Ambient IoT Backscatter Positioning via PRS Reflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in accurately determining the position of devices, especially with the increasing complexity and cost of deploying advanced positioning systems.
Innovation Solution
The use of ambient Internet-of-things (IoT) devices, such as radio frequency identity devices and electronic shelf labels, to enhance positioning operations by measuring positioning reference signals and backscattered signals, thereby reducing the need for traditional transmission-reception-point anchors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional transmission-reception-point anchors are used for positioning, then positioning accuracy can be maintained, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces ambient IoT devices as intermediary elements that reflect positioning reference signals back to the UE. These devices act as mediators between the network and the UE, enabling positioning measurements without requiring traditional TRP anchors. The reflected signals carry positioning information while the IoT devices themselves remain simple, existing infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes backscattered signals that are reflections/copies of the original positioning reference signals. Instead of requiring new transmitting anchors, the system copies the positioning information through signal reflection off ambient IoT devices, maintaining positioning functionality while reducing infrastructure requirements.
2Reliability
If traditional transmission-reception-point anchors are deployed, then positioning functionality is ensured, but deployment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes ambient IoT devices serve multiple functions: their primary function remains their original purpose (e.g., sensing, communication), while they simultaneously function as positioning anchors by reflecting PRS signals. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated positioning infrastructure, reducing deployment costs while maintaining positioning reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Existing IoT devices in the environment automatically serve as positioning anchors without requiring special configuration or additional infrastructure. The devices self-service the positioning function by naturally reflecting signals, eliminating the need for separate anchor deployment and reducing overall system cost.
3Device complexity
If ambient IoT devices are used for positioning, then system cost and complexity are reduced, but measurement capabilities must be enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary signal transmission by the network to IoT devices before the actual positioning measurement. The network transmits positioning reference signals that are then reflected by IoT devices, preparing the measurement environment in advance and enabling the UE to perform measurements on the reflected signals with appropriate processing.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces the cost and complexity of positioning systems by leveraging existing IoT devices, while also improving the accuracy of position determination through additional measurement capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
measuring one or more backscattered signals received from one or more ambient Internet-of-things (IoT) anchor devices, wherein the one or more backscattered signals correspond to the one or more PRS received at the one or more ambient IoT anchor devices
Data Source
AI summary
In an aspect, a user equipment (UE) may measure one or more positioning reference signals (PRS) transmitted by one or more transmission-reception-points (TRPs). The UE may measure one or more backscattered signals received from one or more ambient Internet-of-things (IoT) anchor devices, wherein the one or more backscattered signals correspond to the one or more PRS received at the one or more ambient IoT anchor devices.