Millimeter-wave identification for future sensing, tracking, positioning and communicating systems

Abstract

The emerging millimeter-wave identification (MMID) technology is poised to exploit special advantages from operating in this frequency band and to circumvent the limitations of low-frequency RFID. In this work, the state-of-art of innovative techniques, which allow propelling the MMID technology in the front line of future wireless systems such as smart homes, are presented. Two recent developments in our group are highlighted with simulations and experiments, namely (1) extremely miniaturized and highly-secure chipless tag techniques for short- and mid-range; and (2) a new generation of high data-rate, fully integrated, battery-free, yet active MMID tag on a single CMOS die with no external components. In this paper, great potentials and exciting prospects of MMID sensing systems as well as their technological challenges in terms of security, networking, mass production and deployment issues are discussed. Successful development of MMIDs and their penetration into the market constitute a critical future smart living and result in better life in terms of green environment, efficient energy usage and secure information.