SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR IMPLEMENTING INTELLIGENT REFLECTIVE SURFACES (IRS) IN A NETWORK - Patent application

Abstract

An embodiment of a sixth generation (6G) network device in communication with one or more intelligent reflective surfaces (IRS) and one or more UEs is disclosed. In an embodiment, the 6G network device includes one or more processors coupled to a memory storing a set of instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the network device to calculate IRS slope information associated with the one or more IRSs based at least in part on one or more of signal-to-interference-and-noise ratio (SINR) information, reference signal received power (RSRP) information, and reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information received from the one or more UEs. The one or more processors further cause the network device to communicate the calculated IRS slope information to the one or more IRSs via a network interface, the IRS slope information being used to control one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Reservation of Rights Portions of the disclosure of this patent specification contain material that is subject to intellectual property rights, including but not limited to copyright, design, trademark, IC layout design, and / or trade dress protection, belonging to Jio Platforms Limited (JPL) or its affiliates (hereinafter referred to as the Owner). The Owner has no objection to the reproduction by any person of the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the patent file or records at the Patent and Trademark Office, but otherwise reserves all and any rights. All rights with respect to such intellectual property are fully reserved by the Owner. Additionally, this patent specification also proposes a new network interface protocol that will contribute to the 3GPP Technical Specifications (TS) for future generation network technologies (6G networks).

[0002] The present invention relates generally to an IRS network architecture, and more particularly to an IRS network architecture in a communication network. [Background technology]

[0003] The following description of related art is intended to provide background information regarding the field of the present disclosure. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that this section is used only to enhance the reader's understanding of the present disclosure and is not to be used as an admission of prior art.

[0004] Existing communication technologies (e.g., 5G) and future technologies (e.g., 6G) face two main practical limitations. First, there is a lack of control over the wireless channel, and second, the power consumption of the wireless interfaces associated with the network is high. To address the need for future cellular networks that are environmentally friendly and sustainable, the concept of reconfiguring the wireless propagation environment using Intelligent Reflective Surfaces (IRS) and Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) has emerged in the last few years. A typical IRS architecture consists of many low-cost passive antennas that can smartly reflect impinging electromagnetic waves for improved performance.

[0005] 5G wireless technology being developed by 3GPP is intended to provide more users with higher multi-Gbps peak data rates, ultra-low latency, higher reliability, huge network capacity, improved availability, and a more uniform user experience. Higher performance and improved efficiency will enable new user experiences and connect newer industries. Although some of the above goals have been achieved, existing 5G networks still have many challenges that need to be resolved. For example, existing 5G networks may not optimally serve multiple industry verticals, may not support private networks, and may not provide an architecture to support flexible network deployment.

[0006] Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) are rapidly emerging as a key wireless technology trend for 5G and even Beyond 5G networks. RIS correspond to smart wireless surfaces of a multitude of small antennas or reconfigurable metamaterial elements ("unit cells") that enable control of the propagation environment through tunable scattering of electromagnetic waves. These intelligent surfaces have reflective, refractive, and absorptive properties that are reconfigurable and adaptable to the wireless channel environment.

[0007] Furthermore, existing 5G networks do not yet use many of the available or emerging technologies in an optimal manner to solve many of the above-mentioned problems. Examples of such available technologies include artificial intelligence, terahertz communications, optical wireless technology, free space optic networks, blockchain, three-dimensional networking, quantum communications, unmanned aerial vehicles, cell-free communications, integrated wireless information and energy transfer, integrated sensing and communications, integrated access backhaul networks, dynamic network slicing, holographic beamforming, and big data analytics.

[0008] Furthermore, with respect to 6G networks, existing systems and methods do not provide any 6G network interface architecture and any protocols between the 6G network and the IRS that satisfactorily address the concerns highlighted above in relation to current 5G networks.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need in the art for a system and method for providing an IRS architecture for 5G networks and subsequent networks (6G networks) that can overcome the above-mentioned problems in the art and that can take advantage of the convergence of at least one or more of the above-mentioned available technologies. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] Some of the objectives of the present disclosure that are met by at least one embodiment herein are listed herein below.

[0011] It is an object of the present disclosure to facilitate efficient, simultaneous, and improved communication between a base station (BS) and one or more UEs of a 5G / 6G network.

[0012] It is an objective of this disclosure to eliminate the need for additional and costly deployment of BSs for better network coverage in 6G and beyond networks.

[0013] It is an object of the present disclosure to facilitate economical next generation based systems and methods that can enable a communication or network interface between a BS and an IRS in 6G and beyond networks.

[0014] It is an object of the present disclosure to facilitate systems and methods that can enable control of an IRS by a BS using a communication or network interface in 6G and beyond networks. [Means for solving the problem]

[0015] Some of the objectives of the present disclosure satisfied by at least one embodiment herein are as listed herein below. An embodiment of a network device in communication with one or more intelligent reflective surfaces (IRS) and one or more UEs is disclosed. In an embodiment, the 6G network device includes one or more processors coupled to a memory storing a set of instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, causes the network device to calculate IRS slope information associated with the one or more IRSs based at least in part on a first set of information. In an embodiment, the first set of information includes one or more of signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio (SINR) information, reference signal received power (RSRP) information, and reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information received from the one or more UEs. The one or more processors further cause the network device to communicate the calculated IRS slope information to the one or more IRSs via a network interface, the IRS slope information being used to control one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs.

[0016] In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to calculate IRS gradient information based on one or more of the locations of the one or more IRSs, the locations of the one or more UEs, and channel quality indicator (CQI) information from the one or more UEs, where the IRS gradient information indicates beamforming for the one or more IRSs. In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to calculate the IRS gradient information as a precoding matrix or beamforming or IRS gradient matrix used to simultaneously transmit one or more spatially directive signals from each of the one or more IRSs, where each of the one or more IRSs includes multiple antennas. In an embodiment, all antennas of the one or more IRS transmit arrays are configured to emit different signals designed in the digital domain based on the respective IRS gradient information. In an embodiment, the one or more IRSs apply the precoding matrix or beamforming matrix provided by the network device to provide directionality toward an intended UE of the one or more UEs and select a corresponding transmit power.

[0017] In an embodiment, the one or more IRSs use the IRS tilt information to calculate a digital tilt and mechanical tilt for each of the antennas and assign power and phase to each of the antennas. In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to recognize the one or more IRSs either through prior knowledge encoded in a database or through a signaling mechanism established between the one or more IRSs and the network device by the network interface. In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to receive a handshake signal from the new IRS when it is activated via a physical connection between the new IRS and the network device during a setup process.

[0018] In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to create an entry in the IRS-cell mapping table, the entry including one or more fields including an IRS-ID, the number of antenna elements supported by the new IRS, support for mechanical / electrical tilt, capability of the IRS in terms of active / passive support, geographic location such as altitude, azimuth, elevation, coverage capability of the IRS, shareable / non-shareable status, and deployment details. In an embodiment, the network interface implements a network interface protocol established between the network device and the one or more IRSs, the network interface protocol including a handshake signal schema. In an embodiment, the network interface is established through a direct connection between the network device and the one or more IRSs via a microcontroller. In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to calculate IRS tilt information required to achieve a SINR target based on one or more of a user distribution, a user profile, a SINR profile, and a block error rate (BLER) profile for a given area served by the network device. In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to send one or more control messages to the one or more IRSs at a preconfigured periodicity, the one or more IRSs being controlled by the network device using the one or more control messages.

[0019] An embodiment of a method implemented in a network device in communication with one or more intelligent reflective surfaces (IRSs) and one or more UEs is disclosed. In an embodiment, the method includes calculating IRS slope information associated with the one or more IRSs based at least in part on a first set of information. In an embodiment, the first set of information includes one or more of signal-to-interference-and-noise-ratio (SINR) information, reference signal received power (RSRP) information, and reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information received from the one or more UEs. The method further includes communicating the calculated IRS slope information to the one or more IRSs via a network interface, where the IRS slope information is used to control one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs.

