System and method for implementing intelligent reflective surfaces (IRS) in networks

Abstract

An embodiment of a user equipment (UE) for supporting communication with an IRS in a communication network is disclosed. The UE is configured to receive a configuration signal from a network device for configuring a set of trigger points. Based on the set of trigger points, the UE is configured to detect one or more pilot signals from an IRS controller corresponding to the IRS and to perform measurements of one or more parameters. Based on the detected one or more pilot signals and the measurements of one or more parameters, the UE is configured to transmit a first set of information to the network device and, based on the transmitted first set of information, to receive one or more commands for executing a handover procedure for communication from the network device to the IRS.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] Part of the disclosure of this patent document contains materials subject to intellectual property rights, such as copyrights, designs, trademarks, IC layout designs, and / or trade dress protections (but not limited thereto), belonging to Jio Platforms Limited (JPL) or its affiliates (hereinafter referred to as the Owner). The Owner does not object to anyone reproducing the patent document or patent disclosure by fax as indicated in the patent files or records of the Patent and Trademark Office, but retains all rights otherwise. All rights to such intellectual property are wholly reserved by the Owner.

[0002] The present invention generally relates to IRS network architectures, and more specifically to supporting the implementation of IRS network architectures in communication networks. Background Technology

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

[0004] Existing communication technologies (e.g., 5G) and future technologies (e.g., 6G) face two major practical limitations. First, there is a lack of control over wireless channels, and second, there is high power consumption of wireless interfaces for networks. To address the need for eco-friendly and sustainable future cellular networks, the concept of reconfiguring radio environments using Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces (IRS) or Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) has emerged over the past few years. A typical IRS architecture consists of many low-cost passive antennas capable of intelligently reflecting influencing electromagnetic waves to improve performance.

[0005] 5G wireless technology currently under development by 3GPP is intended to deliver higher multi-Gbps peak data rates, ultra-low latency, greater reliability, massive network capacity, enhanced availability, and a more uniform user experience to a greater number of users. Higher performance and improved efficiency enhance new user experiences and connect new industries. While some of the aforementioned goals have been achieved, there are still significant challenges that need to be addressed in existing 5G networks. For example, existing 5G networks may not optimally accommodate multiple industrial sectors and may not provide architectures that support private networks and flexible network deployments.

[0006] Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) are rapidly emerging as a key wireless technology trend for 5G networks and beyond. RIS corresponds to smart radio surfaces consisting of many small antennas or reconfigurable metamaterial elements ("unit cells") capable of controlling the radio environment through the tunable scattering of electromagnetic waves. These intelligent surfaces possess reflective, refractive, and absorbent properties that can be reconfigured and adapted to the wireless channel environment.

[0007] Additionally, existing 5G networks still do not utilize many of the technologies that are available or emerging in an optimal manner to solve the many problems mentioned above. Examples of these available technologies include artificial intelligence, terahertz communications, optical radio technology, free-space optical networks, blockchain, 3D networking, quantum communications, unmanned aerial vehicles, cell-free communications, integration of wireless information and energy transmission, integration of sensing and communications, integration of access backhaul networks, dynamic network slicing, holographic beamforming, and big data analytics.

[0008] Additionally, regarding 6G networks, existing systems and methods do not provide any protocol between a 6G network and an IRS or any 6G network interface architecture that satisfactorily resolves the concerns highlighted above regarding current 5G networks. Additionally, there is no support provided by existing User Equipment (UE) that enables any successful network interface architecture between a 6G network and an IRS.

[0009] Therefore, there is a requirement for a system and method to provide an IRS architecture for 5G networks and networks beyond (6G networks) that can overcome the problems mentioned above in the technology field and utilize at least one of the convergences of the available technologies mentioned above. Objectives of the present disclosure

[0010] Some of the objectives of the present disclosure, which are satisfied by at least one embodiment of the present invention, are listed below.

[0011] The purpose of the present disclosure is to facilitate effective, simultaneous, and improved communication between a base station (BS) of 5G / 6G networks and one or more UEs.

[0012] The purpose of the present disclosure is to eliminate the need for additional and expensive deployment of BS for better network coverage in 6G and additional networks.

[0013] The purpose of the present disclosure is to facilitate an economical and next-generation based system and method that can enable a communication interface or network interface between a BS and an IRS in 6G and additional networks.

[0014] The purpose of the present disclosure is to facilitate a system and method that can enable control of an IRS by a BS using a communication or network interface in 6G and additional networks.

[0015] The purpose of the present disclosure is to provide UE support for the implementation of the IRS architecture in an efficient manner.

[0016] The objective of the present invention is to improve the user experience.

[0017] Some of the objectives of the present disclosure, which are satisfied by at least one embodiment of the present invention, are listed below.

[0018] An embodiment of a user equipment (UE) for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network is disclosed. In the embodiment, the UE includes one or more processors coupled to a memory that stores a set of instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the UE to receive a configuration signal from a network device for configuring a set of trigger points. The configuration signal includes an IRS ID. Based on the set of trigger points, the UE is configured to detect one or more pilot signals from an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) controller corresponding to the IRS and to perform measurements of one or more parameters. One or more processors are configured to transmit a first set of information to a network device based on the one or more detected pilot signals and the measurements of one or more parameters, and to receive one or more instructions for executing a handover procedure for communication from a 6G network device to the IRS based on the transmitted first set of information.

[0019] In an embodiment, the processor is further configured to identify a pilot signal based on an IRS ID included in a configuration signal received from a network device. In an embodiment, the processor is further configured to measure the Channel Quality Indicator (CQI) and Channel State Information (CSI) parameters of the serving cell, and the Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) information and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) parameters of the pilot signal received from the IRS. In an embodiment, the processor is further configured to transmit a measurement report containing the measurement of one or more parameters periodically or based on the triggering of one of the trigger points. In an embodiment, the processor is further configured to execute at least a portion of a handover procedure based on a set of criteria received from a network device in response to the transmission of a first set of information. In an embodiment, the first set of information includes one or more of the Signal-to-Noise-Plus-Interference Ratio (SINR) information, Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) information, and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ). In the embodiments, the set of trigger points corresponds to periodic timer-based triggers or event-based triggers for measuring one or more parameters. In the embodiments, the event-based trigger corresponds to a scenario in which the IRS is available at the edge of a given cell and is available for a handover procedure. In the embodiments, the event-based trigger is triggered when the serving cell RSRP / RSRQ falls below a pre-configured first threshold, or when the serving cell CQI index falls below a second threshold or leads to the use of QPSK, or when a neighboring cell provides better signal strength than the serving cell.In the embodiment, event-based triggers can be triggered based on the availability of IRS in a given serving cell having a corresponding given coverage.

[0020] An embodiment of a method for supporting communication between an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) and a user equipment (UE) in a communication network is disclosed. In an embodiment, the method comprises the step of receiving a configuration signal from a network device for configuring a set of trigger points by the UE. The method comprises the step of detecting one or more pilot signals from an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) controller corresponding to the IRS by the UE based on the set of trigger points, and the step of performing a measurement of one or more parameters by the UE, wherein the configuration signal includes an IRS ID. In an embodiment, the method comprises the step of transmitting a first set of information to a network device by the UE based on the one or more detected pilot signals and the measurement of one or more parameters by the UE, and the step of receiving one or more commands for executing a handover procedure for network communication from the network device to the IRS based on the transmitted first set of information by the UE.

[0021] In an embodiment, the method further includes the step of identifying a pilot signal based on an IRS ID included in a configuration signal received from a network device by a UE. In an embodiment, the method includes the step of measuring the Channel Quality Indicator (CQI) and Channel State Information (CSI) parameters of a serving cell, and the Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) information and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) parameters of the pilot signal received from the IRS by a UE. In an embodiment, the method further includes the step of transmitting a measurement report comprising measurements of one or more parameters periodically or based on the triggering of one of the trigger points. In an embodiment, the method further includes the step of executing at least a portion of a handover procedure based on a set of criteria received from a network device in response to the transmission of a first set of information by the UE. In an embodiment, the first set of information includes one or more of the signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio (SINR) information, the Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) information, and the Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ). In the embodiments, the set of trigger points corresponds to a periodic timer-based trigger or an event-based trigger for measuring one or more parameters. In the embodiments, the event-based trigger corresponds to a scenario in which the IRS is available at the edge of a given cell and is available for a handover procedure. In the embodiments, the event-based trigger is triggered when the serving cell RSRP / RSRQ falls below a pre-configured first threshold, or when the serving cell CQI index falls below a second threshold or leads to the use of QPSK, or when a neighboring cell provides a better signal strength than the serving cell.

