RIS Relay Beamforming for Sub-Terahertz Access Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
The use of sub-terahertz bands in future radio communication systems, such as 6G, faces challenges in achieving high data rates and wide coverage due to limitations in existing MIMO technologies, which are not suitable for access links and require large antenna arrays, and the lack of clear designs for RIS systems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) with aperture adaptation and beamforming techniques, including codebooks and precoders, which decouple angle and distance-dependent terms, are used to enhance signal transmission in these systems, utilizing methods like DFT-based beamforming and conjugate symmetric focal points, and RTCs, to focus electromagnetic waves radiated from an antenna of the base station to an array surface of the UE like a lens, and form an image of the UE, enhancing signal strength and reducing interference, and achieving effective focal lengths to a distance between the BS and the UE.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing MIMO technologies are used in sub-terahertz band communication, then high data rates can be achieved, but large antenna arrays are required which increase device complexity and are not suitable for access links
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) as an intermediary component between the base station and user equipment. The RIS consists of multiple reconfigurable elements that can dynamically adjust their electromagnetic properties to control signal propagation. By using the RIS as a mediator, the system achieves high data rates through intelligent signal routing and beamforming without requiring large antenna arrays at the access links, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the electrical characteristics (such as impedance, phase shift, and amplitude) of the RIS elements through control signals. This allows the RIS to adapt its behavior to different communication scenarios, enabling high data rate transmission while maintaining a compact structure. The parameter changes enable the system to achieve MIMO-like performance without the physical complexity of large antenna arrays.
2Productivity
If sub-terahertz band is used for future radio communication systems, then high data rates can be achieved, but coverage is reduced due to signal attenuation at high frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the RIS elements to create favorable propagation conditions before actual data transmission. The RIS performs preliminary signal conditioning, including beamforming and path correction, to compensate for the inherent signal attenuation at sub-terahertz frequencies. This preliminary action ensures that signals maintain sufficient strength over extended distances, thereby expanding coverage while preserving high data rate capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors channel conditions and signal quality, then adjusts the RIS element configurations accordingly. This closed-loop control enables the RIS to adapt to varying propagation conditions and maintain reliable coverage. The feedback-driven optimization allows the system to overcome frequency-related attenuation by dynamically adjusting the electromagnetic environment, thus extending effective coverage area.
3Reliability
If Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface with aperture adaptation is implemented, then signal strength is enhanced and interference is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the RIS into multiple independently controllable element groups or sub-arrays. Each segment can be individually configured for specific functions such as beamforming, nulling, or aperture adaptation. This segmentation allows the system to achieve enhanced signal strength and interference reduction through coordinated control of different segments, while the modular structure helps manage system complexity by enabling independent optimization and control of each segment.
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
This enhances signal strength and reduces interference, enabling effective transmission distances and data rates of up to 180 Gbps with robustness against interference, achieving 100 Gbps and error at 10 cm.
Implementation Method 1
achieve effective focal lengths to a distance between the BS and the UE... focusing electromagnetic waves radiated from an antenna of the base station to an array surface of the UE like a lens
Implementation Method 2
form an image of the UE, enhancing signal strength and reducing interference
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A relay apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a receiving section that receives configuration information related to control of an antenna element, and a control section that determines an antenna element to be used for a signal directed to a terminal, based on the configuration information. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to appropriately perform communication in a radio communication system using a sub-terahertz band.