Concurrent UWB and Wi-Fi Sensing for External Object Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing target detection systems face challenges in achieving an acceptable overall target detection performance, trading off detection range with sensitivity, and providing flexibility in avoiding congested frequency bands when using RF communication technologies like Wi-Fi and UWB independently.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that concurrently operates multiple communication units, such as UWB radar and Wi-Fi, or combinations of independent communication units, at different frequencies, within a predefined time slot, and a controller that concurrently operates these units to leverage their specific detection capabilities, such as UWB radar units for long-range detection and Wi-Fi for high velocity resolution, while mitigating interference and crosstalk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single RF communication technology (e.g., Wi-Fi or UWB) is used for target detection, then the system is simple to implement, but the overall target detection performance is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple RF communication technologies (UWB radar and Wi-Fi) into a single target detection system. The controller coordinates both communication units to operate concurrently, merging their detection capabilities to achieve superior overall performance that neither technology could achieve alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The system makes the communication units multi-functional by enabling them to perform both their primary communication functions and target detection functions. The same hardware components (communication units, antennas) are used for both data transmission and sensing operations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated sensing hardware.
2Length of moving object
If UWB radar is used for long-range detection, then detection range is improved, but sensitivity for high velocity resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different functional qualities to different communication units based on their strengths. UWB radar is optimized for long-range detection where detection range is the priority, while Wi-Fi is optimized for high velocity resolution measurements. The controller selectively uses each unit's capabilities according to the specific detection requirements.
3Measurement precision
If Wi-Fi is used for high velocity resolution detection, then measurement precision is improved, but detection range deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different functional qualities to different communication units based on their strengths. UWB radar is optimized for long-range detection where detection range is the priority, while Wi-Fi is optimized for high velocity resolution measurements. The controller selectively uses each unit's capabilities according to the specific detection requirements.
4Reliability
If multiple communication units operate concurrently at the same frequency, then detection coverage is improved, but interference and crosstalk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the frequency parameter by operating the first and second communication units at different frequencies. This frequency separation allows both units to operate concurrently for improved detection coverage while minimizing mutual interference and crosstalk between the simultaneous sensing operations.
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 target detection performance by increasing range, velocity, and angle determination, while avoiding congested channels and reducing interference, thereby improving overall detection sensitivity and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a radar-based RF communication technology, for example an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication unit operating in a radar mode
Implementation Method 2
The second sensor detects the second objects based on radio frequency (RF) signals emitted by the second objects
Data Source
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AI summary
In accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, a system is provided for facilitating detecting an external object, the system comprising: at least one first communication unit configured to transmit and receive one or more first signals; at least one second communication unit configured to transmit and receive one or more second signals; a controller configured to control the first communication unit and the second communication unit, wherein the controller is configured to cause the first communication unit and the second communication unit to operate concurrently and to use the first signals received by the first communication unit and the second signals received by the second communication unit while said first communication unit and second communication unit are operating concurrently for detecting the external object. In accordance with other aspects of the present disclosure, a corresponding method for facilitating detecting an external object is conceived, as well as a computer program for carrying out said method.