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute a part of the present invention, depict exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems, with like reference numerals referring to the same parts throughout the various drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed on clearly illustrating the principles of the invention. Some drawings may use block diagrams to illustrate components and may not show the internal circuitry of each component. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the inventions in such drawings include inventions in electrical components, electronic components, or circuits commonly used to implement such components. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a typical IRS deployment scenario in an example 5G or 6G network architecture in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2a] FIG. 1 illustrates an example use case of an IRS deployment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2b] FIG. 1 illustrates an example use case of an IRS deployment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2c]FIG. 1 illustrates an example use case of an IRS deployment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2d] FIG. 1 illustrates an example use case of an IRS deployment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2e] FIG. 1 illustrates an example use case of an IRS deployment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2f] FIG. 1 illustrates an example use case of an IRS deployment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 illustrates an example IRS coverage scenario according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an example IRS deployment scenario in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5a] FIG. 1 illustrates an example functional architecture of a RAN interfacing with an IRS according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5b] FIG. 2 illustrates an example network device implemented in an IRS network architecture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 illustrates an example DUI protocol interface stack in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7a] FIG. 1 illustrates example steps involved in a protocol for interfacing between a RAN and an IRS according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7b] FIG. 1 illustrates example steps involved in a protocol for interfacing between a RAN and an IRS according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7c] FIG. 1 illustrates example steps involved in a protocol for interfacing between a RAN and an IRS according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7d] FIG. 1 illustrates example steps involved in a protocol for interfacing between a RAN and an IRS according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7e] FIG. 1 illustrates example steps involved in a protocol for interfacing between a RAN and an IRS according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7f] FIG. 1 illustrates example steps involved in a protocol for interfacing between a RAN and an IRS according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7g] FIG. 1 illustrates example steps involved in a protocol for interfacing between a RAN and an IRS according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary computer system in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be utilized, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] The above will become more apparent from the following more detailed description of the invention.

[0023] In the following description, for the purpose of explanation, various specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent that the embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. Some features described below may be used independently of each other or with any combination of other features. Individual features may not address all of the problems discussed above, or may address only some of the problems discussed above. Some of the problems discussed above may not be fully addressed by any of the features described herein.

[0024] The following description merely provides exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the present disclosure. Rather, the following description of exemplary embodiments provides those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing the exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth.

[0025] Specific details are provided in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits, systems, networks, processes, and other components may be shown as components in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments in unnecessary detail. In other cases, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments.

[0026] It is also noted that the individual embodiments may be described as a process that is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flow diagram may show operations as a sequential process, many of the operations may be performed in parallel or simultaneously. In addition, the order of operations may be rearranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed, but may have additional steps not included in the diagram. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination may correspond to a return of the function to the calling function or to the main function.

[0027] The words "exemplary" and / or "illustrative" are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or example. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" and / or "illustrative" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, and is not intended to exclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms "includes," "has," "contains," and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive without excluding any additional or other elements -- in the same manner as the term "comprising" as an open transition term.

[0028] References throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" or "an instance" or "one instance" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0029] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" as used herein specify the presence of the mentioned features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0030] A new paradigm for wireless communications that fully supports artificial intelligence, the sixth generation (6G) system, is expected to be deployed in the next few years. Some fundamental issues that may need to be addressed in 6G networks include larger system capacity, higher data rates, lower latency, and improved quality of service (QoS) compared to 5G networks.

[0031] Even with current fifth generation (5G) technology, greater system capacity, higher data rates, less latency, and improved quality of service (QoS) are desirable. 5G networks do not yet use available or emerging technologies.

[0032] Additionally, future networks such as 6G networks may desirably be designed to enable an expansion of human experience across the physical, biological, and digital worlds. At the same time, 6G networks may desirably enable next-generation industrial business environments beyond Industry 4.0 (the Fourth Industrial Revolution) in various dimensions of performance. Such dimensions may include, but are not limited to, positioning, sensing, ultra-reliability, energy efficiency, and extreme real-time. 6G networks may provide novel radio and access architectures for both communication and sensing, co-design of AI-optimized wide area networks (WANs) and data centers, and dynamic orchestration of personalized services to revolutionize the long tail of niche consumer interests.

[0033] Mobile broadband demand will continue to grow for consumers and businesses alike, but the use of ultra-high reliability and low latency will be driven largely by specialized, localized use cases associated with non-public networks and often augmented intelligence. This will occur as an integral part of the automated and secure network transformation anticipated and attempted in current 5G networks. Things ranging from automobiles, industrial machines, and home appliances to watches and apparel will learn and organize themselves to meet human needs by automatically adapting to human behavior, environment, and business processes. Energy efficiency is yet another key design criterion for the design of 6G network architectures, since network performance depends on the energy available in the domain of the respective architecture.

[0034] One of the most challenging requirements comes from remote control in conjunction with augmented reality and immersive media experiences. In addition to extreme ultra-reliable low latency (URLLC) performance requirements, this calls for ultra-high rates of 100Gbit / s and above, enabling uncompressed transmission of high-quality 360-degree video. Such demands require a degree of flexibility and specialization that exceeds the capabilities of 5G networks. 6G networks must therefore be intent and open service driven, in short, business needs drive the creation of 6G products and services. The creation of products and services will be an integral part of automated e2e service workflows, guided and guided by policies and intents. In other words, use case driven means meeting the diverse needs and preferences of each user or specialized 6G sub-network, whether it is a human, a physical machine or a digital twin. In summary, key requirements for 6G architecture may include: (a) network programmability, (b) deployment flexibility, (c) simplicity and efficiency, (d) security, robustness, and reliability, and (e) automation.

[0035] An embodiment of a network device (e.g., a 6G network device) in communication with one or more intelligent reflective surfaces (IRS) and one or more UEs is disclosed. In an embodiment, the network device includes one or more processors coupled to a memory storing a set of instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, causes the network device to calculate IRS tilt information associated with the one or more IRSs based at least in part on a first set of information. The first set of information includes one or more of signal-to-interference-and-noise ratio (SINR) information, reference signal received power (RSRP) information, and reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information received from the one or more UEs. The one or more processors further cause the network device to communicate the calculated IRS tilt information to the one or more IRSs via a network interface, the IRS tilt information being used to control one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs. In an embodiment, the one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs include mechanical aspects, such as, but not limited to, mechanical tilt. In an embodiment, the one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs include digital aspects, such as digital tilt. In an embodiment, the one or more operational aspects of the one or more IRSs include electrical aspects, such as, but not limited to, transmit power. It will be appreciated that each of the one or more IRSs includes multiple tiles or panels. In an exemplary embodiment, the disclosed operational aspects of the one or more IRSs may be controlled at various levels of granularity, e.g., at a tile level, a panel level, etc.

[0036] In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to calculate IRS gradient information based on one or more of the locations of the one or more IRSs, the locations of the one or more UEs, and channel quality indicator (CQI) information from the one or more UEs, where the IRS gradient information indicates beamforming for the one or more IRSs. In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to calculate the IRS gradient information as a precoding matrix or beamforming or IRS gradient matrix used to simultaneously transmit one or more spatially directional signals from each of the one or more IRSs, where each of the one or more IRSs includes multiple antennas. In an embodiment, all antennas of the one or more IRS transmit arrays are configured to emit different signals designed in the digital domain based on the respective IRS gradient information. In an embodiment, the one or more IRSs apply the precoding matrix or beamforming matrix provided by the network device to provide directionality toward an intended UE of the one or more UEs and select a corresponding transmit power.

[0037] In an embodiment, the one or more IRSs use the IRS tilt information to calculate digital and mechanical tilts for each of the antennas and assign power and phase to each of the antennas. In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to recognize the one or more IRSs either through prior knowledge encoded in a database or through a signaling mechanism established between the one or more IRSs and the network device by the network interface. In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to receive a handshake signal from the new IRS when it is activated via a physical connection between the new IRS and the network device during a setup process.

