English

mmMirror: Device Free mmWave Indoor NLoS Localization Using Van-Atta-Array IRS

Networking and Internet Architecture 2025-05-19 v1 Human-Computer Interaction Robotics

Abstract

Industry 4.0 is transforming manufacturing and logistics by integrating robots into shared human environments, such as factories, warehouses, and healthcare facilities. However, the risk of human-robot collisions, especially in Non-Line-of-Sight (NLoS) scenarios like around corners, remains a critical challenge. Existing solutions, such as vision-based and LiDAR systems, often fail under occlusion, lighting constraints, or privacy concerns, while RF-based systems are limited by range and accuracy. To address these limitations, we propose mmMirror, a novel system leveraging a Van Atta Array-based millimeter-wave (mmWave) reconfigurable intelligent reflecting surface (IRS) for precise, device-free NLoS localization. mmMirror integrates seamlessly with existing frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) radars and offers: (i) robust NLoS localization with centimeter-level accuracy at ranges up to 3 m, (ii) seamless uplink and downlink communication between radar and IRS, (iii) support for multi-radar and multi-target scenarios via dynamic beam steering, and (iv) reduced scanning latency through adaptive time slot allocation. Implemented using commodity 24 GHz radars and a PCB-based IRS prototype, mmMirror demonstrates its potential in enabling safe human-robot interactions in dynamic and complex environments.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.2505.10816,
  title  = {mmMirror: Device Free mmWave Indoor NLoS Localization Using Van-Atta-Array IRS},
  author = {Yihe Yan and Zhenguo Shi and Yanxiang Wang and Cheng Jiang and Chun Tung Chou and Wen Hu},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2505.10816},
  year   = {2025}
}
R2 v1 2026-06-28T23:35:17.318Z