Multi-antenna directional backscatter tag for improved data transmission

This technology is a multiple antenna array for improved sensitivity and range for backscatter communications.

Unmet Need: Robust, low power and long-range backscatter communications

Current methods for backscattering communications and data transmissions involve transmission of a signal from a transceiver to a single antenna backscatter tag that reflects the signal in all directions. This multi-directional reflecting results in significant loss of signal, limiting the working range and sensitivity or data rate of the communication. Short working range and decreased sensitivity limits the applicability of backscatter modulation.

The Technology: Multi-antenna directional backscatter tag for enhanced sensitivity and increased range of backscatter communication

This technology uses a multi-antenna tag to backscatter the signal of interest in a directional manner towards the transceiver. It can use any size N x N antenna array to detect the direction of arrival of the signal. The array can then backscatter a uni-directional beam to the transceiver for improved directional backscatter communication.

This technology has been validated using a 3x3 array which delivered a 19dB sensitivity enhancement and tripled the range of communication when compared to standard backscatter communications with a single antenna tag.

Applications:

• Tag based localization of objects in a warehouse or localized environment
• Tag assisted navigation and parking for autonomous objects, cars, or humans
• Improve radar detection for terrestrial exploration
• Increase range of oceanic radar communication
• Localized low power communication
• Secure the data signals being transmitted for classified operations

Advantages:

• Increases range of backscattering communications
• Enhances dB sensitivity
• Low power data transmission
• Compatible for use with any N x N array tag

Lab Director:

Peter Kinget, Ph.D.

Patent Information:

Patent Status

Related Publications:

• Mangal V, Atzeni G, Kinget PR. “Multi-antenna directional backscatter tags” 2018 48th European Microwave Conference (EuMC). 2018; 174-177.

Tech Ventures Reference:

• IR CU18289

• Licensing Contact: Greg Maskel