[0038] In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to create an entry in the IRS-cell mapping table, the entry including one or more fields including an IRS-ID, the number of antenna elements supported by the new IRS, support for mechanical / electrical tilt, capability of the IRS in terms of active / passive support, geographic location such as altitude, azimuth, elevation, coverage capability of the IRS, shareable / non-shareable status, and deployment details. In an embodiment, the network interface implements a network interface protocol established between the network device and the one or more IRSs, the network interface protocol including a handshake signal schema. In an embodiment, the network interface is established through a direct connection between the network device and the one or more IRSs via a microcontroller. In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to calculate IRS tilt information required to achieve a SINR target based on one or more of a user distribution, a user profile, a SINR profile, and a block error rate (BLER) profile for a given area served by the network device. In an embodiment, the one or more processors further cause the network device to send one or more control messages to the one or more IRSs at a preconfigured periodicity, the one or more IRSs being controlled by the network device using the one or more control messages.

[0039] An embodiment of a method implemented in a network device in communication with one or more intelligent reflective surfaces (IRSs) and one or more UEs is disclosed. In an embodiment, the method includes calculating IRS slope information associated with the one or more IRSs based at least in part on a first set of information. In an embodiment, the first set of information includes one or more of signal-to-interference-and-noise-ratio (SINR) information, reference signal received power (RSRP) information, and reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information received from the one or more UEs. The method further includes communicating the calculated IRS slope information to the one or more IRSs via a network interface, where the IRS slope information is used to control one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs.

[0040] In an aspect of the present disclosure, a sixth generation (6G) network architecture described addresses the problem of network flexibility as proposed hereafter. The present disclosure also proposes a 5G and 6G network architecture that supports network sensing as a built-in feature. The present disclosure also proposes an IRS architecture for 5G and Beyond 5G networks (e.g., 6G) that utilizes at least one of the above-mentioned existing technologies and at least partially solves the convergence problem.

[0041] 1 illustrates a typical IRS deployment scenario 100 in an exemplary 5G or 6G network architecture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the main features of an IRS include the absence of power amplification, operation at RF levels with no or limited digital signal processing, and the ability to reconfigure multiple functions. The disclosed embodiment of the IRS architecture takes these features into account and provides a solution to at least the problems highlighted above.

[0042] 2a-2f illustrate example use cases of IRS deployments according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In general, use cases currently being explored for the RIS include use as a smart quasi-passive relay for coverage extension, use as a single RF multi-stream transmitter for capacity improvement, and use for information aided transmission in the context of ambient backscattering and symbiotic radio. For example, as shown in FIG. 2a, an IRS deployment 200 is used for a RIS-aided unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) 202. In yet another example, as shown in FIG. 2b, an IRS deployment 204 is used for RIS-aided mm-wave communications. In yet another example, as shown in FIG. 2c, an IRS deployment 206 is used for RIS-aided simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT). In yet another example, as shown in FIG. 2d, an IRS deployment 208 is used for RIS-aided physical layer security. In yet another example, an IRS deployment 210 is used for RIS-assisted mobile edge computing, as shown in Fig. 2e. In yet another example, an IRS deployment 212 is used for a RIS-assisted device-to-device (D2D) system, as shown in Fig. 2f.

[0043] In general, RIS enables dynamic and goal-directed control of radio signals between transmitters and receivers, thus transforming the wireless environment into a service. This ability in terms of reconfiguring wireless channels has motivated many potential improvements in various network critical performance indicators (KPIs) such as capacity, coverage, energy efficiency, positioning, and security. This is in addition to supporting new capabilities such as sensing and wireless power transfer.

[0044] RIS introduces new system nodes that change the wireless environment from passive to intelligent participants, and as a result, the channels become programmable. This trend challenges fundamental wireless system design paradigms and creates opportunities for innovation that will progressively impact the evolution of wireless system architectures, access technologies, and network protocols.

[0045] Moreover, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) can construct intelligent and programmable wireless environments in a controllable manner. RIS can perform passive reflection, passive absorption, and passive scattering, allowing the physical environment to be changed intelligently and interactively. RIS can change the electromagnetic properties of elements and generate phase shifts independently for the incident signal without using any RF signal processing. RIS technology also has many technical features that go beyond the current mainstream technologies. Compared with massive MIMO, RIS-assisted wireless networks greatly improve system performance by optimizing smart signal propagation.

[0046] As an important candidate technology in the ongoing disclosure, RIS has many advantages. For example, RIS elements are completely passive and have low power consumption making them environmentally friendly and sustainable green. The RIS design does not require expensive components such as ADC / DAC and power amplifiers, therefore the feasibility of wide-area deployment can be greatly enhanced. In addition, electromagnetic waves can be reconstructed at any point on its continuous surface, thus forming any shape and supporting higher spatial resolution to adapt to different application scenarios. RIS makes it possible to intelligently control the propagation environment, improve the reliability of transmission, and achieve higher spectral efficiency.

[0047] RIS may be applicable in one or more scenarios, for example, to overcome non-line of sight (NLOS) limitations and address coverage hole issues in an environmentally friendly way. Another scenario is to serve cell edge users, mitigate multi-cell co-channel interference, extend coverage, and implement dynamic mobile user tracking. A further scenario may be to reduce electromagnetic pollution and solve multipath problems. Yet another scenario is to use RIS for positioning, perception, holographic communication, and augment reality. A further scenario is to realize sensing-communication integration.

[0048] Future evolving communication systems in 5G and 6G networks will face more complex wireless environments and higher quality of service requirements, which bring greater challenges to the architecture and design of RIS. First, reasonable electromagnetic and channel models may need to be established. The fundamental limitations and potential benefits of RIS-assisted communication systems may need to be explored. Since no RF chain is configured in RIS, new systems and methods are needed for channel estimation.

[0049] Secondly, in the design of IRS architecture, passive beamforming design and passive information transfer optimization are required. In addition, RIS deployment in 6G will bring a new network paradigm. In addition, research and development of new materials is one of the bottlenecks in the development of RIS technology. New control mechanisms can be explored through electromagnetic modeling, control methods, and baseband characteristics of metasurfaces. Finally, as theoretical research on electromagnetic propagation and channel models continues to develop, it is necessary to consider data-driven and model-driven AI optimization design to fully utilize the characteristics of the physical layer and improve the efficiency of the algorithm.

[0050] As a new foundational technology, RIS has the characteristics of low cost, low power consumption, and easy deployment, which supports future green communication and enables future sensing-communication integration. IRS helps to boost the desired signal power while nullifying reflected interference. Alternatively, reflected interference can be tuned to counter direct interference (although it is more difficult to implement). This improves the SINR of cell edge users by creating "signal hotspots" and "no interference zones" in the vicinity of the IRS. This application proposes an IRS network architecture that can be implemented in all the above use cases / scenarios.

[0051] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary IRS coverage scenario 300 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in the figure, there are certain areas, such as behind some tall buildings, behind a hill structure, or at the cell edge, where there is a definite possibility of signal degradation from a given base station (5G or 6G). In such areas, the signal of the base station (BS) can be improved by deploying an IRS in an appropriate location with appropriate dimensions. Based on the dimensions of the IRS, the beam width can be adjusted either vertically or horizontally to support one or more UEs affected by such signal degradation. In an embodiment, the beam can also be steered either vertically or horizontally. Based on the dimensions of the IRS antenna elements, the maximum steering of the beam in both vertical and horizontal directions generates a virtual spherical area called the IRS coverage area. Thus, users suffering from signal degradation within this kind of spherical coverage area can get an improved signal from the base station by using the reflected / regenerated beam from the associated IRS.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 3, IRS-1 (302-1) is deployed so that it can receive the direct signal from the base station 304 and reflect / regenerate another beam to provide an improved base station signal to the area behind the large building. Based on the number of antenna array elements supported by IRS-1 (302-1), a coverage of IRS-1 is virtually created. All UEs within this coverage can benefit from IRS-1 (302-1). Similarly, IRS-2 (302-2) is deployed closer to the hill to assist UEs suffering from poor coverage behind the hill.

