Arizona State University

The Ohio State University

Georgios Trichopoulos

Kubilay Sertel

Cosan Caglayan

Panagiotis Theofanopoulos

Ahmed Alkhateeb

A single-switch-per-bit topology for reconfigurable reflective surfaces (RRSs) is provided. Novel multi-bit unit-cell configurations are presented for radio-frequency (RF) RRSs with improved radiation efficiency and compact designs. Embodiments described herein realize a multi-bit RRS using an antenna array with multiple integrated switches at the ports of every antenna element (e.g., one at each port, providing one control bit per switch). By manipulating the states of the switches, the impinging waves on the surface are modulated, leading to beamforming in the desired direction. Some embodiments utilize a single switch-per-bit topology integrating single-pole-single-throw (SPST) switches (e.g., PIN diodes) into the unit-cell design, achieving up to 4 bits of phase quantization with only 4 switches. The exhibited radiation efficiency of the multi-bit RRS is significantly improved compared to lower bit configurations.

Single-switch-per-bit topology for reconfigurable reflective surfaces

Mapping and localization using image processing of wireless signals is provided. Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a novel approach for high accuracy mapping of an environment around an antenna (or antenna array) coupled to a radio frequency (RF) transceiver through image processing of RF signals. The image processing includes constructing a map of line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) objects in the environment by distinguishing NLOS objects and correctly projecting their positions relative to the LOS objects. In some examples, a three-dimensional (3D) image of the environment around the antenna (or antenna array) is produced. Aspects disclosed herein can further provide simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) for a wireless device.

Mapping and localization using image processing of wireless signals

Methods, apparatuses, systems, and implementations of an ultra-compact RF (30 GHz-10 THz) imaging sensor topology that provides a new insight into the human skin are disclosed. The skin tissue is the largest organ in the body&#x2014;both in weight and surface area&#x2014;and stores valuable information that can revolutionize security biometrics and mobile health monitoring. The proposed compact sensor enables, for the first time, portable and wearable devices to perform superior biometric authentication compared to current fingerprint methods. Additionally, these devices could probe into the skin to monitor vital signs in real-time and enable mobile health monitoring.

Methods, apparatuses, and systems for radio-frequency imaging sensors for advanced fingerprint biometrics and medical imaging

Terahertz (THz) or millimeter wave (mmW) band characterization of a differential-mode device under test (DUT) is performed using a non-contact probing setup based on an integrated circuit that includes the on-chip DUT and an on-chip test fixture as follows. A differential transmission line pair is operatively coupled with the DUT. A first differential antenna pair at a first end of the transmission line pair has a first antenna connected only with the first transmission line and a second antenna connected only with the second transmission line. A second differential antenna pair is likewise connected with a second end of the differential transmission line pair. A THz or mmW transmitter radiates a probe THz or mmW beam to the first differential antenna pair, and an electronic analyzer receives a THz or mmW signal radiated by the second differential antenna pair responsive to the radiation of the probe THz or mmW beam to the first differential antenna pair, thus enabling no-contact S-parameter measurements for characterizing differential-mode, on-wafer, active or passive devices and integrated circuits.

On-chip, wideband, differentially fed antennas with integrated bias structures

A test fixture for characterizing a device-under-test (DUT) includes first and second planar antennas and a planar waveguide arranged to guide terahertz (THz) and/or millimeter wave (mmW) radiation between the first and second planar antennas. The planar waveguide is further configured to couple THz and/or mmW radiation guided between the first and second planar antennas with the DUT. A beam forming apparatus is arranged to transmit a probe THz and/or mmW radiation beam to the first planar antenna of the test fixture. An electronic analyzer is configured to wirelessly receive a THz and/or mmW signal emitted by the second planar antenna responsive to transmission of the probe THz and/or mmW radiation beam to the first planar antenna. The planar antennas may be asymmetrical beam-tilted slot antennas.

Non-contact probe measurement test bed for millimeter wave and terahertz circuits, integrated devices/components, systems for spectroscopy using sub-wavelength-size-samples

Growing community of inventors

Tempe, AZ, United States of America

Georgios Trichopoulos