Chipless labels detection by backscattering for identification and sensing applications

Abstract

There is currently a growing interest in the development of communication systems that consume as little energy as possible, with the idea of eliminating the presence of batteries, which are a very polluting component. This is why the principles of communication based on backscatter modulation, or even more simply on backscattering by a device that takes the form of a label, like a barcode, are being studied more and more. In the latter case, the idea is to use the radar signature of this totally passive label, the geometry of the elements printed on it having been specially designed to perform the desired functions. These new systems cannot claim to do the same things as those working with a power supply or a chip, but they may be of interest for certain applications where the reading distances do not exceed one metre. Compared to barcodes, the main advantages are related to the use of RF waves to communicate, which makes it possible to read through certain objects that are opaque to light, or to significantly reduce the acquisition time of identifiers by being able to scan larger reading areas more easily.