Backscatter Localization with Dynamic Access-Point Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing localization technologies, such as GPS, Wi-Fi, and LiDAR, are costly and impractical for high-accuracy localization in enterprise settings, and conventional backscatter systems face challenges with commercial access points due to duplex requirements and complex arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A localization system that dynamically switches the role of access points between transmission and reception modes over time intervals, using backscatter signals to determine distance information for precise tag localization without requiring new hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional backscatter systems use commercial access points, then cost is reduced and existing infrastructure is utilized, but duplex requirements and complex arrangements create system complexity and operational difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the access points dynamically switch between transmission and reception modes over time intervals. This dynamic role switching resolves the duplex requirement conflict and simplifies the system architecture, allowing commercial off-the-shelf access points to be used without complex dual-mode hardware arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic action through time-interval-based role assignment where access points alternately serve as transmitters and receivers in coordinated cycles. This periodic switching pattern enables backscatter localization to function with standard access points while eliminating the need for complex continuous dual-mode operation.
2Measurement precision
If GPS or LiDAR systems are used for high-accuracy localization, then localization precision is improved, but cost and implementation complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by replicating the localization functionality through software-based backscatter signal processing on existing access point infrastructure, rather than deploying expensive dedicated hardware systems like LiDAR or GPS receivers. This achieves high-precision localization using copies of standard network equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention substitutes mechanical/optical systems (LiDAR) and satellite-based electronic systems (GPS) with a wireless backscatter-based electromagnetic system. This replacement achieves comparable localization precision using existing Wi-Fi infrastructure, dramatically reducing cost and complexity.
3Measurement precision
If access points continuously transmit and receive signals simultaneously, then localization accuracy is maintained, but hardware complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by having access points switch between transmission and reception modes in time intervals rather than operating continuously in both modes. This reduces power consumption while maintaining localization accuracy through coordinated periodic measurements from multiple access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamics by enabling access points to dynamically change their operational mode (transmitter or receiver) based on time-interval scheduling. This dynamic switching reduces overall power consumption compared to continuous dual-mode operation while preserving the ability to achieve accurate localization through multiple measurements.
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 precise localization of backscatter tags using existing Wi-Fi APs, reducing costs and complexity by eliminating ambiguity in path lengths through coordinated mode switching and backscatter signal analysis.
Implementation Method 1
receiving a backscatter signal from the tag in response to the transmitted localization signal from the access point
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are systems, methods and/or computer programs for backscatter localization of a tag using access point (AP) mode switching. The apparatus, may comprise means for: receiving distance information associated with at least two APs from a set of at least three APs. The distance information associated with each AP of the at least two APs may be determined based on: dynamically switching the role of said each AP in a different time interval to a transmission mode for transmitting a localization signal to a tag, with the other APs in the set of APs switched to a receiving mode for receiving a backscatter signal from the tag in response to the transmitted localization signal from said each AP. Distance information determined, by the other APs, may be associated with said each AP based on the received backscatter signals corresponding to the transmitted localization signal from said each AP. There may also be provided means for determining a location estimate of the tag based on the received distance information.