Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
The present disclosure relates to wireless communication technologies. More particularly, the present disclosure relates reconfigurable reflective device configured with integrated communication and sensing for wireless communication systems.
BACKGROUND
In recent years, the rapid advancement of wireless communication technologies has necessitated the development of more efficient, versatile, and adaptive systems to meet the increasing demand for high-speed, reliable connectivity. As we transition towards the next generation of wireless communication, namely 6G, there is a growing need for innovative solutions that can enhance signal propagation, improve spectral efficiency, and reduce energy consumption.
Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) have emerged as a promising technology to address these challenges. RIS are engineered surfaces composed of a large number of passive reflective elements that can dynamically control the phase, amplitude, and polarization of electromagnetic waves. By intelligently manipulating these properties, RIS can significantly improve the performance of wireless communication systems by enhancing signal strength, extending coverage, and reducing interference.
Despite the potential of RIS technology, existing solutions face several limitations. While RIS technology holds significant potential, current implementations face several notable limitations. Traditional RIS designs often involve complex control mechanisms, leading to increased system complexity and higher manufacturing costs. Additionally, these systems can exhibit high power consumption due to the use of energy-intensive components. Another challenge is the latency introduced by sophisticated control processes, which can impede real-time applications.
Furthermore, scalability and adaptability remain significant hurdles. Optimizing the spacing and configuration of reflective elements to support various frequency ranges often complicates the design and limits scalability. Managing interference and coupling effects among reflective elements also presents considerable challenges, which can degrade overall system performance. Environmental sensitivity, such as changes in temperature and humidity, can further impact the reliability and efficiency of these systems.
Therefore, there is a need for technology that reduces complexity, power consumption and latency thereby enhancing scalability and robustness against environmental variations.
SUMMARY
In one aspect of the present disclosure, a reconfigurable reflective device with integrated communication and sensing for wireless communication systems is provided. The reconfigurable reflective device includes a reflective surface, a plurality of reflective elements mounted on the reflective surfaces and a switching element. Each reflective element includes a microstrip transmission line. A separate control unit is available to generate control signals the switching element includes a signal processor configured to detect incoming signals, process the detected signals when the control unit sends the sensing mode signal. The switching element further includes a first switch (FS) that includes an FS input terminal and a primary FS output terminal. The FS input terminal is connected to the microstrip transmission line. The control unit sends signals to the first switch to toggle between sensing mode and communication mode. In sensing mode, only signals are sent to the signal processor. The first switch is configured to connect the primary FS output terminal to the signal processor when the first switch is switched to sensing mode. The first switch is further configured to connect the primary FS output terminal to a second switch when the first switch is switched to communication mode. The second switch includes an SS input terminal and a primary SS output terminal. The SS input terminal is connected to primary FS output terminal when the first switch is switched to communication mode. The control unit sends signals to the second switch to toggle between active mode and inactive mode. The control unit is configured to transmit signals to the second switch, thereby toggling the switch between an active mode and an inactive mode. In communication mode, the control unit is operative to control the active and inactive states of the second switch. The signal processor is configured to sense the signal only when it is in sensing mode; in the absence of sensing mode, the signal processor remains non-operational with respect to signal detection. When the second switch (SS) is in active mode, it establishes a connection between the primary SS output terminal and the respective microstrip transmission line. Conversely, when the second switch (SS) is in inactive mode, it establishes a connection between the primary SS output terminal and ground.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the reflective element includes a first reflective layer mounted on a substrate, a second ground layer positioned below the substrate and configured to provide ground reference for the reflective element, a third layer positioned below the second layer comprising a plurality of copper layers; and a fourth layer positioned below the third layer comprising a microstrip transmission line. The first layer is attached to the fourth layer by means of plated through-hole connections.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first switch configured to toggle between sensing and communication mode.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the second switch further includes a secondary SS terminal that is connected to the ground.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first reflective layer is plated with gold.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the substrate is made of a dielectric material with a dielectric constant tailored to optimize the phase adjustment of reflected RF signals.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the plurality of copper layers in the third layer is empty or it may include one or more copper layer(s) the Fourth layer is configured with a microstrip transmission line for improved signal transmission efficiency.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the reflective surface is configured as a two-dimensional array of reflective elements, with each element capable of independent phase adjustment.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the second switch (SS) includes a mechanism for dynamically adjusting the switching speed to optimize the performance of the communication mode.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the device further comprises a power supply unit configured to provide the necessary electrical power to the signal processor, the first switch, and the second switch.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, show certain aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the description, help explain some of the principles associated with the disclosed implementations. In the drawing,
Figure 1 illustrates a reconfigurable reflective device, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;
Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary reconfigurable reflective device when a first switch is switched to sensing mode, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;
Figure 3 illustrates the exemplary reconfigurable reflective device when the first switch is switched to communication mode and a second switch is in active state, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;
Figure 4 illustrates an exemplary reconfigurable reflective device when a second switch is switched to communication mode and the second switch is in inactive state, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;
Figure 5 illustrates an exploded view of the reflective element, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure; and
Figure 6 illustrates an integrated circuit pin diagram, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

Part Number and Names:
FS input terminal (115): Connected to the microstrip transmission line, receiving incoming RF signals.