[0022] Embodiments of a non-transient computer-readable medium (CRM) include a set of instructions that, when executed by a processor included in a user device (UE), cause the processor to receive a configuration signal from a network device for configuring a set of trigger points by the UE. In an embodiment, the processor causes the user device (UE) to detect one or more pilot signals from an IRS controller corresponding to an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) based on a set of trigger points and to perform a measurement of one or more parameters by the UE, wherein the configuration signal includes an IRS ID. In an embodiment, the processor causes the user device (UE) to transmit a first set of information to a network device based on the one or more detected pilot signals and the measurement of one or more parameters; and causes the UE to receive one or more instructions for executing a handover procedure for network communication from the network device to the IRS based on the transmitted first set of information. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0023] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute part of the invention, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems, wherein the same reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. The components of the drawings are not necessarily in scale, but are instead given emphasis to clearly illustrate the principles of the invention. Some drawings may use block diagrams to represent components and may not represent the internal circuits of each component. It will be recognized by a person skilled in the art that the invention of these drawings includes the invention of electrical components, electronic components, or circuits commonly used to implement such components.

[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates a typical IRS deployment scenario in an exemplary 5G or 6G network architecture according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIGS. 2a-2f illustrate exemplary use cases of IRS placement according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary IRS coverage scenario according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary IRS deployment scenario according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 5a illustrates an exemplary functional architecture of a RAN interfacing with an IRS according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 5b illustrates an exemplary network device implemented in an IRS network architecture according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 5c illustrates an exemplary UE according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary DUI protocol interface stack according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIGS. 7a–7g illustrate exemplary steps included in an interface protocol between a RAN and an IRS according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIGS. 8a–8c each illustrate exemplary steps related to a UE procedure for identifying an IRS, measuring signal parameters, and communicating measurement reports to a 5G or 6G network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary computer system in which embodiments of the present disclosure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can be utilized.

[0035] The foregoing will become more apparent from the following more detailed description of the present disclosure. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0036] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various details are presented to provide a complete 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. The various features described below may each be used independently of one another or in any combination with other features. Individual features may not solve all the problems discussed above or may solve only some of the problems discussed above. Some of the problems discussed above may not be completely solved by any of the features described herein.

[0037] The following description is provided only as exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the present disclosure. Rather, the following description of exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with a possible description for implementing the exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that various modifications may be made to the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as described.

[0038] Specific details are provided in the following description to provide a complete 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 illustrated in the form of block diagrams to avoid obscuring the embodiments with unnecessary details. In other cases, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques may be illustrated without unnecessary details to avoid obscuring the embodiments.

[0039] Additionally, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as processes depicted as flowcharts, flow diagrams, data flow diagrams, structure diagrams, or block diagrams. While flowcharts may describe operations as a sequential process, many operations may be performed in parallel or simultaneously. Furthermore, the order of operations may be rearranged. A process may have additional steps not included in the drawings, which terminate when operations are completed. A process may correspond to a method, function, procedure, subroutine, subprogram, etc. If a process corresponds to a function, termination may correspond to the return of the function to the called function or the main function.

[0040] The words “exemplary” and / or “exemplary” are used herein to mean serving as examples, cases, or exemplars. To avoid any doubt, the subject matter of the claims disclosed herein is not limited by these examples. Furthermore, any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and / or “exemplary” is not to be interpreted as being more desirable or advantageous than other aspects or designs, nor does it imply the exclusion of equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used in the detailed description or claims, these words are intended inclusively—in a manner similar to the word “comprising” as an open conjunction—without excluding any additions or other elements.

[0041] Throughout this specification, references to "one embodiment," "an example," "an example," or "one example" mean that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in relation to this embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Accordingly, the appearance of phrases such as "in one embodiment" or "in an example" at various locations throughout this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Additionally, specific features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0042] The terms used herein are merely for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular forms (“a,” “an,” and “the”) are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “include” and / or “include,” as used herein, specify the presence of the mentioned features, integers, steps, actions, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, actions, 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.

[0043] Sixth-generation (6G) systems, a new paradigm in wireless communication, fully support artificial intelligence and are expected to be deployed within the next few years. In 6G networks, several fundamental issues that need to be addressed include higher system capacity, higher data rates, lower latency, and improved quality of service (QoS) compared to 5G networks.

[0044] Even in current 5th generation (5G) technologies, higher system capacity, higher data rates, lower latency, and improved Quality of Service (QoS) are desirable. 5G networks still do not utilize technologies that are available or emerging.

[0045] Additionally, it may be desirable for future networks, such as 6G networks, to be designed to achieve the extension of human experience across the physical, biological, and digital worlds. At the same time, it may be desirable for 6G networks to enable next-generation industrial operating environments beyond Industry 4.0 across various performance dimensions. These dimensions may include (but are not limited to) deployment, sensing, ultra-reliability, energy efficiency, and extreme real-time. 6G networks can provide new wireless and access architectures for both communications and sensing purposes, AI-optimized wide area networks (WANs) and data center co-designs, and the dynamic coordination of personalized services to innovate the long tail of niche consumer interests.

[0046] While demand for mobile broadband will continue to increase for both consumers and enterprises, the utilization of extremely reliable and low-latency services will be driven primarily by specialized and local use cases, often involving augmented intelligence, alongside non-public networks. This will occur as an essential part of the automated and secure network transformation currently anticipated and being attempted in 5G networks. Objects ranging from cars, industrial machinery, and home appliances to watches and clothing will learn and configure themselves to meet human needs by automatically adapting to human behavior, environments, and business processes. Since network performance will depend on the energy available in their respective architectural domains, energy efficiency is another key design criterion for 6G network architectures.

[0047] One of the most challenging requirements stems from remote control alongside augmented reality and immersive media experiences. In addition to Ultra-Reliable Low Latency (URLLC) performance requirements, this will demand ultra-high rates exceeding 100 Gbit / s to allow for the uncompressed transmission of high-quality 360-degree video. These demands will require a certain degree of flexibility and specialization that goes beyond 5G network capabilities. Therefore, 6G networks must be intentional and open service-centric; in short, business needs will drive the creation of 6G products and services. The creation of products and services will be an essential part of automated end-to-end service workflows that are aligned with and guided by policies and intents. That is, being use-case-centric means meeting the diverse needs and preferences of each user or specific 6G subnetwork, whether they are humans, physical machines, or digital twins. In summary, key requirements for 6G architecture may include: (a) network programmability; (b) deployment flexibility; (c) simplicity and efficiency; and (d) security, robustness, and reliability. and (e) automation.

[0048] The disclosed 6th generation (6G) network architecture addresses the problem of network flexibility as proposed herein. The present disclosure also proposes 5G and 6G network architectures that accommodate network sensing as an embedded function. The present disclosure also proposes an IRS architecture for 5G and beyond networks (e.g., 6G) that utilizes at least one of the aforementioned existing technologies and at least partially resolves the convergence problem. The present disclosure provides a mechanism for providing support by existing UEs to enable a successful network interface architecture between a 6G network and an IRS.

[0049] Embodiments of a network device for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network are disclosed. In an embodiment, the network device comprises one or more processors coupled to a memory that stores a set of instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the network device to transmit a configuration signal for configuring a set of trigger points. In an embodiment, the configuration signal includes an IRS ID. In an embodiment, based on a set of trigger points, the UE is configured to: detect one or more pilot signals from an IRS controller corresponding to the intelligent reflective surface (IRS), perform measurements of one or more parameters, transmit a first set of information to the network device based on the detected one or more pilot signals and measurements of one or more parameters, and receive one or more instructions for executing a handover procedure for network communication from the network device to the IRS based on the transmitted first set of information.

[0050] FIG. 1 illustrates a typical IRS deployment scenario (100) in an exemplary 5G or 6G network architecture according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In the embodiment, the key features of the RIS include: no power amplification; operation at RF levels with no or limited digital signal processing; and multi-functional reconfigurability. The disclosed embodiments of the IRS architecture take these features into account and provide solutions to at least the problems highlighted above. As illustrated, the deployment scenario (100) includes an IRS (102) configured to reflect signals from base stations (104a and 104b) to access points (106a and 106b).

[0051] FIGS. 2a–2f illustrate exemplary use cases of an IRS deployment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Generally, use cases currently being explored for an IRS (referred interchangeably to as RIS in this description) include: use as a nearly passive smart relay for coverage extension; use as a single RF multi-stream transmitter for capacity improvement; and use for information support transmission in the context of ambient backscatter and symbiotic radio. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2a, an IRS deployment (200) is used in an RIS-supported unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) (202). In another example, as illustrated in FIG. 2b, an IRS deployment (204) is used for RIS-supported mm Wave communication. In yet another example, as illustrated in FIG. 2c, an IRS deployment (206) is used for RIS-supported simultaneous wireless information and power transfer (SWIPT). In another example, as illustrated in FIG. 2d, the IRS deployment (208) is used for RIS-supported physical layer security. In another example, as illustrated in FIG. 2e, the IRS deployment (210) is used for RIS-supported mobile edge computing. In another example, as illustrated in FIG. 2f, the IRS deployment (212) is used for RIS-supported device-to-device (D2D) systems.

