Locating Radio Energy Tags via Intermediate Relay Triangulation

The patent introduces intermediate wireless devices (mobile devices, other stationary receivers) as mediators to relay tag signals when the primary stationary receiver cannot detect them. These intermediaries extend the effective detection range by capturing and forwarding signals from tags that are out of direct range, resolving the contradiction between limited transmission range and simple system structure.

The locating system is segmented into multiple independent receiving nodes (primary stationary receiver and multiple intermediate devices). Each node independently monitors for tag signals within its own detection range, and the system aggregates data from all nodes. This segmentation allows the overall system coverage to exceed the range of any single receiver while maintaining relative simplicity at each node.

The intermediate wireless devices are chosen to be multi-functional - they serve both as locators for the tag system and as existing consumer devices with their own functions (mobile phones for contactless payment, tablets for media consumption). This universality allows the system to extend detection range without adding dedicated specialized devices, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity.

The system leverages the self-service capability of intermediate devices by having them automatically perform signal detection and relay operations when needed. The devices use their existing processors, communication interfaces, and power systems to participate in the locating function without requiring additional dedicated hardware or complex configuration, thus extending range while minimizing complexity overhead.