Pattern reconfigurable antennas for passive motion detection: WiFi test-bed and first studies

The paper considers the adoption of pattern reconfigurable antenna devices as a new opportunity for human-scale passive radio sensing using ambient (or stray) WiFi signals designed for wireless communications. Pattern reconfigurable antennas allow to dynamically channelize the antenna radiation pattern to pre-defined directions of interest. These antennas are essential RF components both in forthcoming 5G devices and next generation WiFi radios. We discuss signal modeling, beam-steering technology integration and adaptation for passive motion detection. First case studies and performance analysis inside a smart workspace are also considered.