RIS Beam Selection for Signal Quality and Interference Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems using reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) face challenges in identifying and managing radio propagation paths, leading to low probability of coincidental signal reflection and interference, limited RIS resource utilization, and unclear UE prioritization for RIS assistance, which affects signal quality and interference management.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the transmission of reference signals to RIS and UE, measurement of signal quality, and determination of optimal beamforming paths to maximize signal strength while minimizing interference, including the use of code division multiplexing and selective RIS configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RIS is used to reflect or beamform signals to improve signal quality, then signal strength is improved, but interference to other links increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by configuring different time-delays for different elements of the RIS array, creating localized beamforming patterns that direct signals precisely to intended receivers while minimizing interference to other links. Each RIS element can be independently controlled to optimize signal delivery to specific UEs without affecting others.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the time-delay parameters of RIS elements based on channel conditions and UE requirements. By changing these parameters adaptively, the system optimizes signal quality for active users while reducing interference to other links operating in the same environment.
2Productivity
If multiple RIS elements are configured with different time-delays to beamform signals, then spectral efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the RIS into multiple independently controllable elements, each capable of being configured with specific time-delays. This segmentation enables sophisticated beamforming patterns that improve spectral efficiency while allowing the system to manage complexity through modular configuration of individual elements rather than treating the entire array as a single unit.
3Productivity
If RIS resources are allocated to serve multiple UEs simultaneously, then system capacity is improved, but interference management becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by implementing adaptive time-delay configuration that changes based on which UEs are actively being served and their respective channel conditions. The RIS dynamically adjusts its beamforming parameters to serve multiple UEs simultaneously while managing interference through real-time reconfiguration, allowing the system to optimize for different user combinations as conditions change.
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
Enhances signal quality by identifying optimal paths and managing interference, optimizing RIS resource utilization, and prioritizing UE selection, thereby improving communication efficiency and reducing interference.
Implementation Method 1
RIS is a node that receives a signal from a transmitter and then re-radiates it with controllable time-delays
Implementation Method 2
This feature can, for instance, be used to beamform the signal towards a receiver, with cooperation between a network node such as base station (BS) and RIS
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide method and apparatus for communication over RIS. A method performed by a network node includes transmitting at least one first reference signal to a user equipment (UE) via a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS). The RIS is enabled to reflect or beamform the at least one first reference signal. The method further includes receiving a first measurement result of the at least one first reference signal from the UE. The method further includes determining a best beam from the RIS to the UE based on the first measurement result. When transmitting a signal to the UE via the RIS, the signal is reflected or beamformed by the RIS according to the best beam from the RIS to the UE.