[0053] In the case of IRS-N (302-N) scenario, some cell edge UEs received degraded signals from the serving base station and were often dropped suddenly. In such scenarios, a deployment such as IRS-N assists the cell edge UEs to consistently provide a stable and improved signal from the base station. This allows the affected UEs to avoid unnecessary call drops, and the deployment of IRS-N improves the capacity of the serving cell by expanding the coverage, based on the dimensions of the deployed IRS-N. In an embodiment, the base station 304 communicates with the IRS-1, IRS-2, and IRS-N via the proposed DUI interface ("DUI I / F") 306.

[0054] In an embodiment, within a cell coverage, one or more IRSs may be deployed based on the nature of the geographic area of ​​the cell coverage. The dimensions of such IRSs may be the same or different based on the dimensions of the objects obstructing the base station signal. In an embodiment, the obstacles may correspond to tall buildings, hills, and therefore there is attenuation throughout the signal path to the cell edge. In an embodiment, the deployment of the IRS may be static, where possible coverage holes in the cell coverage are known in advance and are more or less permanent due to structures such as buildings, tunnels, bridges, hills, trees, etc. In yet another embodiment, the deployment of the IRS may be dynamic, where possible coverage holes in the cell coverage are temporary, such as due to natural disasters, public safety scenarios, rallies, etc., in which case the IRS may be deployed by UAVs, air balloons, satellites, etc.

[0055] The disclosed embodiments propose an IRS and 5G / 6G network interface architecture, and further a communication protocol between the 5G / 6G network and the IRS. The disclosed embodiments also provide for the calculation of (calculated) IRS gradient information in the base station, which is forwarded to the IRS via the proposed network interface.

[0056] In one embodiment, the IRS slope information is calculated based on SINR or Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) or Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) information at the base station. In another embodiment, the beamforming for the IRS is calculated based on knowledge of the location of the IRS and the location of the user and provided channel quality indicator (CQI) information from the UE.

[0057] In one embodiment, the IRS gradient information is calculated as a precoding matrix or beamforming or IRS gradient matrix, also called digital IRS steering or beamforming, applied when using an antenna array to simultaneously transmit one or more spatially directive signals. Every antenna of the IRS transmission array emits a different signal designed in the digital domain according to an optimization criterion arrived at by using information of the quality of the signal experienced by the UE. In an embodiment, the IRS applies a precoding matrix or beamforming matrix provided by a base station scheduler entity to provide directivity (beamforming), i.e., align the reflection angle of the IRS antenna elements towards the intended UE, and select the transmission power (power allocation). In particular, using or allocating power and phase separately is also an embodiment of the present disclosure. In short, precoding is a specific strategy selected at the transmitter to convey information to one or more receivers.

[0058] The disclosed mechanism provides a way for a base station (BS) to recognize the IRS so that the tilt of the IRS can be controlled taking into account the distribution of a given user (or UE) in the vicinity of the deployed IRS panel. In an embodiment, this is accomplished by one or more base stations by taking into account the distribution of users (or UEs) and signal strength (SINR).

[0059] In one embodiment, the disclosed base station (BS) is aware of the IRS either through prior knowledge encoded in a database or through a signaling mechanism between the IRS and the BS (described later in this description). When the IRS appears or becomes active in the network, it may be configured to send a handshake signal to all connected BSs via available physical connections. One or more of the following information may be exchanged: IRS ID, location in latitude / longitude, etc. In an embodiment, the connection between the IRS and the BS may be through an RF connection (IAB, microwave link, etc.).

[0060] A network interface protocol is disclosed that includes a handshake signal schema as proposed in this disclosure. In one embodiment, the interface mechanism between a base station (BS) and an IRS panel is shown in Figure 4. Referring to Figure 4, a direct connection is established between the BS and the IRS via a microcontroller (hereinafter also referred to as an IRS controller) to implement a mechanism for calculating tilt control information at a given time and communicating such information to the IRS via the connection.

[0061] The control of the tilt of the IRS panel by the BS can have two aspects: In an embodiment, the BS is configured to collect a signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio (SINR) profile at the BS and generate from it an RF Signature profile of the area near the IRS. In an exemplary embodiment, the SINR profile is collected via one or more extended user measurement reports generated by UEs in the area served by the BS and transmitted to the BS.

[0062] In another embodiment, the BS (or a scheduler module in the BS) is configured to calculate the gradient required to achieve the SINR target and to do so using one or more information elements such as, but not limited to, the distribution of users for a given area, user or SINR or Block Error Rate (BLER) profiles, etc. In an embodiment, the gradient can be based on user location information that can be obtained by sensing mechanisms implemented in the UE, and such information is fed to the BS (scheduler).

[0063] The disclosed IRS architecture also describes mechanisms for collecting the above information from the UE and management of such collection mechanisms. In an embodiment, one or more control messages are transmitted from the BS to the IRS. In an embodiment, the periodicity of such control messages may be pre-configured based on requirements or other factors.

[0064] In an embodiment, the IRS may be controlled by the BS using one or more control messages. In particular, any intelligent entity or network device, such as but not limited to a radio controller (radio resource management entity or baseband entity), a core network, or an O-RAN RIC (Radio intelligent controller), may convey the control messages and control the IRS.

[0065] In one of the embodiments, a 6G NR DU and IRS interface, which has been referred to in this description as the "DUI I / F", is proposed, which is implemented as a logical interface between the BS and the IRS controller for passing signaling messages between the DU and the IRS, as will be detailed later in this description.

[0066] 4 illustrates an exemplary IRS deployment scenario according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, an interface mechanism between a base station (BS) and an IRS panel is provided. As shown, the IRS 404 includes a copper backplane and control circuit board. The IRS 404 and base station 402 communicate via a microcontroller 406, which may or may not be part of the IRS 404, to exchange messages (e.g., control messages).

[0067] FIG. 5a illustrates a functional architecture 500 of a next or future generation RAN (e.g., 6G RAN) with support for IRS. For illustrative purposes, various blocks or modules or subsystems of the disclosed base station or network device are illustrated in the architecture 500. In an embodiment, the 6g-NB-DU (6G base station node DU) 506-1 and 506-M support multiple cells, and each cell may be connected to one or more IRS controllers (e.g., IRS-1 controller, IRS-2 controller, IRS-3 controller) via the proposed DUI I / F 504. Each of the IRS controllers corresponds to an IRS-1 (502-1), an IRS-2 (502-2), and an IRS-3 (502-3), respectively. In an embodiment, 6g-NB-CUs (6G base station node CUs) 510-1 and 510-P maintain an IRS-to-cell mapping table (e.g., 514-1 and 514-P) for each supported cell context as shown in the figure. The 6g-NB-CUs (6G base station node CUs) communicate with each other via a 6G-XN interface 512. The 6g-NB-CUs (6G base station node CUs) communicate with a sixth generation code (6GC) 522 via a 6G-NG interface 520.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, whenever an IRS is deployed in a cell, an entry is made in an IRS-cell mapping table maintained in the 6g-NB-CU (6G base station node CU). In an embodiment, the entry includes IRS-ID, number of antenna elements supported by the IRS, capabilities of the IRS like mechanical / electrical tilt support, active / passive support, geographic location like altitude, azimuth, elevation, coverage capability of the IRS, shareable / non-shareable status, deployment details in cell edge / cell middle / cell center areas, etc. In an embodiment, the above information may be obtained either from an element management system (EMS) or directly from an IRS controller during the (DU-IRS) DUI-AP (Application Protocol) setup procedure (described later with reference to Figures 7a-7g). In an embodiment, the IRS-cell mapping table may be managed or updated in real time or may be configured periodically. In yet another embodiment, the IRS-cell mapping table may be managed according to a predefined plan based on expected network use cases / scenarios in a particular geolocation.