[0052] Generally, RISs control radio signals between transmitters and receivers in a dynamic and goal-oriented manner, transforming the wireless environment into a service. In terms of radio channel reconfiguration, this capability has motivated a host of potential improvements in various key network performance indicators (KPIs), such as capacity, coverage, energy efficiency, deployment, and security. This is in addition to the support for new capabilities such as sensing and wireless power transfer.

[0053] RISs introduce new system nodes that transform the wireless environment from passive to intelligent actors, making channels programmable. This trend challenges fundamental wireless system design paradigms and will generate innovation opportunities that will progressively influence the development of wireless system architectures, access technologies, and networking protocols.

[0054] Additionally, Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) can configure intelligent and programmable wireless environments in a controllable manner. RIS performs passive reflection, passive absorption, and passive scattering, enabling the physical environment to be intelligent and interactive. RIS can alter the electromagnetic properties of elements and generate phase shifts independently of incident signals without using arbitrary RF signal processing. Furthermore, RIS technology possesses many technical features that go beyond current mainstream technologies. Compared to large-scale MIMO, RIS-enabled wireless networks significantly improve system performance by optimizing smart signal propagation.

[0055] Furthermore, RIS elements are completely passive and consume little power, making them environmentally friendly and sustainable. Since RIS designs do not require expensive components such as ADC / DACs and power amplifiers, large-area placement possibilities can be significantly improved. Moreover, since electromagnetic waves can be reconfigured at any point on a continuous surface, they can adapt to different application scenarios and form any shape that supports higher spatial resolution. RIS enables intelligent control of the propagation environment, improves transmission reliability, and achieves higher spectral efficiency.

[0056] RIS can be applied to one or more scenarios, for example, to overcome Non-line of Sight (NLOS) limitations and address coverage hole issues in an environmentally friendly manner. Other scenarios include serving cell edge users, mitigating multi-cell co-channel interference, extending coverage, and implementing dynamic mobile user tracking. Additional scenarios may involve reducing electromagnetic pollution and resolving multipath issues. Yet another scenario involves using RIS for deployment, perception, holographic communication, and reality enhancement. Another scenario is realizing sensing-communication integration.

[0057] Evolving communication systems in future 5G and 6G networks will face more complex wireless environments and higher quality of service requirements, which will pose greater challenges to RIS architecture and design. First, rational electromagnetic and channel models may need to be established. The fundamental limitations and potential benefits of RIS-enabled communication systems may need to be explored. Since the RF chain is not configured within the RIS, new systems and methods for channel estimation are required.

[0058] Second, passive beamforming design and passive information transmission optimization are required for the design of IRS architectures. Furthermore, the deployment of RIS in 6G will bring about a new network paradigm. In addition, research and development of new materials is one of the obstacles to the advancement of RIS technology. New control mechanisms can be explored through electromagnetic modeling, control methods, and baseband characterization of metasurfaces. Finally, as theoretical research on electromagnetic propagation and channel models continues to increase, it is necessary to consider data-driven and model-driven AI optimization design to maximize the utilization of physical layer features and improve algorithm efficiency.

[0059] As a new fundamental technology, RIS features low cost, low power consumption, and easy deployment, supporting future green communications and enabling future sensing communication integration. IRS helps improve desired signal power while nullifying reflected interference. Alternatively, reflected interference can be tuned to cancel direct interference (although this is more difficult to implement). This creates "signal hotspots" and "interference-free zones" around the IRS, improving the SINR of cell edge users. The present invention proposes IRS network architectures that can be implemented in all of the above use cases / scenarios.

[0060] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary IRS coverage scenario (300) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in the drawing, there may be certain areas where there is a definite opportunity for signal degradation at a given base station (5G or 6G), such as behind some tall buildings, behind small hill structures, or at cell edges. In these areas, base station (BS) signals can be improved by placing an IRS at an appropriate location with appropriate dimensions. Based on the dimensions of the IRS, the beam width can be adjusted vertically or horizontally to support one or more UEs affected by such signal degradation. In the embodiment, the beams can also be adjusted vertically or horizontally. Based on the dimensions of the IRS antenna elements, the maximum adjustment of the beams vertically and horizontally creates a virtual spherical area that can be referred to as an IRS coverage area. Thus, within this kind of spherical coverage area, users suffering from signal degradation can obtain improved signals from the base station by using beams reflected / regenerated from the associated IRS.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 3, IRS-1 (302-1) is positioned in such a way that it can receive a signal directly from the base station (304) and reflect / regenerate other beams to provide an improved base station signal to the area behind a large building. Based on the number of antenna array elements supported by IRS-1 (302-1), IRS-1 coverage is virtually created. All UEs within this coverage can benefit from IRS-1 (302-1). Similarly, IRS-2 (302-2) is positioned closer to a small hill to help UEs suffering from poor coverage behind the hill.

[0062] In the case of the IRS-N (302-N) scenario, some cell edge UEs receive degraded signals from the serving base station and are often suddenly disconnected. In this scenario, the deployment of the IRS-N type helps the cell edge UEs consistently receive a stable and improved signal from the base station. This enables affected UEs to prevent unnecessary disconnections, and the IRS-N deployment improves the capacity of the serving cell by extending coverage based on the dimensions of the deployed IRS-N. In the embodiment, the base station (304) communicates with IRS-1, IRS-2, and IRS-N through the proposed DUI interface ("DUI I / F") (306).

[0063] In an embodiment, within a cell coverage area, one or more IRSs may be deployed based on the characteristics of the geographical area of ​​the cell coverage. The dimensions of these IRSs may be the same or different based on the dimensions of objects interfering with the base station signal. In an embodiment, interfering objects may correspond to tall buildings or small hills, and therefore attenuation follows the signal path all the way to the cell edge. In an embodiment, the deployment of IRSs may be somewhat permanent and static, as possible coverage holes within the cell coverage area are known in advance and structures such as buildings, tunnels, bridges, hills, trees, etc. In another embodiment, the deployment of IRSs may be dynamic, as possible coverage holes within the cell coverage area are temporary, such as natural disasters, public safety scenarios, public gatherings, etc., and in these cases, IRSs may be deployed via UAVs, balloons, satellites, etc.

[0064] The disclosed embodiments propose an IRS and 5G / 6G network interface architecture and also a communication protocol between the 5G / 6G network and the IRS. The disclosed embodiments also propose the calculation of IRS tilt information (calculated) at a base station and transmission to the IRS through the proposed network interface.

[0065] In one embodiment, IRS tilt information is calculated based on SINR or Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) or Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) information from the base station. In another embodiment, beamforming for the IRS will be calculated based on knowledge of the IRS location and user location and Channel Quality Indicator (CQI) information provided by the UE.

[0066] In one embodiment, IRS tilt information is calculated as a precoding matrix or beamforming or IRS tilt matrix (referred to as digital IRS control or beamforming), which is applied to using an antenna array to transmit one or more spatially directional signals simultaneously. All antennas of the IRS transmission array emit different signals designed in the digital domain according to optimization criteria reached using signal quality information 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), that is, aligns the reflection angles of the IRS antenna elements toward the intended UE and selects the transmission power (power allocation). In particular, using or allocating power and phases separately is also an embodiment of the present disclosure. Essentially, precoding is a specific strategy selected by the transmitter to deliver information to one or more receivers. Additionally, the IRS can be dynamically and automatically configured based on requirements.

[0067] The disclosed mechanism provides a method for a base station (BS) to recognize an IRS and control it by taking into account a given user (or UE) distribution around an IRS panel where the IRS tilt is placed. In an embodiment, this is achieved by one or more base stations by taking into account the user (or UE) and signal strength (SINR) distribution.

[0068] In one embodiment, the disclosed base station (BS) recognizes the IRS through prior knowledge encoded in a database or through a signaling mechanism between the IRS and the BS (described later in the description). When the IRS appears in or is activated in the network, it may be configured to transmit a handshake signal to all connected BSs via available physical connections. One or more pieces of information, such as an IRS ID, latitude / longitude location, etc., may be exchanged (but are not limited thereto). In an embodiment, the connection between the IRS and the BS may be via an RF connection (IAB, microwave link, etc.).

[0069] A network interface protocol including a handshake signal schema is disclosed. In one embodiment, an interfacing mechanism between a base station (BS) and an IRS panel is illustrated in FIG. 4. Referring to FIG. 4, a direct connection is established between the BS and the IRS through a microcontroller (also referred to as the IRS controller hereinafter) to implement a mechanism that calculates tilt control information for a given time period and transmits this information to the IRS through the connection.

