Radio Network Localization Using RIS-Controlled Propagation Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional localization methods using radio networks are limited by fixed propagation paths of radio waves, which cannot be adjusted, leading to inflexible localization accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The method employs reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) to adapt and modify propagation paths, allowing for flexible localization by adjusting the radiation characteristics of radio waves, enabling new paths to be added or removed as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed propagation paths are used for localization, then the system structure is simple, but the localization adaptability and precision are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) as intermediary elements between transmitters and receivers. These RIS surfaces reflect and shape radio wave propagation paths, enabling flexible adaptation of localization paths without directly modifying the core localization system architecture. The RIS acts as a mediator that dynamically adjusts propagation characteristics while maintaining system structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of propagation paths by making the intelligent surfaces reconfigurable. The surfaces can dynamically change their radiation characteristics and propagation path configurations based on localization requirements, transforming static fixed paths into adaptive dynamic paths that can be adjusted in real-time.
2Measurement precision
If reconfigurable intelligent surfaces are introduced to adapt propagation paths, then localization precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the localization system into distinct functional segments: transmitters, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, and receivers. Each segment operates independently with specific functions, allowing the complex task of adaptive localization to be distributed across multiple simpler components rather than requiring a monolithic complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The reconfigurable intelligent surfaces serve multiple functions simultaneously: they reflect radio waves, shape propagation paths, adjust signal directions, and enable both direct and indirect propagation modes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components, thereby managing system complexity while achieving high localization precision.
3Measurement precision
If multiple propagation paths are used for localization, then localization accuracy is enhanced, but signal management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system monitors signal strengths and propagation conditions across multiple paths, then uses this information to dynamically adjust the reconfigurable intelligent surfaces. This feedback loop enables automatic optimization of propagation path selection and configuration, reducing the manual signal management complexity while maintaining high localization accuracy through adaptive path management.
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 enhances localization accuracy by allowing flexible adaptation of propagation paths, improving localization precision in specific areas and enabling higher signal strengths.
Implementation Method 1
surface elements arranged at predetermined positions in the spatial domain and each configured as a reconfigurable intelligent surface... radio waves originating from radio waves of the transmitter of the respective predetermined propagation path impinge on a respective surface element configured as a reconfigurable intelligent surface... The respective surface element on the respective predetermined propagation path converts the radio waves falling thereon into radio waves which are emitted by the respective surface element with a previously configured radiation characteristic
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for the computer-aided localization of an object (O) by means of a radio network, wherein the radio waves of the radio network propagate in a spatial area along a number of propagation paths (PA1, PA2, PA3, PA4, PA1', ..., PAN') between a number of transmitters (TR, TR') and a number of receivers (RE, RE1', ..., REN'), wherein a respective propagation path (PA1, PA2, PA3, PA4, PA1', ..., PAN') represents a previously known transmission path of the radio waves of the radio network between a transmitter (TR, TR') and a receiver (RE, RE1', ..., REN') which are assigned to the respective propagation path (PA1, PA2, PA3, PA4, PA1', ..., PAN'). In the method according to the invention, signal values (α̂i(tk)) of the radio network for the number of propagation paths (PA1, PA2, PA3, PA4, PA1', ...) are determined at a respective measurement time from a number of measurement times., PAN'), and the position of the object (O) within the spatial area at the respective measurement time is estimated from the signal values (âi(tk)) obtained at the respective measurement time. The number of propagation paths (PA1, PA2, PA3, PA4, PA1', ..., PAN') comprises one or more predetermined propagation paths (PA1', ..., PAN'), wherein each predetermined propagation path (PA1', ..., PAN') contains one or more surface elements (4) that are arranged at previously known positions in the spatial area and are each designed as a reconfigurable intelligent surface.