[0069] In an embodiment, the UE may be configured to frequently update or send its physical location information to the 6G-NB-CU-CP using either a Radio Resource Control (RRC) Measurement Report message or a new RRC message such as UE Location Information Update. Whenever the reported UE location enters or approaches the coverage of any pre-deployed IRS, the 6g-NB-CU-CP (e.g., 510-1) informs the 6g-NB-DU (e.g., 506-1) of the UE details, its location information, and related IRS information. The 6g-NB-DU (e.g., 506-1) then creates an entry in its IRS-UE mapping table and requests the given UE to start reporting its current location information, moving speed, moving direction, etc. while reporting regular or periodic channel state information (CSI) reports. When the given UE sends this additional information, the 6g-NB-DU (e.g., 506-1) verifies whether the UE has entered the coverage area of ​​the IRS and whether it is under the particular IRS. The 6g-NB-DU (e.g., 506-1) then starts coordinating with an associated IRS controller (e.g., IRS-1 controller) to reserve a number of antenna array elements for reflecting a particular beam towards the UE.

[0070] When multiple UEs are in the coverage area of ​​the IRS, the 6g-NB-DU determines whether a different beam (other than the already generated beam) needs to be generated to serve those UEs. In an embodiment, it may be up to the 6g-NB-DU to determine whether a given UE should have only a reflected beam or both a direct beam and a reflected beam. If the UE is served by both a direct beam and a reflected beam, there may be no problem when the UE moves from the coverage area of ​​the IRS to the coverage area of ​​a normal cell served by the 6g-NB-DU (or BS). However, when the UE is served only by a reflected beam, the 6g-NB-DU needs to closely track the movement of the UE moving from the coverage area of ​​the IRS to the coverage area of ​​a normal cell and trigger an intra-cell inter-beam handover when appropriate.

[0071] In an embodiment, the 6g-NB-CU-CP can either activate or deactivate the use of the IRS by the 6g-NB-DU by sending an IRS activation or IRS deactivation message to the 6g-NB-DU via the 6g-F1 interface 508. The 6g-NB-CU-CP (e.g., 510-1) frequently updates / sends the IRS details and usage to the EMS 518 via the SNMP / TR069 / O1 interface 516, which may be used for further billing purposes if required.

[0072] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the exemplary use cases described in connection with Figures 2a-2f may be implemented using the functional architecture 500 with IRS support / deployment. In general, the disclosed IRS architecture may be implemented for use as a smart quasi-passive relay for coverage extension, as a single RF multi-stream transmitter for capacity improvement, and for information-aided transmission in the context of environmental backscatter and symbiotic radio. For example, as shown in Figure 2a, the IRS deployment 200 may be used in a RIS-assisted unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and implement the disclosed IRS network architecture. In yet another example, as shown in Figure 2b, the IRS deployment 204 may be used for RIS-assisted mm-wave communication and implement the disclosed IRS network architecture. In yet another example, as shown in Figure 2c, the IRS deployment 206 may be used for RIS-assisted simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT) and implement the disclosed IRS network architecture. In yet another example, as shown in Fig. 2d, an IRS deployment 208 may be used for RIS-assisted physical layer security and may implement the disclosed IRS network architecture. In yet another example, as shown in Fig. 2e, an IRS deployment 210 may be used for RIS-assisted mobile edge computing and may implement the disclosed IRS network architecture. In yet another example, as shown in Fig. 2f, an IRS deployment 212 may be used for a RIS-assisted device-to-device (D2D) system and may implement the disclosed IRS network architecture.

[0073] Fig. 5b illustrates a network device 524 according to an embodiment. One or more components of the 6G or 5G network described with reference to Fig. 5a may be integrated and implemented as the proposed network device 524.

[0074] In an embodiment, the network device 524 may include one or more processors 526 coupled with a memory 528, which may store instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, may cause the network device 524 to implement the disclosed IRS architecture. The one or more processors (526) may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, edge or fog microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuits, and / or any device that processes data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the one or more processors (526) may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory 528 of the network device 524. The memory 528 may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, which may be fetched and executed to create or share data packets over a network service. The memory 528 may include any non-transitory storage device, including, for example, a volatile memory, such as a RAM, or a non-volatile memory, such as an EPROM, a flash memory, etc.

[0075] The memory 528 includes one or more modules, such as an IRS setup module 530, an IRS configuration module 532, a resource command module 534, an IRS activation module 536, a DU configuration module 538, a proximity notification module 540, and an RRC configuration module 542. The IRS setup module 530 is configured to perform one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 700) for initial setup of the IRS. The IRS configuration module 532 is configured to perform one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 706) for configuration of the IRS, as detailed later in this description. The resource command module 534 is configured to perform one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 708) for commanding reservation of antenna array elements (or other resources) of the IRS for communication with the UE. The IRS activation module 536 is configured to perform one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 710, 720) for activating or deactivating the IRS. The DU configuration module 538 is configured to perform one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 712) indicating the latest set of deployed IRSs and their details. The proximity notification module 540 is configured to perform one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 716) whenever one or more UEs (e.g., 718) are detected in the vicinity of the coverage of a particular IRS. The RRC configuration module 542 is configured to perform one or more steps or procedures for radio resource control (RRC) connection reconfiguration. The RRC connection reconfiguration procedure is used to configure measurement control to add UE location information to one or more measurement reports received from the UE.

[0076] In an embodiment, the one or more modules mentioned above may be configured to perform one or more functions, steps, procedures described herein in the context of a 6G network. For example, all steps for implementing a communication protocol (and its protocol stack) between the 6G network and one or more IRSs may be performed by the network device 524. Furthermore, steps, procedures related to the configuration and / or setup of one or more IRSs may also be performed by the network device 524. Furthermore, steps or procedures for setting up the UE to periodically transmit measurement reports may be performed by the network device 524, for example, by the RRC configuration module 542.

[0077] Additionally, steps or procedures for processing and analyzing measurement reports from UEs to determine gradients (i.e., gradient information) related to the IRS may be performed by the network device 524. While different nodes or modules may have been described as performing various functions and steps for providing the disclosed IRS architecture, it will be understood that all or a portion of the functions may be performed by one or more network devices 524. For example, the network device 524 may be a 6G-enabled network device including one or more processors 526 coupled to a memory 528 that stores a set of instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the network device to calculate IRS gradient information related to one or more IRSs based at least in part on a first set of information received from one or more UEs. The first set of information includes one or more of signal-to-interference-and-noise-ratio (SINR) information, reference signal received power (RSRP) information, and reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information received from the one or more UEs.

[0078] The one or more processors 526 further cause the network device 524 to communicate the calculated IRS tilt information to the one or more IRSs via the network interface, where the IRS tilt information is used to control one or more operational aspects of the one or more IRSs. The one or more operational aspects of the one or more IRSs include mechanical aspects, such as, but not limited to, mechanical tilt. In an embodiment, the one or more operational aspects of the one or more IRSs include digital aspects, such as, but not limited to, digital tilt. In an embodiment, the one or more operational aspects of the one or more IRSs include electrical aspects, such as, but not limited to, transmit power. It will be appreciated that each of the one or more IRSs includes multiple tiles or panels. In an exemplary embodiment, the disclosed operational aspects of the one or more IRSs may be controlled at various levels of granularity, e.g., at a tile level, a panel level, etc.

[0079] In an embodiment, the one or more processors 526 further cause the network device 524 to calculate IRS gradient information based on one or more of the locations of the one or more IRSs, the locations of the one or more UEs, and channel quality indicator (CQI) information from the one or more UEs, where the IRS gradient information indicates beamforming for the one or more IRSs.

[0080] In an embodiment, the one or more processors 526 further cause the network device 524 to calculate IRS gradient information as a precoding matrix or beamforming or IRS gradient matrix used to simultaneously transmit one or more spatially directional signals from each of the one or more IRSs, each of which includes multiple antennas. In an embodiment, all antennas of the one or more IRS transmit arrays are configured to emit different signals designed in the digital domain based on the respective IRS gradient information. In an embodiment, the one or more IRSs apply the precoding matrix or beamforming matrix provided by the network device 524 to provide directionality toward an intended UE of the one or more UEs and select a corresponding transmit power.

