Summary:
UCLA researchers in the Department of Computer Science have developed a novel method of enabling any existing Internet of Things (IoT) device to operate at higher frequencies of the wireless spectrum.
Background:
The growing presence of smart devices that can communicate, sense, and process data places demands on current wireless networks. As IoT connectivity grows, more and more devices must connect to the wireless spectrum. These devices currently operate at lower frequency bands, causing strain resulting from the lack of critical benefits of higher frequency bands, such as higher data rates. Millimeter-wave (mmWave) networks are an attractive solution due to the increased capacity allowed by the higher bandwidth and the use of directional antennas which permit accurate device localization and more efficient spectrum usage. However, most mmWave components consume large amounts of power and often require device replacement. To enhance smart device performance, eliminate the need for time-consuming and costly upgrades to all IoT devices, and alleviate network congestion, there is a clear need for a low-power method allow existing devices to communicate at mmWave frequencies.
Innovation:
Researchers led by Dr. Salehi-Abari have invented mmPlug, a simple, low-power device that can be easily connected to any existing IoT device. This small, cost-effective device is designed with simplicity and efficiency in mind, making it an ideal solution for upgrading existing IoT devices. mmPlug simply connects to a device’s antenna, and draws only 60 mA while maintaining an operating range of 30 meters. Previous technologies provide only downloading capabilities, meaning they are incompatible with IoT applications; mmPlug, however, enables two-way communication. mmPlug is a significant step forward in the world of IoT technology, poised to expand the ecosystem exponentially. Its low-power consumption, two-way communication capabilities, and extensive operating range make it a valuable catalyst to the IoT ecosystem. This innovative device paves the way for more efficient and versatile IoT applications, enabling a wide range of industries to harness the benefits of smart connectivity without compromising on power efficiency or connectivity range, all without needing to replace already-owned devices.
Potential Applications:
• Smart home
• WiFi connectivity
• Modernization of existing devices
Advantages:
• Plug and play installation
• Low power demands
• Two-way data communication
• 30-meter operating range
• Technology agnostic
Development-To-Date:
Researchers have experimentally evaluated the performance of the design and demonstrated its efficacy by integrating it with off-the-shelf WiFi and LoRa IoT devices.
Related Papers:
Mohammad Hossein Mazaheri, Alex Chen, and Omid Abari. 2021. mmTag: a millimeter wave backscatter network. In Proceedings of the 2021 ACM SIGCOMM 2021 Conference. 463–474.
Reference:
UCLA Case No. 2023-280
Lead Inventor:
Professor Omid Salehi-Abari, UCLA Department of Computer Science