Primary FS output terminal (116): Connects to the signal processor in sensing mode.
Secondary FS output terminal (117): This output terminal connects to communication mode.
SS input terminal (118): Receives input from the FS output terminal when the system is in communication mode.
Primary SS output terminal (120): Connects to the microstrip transmission line when the second switch is in active mode, allowing for signal transmission.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Various embodiments of the disclosure are discussed in detail below. While specific implementations are discussed, it should be understood that this is done for illustration purposes only. A person skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components and configurations may be used without parting from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Thus, the following description and drawings are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certain instances, known details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description.
References to one or an embodiment in the present disclosure can be references to the same embodiment or any embodiment; and, such references mean at least one of the embodiments.
Reference to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", “one aspect”, “some aspects”, “an aspect” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others.
The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. Alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein, and no special significance should be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. In some cases, synonyms for certain terms are provided.
A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms.
The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any example term. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification. Without intent to limit the scope of the disclosure, examples of instruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according to the embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note that titles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of a reader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unless otherwise defined, technical and scientific terms used herein have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions will control.
Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or can be learned by practice of the herein disclosed principles. The features and advantages of the disclosure can be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features of the disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims or can be learned by the practice of the principles set forth herein.
The term “signal” refers to an electrical impulse or radio wave transmitted or received.
The term “transmission line” refers to carry electric energy from one point to another in an electric power system.
As mentioned before, there is a need for technology that overcomes the need for complex control mechanisms, high manufacturing costs, high power consumption and latency. The present disclosure provides reconfigurable reflective device that is configured to adjust the phase of reflected RF signals and support multiple frequency ranges to improve the performance of wireless communication systems by enhancing signal strength, extending coverage, and reducing interference.
Figure 1 illustrates a reconfigurable reflective device, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 1 herein illustrates a reconfigurable reflective device 100 with integrated communication and sensing for wireless communication systems. In Fig 2, The reconfigurable reflective device 100a consists of a reflective element 104a with a switching element 108a, forming a RIS element. A plurality of these elements creates a RIS.
The reconfigurable reflective device 100 further includes a switching element 108. The switching element 108 includes a signal processor a first switch FS 112 and a second switch SS 114. The switches are Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT) switches.
The signal processor 110 is configured to detect incoming signals, process the detected signals and a separate Control Unit generates control signals, and the signal processor detects and processes signals only when the Control Unit sends the sensing mode signal. This connection scheme is illustrated in Figure 1.
The first switch FS 112 includes an FS input terminal 115, a primary FS output terminal 116 and a secondary FS output terminal 117. The FS input terminal 115 is connected to the respective microstrip transmission line 106. The primary FS output terminal 116 is connected to sensing mode and the secondary FS output terminal 117 is connected to communication mode. The second switch 114 further comprises FS input terminal 118 Receives input from the FS output terminal when the system is in communication mode.
Primary SS output terminal (120): Connects to the microstrip transmission line when the second switch is in active mode, allowing for signal transmission.
The first switch 112 configured to receive control signals from the control unit (not from signal processor 110) and toggle between sensing mode and communication mode based on the received control signals. The first switch (112) is configured to reduce latency and power consumption by efficiently managing signal routing between the sensing and communication modes.
Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary reconfigurable reflective device when the first switch 112 is switched to sensing mode, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 2 herein, illustrates that the first switch 112 is configured to connect the primary FS output terminal 116 to the signal processor 110 when the first switch 112 is in sensing mode.
Figure 3 illustrates the exemplary reconfigurable reflective device when the first switch is switched to communication mode and a second switch is in active state, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 3 herein, illustrates that the first switch 112 is configured to connect the secondary FS output terminal 117 to a second switch 114 when the first switch 112 is in communication mode. The second switch SS 114 includes an SS input terminal 118, a primary SS output terminal 120, wherein the SS input terminal 118 is connected with secondary FS output terminal 117 when the first switch 112 is switched to communication mode.
The second switch 114 is configured to receive control signals from the control unit (not from signal processor 110), toggle between active mode and inactive mode based on the received control signals, connect the primary SS output terminal 120 to the respective microstrip transmission line 106 when second switch SS 114 is in active mode. The second switch (114) dynamically adjusts its switching speed to optimize the performance of the communication mode, ensuring efficient signal transmission and minimal interference.