[0081] In an embodiment, the one or more IRSs use the IRS tilt information to calculate digital and mechanical tilts for each of the antennas and assign power and phase to each of the antennas. In an embodiment, the one or more processors 526 further cause the network device 524 to recognize the one or more IRSs either through prior knowledge encoded in a database or through a signaling mechanism established between the one or more IRSs and the network device by the network interface. In an embodiment, the one or more processors 526 further cause the network device 524 to receive a handshake signal from the new IRS when it is activated via a physical connection between the new IRS and the network device during a setup process.

[0082] In an embodiment, the one or more processors 526 further cause the network device 524 to create an entry in the IRS-cell mapping table, the entry including one or more fields including an IRS-ID, number of antenna elements supported by the new IRS, support for mechanical / electrical tilt, capability of the IRS in terms of active / passive support, geographic location such as altitude, azimuth, elevation, coverage capability of the IRS, shareable / non-shareable status, deployment details. In an embodiment, the network interface implements a network interface protocol established between the network device and the one or more IRSs, the network interface protocol including a handshake signaling schema.

[0083] In an embodiment, the network interface is established through a direct connection between the network device 524 and one or more IRSs via a microcontroller. In an embodiment, the one or more processors 526 further cause the network device 524 to calculate IRS tilt information required to achieve a SINR target based on one or more of a distribution of users, a user profile, a SINR profile, and a block error rate (BLER) profile for a given area served by the network device. In an embodiment, the one or more processors 526 further cause the network device 524 to send one or more control messages to the one or more IRSs at a preconfigured periodicity, and the one or more IRSs are controlled by the network device using the one or more control messages.

[0084] In an embodiment, various modules may be integrated together or implemented in multiple network devices (524) to achieve the same or similar functions without departing from the scope of the ongoing description. For example, the network device 524 corresponds to one or more nodes of a next generation RAN (e.g., 6G RAN) with support for an IRS. In an embodiment, the network device 524 may correspond to a 6g-NB-DU (6G base station node DU) and / or a 6g-NB-CU (6G base station node CU), or a combination thereof. In yet another embodiment, the network device 524 may correspond to a base station (BS), or any such network entity that may be configured to communicate with an IRS and / or UE in the context of the ongoing description.

[0085] In an embodiment, the network device 524 enables the establishment of a network interface protocol with the IRS, as described with reference to Figures 7a-7g. In an embodiment, a DU-I interface (or DU I / F) is established between the network device and the IRS using various setup procedures outlined herein. Using the proposed network interface, the network device 524 may enable the setup of an IRS available to reflect signals to one or more UEs in a particular region or area served by the network device 524. A mapping of one or more parameters of the IRS to mechanical or digital tilt for optimal performance is pre-determined and stored in the network device 524. The network device 524 receives one or more measurement reports from the one or more UEs to determine at run-time the optimal mechanical or digital tilt based at least in part on the pre-determined mapping. The network device 524 sends the optimal mechanical or digital tilt information to the IRS using the proposed network interface, and the IRS controller uses the optimal tilt information to realign the IRS panel or IRS tile.

[0086] In yet another embodiment, the network device 524 performs all functions, steps, procedures to instruct the UE to perform measurements of one or more parameters related or unrelated to IRS. For example, the network device (524) may provide / configure a trigger event in the UE to trigger any such measurements. Such measurements may be performed by the UE and transmitted to the network device 524 in the form of one or more measurement reports. The network device 524 may determine the gradient information or data to be communicated to the IRS controller based on the one or more measurement reports. In yet another embodiment, the network device 524 enables configuration of the IRS in such a way that the IRS controller reserves a portion of the IRS resources for the network device 524. Similarly, another network device 524 may share the IRS resources by configuring yet another portion of the IRS resources by communicating with the IRS controller as described herein.

[0087] In an embodiment, a user equipment (UE) is disclosed that communicates with one or more intelligent reflective surfaces (IRS) and one or more network devices. The UE includes one or more processors coupled to a memory that stores a set of instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the network device to transmit a first set of information. In an embodiment, the first set of information includes one or more of signal-to-interference-and-noise ratio (SINR) information, reference signal received power (RSRP) information, reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information, location and channel quality indicator (CQI) information associated with the UE to the one or more 6G network devices. The one or more 6G network devices are configured to calculate IRS slope information associated with the one or more IRSs based at least in part on the first set of information received from the one or more UEs. The one or more 6G network devices are configured to communicate the calculated IRS slope information to the one or more IRSs via a network interface, and the IRS slope information is used to control one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs.

[0088] FIG. 6 illustrates a DUI (DU-IRS) interface protocol stack 600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the protocol stack includes a radio control layer 604 and a transport control layer 606. The radio control layer 604 includes a (DU-IRS) DUI-AP (Application Protocol) layer 608. The transport control layer includes a physical layer 610, a data link layer 612, an IP layer 614, and a stream control transmission protocol 616. In an embodiment, a network device (524) or a BS establishes a DUI (DU-IRS) protocol stack to enable communication between the BS and the IRS for configuration, setup, and control purposes, as described herein. Various configuration messages having specific formats may be used to support communication protocols in the context of a 6G network.

[0089] In an embodiment, the DUI may be implemented as a logical or physical interface between the DU and the IRS controller. The disclosed DUI protocol stack is implemented on both ends of the DUI interface. For example, one implementation is on the DU side and the other implementation is on the IRS controller side. The transport network layers, including the physical layer, the data link layer, the IP layer, and the SCTP layer, may be implemented according to standard definitions known in the art. In an embodiment, the radio network layer, including the DUI-AP, which is a DU-IRS interface application component, implements a layer 3 control protocol. The procedures and messages related to the DUI-AP are described in detail with reference to the sequence diagrams shown in Figures 7a to 7d. For example, the protocol communication messages include "DUI LINK SETUP REQUEST" and "DUI LINK SETUP RESPONSE" shown in Figure 7a, "DUI LINK CONFIGURATION UPDATE" and "DUI LINK CONFIGURATION UPDATE CONFIRM" shown in Figure 7b, "IRS RESOURCE COMMAND" and "IRS RESOURCE COMMAND ACCEPT" shown in Figure 7c, and "IRS ACTIVATION COMMAND" and "IRS ACTIVATION COMMAND ACCEPT" shown in Figure 7d. The proposed protocol communication messages are part of the proposed DUI-AP protocol.

[0090] In an embodiment, the DUI-AP may be realized by an initial set of procedures used in the DUI I / F, as shown in Figures 7a to 7g.

[0091] 7a shows that a DU I / F setup procedure 700 is initiated by an IRS controller 704 towards a 6g-NB-DU 702 to establish a DUI link. In an embodiment, when a new IRS appears or becomes active or available, the corresponding IRS controller (e.g., 704) shares / sends its capabilities to the 6g-NB-DU 702 via a setup request message. The 6g-NB-DU 702 authenticates the new IRS, assigns a unique IRS ID, and issues an "Activate" command to the IRS controller 704 by sending a setup response message. The IRS controller 704 updates its table with the ID and the status is set to "Active".

[0092] Fig. 7b shows the DU I / F configuration update procedure 706. This procedure is initiated by the IRS Controller 704 towards the 6g-NB-DU 702 to update the change in the capabilities of the IRS Controller 704. In an embodiment, the IRS Controller 704 shares its updated capabilities to the 6g-NB-DU 702 via a "Configuration update" message. The 6g-NB-DU 702 updates its IRS-UE table, sends the update to the associated 6g-NB-CU-CP, and issues an "Activate / Deactivate" command based on the update to the IRS Controller 704 by sending a "Configuration update confirm" message. The IRS Controller 704 then stays in the "Activate / Deactivate" status according to the received command.

