Hybrid Ambient IoT Communication Through Energy-Based Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IoT devices face challenges in reducing power consumption and dependency on batteries, particularly in environments where routine replacement is impractical, and there is a need for efficient energy harvesting and mode-switching mechanisms to enhance communication capabilities.
Innovation Solution
Hybrid ambient IoT devices (AIoT) are configured to switch between backscattering and active transmission modes based on energy availability, using energy harvesting from natural sources and intermediate nodes to maintain connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If IoT devices use battery-powered active transmission modes, then communication reliability is improved, but device lifespan and operational cost are worsened due to routine battery replacement requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic mode switching between backscattering mode (passive) and active transmission mode based on real-time energy availability. The device transitions from a static battery-powered operation to a dynamic operation mode that adapts to ambient energy conditions, extending device lifespan by eliminating battery replacement requirements while maintaining communication reliability through selective active transmission when energy is available.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-powered operation by harvesting ambient energy (RF energy, light, heat) to fuel device operations. The energy harvesting capability allows the device to serve itself without external battery intervention, automatically transitioning to backscattering mode when energy is insufficient and to active mode when energy is available, thus extending operational lifespan without human intervention.
2Use of energy by moving object
If IoT devices operate in passive backscattering mode, then power consumption is reduced, but communication capability is worsened due to limited transmission range and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation between transmission modes based on energy availability. The device operates in low-power backscattering mode when energy is constrained, accepting limited communication capability, and switches to high-power active transmission mode when ambient energy is sufficient, thereby achieving both low power consumption and high communication reliability at different operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the device by switching between backscattering mode (passive, low power) and active transmission mode (active, high power) based on harvested energy levels. This parameter change allows the device to optimize the trade-off between power consumption and communication capability according to available energy resources.
3Loss of energy
If IoT devices switch between transmission modes, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity is worsened due to mode switching mechanisms and intermediate nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces intermediate nodes (gateway devices, base stations) that facilitate mode switching between backscattering and active transmission modes. These intermediaries coordinate the transitions by signaling when ambient energy is sufficient for active mode operation, thereby reducing the complexity at the end-device level while maintaining energy efficiency through centralized coordination of mode switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary energy harvesting and storage before active transmission mode is activated. By pre-harvesting and storing ambient energy in advance, the device can transition smoothly to active mode without immediate complex coordination, reducing the complexity of mode switching through advance preparation of energy resources.
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 reduces power consumption and battery dependency, enabling reliable communication by leveraging ambient energy sources and ensuring seamless mode transitions, thus extending device lifespan and reducing operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
transmitting data by the energy harvesting device may include actively generating and transmitting a signal on which the data is modulated
Implementation Method 2
In the first transmission mode, transmitting data may include modulating the data on a backscattered signal
Data Source
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AI summary
Assisting node-based hybrid ambient Internet of Things device communication is provided. A method for assisting node-based hybrid ambient Internet of Things device communication may include indicating to a network entity that an energy harvesting device supports a first transmission mode and a second transmission mode. The method may also include operating in the first transmission mode as a default mode in which an activation signal is received from an intermediate node and switching, upon a first switching condition being satisfied, from the first transmission mode to operate in the second transmission mode.