Graph Navigation via Ambient Backscatter Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional navigation methods in closed environments, such as indoor spaces, face challenges due to the limitations of GPS systems and existing solutions like RFID technology, which are complex, expensive, and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
The use of ambient backscatter communication technology, where transmitter devices backscatter ambient signals to allow for efficient navigation by creating a graph model of the area based on detected footprints, eliminating the need for specific hardware and prior knowledge of coordinates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS system is used for navigation in closed environments, then navigation capability is provided, but the system fails due to irregular connectivity caused by walls, doors, and stairs blocking signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces RFID tags as intermediary objects that are attached to physical structures (walls, doors, stairs) in the closed environment. These tags serve as mediators that reflect or transmit navigation signals through obstacles that would normally block GPS signals, enabling the navigation system to function reliably in indoor and enclosed spaces where direct line-of-sight GPS signaling is blocked
2Reliability
If RFID technology is deployed for navigation in closed environments, then navigation capability is improved, but the system becomes complex and expensive requiring specific hardware deployment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes RFID tags universal by attaching them to multiple types of physical structures (walls, doors, stairs, furniture) that serve different functions in the environment. Rather than requiring specialized navigation hardware, the system uses multi-functional RFID tags that can be placed on any surface, allowing the same tag technology to serve both as a structural marker and a navigation reference point across diverse environments
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service navigation by allowing the mobile device to automatically detect and process RFID tags in its vicinity without requiring manual coordinate input or complex setup. The device autonomously uses the detected tags to determine its position and calculate routes, eliminating the need for users to manually configure the navigation system or input coordinate data
3Loss of information
If RFID tags are manually read for coordinate determination, then position information is obtained, but the process becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-attaching RFID tags to physical structures in the environment before navigation begins. These tags are positioned in advance on walls, doors, stairs and other reference points, so that when navigation is needed, the system already has the infrastructure in place. The mobile device simply needs to detect these pre-positioned tags rather than manually gathering coordinate information during the navigation process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of manual coordinate reading and input with an automated electromagnetic detection system. Instead of requiring users to physically locate and read RFID tag coordinates and input them manually, the mobile device automatically detects the RFID tags through electromagnetic fields and retrieves position information electronically, substituting manual mechanical operations with automated sensor-based detection
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 simple, rapid, and cost-effective navigation within closed environments by leveraging existing ambient signals, such as cellular or Wi-Fi signals, without requiring extensive setup or coordinate knowledge, thus overcoming the limitations of traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
at least one transmitter device configured to backscatter towards a receiver device an ambient signal emitted by an emitter device so as to be detected by said receiver device
Data Source
AI summary
A method is described for determining a graph modelling a zone comprising at least one transmitting device for backscattering an ambient signal, emitted by a transmitting device, towards a receiving device for detection by said receiving device. The method includes obtaining at least one coverage area of said zone, said at least one coverage area having been determined for a location of said zone and corresponding to a datum identifying the transmitting device or devices detected by the receiving device when the transmitting device occupies said location. The method also includes determining a graph of which at least one vertex consists of said at least one coverage area, two vertices of said graph being connected by an edge if the coverage areas relating to said two vertices comprise at least one transmitting device detected in common.