[0093] FIG. 7c shows an IRS resource command procedure 708. This procedure is initiated by the 6g-NB-DU 702 towards the IRS controller 704 to command the reservation of antenna array elements for communication with the 6g-NB-DU 702 and also for direct communication with the UE. Thus, one set of antenna arrays (for a given IRS) may be reserved for communication with the 6g-NB-DU 702 for a particular UE, and another set of antenna arrays is reserved for direct communication with the UE. Here, the 6g-NB-DU 702 may share details such as horizontal and vertical beam widths, horizontal and vertical beam steering positions, altitude of the given UE to which the beam should be pointed, etc. Thus, the 6g-NB-DU 702 sends an IRS resource command message to the IRS controller 704. The IRS controller configures the antenna array of the IRS according to the received command, reserves the required antenna array elements, and responds to the 6g-NB-DU 702 by sending an IRS resource command accept message. The IRS resource command may also include a pre-coded matrix that provides the power and phase of each element that the IRS should employ to achieve the required directivity of the reflection of the signal from the base station. Upon receiving the IRS resource command accept message, the 6g-NB-DU 702 starts transmitting a beam towards the IRS and may or may not continue transmitting a direct beam towards the UE. The IRS controller 704 configures the IRS to start receiving the beam from the 6g-NB-DU 702 and begin to convert and transmit a direct beam towards the UE.

[0094] 7d shows an IRS activation command procedure 710. This procedure is initiated by the 6g-NB-DU 702 towards the IRS controller 702 to activate or deactivate the IRS. The 6g-NB-DU 702 sends an IRS activation command (activate / deactivate, valid time, etc.) message to the IRS controller 704. The IRS controller 704 sends an IRS activation command accept message to the 6g-NB-DU 702. The IRS controller 704 is configured to set the status of the IRS according to the received command. In an embodiment, this procedure is mainly used during energy saving scenarios and during maintenance scenarios.

[0095] Figures 7e-g show the initial set of procedures to support IRS. Figure 7e shows the DU configuration update procedure 712. This procedure is initiated by the 6g-NB-DU 702 towards the 6g-NB-CU-CP 714 to show the latest set of deployed IRSs and their details. In an embodiment, the 6g-NB-CU-CP 714 creates entries for the new IRSs, assigns each a unique IRS ID and updates the details of any other IRSs already present in the IRS-Cell mapping table. The 6g-NB-CU-CP 714 responds with a DU configuration update confirm with a list of newly assigned IRS-IDs associated with the newly established IRSs. The 6g-NB-DU 702 updates its table with the IDs and the status of the respective IRS is set to active.

[0096] FIG. 7f shows an IRS proximity indication procedure 716. This procedure 716 is initiated by the 6g-NB-CU-CP 714 towards the 6g-NB-DU 702 whenever one or more UEs (e.g., 718) are detected in the vicinity of the coverage of a particular IRS to start coordinating with a particular IRS in relation to those UEs. The 6g-NB-DU 702 receives the IRS proximity indication along with a list of UEs associated with the list of IRSs, reserved IRS resources, etc. After receiving the IRS proximity indication message, the 6g-NB-DU 702 updates its table with a list of UEs according to their mapping with the respective IRSs. The 6g-NB-DU 702 further starts requesting those UEs (e.g., 718) to transmit their location information along with channel status information (CSI). The scheduler module of the 6g-NB-DU 702 starts using the reserved IRS sources for its use towards a particular set of UEs (e.g., 718).

[0097] FIG. 7g shows an IRS Activate Command procedure 720. This procedure is initiated by the 6g-NB-CU-CP 714 towards the 6g-NB-DU 702 to activate or deactivate the IRS. As shown, the 6g-NB-CU-CP 714 sends an IRS Activate command [activate / deactivate, validity time, etc.] to the 6g-NB-DU 702. The 6g-NB-DU 702 initiates the IRS Activate / Deactivate procedure towards the IRS controller as described above. The 6g-NB-DU 702 sends an IRS Activate Command Accept message to the 6g-NB-CU-CP 714. This procedure may be primarily used during energy saving scenarios and also during maintenance scenarios.

[0098] In an embodiment, an initial set of procedures to support IRS is performed by the 6g-NB-CU-CP using Radio Resource Control (RRC) Connection Reconfiguration. The RRC Connection Reconfiguration procedure is used by the 6g-NB-CU-CP to configure measurement control to add the UE's location information to one or more measurement reports. After receiving this request, the UE starts adding its location information to all subsequent measurement reports. In an alternative embodiment, along with the previous proximity indication procedure, the UE can start adding location information either through a measurement report or using a proximity indication message when it detects that it is approaching or entering an IRS coverage area.

[0099] The present disclosure relates to a system and method for implementing an Intelligent Reflective Surface (IRS) in 5G and beyond networks. The system may include a network device including one or more processors that may enable the system to establish a network interface protocol with the IRS. In an embodiment, a DU-I interface is established between the network device and the IRS, and various setup procedures may be performed using the DU-I interface. Using the proposed network interface, the network device may enable the setup of an IRS available to reflect signals to one or more UEs in a particular region or area. A mapping of one or more parameters of the IRS to mechanical or digital tilts for optimal performance is pre-determined and stored in the network device. The network device receives one or more measurement reports from one or more UEs to determine at runtime an optimal mechanical or digital tilt based at least in part on the pre-determined mapping. The network device sends the optimal mechanical or digital tilt information to the IRS using the proposed network interface, and the IRS controller uses the optimal tilt information to realign its panels or tiles.

[0100] An embodiment of a non-transitory computer readable medium (CRM) is disclosed. The CRM includes one or more instructions stored on the CRM that, when executed by a processor, causes a process to perform a set of steps. For example, execution of the set of instructions causes the processor to calculate IRS slope information associated with one or more IRSs based at least in part on a first set of information received from one or more UEs, and communicate the calculated IRS slope information to the one or more IRSs via a network interface, where the IRS slope information is used to control one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs. In an embodiment, the first set of information includes one or more of signal-to-interference-and-noise ratio (SINR) information, reference signal received power (RSRP) information, reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information, location and channel quality indicator (CQI) information.

[0101] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary computer system in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be utilized. As illustrated in FIG. 8, computer system 800 may include an external storage device 810, a bus 820, a main memory 830, a read-only memory 840, a mass storage device 850, a communication port 860, and a processor 870. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a computer system may include more than one processor and communication port. Examples of processor 870 include, but are not limited to, an Intel® Itanium® or Itanium 2 processor, or an AMD® Opteron® or Athlon MP® processor, a Motorola® family of processors, a FortiSOC™ system-on-chip processor, or other future processors. Processor 870 may include various modules related to embodiments of the present invention. The communication port 860 can be any of an RS-232 port for use with a modem-based dial-up connection, a 10 / 100 Ethernet port, a Gigabit or 10 Gigabit port using copper or fiber, a serial port, a parallel port, or any other existing or future port. The communication port 860 may be selected depending on the network, such as a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or any network to which the computer system connects. The memory 830 can be a random access memory (RAM) or any other dynamic storage device commonly known in the art. The read-only memory 840 can be any static storage device, such as, but not limited to, a programmable read-only memory (PROM) chip for storing static information, such as start-up or BIOS instructions for the processor 870. The mass storage 850 can be any current or future mass storage solution that can be used to store information and / or instructions.Exemplary mass storage solutions include, but are not limited to, Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment (PATA) or Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) hard disk drives or solid state drives (internal or external, e.g., having a Universal Serial Bus (USB) and / or Firewire interface), one or more optical disks, Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) storage, e.g., an array of disks (e.g., a SATA array).

[0102] Bus 820 communicatively couples processor 870 to other memory, storage, and communication blocks and can be, for example, a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) / PCI-Extension (PCI-X) bus for connecting expansion cards, drives, and other subsystems, a Small Computer System Interface (SCSI), USB, etc., as well as other buses such as a Front Side Bus (FSB) that connects processor 870 to a software system.

