Net-Zero-Power IoT Tag Finding via Triggered Backscatter Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems are unable to effectively locate net zero power Internet of Things (IoT) devices that have been separated from their associated user devices, as these devices rely on energy harvesting and passive communication technologies that are not compatible with 5G/NR systems and lack direct communication capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for transmitting trigger signals to net zero power IoT devices to energize them, determining their separation, and relaying their response signals to a locating service for tracking, utilizing energy harvesting and backscatter communication technologies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If net zero power IoT devices use energy harvesting and passive communication technologies, then device cost and power consumption are reduced, but the ability to locate separated devices is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary locating service system that mediates between the passive IoT device and the user device. When a device is separated, the locating service receives the device identifier from the user device, queries the database for the device's last known location or associated location information, and returns this location data to the user device. This intermediary service enables location functionality without requiring the passive IoT device to have active communication capabilities.
2Ease of manufacture
If net zero power IoT devices rely on energy harvesting without replaceable batteries, then device maintenance is simplified, but the ability to communicate when separated from user devices fails
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the passive IoT device automatically transmits its device identifier to any receiving device within range, and the locating service automatically queries and returns location information without requiring user intervention for device activation or communication initiation. The system serves itself by maintaining a database of device identifiers and their associated location information, enabling automatic location retrieval.
3Device complexity
If passive IoT devices lack direct communication capabilities, then device complexity and power requirements are reduced, but the system's ability to track separated devices is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-storing device identifiers and their associated location information in a database before separation events occur. When devices are initially paired or registered, the system stores the device identifier along with location data (such as GPS coordinates, Wi-Fi MAC address, or other identifying information). This pre-stored information enables immediate location retrieval when separation occurs, without requiring complex real-time communication between the passive device and tracking systems.
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 the efficient location of separated net zero power IoT devices without the need for replaceable batteries, enhancing the functionality and usability of low-power, low-cost IoT devices in wireless communication networks.
Implementation Method 1
the trigger signal including an energy signal for harvesting by the tag device
Implementation Method 2
utilizing energy harvesting and backscatter communication technologies
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and techniques are provided for wireless communication. For example, a process can include receiving, at a first device, a trigger signal. The process can further include determining the first device is separated with respect to a second device associated with the first device. The process can further include, based on the determination that the first device is separated, transmitting a response signal to the trigger signal.