Backscatter Device Assistants for Power and Interference Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless network infrastructure struggles with the discovery, power management, and interference of backscatter communication devices, which are often battery-less or low-powered and rely on ambient energy, leading to unreliable operation and network disruption.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a Wireless Local Area Network controller to designate trusted client devices as backscatter communication device assistants, which localize, provide energy, and manage data transmission for these devices, minimizing interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If backscatter communication devices rely on ambient energy for operation, then device complexity and power consumption are reduced, but operational reliability and network stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an Access Point as an intermediary device that mediates between the backscatter communication device and the network. The AP performs discovery, localization, and power management functions, ensuring reliable operation while allowing the backscatter device to remain simple and battery-less. The AP coordinates energy provision and data transmission, resolving the reliability issue without increasing device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple backscatter communication devices operate simultaneously in a wireless network, then network versatility and device quantity increase, but interference and network disruption worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the Access Point continuously monitors the wireless environment, detects backscatter devices, and coordinates their operation. The AP receives feedback about device locations, energy levels, and transmission status, then adjusts power provisioning and transmission timing to minimize interference. This feedback loop enables multiple devices to coexist without disrupting network operations.
3Device complexity
If backscatter communication devices are discovered and localized without dedicated infrastructure, then device complexity is reduced, but detection precision and management capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the Access Point a multi-functional device that performs traditional wireless network functions plus backscatter device discovery, localization, and power management. The AP uses existing wireless infrastructure to detect backscatter devices and determine their locations through signal analysis. This universal approach provides precise localization and management capabilities without adding dedicated discovery infrastructure, keeping the backscatter devices simple.
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
Enables reliable power management and reduces interference of backscatter devices within wireless networks by using designated client devices to assist in localization, energy provision, and data transmission, ensuring consistent network operation.
Implementation Method 1
A backscatter communication device may be provided. Both the foregoing overview and the following example embodiments are examples and explanatory only and should not be considered to restrict the disclosure's scope, as described and claimed.
Data Source
AI summary
A backscatter communication device assistant may be provided. A computing device may designate a client device as a backscatter communication device assistant. Next, a report indicating a location of a backscatter communication device may be received from the backscatter communication device assistant. Then the backscatter communication device may be caused to receive energy. Data originating from the backscatter communication device may then be received.