[0103] Optionally, operator and management interfaces, such as a display, keyboard, and cursor control devices, may also be coupled to bus 820 to support direct operator interaction with the computer system. Other operator and management interfaces may be provided through a network connection connected via communications port 860. External storage device 1010 can be any type of external hard drive, floppy drive, IOMEGA® Zip drive, Compact Disc-Read Only Memory (CD-ROM), Compact Disc-Re-Writable (CD-RW), Digital Video Disk-Read Only Memory (DVD-ROM). The above-mentioned components are intended only to illustrate various possibilities. The above-mentioned exemplary computer system should in no way limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0104] Although considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the preferred embodiment, it will be understood that many embodiments can be made and that many modifications can be made to the preferred embodiment without departing from the principles of the invention. These and other modifications of the preferred embodiment of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it will be clearly understood that the foregoing illustrative matter is undertaken merely as an illustration of the invention, and not as a limitation.

[0105] Advantages of the present disclosure The present disclosure provides efficient, simultaneous, and improved communications in next generation networks (eg, 6G) by utilizing an IRS architecture.

[0106] The present disclosure provides systems and methods for eliminating the need for costly deployment of base stations for improved coverage in areas having one or more obstructions.

[0107] The present disclosure provides an economical next generation based system and method that can avoid problems faced by UEs due to poor signals, signal degradation, and lack of coverage.

[0108] The present disclosure provides an effective system and method that can enable seamless quality of service regardless of the user's location. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 100 Typical IRS Deployment Scenarios 200 IRS Deployment 202 RIS-Supported Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) 204 IRS Deployment 206 IRS Deployment 208 IRS Deployment 210 IRS Deployment 212 IRS Deployment 300 IRS Coverage Scenarios 302-1 IRS-1 302-2 IRS-2 302-N IRS-N 304 base station 306 DUI Interface ("DUI I / F") 402 Base Station 404 IRS 406 Microcontroller 500 Functional Architecture 502-1 IRS-1 502-2 IRS-2 502-3 IRS-3 504 DUI I / F 506-1 6g-NB-DU (6G base station node DU) 506-M 6g-NB-DU (6G Base Station Node DU) 508 6g-F1 interface 510-1 6g-NB-CU (6G base station node CU) 510-P 6g-NB-CU (6G base station node CU) 512 6G-XN interface 514-1 IRS-Cell Mapping Table 514-P IRS-Cell Mapping Table 516 SNMP / TR069 / O1 interface 518 EMS 520 6G-NG interface 522 6th Generation Code (6GC) 524 Network Devices 526 processor 528 Memory 530 IRS Setup Module 532 IRS Configuration Module 534 Resource Command Module 536 IRS Activation Module 538 DU Configuration Module 540 Proximity Notification Module 542 RRC Configuration Module 600 DUI (DU-IRS) interface protocol stack 604 Radio Control Layer 606 Transport Control Layer 608 (DU-IRS) DUI-AP (Application Protocol) Layer 610 Physical Layer 612 Data Link Layer 614 IP Layer 616 Stream Control Transmission Protocol 700 DU I / F setup procedure 702 6g-NB-DU 704 IRS Controller 706 DU I / F configuration update procedure 708 IRS Resource Command Procedures 710 IRS Activation Command Procedure 712 DU configuration update procedure 714 6g-NB-CU-CP 716 IRS Proximity Indication Procedures 718UE 720 IRS Activation Command Procedure 870 Processor 1010 External Storage Device

Claims

1. A network device in communication with one or more Intelligent Reflective Surfaces (IRS) and one or more UEs, comprising: When executed by one or more processors, the network device calculating IRS slope information associated with the one or more IRSs based at least in part on a first set of information received from the one or more UEs; and A network device comprising: one or more processors coupled to a memory storing a set of instructions causing the communication of calculated IRS slope information via a network interface to the one or more IRSs, the IRS slope information being used to control one or more operational aspects of the one or more IRSs.

2. 2. The network device of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors further cause the network device to calculate the IRS tilt information based on one or more of locations of the one or more IRSs, locations of the one or more UEs, and channel quality indicator (CQI) information from the one or more UEs, the IRS tilt information indicating beamforming for the one or more IRSs.

3. 2. The network device of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors further cause the network device to calculate the IRS gradient information as a precoding matrix or a beamforming or IRS gradient matrix used to simultaneously transmit one or more spatially directional signals from each of the one or more IRSs, each of the one or more IRSs including multiple antennas.

4. 4. The network device of claim 3, wherein all antennas of the one or more IRS transmit arrays are configured to emit different signals designed in the digital domain based on their respective IRS tilt information.

5. 4. The network device of claim 3, wherein the one or more IRSs apply the precoding matrix or the beamforming matrix provided by the network device to provide directionality toward an intended UE of the one or more UEs and select a corresponding transmit power.

6. 4. The network device of claim 3, wherein the one or more IRSs use the IRS tilt information to calculate digital and mechanical tilt for each of the antennas and assign power and phase to each of the antennas.

7. 2. The network device of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors further cause the network device to recognize the one or more IRSs either through prior knowledge encoded in a database or through a signaling mechanism established between the one or more IRSs and the network device by the network interface.

8. 2. The network device of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors further cause the network device to receive a handshake signal from the new IRS when it is activated via a physical connection between the new IRS and the network device during a setup process.

9. 10. The network device of claim 8, wherein the one or more processors further cause the network device to create an entry in an IRS-cell mapping table, the entry including one or more fields including an IRS-ID, number of antenna elements supported by the new IRS, support for mechanical / electrical tilt, capability of the IRS in terms of active / passive support, geographic location such as altitude, azimuth, and elevation, coverage capability of the IRS, sharable / non-sharable status, and deployment details.

10. 2. The network device of claim 1, wherein the network interface implements a network interface protocol established between the network device and the one or more IRSs, the network interface protocol including a handshake signaling schema.

11. The network device of claim 1 , wherein the network interface is established through a direct connection between the network device and the one or more IRSs via a microcontroller.

12. 2. The network device of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors further cause the network device to calculate the IRS slope information required to achieve a SINR target based on one or more of a distribution of users, a user profile, a SINR profile, and a block error rate (BLER) profile for a given area served by the network device.

13. 2. The network device of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors further cause the network device to send one or more control messages to the one or more IRSs at a preconfigured periodicity, the one or more IRSs being controlled by the network device using the one or more control messages.

14. 2. The network device of claim 1, wherein the first set of information includes one or more of signal-to-interference-and-noise ratio (SINR) information, reference signal received power (RSRP) information, and reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information received from the one or more UEs.

15. 1. A method implemented in a network device in communication with one or more Intelligent Reflective Surfaces (IRS) and one or more UEs, comprising: calculating IRS slope information associated with the one or more IRSs based at least in part on a first set of information received from the one or more UEs; and communicating the calculated IRS tilt information to the one or more IRSs via a network interface, wherein the IRS tilt information is used to control one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs.

16. A user equipment (UE), When executed by one or more processors, the network device transmitting a first set of information associated with the UE to one or more 6G network devices, the one or more 6G network devices comprising: calculating IRS slope information associated with one or more IRSs based at least in part on the first set of information received from one or more UEs; and A UE including one or more processors coupled to a memory storing a set of instructions configured to: communicate calculated IRS gradient information via a network interface to the one or more IRSs, the IRS gradient information being used to control one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs to provide network services to the UE.

17. 17. The UE of claim 16, wherein the first set of information includes one or more of: signal-to-interference-and-noise ratio (SINR) information, reference signal received power (RSRP) information, reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information, and location and channel quality indicator (CQI) information.

18. A non-transitory computer readable medium (CRM) that, when executed by a processor, causes the processor to: calculating IRS slope information associated with one or more IRSs based at least in part on a first set of information received from the one or more UEs; and A non-transitory CRM including one or more instructions stored in the non-transitory CRM that cause the communication of calculated IRS tilt information via a network interface to the one or more IRSs, the IRS tilt information being used to control one or more aspects of operation of the one or more IRSs.

19. 20. The CRM of claim 18, wherein the first set of information includes one or more of: signal-to-interference-and-noise ratio (SINR) information, reference signal received power (RSRP) information, reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information, and location and channel quality indicator (CQI) information.

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