A separate control unit is used and connected parallel to the FS input terminal These signals determine the state of the second switch.
When the control unit determines that the device should be in sensing mode, it sends a control signal to the second switch 114 to toggle it to the inactive state. The second switch 114 connects its input terminal 118 to the grounded output terminal. This connection ensures that the signal path is grounded, effectively preventing any signal transmission. In the inactive state, the signal received at the FS input terminal 115 is directed to the ground, ensuring that no signal is transmitted or reflected.
When the control unit determines that the device should be in communication mode, it sends a control signal to the second switch 114 to toggle it to the active state. The second switch 114 connects its input terminal 118 (receiving signal from the first switch) to its secondary FS output terminal 117 (microstrip transmission path). In the active state, the signal travels from the input terminal to the primary output terminal, passing through the microstrip transmission path for transmission. This connection allows the RF signal to be transmitted or reflected, enabling communication.
Figure 4 illustrates an exemplary reconfigurable reflective device when a second switch is switched to communication mode and the second switch is in inactive state, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 4 herein illustrates that the second switch 114 is further configured to connect the primary SS output terminal 120 to ground when the second switch SS 114 is in inactive mode.
Figure 5 illustrates an exploded view of the reflective element, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 5 illustrates that each reflective element 104 includes a first reflective layer 122 mounted on a substrate 121. The first reflective layer 122 receives the incoming RF signal.
Each reflective element 104 includes a second ground layer 120 positioned below the substrate 121, providing a ground reference for the corresponding reflective element 104. Additionally, each reflective element 104 has an empty third layer (copper layer/layers only, not indicated in the image) and a fourth layer 124 (same as 126 indicated in the figure), positioned below the third layer, which includes a microstrip transmission line 106. The first layer is attached to 124 via plated through-hole connections.
In Figure 5, we show the following:
⦁ 122: Reflective element that reflects/scatters the signal
⦁ 120 and 124: Positioned as described
In the second diagram, 124 is connected to the first layer via a hole with the transmission line and switching element. The device operates in two primary modes: sensing and communication, facilitated by the configuration of the DPDT switches, the first switch 112 and the second switch 114.
In sensing mode, the first reflective layer 122 receives the incoming RF signal. The signal passes through the substrate 121, the second ground layer 120, the fourth layer 126, reaching the microstrip transmission path 106. The signal processor 110 senses the input signal based on the control signal generated by control unit which toggle FS 112 to connect its input terminal to the primary FS output terminal 116, directed towards the signal processor 110.
In communication mode, the control unit sends a control signal to toggle FS 112 to connect its input terminal 118 to the primary SS output terminal 120 directed towards second switch 114. The second switch 114 is toggled to connect its SS input terminal 118 to its secondary FS output terminal 117, enabling the signal to travel through the microstrip transmission path.
Figure 6 illustrates an integrated circuit pin diagram, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure 6 illustrates a pin diagram for the switching element 108 in the reconfigurable reflective device 100 includes two integrated circuits IC1 and IC2 corresponding to the first switch FS 112 and the second switch SS 114. The FS IC1 has an FS input terminal 115 connected to the microstrip transmission line 106 to receive incoming RF signals. It also features a primary FS output terminal 116 connected to the signal processor 110 for sensing mode, and a secondary FS output terminal 117 connected to the SS input terminal 118 for communication mode. Additionally, the FS includes a ground terminal GND for stability. The SS IC2 comprises an SS input terminal 118 connected to the primary FS output terminal 117 during communication mode, a primary SS output terminal 120 connected to the microstrip transmission line 106 for signal transmission, and a secondary SS output terminal connected to ground when inactive. Both IC1 and IC2 include control signal inputs CTRL from the control unit to toggle between active and inactive states. This configuration allows efficient switching between sensing and communication modes, optimizing signal processing and transmission within the device.
In one aspect of the present disclosure, a reconfigurable reflective device (100) configured with integrated communication and sensing for wireless communication systems is provided. The reconfigurable reflective device (100) includes a reflective surface (102), a plurality of reflective elements (104) mounted on the reflective surface (102) and a switching element (108).
Each of the reflective elements (104) includes a microstrip transmission line (106). The switching element (108) includes a signal processor (110), a first switch (FS) (112) and a second switch (SS) (114).