[0070] There may be two aspects of IRS panel tilt control by the BS. In an embodiment, the BS is configured to collect a signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio (SINR) profile from the BS and subsequently generate an RF signature profile for the area surrounding the IRS. In an exemplary embodiment, the SINR profile is collected through one or more enhanced user measurement reports generated by the UE and transmitted to the BS in the area served by the BS.

[0071] In another embodiment, the BS (or the scheduling module of the BS) is configured to calculate the tilts necessary to achieve SINR objectives and to perform the same with one or more information elements, such as user distribution for a given area, user or SINR or Block Error Rate (BLER) profiles (but not limited thereto). In an embodiment, the tilt may be based on user location information that can be obtained by a sensing mechanism implemented in the UE, and this information is supplied to the BS (scheduler).

[0072] The disclosed IRS architecture also describes a mechanism for collecting the information from the UE and managing the collection mechanism. 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.

[0073] 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 a radio controller (Radio Resource Management entity or baseband entity), a core network, or an O-RAN RIC (Radio Intelligent controller) (but not limited thereto), may communicate control messages and control the IRS.

[0074] In one of the embodiments, a 6G NR DU and IRS interface is proposed, which is referred to as "DUI I / F" in this description. It is implemented as a logical interface between a BS and an IRS controller to exchange signaling messages between the DU and the IRS as described in detail later in this description.

[0075] FIG. 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 illustrated, the IRS (404) includes a copper backplane and a control circuit board. The IRS (404) and the base station (402) communicate through a microcontroller (406), which may or may not be part of the IRS (404), to exchange messages (e.g., control messages).

[0076] FIG. 5 illustrates a functional architecture (500) of a next-generation or future-generation RAN (e.g., 6G RAN) having IRS support. For example, various blocks, modules, or subsystems of the disclosed base station or network device are illustrated in the architecture (500). In an embodiment, 6g-NB-DUs (6G base station node DUs) (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 IRS-1 (502-1), IRS-2 (502-2), and IRS-3 (502-3), respectively. In an embodiment, 6g-NB-CUs (6G base station node CUs) (510-1 and 510-P) maintain an IRS-cell mapping table (e.g., 514-1 and 514-P) for each supported cell context as illustrated in the drawing. 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 6th generation code (6GC) (522) via a 6G-NG interface (520).

[0077] In an exemplary embodiment, whenever an IRS is deployed to a cell, an entry is created in the IRS-Cell mapping table maintained in the 6g-NB-CU (6G Base Station Node CU). In the embodiment, the entry includes the IRS-ID, IRS capabilities such as the number of antenna elements supported by the IRS, mechanical / electrical tilt support, active / passive support, geographic location such as elevation, azimuth, and height, IRS coverage capabilities, shareable / non-shareable status, and deployment details in cell edge / cell mid / cell center areas. In the embodiment, the aforementioned information may be obtained from the Element Management System (EMS) or directly from the IRS controller during the (DU-IRS) DUI-AP (Application Protocol) setup procedure (described later with reference to FIG. 7a-g). In the embodiment, the IRS-Cell mapping table may be managed or updated in real time or configured periodically. In another embodiment, the IRS-Cell mapping table can be managed according to a predetermined plan based on network use cases / scenarios expected at a specific geographic location.

[0078] In an embodiment, the UE may be configured to frequently update its physical location information or transmit it to the 6G-NB-CU-CP using new RRC messages, such as Radio Resource Control (RRC) measurement report messages or UE location information updates. Whenever the reported UE location falls within or approaches pre-positioned IRS coverages, the 6g-NB-CU-CP (e.g., 510-1) notifies the 6g-NB-DU (e.g., 506-1) of the UE details, its location information, and associated IRS information. Subsequently, the 6g-NB-DU (e.g., 506-1) creates an entry in its IRS-UE mapping table and, while reporting periodic or periodic Channel State Information (CSI) reports, requests the given UE to begin reporting its current location information, speed of movement, direction of movement, etc. When a given UE transmits this additional information, the 6g-NB-DU (e.g., 506-1) verifies whether the UE has entered an IRS coverage area or is under a specific IRS. Then, the 6g-NB-DU (e.g., 506-1) begins coordination with the associated IRS controller (e.g., IRS-1 controller) and reserves a number of antenna array elements to reflect a specific beam toward the UE.

[0079] When multiple UEs are in an IRS coverage area, the 6g-NB-DU determines whether different beams (other than those already generated) should be generated to serve these UEs. In the embodiments, it may be up to the 6g-NB-DU to determine whether a given UE will 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 issues when the UE crosses from the IRS coverage area to a general cell coverage area served by the 6g-NB-DU (or BS). However, if the UE is served only by a reflected beam, the 6g-NB-DU must closely track UE movements crossing from the IRS coverage area to the general cell coverage area and trigger an Intra-Cell Inter-beam handover at appropriate instances.

[0080] In an embodiment, 6g-NB-CU-CP can enable or disable the use of IRS by 6g-NB-DU by sending an IRS enable or IRS disable message to 6g-NB-DU via the 6g-F1 interface (508). 6g-NB-CU-CP (e.g., 510-1) frequently updates / transmits IRS details and usage to EMS (518) via the SNMP / TR069 / O1 interface (516), which can be used for additional billing purposes if necessary.

[0081] It may be recognized by those skilled in the art that the exemplary use cases described with respect to FIGS. 2a–2f can be implemented using the functional architecture (500) with IRS support / deployment. Generally, the disclosed IRS architecture can be implemented for use as nearly passive smart relays for coverage extension, as a single-RF multi-stream transmitter for capacity improvement, and for use for information support transmission in the context of ambient backscatter and symbiotic radio. For example, as shown in FIG. 2a, the IRS deployment (200) can be used in a RIS-supported unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and implement the disclosed IRS network architecture. In another example, as shown in FIG. 2b, the IRS deployment (204) can be used in RIS-supported mm Wave communication and implement the disclosed IRS network architecture. In another example, as illustrated in FIG. 2c, the IRS deployment (206) can implement the disclosed IRS network architecture used for RIS-supported SWIPT (simultaneous wireless information and power transfer). In another example, as illustrated in FIG. 2d, the IRS deployment (208) can implement the disclosed IRS network architecture used for RIS-supported physical layer security. In another example, as illustrated in FIG. 2e, the IRS deployment (210) can implement the disclosed IRS network architecture used for RIS-supported mobile edge computing. In another example, as illustrated in FIG. 2f, the IRS deployment (212) can implement the disclosed IRS network architecture used for RIS-supported device-to-device (D2D) systems.

[0082] FIG. 5b illustrates a network device (524) according to an embodiment. One or more components of the 6G network or 5G network described with reference to FIG. 5a may be integrated and implemented as the proposed network device (524).

[0083] In an embodiment, the network device (524) may include one or more processors (526) coupled with memory (528), and the memory may store instructions that enable the network device (524) to implement the disclosed IRS architecture when executed by one or more processors. The one or more processor(s) (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 devices that process data based on operation instructions. Among other capabilities, one or more processor(s) (526) may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory (528) of the network device (524). Memory (528) may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines on a non-transient computer-readable storage medium that can be fetched and executed to generate or share data packets through network services. Memory (528) may include any non-transient storage device including volatile memory, such as RAM, or non-volatile memory, such as EPROM, flash memory, etc.

[0084] The memory (528) includes one or more modules such as an IRS setting module (530), an IRS configuration module (532), a resource command module (534), an IRS activation module (536), a DU configuration module (538), a proximity intimation module (540), and an RRC configuration module (542). The IRS setting module (530) is configured to execute one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 700) for the initial setup of the IRS. The IRS configuration module (532) is configured to execute one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 706) for the configuration of the IRS, as described in detail later in the description. The resource command module (534) is configured to execute one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 708) to command the reservation of antenna array elements (or other resources) of the IRS for communication with the UE. The IRS activation module (536) is configured to execute one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 710, 720) to activate or deactivate the IRS. The DU configuration module (538) is configured to execute one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 712) indicating the latest deployed IRS set and their details. The proximity notification module (540) is configured to execute one or more steps or procedures (e.g., 716) whenever one or more UEs (e.g., 718) are detected around specific IRS coverages. The RRC configuration module (542) is configured to execute one or more steps or procedures for reconfiguring the Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection. The RRC connection reconfiguration procedure is used to configure measurement control to add the UE's location information to one or more measurement reports received from the UE.

[0085] In an embodiment, one or more modules described above may be configured to perform one or more functions, steps, and procedures described herein in the context of a 6G network. For example, all steps for implementing a communication protocol (and the protocol stack) between a 6G network and one or more IRSs may be performed by a network device (524). Additionally, steps and procedures related to the configuration and / or setting of one or more IRSs may also be performed by a network device (524). Additionally, steps or procedures for setting a UE to periodically transmit measurement reports may be performed by a network device (524), for example, an RRC configuration module (542).

