Researchers from University of California have developed a new method called “Wiffract” to visualize objects beyond the line of sight. This technique leverages Wi-Fi radio frequency (RF) signals, utilizing Geometric Diffraction Theory (GDT) principles to interact with the edges of objects that need to be visualized.
The research team noted that while object detection using Wi-Fi has gained interest in recent years, most competing methods focus on analyzing the movement of objects or moving objects with respect to stationary ones beyond their range. The new Wiffract technique is based on Geometric Diffraction Theory and the corresponding Keller Cones created by Wi-Fi’s interaction with object edges. During the development of Wiffract, the researchers used a single laptop as the Wi-Fi transmitter, but attached six antennas to a small, mobile vehicle to read the reflected RF waves and plot the results on a 2D grid. In effect, the vehicle and antenna array “scanned” the letters behind the wall.
As with any new technology, there is a dark side to Wiffract. While the research team refrains from discussing it, Wiffract raises serious privacy concerns. A technology capable of reading behind walls could lead to significant security risks and may provide a new tool for spying or compromise home privacy from a distance.