RF Interference Detection and Source Localization With IoT Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for identifying and addressing interfering signals in communications systems, particularly those affecting RF signals used in IoT implementations, are often ineffective due to the need for manual technician intervention and the challenges of detecting intermittent or temporary signal degradations.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a system utilizing IoT sensors and a frequency management framework that conducts scans across multiple frequency bands to detect interfering signals, estimate their source location, and remediate the interference through signal redirection and gain adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual technician intervention is used to identify interfering signals, then detection capability is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming manual processes
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-diagnosis by automatically scanning frequency bands, detecting interfering signals, and identifying their sources without requiring manual technician intervention. The frequency manager autonomously coordinates sensors to conduct scans and analyze results, enabling the system to service itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical inspection processes with automated electronic scanning and signal analysis. Sensors electronically scan frequency bands and the frequency manager processes signal data to identify interferers, substituting human technicians with automated electronic systems.
2Measurement precision
If comprehensive frequency band scanning is conducted to detect intermittent interfering signals, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy worsens due to extensive scanning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs scans across multiple frequency bands but focuses resources on bands where interfering signals are detected or suspected. Rather than continuously scanning all bands at maximum depth, the frequency manager adjusts scanning intensity based on detected signal characteristics and interference patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The system conducts frequency band scans periodically rather than continuously, allowing sensors to enter low-power states between scans. The frequency manager schedules scan intervals based on interference detection needs, balancing detection accuracy with energy conservation.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems and processes for identifying and detecting an interfering signal are described. A process may include conducting a scan of one or more frequency bands to obtain at least one scan result and determining therefrom if a response condition has been detected. If so detected, a first frequency band corresponding to the detected response condition may be identified and a response condition action to be performed determined. If no response condition action is to be performed, scanning continues. If a response condition is to be performed two or more available sensors are identified and a first sensor is selected. A scan plan is developed and then initiated by the first sensor. Data from the first sensor is received and analyzed to identify a second frequency band indicative of an interfering signal. Based on at least the scan data, a location for a signal interference source (SIS) may be estimated.