[0086] Furthermore, steps or procedures for processing and analyzing measurement reports from the UE to determine tilts for the IRS (i.e., tilt information) may be performed by the network device (524). Although different nodes or modules may have been described as performing various functions and steps to provide the disclosed IRS architectures, it may be recognized that all or part 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 comprising one or more processors (526) coupled to a memory (528) that stores a set of instructions, and the set of instructions, when executed by one or more processors, causes the network device to calculate IRS tilt information associated with one or more IRSs based at least partially on a first set of information received from one or more UEs. The first set of information includes one or more of SINR (signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio) information, RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) information, and RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality) information received from one or more UEs.

[0087] One or more processors (526) further enable a network device (524) to communicate calculated IRS tilt information to one or more IRSs via a network interface, and the IRS tilt information is used to control one or more operating modes of one or more IRSs. One or more operating modes of one or more IRSs include mechanical modes such as mechanical tilt (but not limited thereto). In an embodiment, one or more operating modes of one or more IRSs include digital modes such as digital tilt. In an embodiment, one or more operating modes of one or more IRSs include electrical modes such as transmission power (but not limited thereto). It may be recognized that each of one or more IRSs includes a plurality of tiles or panels. In an exemplary embodiment, the disclosed operating modes of one or more IRSs may be controlled at various granular levels, such as, for example, tile level, panel level, etc.

[0088] In an embodiment, one or more processors (526) additionally cause a network device (524) to calculate IRS tilt information based on one or more of the locations of one or more IRSs from one or more UEs, the locations of one or more UEs, and channel quality indicator (CQI) information, wherein the IRS tilt information represents beamforming for one or more IRSs.

[0089] In an embodiment, one or more processors (526) further cause the network device (524) to calculate IRS tilt information into a precoding matrix or beamforming or IRS tilt matrix used to transmit one or more spatially oriented signals simultaneously from each of one or more IRSs, wherein each of the one or more IRSs includes a plurality of antennas. In an embodiment, all antennas of one or more IRS transmission arrays are configured to emit different signals designed in the digital domain based on their respective IRS tilt information. In an embodiment, one or more IRSs apply a precoding matrix or beamforming matrix provided by the network device (524) to provide directivity toward one or more intended UEs and to select a corresponding transmission power.

[0090] In an embodiment, one or more IRSs use IRS tilt information to calculate digital tilt and mechanical tilt for each of the antennas and to assign power and phase to each of the antennas. In an embodiment, one or more processors (526) further enable a network device (524) to recognize one or more IRSs through prior knowledge encoded in a database or through a signal mechanism established between one or more IRSs and the network device via a network interface. In an embodiment, one or more processors (526) further enable 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 the setup process.

[0091] In an embodiment, one or more processors (526) further cause the network device (524) to create an entry in an IRS-Cell mapping table, and the entry includes one or more fields including an IRS-ID, IRS capabilities regarding the number of antenna elements supported by the new IRS, mechanical / electrical tilt support, active / passive support, geographic location such as elevation, azimuth, height, coverage capabilities 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 one or more IRSs, and the network interface protocol includes a handshake signal scheme.

[0092] 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, one or more processors (526) further cause the network device (524) to calculate IRS tilt information required to achieve a SINR goal based on one or more of user distributions, user profiles, SINR profiles, and block error rate (BLER) profiles for a given area served by the network device. In an embodiment, one or more processors (526) further cause the network device (524) to send one or more control messages to one or more IRSs at a pre-configured period, wherein one or more IRSs are controlled by the network device using one or more control messages.

[0093] In the embodiments, various modules may be integrated together or implemented in multiple network devices (524) to achieve the same or similar functions without going beyond the scope of the description in progress. For example, the network device (524) corresponds to one or more nodes of a next-generation RAN (e.g., 6G RAN) that supports the IRS. In the embodiments, the network device (524) may correspond to 6g-NB-DUs (6G base station node DUs) and / or 6g-NB-CUs (6G base station node CUs) or an integration thereof. In another embodiment, the network device (524) may correspond to any such network entity or base station (BS) that may be configured to communicate with the IRS and / or UE in the context of the description in progress.

[0094] In an embodiment, the network device (524) enables the establishment of a network interface protocol with the IRS as described with reference to FIGS. 7a–7g. In an embodiment, a DU-I interface (or DU I / F) is established between the network device and the IRS using various configuration procedures described herein. Using the proposed network interface, the network device (524) can enable the configuration of the IRS available to reflect signals to one or more UEs in a specific region or area served by the network device (524). Mapping one or more parameters of the IRS to a mechanical or digital tilt for optimal performance is predetermined and stored in the network device (524). Upon receiving and executing one or more measurement reports from one or more UEs, the network device (524) determines the optimal mechanical or digital tilt based at least partially on the predetermined mapping. The network device (524) transmits the optimal mechanical or digital tilt information to the IRS using the proposed network interface, and the IRS controller realigns the IRS panels or IRS tiles using the optimal tilt information.

[0095] In another embodiment, the network device (524) performs all functions, steps, and procedures that command the UE to perform measurements of one or more parameters associated with the IRS or something else. For example, the network device (524) may provide / configure trigger events 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 tilt information or data to be communicated to the IRS controller based on one or more measurement reports. In another embodiment, the network device (524) enables the configuration of the IRS in such a way that the IRS controller reserves a portion of the IRS resources for the network device (524). Likewise, another network device (524) may share the resources of the IRS by configuring another portion of the IRS resources by communicating with the IRS controller as described herein.

[0096] In an embodiment, a user device (UE) communicating with one or more intelligent reflective surfaces (IRS) and one or more network devices is disclosed as illustrated in FIG. 5c. FIG. 5c illustrates an exemplary UE (544) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the UE or computing device (illustrated in various drawings) may communicate with a network device (524) and / or a given IRS through a set of executable commands residing in any operating system. In the embodiments, electronic devices may include any combination of electrical, electronic, electromechanical or equipment or any of the above devices, such as mobile phones, smartphones, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, laptops, general-purpose computers, desktops, personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablet computers, mainframe computers, or any other computing devices (but are not limited thereto), and computing devices may include one or more built-in or externally coupled accessories, such as visual aids like cameras, audio aids, microphones, keyboards, and input devices for receiving input from a user, such as touchpads, touch-enabled screens, electronic pens, etc. (but are not limited thereto). It may be recognized that electronic devices are not limited to the devices mentioned and various other devices may be used. A smart computing device may be one of the appropriate systems for storing data and other personal / sensitive information.

[0097] In an embodiment, the UE (544) includes a processor (546) coupled to the memory (548). The memory (548) includes one or more modules such as a measurement module (550), a trigger point module (552), an identification module (554), a reporting module (556), and a GPS / location module (558). One or more modules of the memory (548) may be configured to perform one or more functions on the UE side of the procedures / steps disclosed herein, for example, with reference to FIGS. 8a-8c.

[0098] For example, the measurement module (550) may be configured to measure one or more parameters associated with signal strength received from the BS (or network device) and signal strength received from the IRS. In another example, the trigger point module (552) may be configured to enable the setting (5) or configuration of one or more trigger points to trigger the measurement of one or more parameters by the measurement module (550). The identification module (554) may be configured to enable the identification of the IRS based on identification parameters such as the IRS ID. The reporting module (556) may be configured to generate and share one or more measurement reports in a defined format having one or more predetermined fields. The GPS / location module (558) may be configured to determine location-specific information to be included in the measurement reports or to provide it to other modules. One or more of the modules may be integrated to form a single module without going beyond the scope of the description in progress. Other components and modules of the standard UE are not shown in the drawings or described herein for brevity. For example, communication components such as antennas, reports, and memory storage devices for associated data are assumed to be part of the UE described herein. Certain modules of the UE enable (544) may be configured to implement the IRS architecture disclosed herein or support various embodiments of the disclosed IRS mechanisms in response to one or more messages from the network device (524) or BS.

[0099] As described above, the UE (544) includes one or more processors coupled to a memory that stores a set of instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause a network device to transmit a first set of information. In an embodiment, the first set of information includes one or more of SINR (signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio) information, RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) information, RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality) information, location and channel quality indicator (CQI) information associated with the UE for one or more 6G network devices. One or more 6G network devices are configured to calculate IRS tilt information associated with one or more IRSs based at least partially on the first set of information received from one or more UEs. One or more 6G network devices are configured to communicate the calculated IRS tilt information to one or more IRSs through a network interface, and the IRS tilt information is used to control one or more operating modes of one or more IRSs.

[0100] FIG. 6 illustrates a DUI (DU-IRS) interface protocol stack (600) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated, the protocol stack includes radio control layers (604) and transmission control layers (606). The radio control layers (604) include a (DU-IRS) DUI-AP (Application Protocol) layer (608). The transmission control layers include 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 BS establishes a DUI (DU-IRS) protocol stack to enable communication between the BS and the IRS for configuration, setting, and control purposes as described herein. Various configuration messages of a specific format may be used to support the communication protocol in the context of 6G networks.

