Fabric Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces for Scalable IoT Signal Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing research on reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) has largely focused on theoretical benefits without considering practical development, manufacturing, deployment, and control at scale in realistic settings, and lacks integration with software-defined radio (SDR) for complex network topologies and heterogeneous IoT environments.
Innovation Solution
Development of functional fabric RIS using conductive and non-conductive fabrics, integrated with SDR and SDN, to control propagation and optimize network performance through decentralized control algorithms and energy harvesting circuits, enabling unobtrusive deployment in everyday objects like drapes, wall coverings, and carpets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If very large arrays of electrically switchable reflecting elements are deployed to control signal propagation, then signal control capability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The RIS is divided into multiple independently controllable clusters or groups of elements. Each cluster can be controlled separately by individual switching elements, allowing the large array to be managed in smaller, more manageable units. This segmentation reduces the complexity of controlling the entire array while maintaining the ability to shape signal propagation patterns through coordinated control of different segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The RIS employs electrically switchable reflecting elements that can dynamically change their state between reflective and non-reflective modes. This dynamic control allows the system to adapt signal propagation in real-time based on communication needs, enabling flexible beamforming and spatial modulation without requiring permanent physical reconfiguration of the entire array.
2Ease of manufacture
If non-traditional materials like fabrics are used for RIS deployment, then ease of deployment and flexibility are improved, but manufacturing precision and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes fabric-based structures as the substrate for integrating reflecting elements and switching components. These flexible fabric substrates allow the RIS to be deployed in conformal configurations on various surfaces while maintaining electrical functionality. The fabric medium provides mechanical flexibility and ease of installation while the integrated circuit elements ensure precise electrical control.
Solution Approach 2:
The RIS system changes the electrical parameters (impedance, reflectivity phase and amplitude) of individual fabric-integrated elements through electrical switching. By controlling the electrical state of each element rather than relying on precise mechanical positioning, the system achieves signal control precision despite the flexibility and potential positional variations inherent in fabric-based implementations.
3Reliability
If large scale RIS arrays are deployed in dense IoT networks, then network coverage and signal quality are improved, but power consumption and control overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of activating all reflecting elements simultaneously, the RIS system activates only the necessary subset of elements required to achieve the desired signal propagation control. This partial action approach maintains communication quality by focusing resources on critical elements while leaving others in a low-power state, thereby reducing overall power consumption in dense IoT network deployments.
Solution Approach 2:
The RIS elements are designed to perform multiple functions: signal reflection, phase modulation, and energy harvesting. By integrating energy harvesting capabilities into the fabric-based elements, the system can partially power itself from ambient RF energy, reducing the power consumption burden on the central control system and enabling sustainable large-scale deployment in IoT networks.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables practical and efficient control of signal propagation in dense IoT networks, enhancing communication quality, reducing power consumption, and optimizing network performance through scalable and flexible RIS deployment.
Implementation Method 1
The RIS can comprise metamaterials that are engineered to achieve functionality not found in naturally occurring materials. The first plurality of conductive fabrics can be connected to another one of the first plurality of conductive fabrics by one switch of the plurality of switches.
Implementation Method 2
Each one of the first plurality of conductive fabrics can be connected to another one of the first plurality of conductive fabrics by one switch of the plurality of switches. Each one of the second plurality of conductive fabrics can be connected to another one of the second plurality of conductive fabrics by one switch of the plurality of switches.
Implementation Method 3
Herein is presented a novel method of obtaining incident power and relative phase distribution using energy harvesting circuits (rectifiers) that can be integrated in the RIS. The sensitivity of the proposed rectifier circuit is −42 dBm for direct rectification.
Data Source
AI summary
A functional fabric reconfigurable intelligent surface and communication system are disclosed.