RIS Power-Angle Obstacle Tracking Under Non-Line-of-Sight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional positioning techniques, such as those proposed in standardization bodies, do not support localization and tracking of passive objects that are not in the direct field of view, and existing RADAR-like methods are limited to line-of-sight conditions, failing to overcome obstructions.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method utilizing reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) to construct a power-angle measurement profile based on signal power indicators, iteratively mapping power reductions to predict obstacles, and updating RIS coordination to track objects in non-line-of-sight conditions, leveraging power measurements and coordination among multiple RISs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional positioning techniques are used, then the system is simple to implement, but they cannot detect passive objects under non-line-of-sight conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) as intermediary elements to enable detection under non-line-of-sight conditions. The RIS acts as a mediator that reflects and redirects signals between the radio unit and passive objects that would otherwise be obscured, allowing detection without direct line-of-sight while maintaining system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to signal propagation by deploying multiple RISs at different locations and orientations. This creates additional signal paths through reflective surfaces, enabling the system to detect objects from multiple angular sectors and achieve three-dimensional coverage without requiring complex active sensors at each detection point
2Reliability
If RADAR-like techniques are used, then accurate detection and ranging can be achieved, but they are limited to line-of-sight area and cannot overcome obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamically reconfigurable intelligent surfaces that can adjust their reflective properties in real-time. The RIS elements can change their orientation and configuration to adapt to different environmental conditions and track moving objects, enabling the system to maintain detection accuracy across varying scenarios including non-line-of-sight conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal detection system that can operate in both line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight conditions using the same fundamental infrastructure. The RIS-based approach provides multi-functionality by enabling the system to detect stationary and moving passive objects across diverse environmental conditions without requiring separate specialized systems
3Area of stationary object
If multiple RISs are deployed to cover all angular sectors, then complete environmental coverage is achieved, but hardware complexity and power expenditure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the environmental coverage into discrete angular sectors, with each RIS responsible for monitoring specific sectors. This segmentation allows the system to achieve complete coverage through coordinated operation of multiple simpler units rather than requiring a single complex system, reducing individual device complexity while maintaining overall coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements iterative detection cycles where the system periodically updates power-angle measurement profiles and re-evaluates obstacle predictions. This periodic action allows the coordinated RIS system to maintain coverage efficiency by cycling through angular sectors systematically rather than requiring all RISs to operate continuously at full capacity
4Measurement precision
If iterative power measurement and mapping is performed across all angular sectors, then obstacle detection precision is improved, but processing time and computational load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent constructs power-angle measurement profiles in advance by collecting signal power indicators from multiple RISs across different angular sectors before actual obstacle detection is needed. This preliminary characterization of the environment enables faster real-time obstacle detection, as the system can compare current measurements against pre-established profiles rather than building detection models from scratch during critical detection events
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 proactive detection and tracking of passive objects in non-line-of-sight scenarios, minimizing hardware complexity and power expenditure while enhancing localization and tracking performance.
Implementation Method 1
a measured power of each of a plurality of signals received at the UE within the time interval from a radio unit (RU) via at least one reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS)
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for preemptive obstacle detection and tracking in an environment includes the steps: a) constructing a power-angle measurement profile based on signal power indicators (SPIs) within a time interval, the SPIs including a measured power of each signal received via a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) of a plurality of RISs located within the environment; b) mapping a reduction in the measured power in the power-angle measurement profile to a first RIS associated with a first angular sector of the environment to predict a presence of an obstacle therein; and c) updating a coordination plan associated with the RISs based on feedback to track the obstacle. Steps a)-c) are iteratively repeated to predict a presence of the obstacle in further angular sectors. A predicted trajectory of the obstacle is extrapolated over time based on the predicted presence of the obstacle in the angular sectors.