[0101] In the embodiments, 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 at both ends of the DUI interface. For example, one implementation is at the DU end and the other is at the IRS controller end. The transport network layer, including the physical layer, data link layer, IP layer, and SCTP layer, may be implemented according to standard definitions known in the art. In the embodiments, the wireless network layer, including the DUI-AP which is a DU-IRS interface application component, implements a Layer 3 control protocol. Procedures and messages associated with the DUI-AP will be described in detail with reference to the sequence diagrams illustrated in FIGS. 7a–7d. For example, protocol communication messages include "DUI LINK SETUP REQUEST" and "DUI LINK SETUP RESPONSE" as shown in FIG. 7a, "DUI LINK CONFIGURATION UPDATE" and "DUI LINK CONFIGURATION UPDATE CONFIRM" as shown in FIG. 7b, "IRS RESOURCE COMMAND" and "IRS RESOURCE COMMAND ACCEPT" as shown in FIG. 7c, and "IRS ACTIVATION COMMAND" and "IRS ACTIVATION COMMAND ACCEPT" as shown in FIG. 7d. The proposed protocol communication messages are part of the proposed DUI-AP protocol.

[0102] In the examples, the DUI-AP can be realized by a set of initial procedures used in the DUI I / F illustrated in FIGS. 7a-7g.

[0103] FIG. 7 illustrates a DU I / F setup procedure (700) initiated by an IRS controller (704) toward a 6g-NB-DU (702) to establish a DUI link. In an embodiment, when a new IRS appears, is activated, or becomes available, the corresponding IRS controller (e.g., 704) shares / transmits its capabilities to the 6g-NB-DU (702) via a setup request message. The 6g-NB-DU (702) issues an "activate" command to the IRS controller (704) by authenticating the new IRS, assigning a unique IRS ID, and sending a setup response message. The IRS controller (704) updates the tables with the ID, and the status is set to "active".

[0104] FIG. 7b illustrates a DU I / F configuration update procedure (706). This procedure is initiated by an IRS controller (704) toward a 6g-NB-DU (702) to update changes in its capabilities. In an embodiment, the IRS controller (704) shares the updated capabilities with the 6g-NB-DU (702) via a "configuration update" message. The 6g-NB-DU (702) updates its IRS-UE table, transmits the updates to the associated 6g-NB-CU-CP, and issues an "enable / disable" command to the IRS controller (704) based on the updates by transmitting a "configuration update confirmation" message. Subsequently, the IRS controller (704) continues to maintain the "enable / disable" state according to the received command.

[0105] FIG. 7c illustrates an IRS resource command procedure (708). This procedure is initiated by the 6g-NB-DU (702) toward the IRS controller (704) to command the preparation of antenna array elements for communication with the 6g-NB-DU (702) and also to communicate directly with the UE. Thus, one set of antenna arrays (of a given IRS) may be prepared for communication with the 6g-NB-DU (702) for a specific UE, and another set of antenna arrays may be prepared 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, and the elevation of the given UE to which the beam is directed. Thus, the 6g-NB-DU (702) transmits an IRS resource command message to the IRS controller (702). The IRS controller responds to the 6g-NB-DU (702) by configuring the antenna array of the IRS according to the received command, reserving the necessary antenna array elements, and transmitting an IRS resource command acceptance message. The IRS resource command may also include a pre-coded matrix providing power and phase for each element that the IRS must use to achieve the necessary directionality from the reflection of signals from the base station. Upon receiving the IRS resource command acceptance message, the 6g-NB-DU (702) may or may not start beaming toward the IRS and continue direct beaming toward the UE. The IRS controller (704) starts receiving a beam from the 6g-NB-DU (702), converts it, and configures the IRS to start direct beaming toward the UE.

[0106] Figure 7 illustrates an IRS activation command procedure (710). This procedure is initiated by the 6g-NB-DU (702) toward the IRS controller (704) to activate or deactivate the IRS. The 6g-NB-DU (702) transmits an IRS activation command message (activation / deactivation, validity period, etc.) to the IRS controller (704). The IRS controller (704) transmits an IRS activation command acceptance message to the 6g-NB-DU (702). The IRS controller (704) is configured to set the state of the IRS according to the received command. In the embodiment, this procedure is primarily used during energy saving scenarios and maintenance scenarios.

[0107] FIGS. 7e–7g illustrate a set of initial procedures to support IRS. FIG. 7e illustrates a DU configuration update procedure (712). This procedure is initiated by 6g-NB-DU (702) toward 6g-NB-CU-CP (714), which represents the latest set of deployed IRS and their details. In an embodiment, 6g-NB-CU-CP (714) creates entries for these new IRS, assigns a unique IRS ID to each, and updates the details of other IRS already existing in the IRS-Cell mapping table. 6g-NB-CU-CP (714) responds with a DU configuration update confirmation with a list of newly assigned IRS-IDs associated with the newly established IRS. 6g-NB-DU (702) updates the table with the IDs, and the status of each IRS will be set to active.

[0108] FIG. 7f illustrates an IRS proximity indication procedure (716). This procedure (716) is initiated by 6g-NB-CU-CP (714) toward 6g-NB-DU (702) whenever one or more UEs (e.g., 718) are detected around specific IRS coverages, which indicates initiating a combination with specific IRS for these UEs. 6g-NB-DU (702) receives an IRS proximity indication along with a list of UEs associated with a list of IRSs, reserved IRS resources, etc. After receiving the IRS proximity indication message, 6g-NB-DU (702) updates a table with a list of UEs according to their mapping to their respective IRSs. 6g-NB-DU (702) further initiates a request for these UEs (e.g., 718) to transmit their location information along with Channel State Information (CSI). The scheduler module of the 6g-NB-DU (702) starts using the IRS source reserved for use by a specific set of UEs (e.g., 718).

[0109] FIG. 7g illustrates an IRS enable command procedure (720). This procedure is initiated by 6g-NB-CU-CP (714) toward 6g-NB-DU (702) to enable or disable the IRS. As illustrated, 6g-NB-CU-CP (714) sends an IRS enable command [enable / disable, valid time, etc.] to 6g-NB-DU (702). 6g-NB-DU (702) initiates an IRS enable / disable procedure toward the IRS controller as previously described. 6g-NB-DU (702) sends an IRS enable command acceptance message to 6g-NB-CU-CP (714). This procedure can be used primarily during energy saving scenarios and also during maintenance scenarios.

[0110] In an embodiment, an initial set of procedures to support IRS is performed by 6g-NB-CU-CP using Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection reconfiguration. The RRC connection reconfiguration procedure is used by 6g-NB-CU-CP to configure measurement control to add the UE's location information to one or more measurement reports. Upon receiving this request, the UE begins adding location information to all subsequent measurement reports. In an alternative embodiment, according to the previous proximity indication procedures, when the UE detects that it is close to or entering the IRS coverage area, it may begin adding location information through measurement reports or using proximity indication messages.

[0111] The present disclosure relates to a system and method for implementing intelligent reflective surfaces (IRS) in 5G and beyond networks. The system may include a network device comprising one or more processors capable of enabling 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 configuration procedures can be executed using it. Using the proposed network interface, the network device can enable the configuration of the IRS available to reflect signals to one or more UEs in a specific region or area. Mapping one or more parameters of the IRS to a mechanical or digital tilt for optimal performance is predetermined and stored in the network device. Upon receiving one or more measurement reports from one or more UEs, the network device determines the optimal mechanical or digital tilt based at least partially on the predetermined mapping. The network device transmits the optimal mechanical or digital tilt information to the IRS using the proposed network interface, and the IRS controller realigns the IRS panels or tiles using the optimal tilt information.

[0112] Embodiments of a non-transient computer-readable medium (CRM) are disclosed. The CRM stores one or more instructions, and when executed by a processor, these instructions cause the process to perform a set of steps. For example, the execution of the set of instructions causes the processor to calculate IRS tilt information associated with one or more IRSs based at least partially on a first set of information received from one or more UEs, and to communicate the calculated IRS tilt information to one or more IRSs through a network interface, and the IRS tilt information is used to control one or more operating modes of one or more IRSs. 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, reference signal received quality (RSRQ) information, and location and channel quality indicator (CQI) information.

[0113] FIGS. 8a–8c illustrate a set of UE procedures to support the IRS architecture disclosed herein. In the embodiments, a handover mechanism is disclosed for B5G (beyond 5G—i.e., 5G / 6G networks) networks, and an IRS controller is also part of the network architecture as described above. Such a network must collect one or more measurement reports, including an RF report representing raw power as recognized by the UE in the form of a Channel Quality Indicator (CQI) or Channel State Information (CSI) report to indicate the channel quality of the serving cell, and Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), SINR, and a Channel Quality Indicator (CQI) or Channel State Information (CSI) report.

