RIS Element Control with Segmented Configuration Signaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems face challenges in efficiently controlling reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) due to high overhead in the control channel between the base station and the RIS, limiting the performance of the communication system.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for controlling a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) in a communication system, where a communication node transmits RIS operation support information to a base station, receives configuration information, configures RIS elements, and generates and transmits downlink transmissions through the RIS elements, reducing the control channel overhead.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the base station directly operates control values of all RIS elements, then the RIS can be controlled precisely, but the control channel overhead increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the RIS control into two parts: the base station determines RIS operation configuration information (segment 1), and the RIS determines its own element control values based on received downlink transmissions and the configuration information (segment 2). This segmentation reduces the control channel overhead by eliminating the need to transmit all individual element control values from the base station, while still achieving precise RIS control through the collaborative determination process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the RIS is wirelessly connected to the base station as a repeater, then the RIS can be freely deployed, but the control channel capacity must be minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The RIS performs self-service by autonomously determining its own element control values based on the downlink transmissions it receives and the operation configuration information provided by the base station. This self-determination capability allows the RIS to be freely deployed as a wireless repeater without requiring extensive control channel capacity, as it independently configures itself rather than relying on detailed base station control signals.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the RIS elements are arranged in arbitrary configuration, then the RIS can be deployed in various forms, but methods for enhancing communication performance are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of RIS elements by allowing the RIS to autonomously adjust its element control values based on received downlink transmissions and operation configuration information. This dynamic adaptation enables the RIS to optimize its performance for arbitrary element configurations, as the control values can be adjusted in real-time to enhance communication performance regardless of the fixed physical arrangement of elements.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for controlling a reconfigurable intelligent surface in a communication system. A method of a communication node may comprise: transmitting reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) operation support information to a base station; receiving RIS operation configuration information from the base station; configuring a plurality of RIS elements based on the RIS operation configuration information; generating second downlink (DL) transmission(s) via the plurality of RIS elements, based on first DL transmission(s) received from the base station; and transmitting the second DL transmission(s) to a terminal.