Zero-Energy Internet-of-Everything (ZE-IoE) in 6G Networks Using Backscatter Communication
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Emickers AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 968 500 |
| Project duration | November 2024 - June 2026 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | 6G - Research and innovation |
| Call | 6G International research and innovation cooperation 2024 |
Important results from the project
During the project, we designed, fabricated, and tested a 24 GHz Rotman lens-based retroreflective antenna for the unlicensed ISM band. In a monostatic RCS retroreflectivity test, the antenna demonstrated an RCS variation of approximately 12 dB over an angular range of ±60°. It also successfully demonstrated data modulation on ambient OFDM and FMCW waveforms. These results confirm its potential to enable integrated sensing and communication, a capability envisioned for future 6G networks.
Expected long term effects
The project results can significantly contribute to sustainable IoT solutions in future 6G networks. While conventional backscatter-based zero-energy devices are limited to short-range communication, retroreflective antennas can extend communication range by leveraging antenna directivity while maintaining low power consumption and low-cost modulation. This enables practical battery-free wireless devices beyond laboratory demonstrations and supports large-scale, maintenance-free IoT deployments.
Approach and implementation
The project was structured around simulation, fabrication, testing, and demonstration activities, which were carried out according to the original plan. All milestones were successfully achieved. The project timeline was extended due to time-consuming recruitment processes, but the technical objectives were not affected. The collaboration worked well, and we highly appreciated the valuable support, expertise, and feedback from international collaborators