Multi-Carrier Backscatter Communication for Zero-Power Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing zero-power devices, such as RFID systems, face limitations with narrowband carrier signals for backscatter communication, which restricts compatibility with multi-carrier modulation systems and reduces signal power, hindering power harvesting and communication efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a carrier signal generated based on multi-carrier modulation supports both power supply and backscatter signal generation in a multi-carrier system, reducing transmitter complexity and enhancing compatibility with other devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a narrowband carrier signal is used for backscatter communication, then the transmitter structure is simple, but the signal power is insufficient and compatibility with multi-carrier systems is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the single narrowband carrier signal into multiple orthogonal subcarriers. Each subcarrier operates at a lower frequency with simpler generation requirements, while collectively they provide the necessary signal power and bandwidth for effective backscatter communication
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-dimensional narrowband signal to a multi-dimensional wideband signal by introducing multiple orthogonal subcarriers in the frequency domain. This dimensional expansion in frequency space enables both power enhancement and multi-carrier system compatibility
2Device complexity
If a narrowband carrier signal is used for backscatter communication, then the transmitter structure is simple, but compatibility with multi-carrier systems is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the backscatter communication system to be universally compatible with existing multi-carrier systems by adopting orthogonal subcarrier modulation. The subcarriers can function both as communication carriers and as power supply signals, enabling the system to operate in diverse multi-carrier environments
Solution Approach 2:
By expanding from a single carrier to multiple orthogonal subcarriers in the frequency domain, the system gains adaptability to work within existing multi-carrier frameworks while maintaining structural simplicity through the orthogonal properties of the subcarriers
3Device complexity
If a narrowband carrier signal is used, then the system is simple to implement, but power harvesting efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power harvesting function across multiple subcarriers, where each subcarrier contributes a portion of the total power. This segmentation allows the zero-power device to harvest sufficient energy by aggregating power from multiple lower-power subcarriers, improving overall harvesting efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent exploits the frequency dimension by distributing power across multiple subcarriers. The zero-power device harvests energy from the composite multi-subcarrier signal, leveraging the cumulative power effect to achieve efficient power harvesting while maintaining system simplicity
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 efficient zero-power communication by increasing signal power and compatibility, while reducing the complexity of the transmitter required for supporting zero-power communication.
Implementation Method 1
The carrier signal is used for power supply to the first communication device
Implementation Method 2
the carrier signal is used for the first communication device to generate a backscatter signal by modulation
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communication method and a device are provided. The wireless communication method includes: a first communication device receives a carrier signal generated based on multi-carrier modulation, wherein the carrier signal is used for power supply to the first communication device, and/or the carrier signal is used for the first communication device to generate a backscattered signal by modulation.