[0114] One or more measurement reports collected by the BS (or network device) assist the network in making appropriate calls to hand over a given UE (e.g., UE (544)) in the same cell coverage (i.e., cell edge scenario) to another cell or another IRS controller. The present disclosure considers various scenarios to illustrate the approach illustrated in FIGS. 8a–8c. For example, UE1 is mobile and connected to 6G-NB-DU-1 (i.e., Cell 1) and is connected / active. UE1 begins to move away from the coverage of 6G-NB-DU-1 (Cell 1) and is now near IRS-1 coverage. In this case, UE1 must be handed over to the IRS-1 controller for additional data transmission / reception. In the embodiments, the following data points and operation flow should be considered in the order described below: 1. The UE is configured as a trigger point to find pilot signals from the IRS controller (e.g., corresponding to IRS-1) and then start a measurement. 2. Identify signals / data reflected by the IRS controller using the IRS ID. 3. The IRS ID must be transmitted through the SIB1 portion of the pilot signal. 4. The UE measures the RSRP / RSRQ of the signal received by the IRS and the CQI / CSI of the serving cell. 5. The UE transmits a measurement report based on configured trigger events and / or periodic timers. 6. The handover procedure is completed based on the criteria set on the network side.

[0115] In an embodiment, the UE (544) is configured with one or more trigger points for the UE to find pilot signals from the IRS controller (e.g., 704) and subsequently initiate corresponding measurements. Thus, the UE may be configured with an event-based trigger for the measurement (when the IRS is available in the same cell edge case and available for handover) or even a periodic timer-based trigger. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more exemplary events may be configured to trigger an IRS measurement. These exemplary events include event (I1) — when the serving cell (RSRP / RSRQ) falls below a predetermined threshold. Another exemplary event may be event (I2) — when the serving cell CQI index in the CSI report falls below the threshold or leads to the use of QPSK. Yet another exemplary event may be event (I3) — when a neighboring cell provides better signal strength than the serving cell.

[0116] In an embodiment, such exemplary events (i.e., I1 to I3) may be triggered based on IRS availability in a given cell having a given approximate coverage. In another embodiment, a new mechanism is proposed to identify whether a regular event (A1) needs to be triggered or whether a pre-configured event (I1) needs to be triggered.

[0117] FIG. 8a illustrates a UE procedure for supporting an IRS according to an embodiment. In one case, the UE (802-1) shares and verifies the availability of a given IRS. When event (A1) or other events (Ax) are triggered, the UE (802-1) shares location information, along with the accuracy level, with the network (CU-CP (804)) as part of an RRC message container (IEI).

[0118] CU-CP (804) confirms the existence of IRS availability and configures an event (I1) or transmits a new RRC message (i.e., StartIRSMeas_IE) as an RRC container, and then configures the IRS controller to start reflecting pilot signals with the DLCCH configured for SIB1 so that the UE detects the IRS ID and also prepares a measurement report (MR). Next, the UE (802) measures RF and checks if the event (e.g., I1) is still valid so that the event (Ix) is triggered. If the UE (802-1) does not support GPS, the UE shares location information using C-Plane or U-Plane (SUPL) methods and measurements based on CellID, eCellID, OTDOA, etc.

[0119] FIG. 8b illustrates a UE procedure for an RRC measurement report according to an embodiment. For example, when an event (A1) is triggered, the UE (802-1) transmits a measurement report along with location information. The network device identifies that the UE (802-1) is in an IRS coverage area and configures an event (I1) or transmits a new RRC message (StartIRSMeas_IE) as an RRC container and then configures the IRS controller to begin reflecting a pilot signal with the DLCCH configured for SIB1, so that the UE (802-1) can detect the IRS ID and also prepare the MR. The RRC_MessageContainer IE may correspond to {{StartIRMeas_IE:BOOLEAN{}}. Similarly, the MR (Measurement Report) may be transmitted by the UE (802-1) based on a configuration that can also be performed based on a periodic timer configured for a given UE. The procedure involves identifying signals / data as reflected by the IRS controller using the IRS ID. Like the Cell ID, the IRS can be identified using the IRS ID to be broadcast as part of the pilot signal / SIB1. A portion of SIB1-CellAccessRelatedInfo containing PLMN-IdentityInfo is obtained. This IE contains the CellIdentity of a given cell. Therefore, the same IEI must be used to convey the IRS ID of the IRS controller. This serves as the IRS identifier for further processing at the UE level. This IRS ID may be transmitted instead of or together with the Cell ID, depending on the mapping table existing in the DU / CU related to the IRS ID and the Cell ID.

[0120] In an embodiment, referring to FIG. 8c, the IRS ID must be transmitted through the SIB1 portion of the pilot signal. Assuming the computational power of the IRS controller is sufficient, there may be two possible methods of encoding the IRS ID into the SIB1 transmitted through the pilot signal.

[0121] In the first alternative, the IRS ID is pre-coded into the SIB1 signal at the CU-CP side (RRC) when it is predetermined to transmit it to the UE (802) through the IRS reflector. In this way, the IRS can only reflect the signal based on the previously received configuration.

[0122] In a second alternative, the IRS ID is decoded upon receipt from the CU - DU (gNodeB), encoded, inserted into a SIB1 message, and then transmitted to the UE (802) directed by the IRS reflector according to the received configuration. In the embodiment, the UE measures the CQI / CSI of the serving cell and the RSRP / RSRQ of the signal received by the IRS. When the UE detects that an event has been triggered or that the timer has expired, it begins sniffing the pilot signal from the IRS reflector, and the IRS ID is detected after reading the SIB1. Once the IRS ID is known and the raw power measurement is complete, the UE (802) makes it part of a measurement report transmitted as part of the RRC of the CU - CP and / or another MAC scheduler - CSI report of the DU.

[0123] From CSI to MAC Scheduler - When the MAC scheduler of the DU receives a CSI report and identifies the modulation method to reduce to QPSK, it indicates an RRC for handover to the UE's IRS based on location information made from the available part of the CSI report mapped to the availability of IRS coverage. If location information is not available at the UE (802), the MAC scheduler of the DU connects to the RRC via the DU-CU interface to obtain UE location information and check if it is under IRS coverage, and if the response is yes, the RRC can trigger a handover.

[0124] In an embodiment, the UE is configured to transmit measurement reports based on configured trigger events and / or periodic timer and handover procedures to be completed based on criteria set on the network side. In an embodiment, the measurement reports may be of two types—an NR measurement report from the CU-CP to the RRC and a CSI report from the serving cell to the MAC scheduler based on the received configuration.

[0125] Based on CSI reports where the CQI index falls below the configured threshold—that is, an index that reflects QPSK usage and maintains TP—the gNodeB must allocate more PRBs. If the gNodeB knows that the UE is near the IRS, it begins reflecting a pilot signal with a pre-coded SIB1. Now, the UE measures the raw IRS power recognized by the UE and records it in the NR measurement report. Based on the measurement report, a handover to the IRS is triggered by CU-CP -> DU.

[0126] Similarly, MR can be transmitted by the UE based on a configuration that can also be performed based on a periodic timer configured for a given UE. IE can be modified to reflect the configuration mentioned above for a new event trigger.

[0127] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary computer system in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be utilized according to embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the computer system (900) may include an external storage device (910), a bus (920), a main memory (930), a read-only memory (940), a mass storage device (950), a communication port (960), and a processor (970). A person skilled in the art will recognize that the computer system may include more than one processor and communication ports. The processor (970) may include various modules associated with embodiments of the present invention. The communication port (960) may be any port among a modem-based telephone connection, a 10 / 100 Ethernet port, a 10 Gigabit port using Gigabit or copper or optical fiber, a serial port, a parallel port, or an RS-232 port for use with other existing or future ports. The communication port (960) may be selected according to the network, such as a LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), or any network to which the computer system is connected. The memory (930) may be RAM (Random Access Memory) or any other dynamic storage device generally known in the technical field. The read-only memory may be any static storage device(s) and may include, for example, PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) chips for storing static information, such as startup or BIOS instructions for the processor (970) (but is not limited thereto). The mass storage (950) may be any current or future mass storage solution that can be used to store information and / or instructions.Exemplary mass storage solutions include PATA (Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment) or SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) hard disk drives or solid-state drives (e.g., internal or external having a Universal Serial Bus (USB) and / or Firewire interface), one or more optical disks, RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) storage devices, e.g., arrays of disks (e.g., SATA arrays) (but are not limited thereto).

[0128] The bus (920) connects the processor(s) (970) to other memory, storage devices, and communication blocks so that they can communicate. The bus (920) may be, for example, a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) / PCI-X (PCI Extended) bus, SCSI (Small Computer System Interface), USB, etc., for connecting expansion cards, drives, and other subsystems, as well as other buses such as an FSB (front side bus) that connects the processor (970) to a software system.

