RIS Backscatter Energy Harvesting for Reliable IoT Sensor Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless networks face challenges in efficiently providing energy to battery-less or low-powered devices using backscatter communication, as APs with fixed antennas may not be optimally positioned to support critical communication needs, leading to energy crises for devices like IoT sensors.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) that dynamically adjusts its signal propagation to provide targeted energy harvesting by receiving energy parameters and critical messages from backscatter devices, determining optimal configurations, and supplying energy accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed antennas are used in Access Points, then device structure is simple and manufacturing is easy, but energy coverage and reliability for backscatter devices is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from fixed antennas to reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) that can dynamically adjust their signal propagation characteristics. The RIS elements can be reconfigured in real-time to redirect energy beams and optimize coverage for backscatter devices, making the antenna system adaptive rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the electrical characteristics of the antenna system through RIS configuration. By changing parameters such as phase shifts, amplitude, and signal direction of the RIS elements, the system can dynamically optimize energy distribution to ensure reliable coverage for battery-less devices.
2Reliability
If Access Points are positioned for general coverage, then installation is simple, but targeted energy delivery to specific devices is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a system where the controller receives information about backscatter device locations and energy needs, then adjusts the RIS configuration accordingly. This closed-loop approach enables targeted energy delivery while maintaining ease of operation, as the system automatically optimizes itself based on real-time conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the RIS to anticipate and prepare for the energy needs of backscatter devices. The system can be configured in advance to direct energy beams toward expected device locations, ensuring reliable energy delivery before devices actually need it.
3Use of energy by moving object
If traditional wireless networks are used, then infrastructure is simple, but energy harvesting efficiency for battery-less devices is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the RIS system serve multiple functions: it acts as both a traditional wireless communication interface and an energy harvesting enhancement mechanism. This multi-functionality improves energy harvesting efficiency for battery-less devices while avoiding the need for entirely separate infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements the intermediary principle by introducing the RIS as a mediating element between traditional Access Points and backscatter devices. The RIS enhances energy harvesting efficiency by concentrating and redirecting RF energy toward devices, while the controller manages the interaction between the AP and RIS, adding minimal infrastructure complexity.
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
Enhances energy efficiency and coverage for battery-less devices by intelligently directing energy beams using RIS, ensuring reliable communication even in energy-critical situations.
Implementation Method 1
backscatter energy harvesting
Data Source
AI summary
Optimized backscatter energy harvesting using a Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) may be provided. Energy parameters may be received from a backscatter communication device. Then an energy critical message may be received from the backscatter communication device. The backscatter communication device may then be instructed to send frequent messages in response to receiving the energy critical message from the backscatter communication device. Next, a configuration for a Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) cluster may be determined to supply energy to the backscatter communication device based on the energy parameters and the frequent messages. The RIS may be caused to supply energy to the backscatter communication device based on the configuration.