Very Far-Field Communication Using Mobile Relay Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current far-field communication protocols are limited in range, unable to effectively communicate with RFID tags beyond 30 meters, making it difficult to track or inventory items over extended distances such as several miles.
Innovation Solution
A very-far field communication system that utilizes multiple wireless networks, including cellular and local wireless networks like WiFi or Bluetooth, to interrogate and respond to RFID tags by broadcasting queries through selected base stations and receiving responses via mobile devices, allowing for extended range communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If traditional RFID FFC protocols are used, then communication is possible within 30 meters, but communication range is limited and cannot extend to several miles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mobile devices as intermediary components between the RFID reader and tags at far distances. The mobile device receives queries from the reader, relays them to tags, and returns responses, enabling communication beyond the 30-meter limit while maintaining reliability through multiple communication hops
Solution Approach 2:
The communication path is segmented into multiple stages: reader-to-mobile device communication over short distance, mobile device-to-tag communication via local wireless networks, and response relay back through the same path. This segmentation allows each segment to operate within reliable ranges while achieving extended overall coverage
2Length of stationary object
If multiple wireless networks and base stations are used to extend range, then communication distance increases to several miles, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Mobile devices perform multiple functions: they act as query relays, response receivers, and communication bridges between different networks (cellular and local wireless). This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated infrastructure components, simplifying the overall system despite extended range
Solution Approach 2:
The system leverages existing mobile devices and their built-in wireless capabilities (cellular, WiFi, Bluetooth) to perform communication relay functions. Rather than requiring specialized infrastructure, the system uses self-sufficient mobile devices that already possess the necessary communication protocols and networking capabilities
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 efficient tracking and inventory of items over long distances by using a network of base stations and mobile devices to extend the communication range beyond traditional RFID limitations, facilitating transactions and inventory management.
Implementation Method 1
a transmitter to provide a local signal, in response to the tag query, over a local wireless network (e.g., a WiFi network)
Data Source
AI summary
A network device receives, from a user device, an inquiry for a selected very-far field communication (VFC) tag and selects, from a group of available base stations, one or more particular base stations of a wireless access network from which to broadcast a tag query for the selected VFC tag. The network device inserts the tag query into a broadcast signal of each of the one or more particular base stations. The VFC tag receives the tag query and transmits a local response signal over a local wireless network. A mobile device within range of the local response signal processes the local response signal and forwards the local response signal to the network device as a tag response. The network device receives the tag response and sends an indication of the tag response to the user device.