[0129] Optionally, operator and management interfaces, e.g., a display, a keyboard, and a cursor control device, may also be coupled to the bus (920) to support direct operator interaction with the computer system. Other operator and management interfaces may be provided via network connections connected through the communication port (960). The components described above are merely for illustrating various possibilities. The exemplary computer system described above should not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0130] Although substantial emphasis has been made herein on preferred embodiments, it will be recognized that many embodiments may be made and many modifications may be made to the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the invention. These and other modifications of the preferred embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, and it should be clearly understood that the foregoing description is to be implemented as an example of the invention and not merely as a limitation. Advantages of the present disclosure

[0131] The present disclosure provides effective, simultaneous, and improved communication within next-generation networks (e.g., 6G) by utilizing IRS architectures.

[0132] The present disclosure provides a system and method for eliminating the need for deploying expensive base stations to improve coverage in areas with one or more obstacles.

[0133] The present disclosure provides an economical and next-generation base system and method that can avoid problems faced by UEs due to poor signal, signal degradation, and insufficient coverage.

[0134] The present disclosure provides an effective system and method that enables seamless service quality regardless of the user's location.

Claims

Claim 1 A network device for supporting communication with an Intelligent Reflecting Surface (IRS) in a communication network, comprising one or more processors coupled to a memory that stores a set of commands, wherein, when the set of commands is executed by the one or more processors, the network device causes: to transmit a configuration signal for configuring a set of trigger points to a User Equipment (UE), wherein the configuration signal includes an IRS ID, and based on the set of trigger points, the UE is configured to: detect one or more pilot signals from an IRS controller corresponding to the Intelligent Reflecting Surface (IRS); perform measurements of one or more parameters; transmit a first set of information to the network device based on the detected one or more pilot signals and the measurements of the one or more parameters; and receive one or more commands for executing a handover procedure for network communication from the network device to the IRS based on the transmitted first set of information. Claim 2 A network device for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, wherein the UE is configured to identify the pilot signal based on the IRS ID included in the configuration signal received from the network device. Claim 3 A network device for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, wherein the UE is configured to measure the CQI (Channel Quality Indicator) and CSI (Channel State Information) parameters of a serving cell, and the RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) information and RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality) parameters of the pilot signal received from the IRS. Claim 4 A network device for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, wherein the UE is configured to transmit a measurement report including measurements of one or more parameters periodically or based on the triggering of one of the trigger points. Claim 5 A network device for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, wherein the UE is configured to execute at least part of the handover procedure based on a set of criteria received from the network device in response to the transmission of the first set of information. Claim 6 A network device for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, wherein the first information set comprises one or more of SINR (signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio) information, RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) information, and RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality). Claim 7 A network device for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, wherein the set of trigger points corresponds to a periodic timer-based trigger or an event-based trigger for measuring one or more parameters. Claim 8 In claim 7, the event-based trigger is a network device for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, corresponding to a scenario in which the IRS is available at the edge of a given cell and available for the handover procedure. Claim 9 A network device for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, wherein the event-based trigger is triggered when the serving cell RSRP / RSRQ falls below a preset first threshold, or when the serving cell CQI index falls below a second threshold or leads to the use of QPSK, or when a neighboring cell provides a better signal strength than the serving cell. Claim 10 In claim 7, a network device for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, wherein event-based triggers can be triggered based on the availability of the IRS in a given serving cell having a corresponding given coverage. Claim 11 A method for supporting communication between an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) and a user equipment (UE) in a communication network, comprising: receiving, by the UE, a configuration signal from a network device for configuring a set of trigger points; detecting, by the UE, one or more pilot signals from an IRS controller corresponding to the intelligent reflective surface (IRS); performing a measurement of one or more parameters by the UE — the configuration signal includes an IRS ID —; transmitting, by the UE, a first set of information to the network device based on the detected one or more pilot signals and the measurement of the one or more parameters; and receiving, by the UE, one or more commands for executing a handover procedure for network communication from the network device to the IRS based on the transmitted first set of information. Claim 12 A method for supporting communication between an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) and a user device (UE) in a communication network, wherein, in claim 11, the UE further comprises the step of identifying the pilot signal based on the IRS ID included in the configuration signal received from the network device. Claim 13 A method for supporting communication between an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) and a user device (UE) in a communication network, further comprising the step of measuring, by the UE, the Channel Quality Indicator (CQI) and Channel State Information (CSI) parameters of the serving cell, and the Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) information and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) parameters of the pilot signal received from the IRS. Claim 14 A method for supporting communication between an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) and a user equipment (UE) in a communication network, further comprising the step of transmitting a measurement report including measurements of one or more parameters periodically or based on the triggering of one of the trigger points. Claim 15 A method for supporting communication between an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) and a user device (UE) in a communication network, wherein, in claim 11, the UE further comprises the step of executing at least a portion of the handover procedure based on a set of criteria received from the network device in response to the transmission of the first set of information by the UE. Claim 16 A method for supporting communication between an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) and a user equipment (UE) in a communication network, wherein the first set of information includes one or more of SINR (signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio) information, RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) information, and RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality). Claim 17 A method for supporting communication between an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) and a user device (UE) in a communication network, wherein the set of trigger points corresponds to a periodic timer-based trigger or an event-based trigger for measuring one or more parameters. Claim 18 In claim 17, the event-based trigger is a method for supporting communication between an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) and a user equipment (UE) in a communication network, corresponding to a scenario in which the IRS is available at the edge of a given cell and available for the handover procedure. Claim 19 A method for supporting communication between an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) and a user equipment (UE) in a communication network, wherein the event-based trigger is triggered when the serving cell RSRP / RSRQ falls below a preset first threshold, or when the serving cell CQI index falls below a second threshold or leads to the use of QPSK, or when a neighboring cell provides a better signal strength than the serving cell. Claim 20 User equipment (UE) for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network comprises one or more processors coupled to a memory that stores a set of commands, wherein, when the set of commands is executed by the one or more processors, the UE is configured to: receive a configuration signal for configuring a set of trigger points from a network device, the configuration signal comprising an IRS ID, and based on the set of trigger points, the UE is configured to: detect one or more pilot signals from an IRS controller corresponding to the intelligent reflective surface (IRS), perform measurements of one or more parameters, transmit a first set of information to the network device based on the detected one or more pilot signals and the measurements of the one or more parameters, and receive one or more commands for executing a handover procedure for network communication from the network device to the IRS based on the transmitted first set of information. Claim 21 In claim 20, a user device (UE) for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, wherein the processor is configured to identify the pilot signal based on the IRS ID included in the configuration signal received from the network device. Claim 22 In claim 20, the processor is configured to measure the Channel Quality Indicator (CQI) and Channel State Information (CSI) parameters of the serving cell, and the Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) information and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) parameters of the pilot signal received from the IRS, for a user equipment (UE) to support communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network. Claim 23 In claim 20, a user device (UE) for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, wherein the processor is configured to transmit a measurement report including the measurement of one or more parameters periodically or based on the triggering of one of the trigger points. Claim 24 In claim 20, the processor is configured to execute at least part of the handover procedure based on a set of criteria received from the network device in response to the transmission of the first set of information, a user device (UE) for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network. Claim 25 In claim 20, the first set of information comprises one or more of SINR (signal-to-noise-plus-interference ratio) information, RSRP (Reference Signal Received Power) information, and RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Quality), a user device (UE) for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network. Claim 26 In claim 20, the set of trigger points corresponds to a periodic timer-based trigger or an event-based trigger for measuring one or more parameters, and is a user device (UE) for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network. Claim 27 In claim 26, the event-based trigger is a user device (UE) for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, corresponding to a scenario in which the IRS is available at the edge of a given cell and available for the handover procedure. Claim 28 In claim 26, the event-based trigger is triggered when the serving cell RSRP / RSRQ falls below a preset first threshold, or when the serving cell CQI index falls below a second threshold or leads to the use of QPSK, or when a neighboring cell provides a better signal strength than the serving cell, user equipment (UE) for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network. Claim 29 In claim 26, user equipment (UE) for supporting communication with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) in a communication network, wherein event-based triggers can be triggered based on the availability of the IRS in a given serving cell having a corresponding given coverage. Claim 30 A non-transient computer-readable medium (CRM) comprising a set of instructions, wherein, when executed by a processor included in a user device (UE), the processor causes: the UE to receive a configuration signal from a network device for configuring a set of trigger points; the UE to detect one or more pilot signals from an IRS controller corresponding to an intelligent reflective surface (IRS); the UE to perform a measurement of one or more parameters — the configuration signal includes an IRS ID —; the UE to transmit a first set of information to the network device based on the detected one or more pilot signals and the measurement of the one or more parameters; and the UE to receive one or more instructions for executing a handover procedure for network communication from the network device to the IRS based on the transmitted first set of information.

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