includes at least two phase settings.

6. The method according to claim 4 or 5, Sending the activation signal to at least one tag in the tag group includes sending multiple activation signals to at least one tag in the tag group, wherein each of the multiple activation signals corresponds to a phase setting of a specific phase switching mode of the tag.

7. A method comprising: Send the configuration of the tag group to the activator, wherein the configuration includes a group identifier, an identifier for each tag, and a group phase mode; Send a command for tag group beam scanning to the activator; and The measurement results of the tag group are received from at least one reader.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising: Based on the received measurements, a group phase setting is selected for the tag group, the group phase setting including a phase setting for each tag in the tag group; and Send the selected group phase settings to the activator.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein receiving the measurement results of the tag group comprises receiving a plurality of measurements from the at least one reader, wherein The selection of the group phase setting for the tag group is based on the multiple measurements.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein each of the plurality of measurements corresponds to a corresponding group phase setting of the tag group within the group phase mode.

11. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein The group phase mode includes a corresponding tag-specific phase switching mode for each tag in the tag group, and each of the corresponding tag-specific phase switching modes includes at least two phase settings.

12. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the group phase mode is a beam scanning mode.

13. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 12, further comprising: The at least one reader receives a configuration success confirmation report, the configuration success confirmation report indicating that the at least one reader received a configuration confirmation message from one of the tags in the tag group. The command to send a tag group beam scan to the activator is based on the received configuration success confirmation report.

14. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the measurement includes a signal strength measurement of a response signal received from the tag group.

15. A method comprising: Receive a command for tag group beam scanning from the session control unit (SCU), wherein the command includes a group identifier for the tag group; Receive an activation signal from the activator, wherein the activation signal includes the group identifier; Receive response signals from the group of tags, wherein each response signal is adjusted by a phase setting based on a tag-specific phase switching mode; as well as Measure the response signal received by the tag group; as well as The measurement results of the tag group are reported to the SCU.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein measuring the response signal received by the tag group comprises: The received response signal is demodulated using the group identifier; as well as Measure the received power of the demodulated response signal.

17. An apparatus comprising: A circuit system configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions, when executed by a device, causing the device to perform at least the method according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

19. A computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

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