Backscatter Location Tracking via Sideband Multilateration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing localization systems using backscatter technology face challenges in accurately determining the location of transmitters due to limitations in detecting sidebands and distinguishing between multiple backscatter devices, especially in environments with varying distances and noise levels.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using multiple backscatter devices to modulate and backscatter a carrier signal, generating sidebands at distinct frequencies based on their location, which are then received and analyzed to determine distances using multilateration, allowing for precise localization of the transmitter or receiver.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing backscatter localization systems detect proximity through backscattered signal presence, then the system can determine basic location information, but the measurement precision is insufficient for accurate positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the backscattered signal into distinct frequency components (sidebands) corresponding to different backscatter devices. Each sideband is detected and processed separately to determine individual device locations, enabling precise multilateration-based positioning by analyzing the frequency-separated signal components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the detection approach by changing from detecting signal presence to detecting frequency parameters (sidebands) of the backscattered signal. This parameter transformation enables accurate distance measurement through frequency analysis, resolving the precision limitation of proximity-based detection
2Area of stationary object
If multiple backscatter devices operate in the same environment, then coverage area increases, but the ability to distinguish between devices deteriorates due to signal interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies frequency segmentation to distinguish multiple backscatter devices operating simultaneously. Each device's backscattered signal appears as a distinct sideband at a specific frequency, allowing the receiver to separate and identify individual device signals even in dense deployments, maintaining measurement precision while expanding coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses frequency as a distinguishing characteristic (analogous to color) for each backscatter device. By assigning different frequency offsets to different devices, the system enables clear identification and distinction of multiple devices through their unique frequency signatures, preventing signal confusion in multi-device environments
3Adaptability or versatility
If backscatter devices are placed at varying distances from the transmitter, then system versatility increases, but measurement precision deteriorates due to noise and signal strength variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from signal strength (which varies with distance) to frequency parameter (sideband detection). This parameter transformation makes measurements independent of distance-related signal attenuation and noise, maintaining precision across varying distances and enhancing system versatility without sacrificing accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a feedback mechanism where the receiver detects sidebands and uses this information to calculate distances through multilateration. The system continuously refines location estimates by processing sideband frequency data, compensating for environmental variations and maintaining measurement precision across different distance ranges
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 enables accurate localization of transmitters or receivers by identifying and processing sidebands, overcoming noise and interference challenges, and providing precise positioning even in complex environments.
Implementation Method 1
Backscatter, or scatter radio, systems are low-power low-cost systems communication systems in which a wireless signal is received, modulated and reflected
Implementation Method 2
Existing backscatter systems operate using digital modulation of received signals to encode information in the backscattered signals
Implementation Method 3
using at least one of the phase or amplitude of each sideband to determine at least one of: the distance between the transmitter and the backscatter device
Implementation Method 4
using at least one of the phase or amplitude of each sideband to determine at least one of: the distance between the transmitter and the backscatter device
Implementation Method 5
which are then received and analyzed to determine distances using multilateration, allowing for precise localization of the transmitter or receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A method for locating devices that transmit, backscatter or receive a wireless signal. The method comprising using each of one or more backscatter devices to modulate and backscatter a carrier signal transmitted by a transmitter. Modulating and backscattering the carrier signal generates a backscattered modulated signal comprising a sideband. The method further comprises receiving the one or more backscattered modulated signals with a receiver. At least one of the phase or amplitude of each sideband are used to determine at least one of: the distance between the transmitter and the backscatter device by which that sideband was generated, the distance between the receiver and the backscatter device by which that sideband was generated, and the sum thereof.