Backscatter Uplink Control Using Energy Harvesting and RSSI Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing power consumption and optimizing data transmission in end-user devices, particularly in scenarios where backscattering techniques are employed, as they often require dedicated interrogation signals and may not effectively handle varying channel conditions and quality of service requirements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method where a wireless station receives a backscatter indication message indicating a backscattering opportunity and signal strength thresholds, allowing it to backscatter downlink or uplink transmissions based on these thresholds, and optionally harvest energy from an interrogation signal to transmit data, thereby optimizing power usage and adapting to channel conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If backscattering techniques are employed for power saving, then energy consumption is reduced, but data transmission reliability deteriorates due to inability to handle varying channel conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation by allowing the wireless station to adjust its backscattering behavior based on received signal strength indicators (RSSI) and channel conditions. The station can dynamically select between different transmission modes (backscattering, energy harvesting, or conventional transmission) to optimize both power efficiency and reliability under varying channel conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by adjusting the backscattering duration, power levels, and transmission timing based on channel quality indicators. When channel conditions are favorable, the station can use longer backscattering durations for better reliability; when conditions are poor, it can switch to energy harvesting modes with higher power transmission.
2Productivity
If dedicated interrogation signals are used for backscattering, then data transmission capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the wireless station multi-functional by enabling it to perform both backscattering and energy harvesting operations using the same hardware infrastructure. The station can switch between these modes based on conditions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated systems and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining data transmission capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by allowing the wireless station to autonomously decide when to use backscattering versus energy harvesting based on received signals and internal energy status. The station can independently manage its transmission decisions without requiring complex external control mechanisms.
3Use of energy by moving object
If energy is harvested from interrogation signal, then power availability is increased, but transmission timing flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the wireless station harvest energy during downlink reception periods before uplink transmission is needed. This allows the station to accumulate energy in advance during periods when it would otherwise be receiving data, ensuring power availability for subsequent transmissions without compromising timing flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuity of useful action by enabling the wireless station to continuously harvest energy from downlink signals while simultaneously preparing for uplink transmissions. This continuous energy accumulation process occurs in parallel with normal communication operations, eliminating idle time and maintaining operational continuity.
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 enhances power efficiency by allowing devices to transmit data opportunistically based on signal strength and energy availability, while also improving data transmission reliability by aligning it with quality of service requirements and channel conditions.
Implementation Method 1
energy is harvested from the interrogation signal
Implementation Method 2
Backscattering transmitters reflect or absorb incident waveforms to mimic on-off keying
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and devices for wireless transmissions based on backscattering. A backscatter indication message (BID) is received from an access point (AP). An interrogation signal is received. Uplink data is transmitted to the AP based on the BID and the interrogation signal. In some implementations, the interrogation signal is received from the AP. In some implementations, the BID indicates a backscatter duration, and the uplink data is transmitted to the AP for the backscatter duration. In some implementations, the uplink data is transmitted to the AP concurrently with receiving the interrogation signal. In some implementations, energy is harvested from the interrogation signal. In some implementations, the uplink data is transmitted to the AP subsequent to the interrogation signal, based on the energy harvested from the interrogation signal. In some implementations, the interrogation signal includes a compensation signal based on channel conditions and/or based on backscattering from the WTRU.