The signal processor (110) is configured to detect incoming signals, process the detected signals. The first switch (FS) (112) includes an FS input terminal (115), and a primary FS output terminal (116). The FS input terminal (115) is connected to the respective microstrip transmission line (106). The first switch (112) is configured to receive control signals from the control unit to toggle between sensing mode and communication mode based on the received control signals, connect the primary FS output terminal (116) to the signal processor (110) when the first switch (112) is in sensing mode and connect the secondary FS output terminal (117) to a second switch (114) when the first switch (112) is in communication mode.
The second switch (SS) (114) includes an SS input terminal (118), a primary SS output terminal (120). The SS input terminal (118) is connected to secondary FS output terminal (117) when the first switch (112) is switched to communication mode. The second switch (114) is configured to receive control signals from the control unit to toggle between active mode and inactive mode based on the received control signals, connect the primary SS output terminal (120) to the respective microstrip transmission line (106) when second switch (SS) (114) is in active mode and connect the primary SS output terminal (120) to ground when the second switch (SS) (114) is in inactive mode.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, each of the reflective element (104) includes a first reflective layer (122) mounted on a substrate (121), a second ground layer (120) positioned below the substrate (121) and configured to provide ground reference for the corresponding reflective element (104), a third layer (126) positioned below the second ground layer (120) comprising a plurality of copper layers and a fourth layer (126) positioned below the third layer comprising a microstrip transmission line (106).
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first layer (122) is attached to the fourth layer (126) by means of plated through-hole connections.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first switch (112) further comprises a Switch can toggle only between sensing mode and communication mode it is not connected to ground directly.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the first reflective layer (122) is plated with gold.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the substrate (121) is made of a dielectric material with a dielectric constant tailored to optimize the phase adjustment of reflected RF signals.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the plurality of copper layers in the fourth layer (126) configured with transmission line includes at least one layer configured as a microstrip transmission line (104) for improved signal transmission efficiency.
In some aspects of the present disclosure 100, which contains reflective surface (102) and switching element (108) is configured as a two-dimensional array of reflective elements, with each element capable of independent phase adjustment.
As each element contains 102 and 108.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the second switch (SS) (114) includes a mechanism for dynamically adjusting the switching speed to optimize the performance of the communication mode.
In some aspects of the present disclosure, the device (100) further comprises a power supply unit configured to provide the necessary electrical power to the signal processor (104), the first switch (112), and the second switch (114).
Advantages:
• The present disclosure provides a simplified control mechanism by using Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT) switches, reducing overall system complexity compared to traditional RIS designs that require intricate control elements.
• The present disclosure provides reduced power consumption through the efficient design of RF switches, which lowers power requirements.
• The present disclosure provides minimal latency due to the fast-toggling capability between sensing and communication modes, ensuring real-time applications are supported effectively.
• The present disclosure provides enhanced scalability and adaptability with a simplified architecture that facilitates easier expansion across various frequency ranges, making it suitable for diverse communication environments.
• The present disclosure provides cost-effective manufacturing by reducing complexity and incorporating straightforward design and control mechanisms, which lower manufacturing costs and enhance economic viability for large-scale deployment.
• The present disclosure provides integrated communication and sensing functionality within a single system, utilizing a novel configuration of RF switches to achieve dual functionality, thus optimizing the performance of wireless communication systems.
• The present disclosure provides enhanced signal processing and transmission efficiency through the use of a microstrip transmission line and optimized layer configurations within the reflective elements.
• The present disclosure provides a robust and reliable method for dynamically adjusting the switching speed of the second switch (SS) to optimize the performance of the communication mode, ensuring high-quality signal transmission.
• The present disclosure provides an efficient and effective way to manage signal reflection and detection, thereby improving the overall performance and reliability of next-generation wireless communication systems.
The implementation set forth in the foregoing description do not represent all implementations consistent with the subject matter described herein. Instead, they are merely some examples consistent with aspects related to the described subject matter. Although a few variations have been described in detain above, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, further features and/or variations can be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, the implementation described can be directed to various combinations and sub combinations of the disclosed features and/or combinations and sub combinations of the several further features disclosed above. In addition, the logic flows depicted in the accompany figures and/or described herein do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. Other implementations may be within the scope of the following claims.
, Claims:1. A reconfigurable reflective device (100) with integrated communication and sensing for wireless communication systems, comprising:
a. a reflective surface (102);
b. a plurality of reflective elements (104) mounted on the reflective surface (102), wherein each of the reflective element (104) comprises a microstrip transmission line (106);
c. a switching element (108) comprising:
i. a signal processor (110) configured to detect incoming signals, process the detected signals;
ii. a first switch (FS) (112) comprising:
an FS input terminal (115), and
a primary FS output terminal (116) and
a secondary FS output terminal (117)
wherein the FS input terminal (115) is connected to the respective microstrip transmission line (106);
wherein the first switch (112) configured to:
receive control signals from a control unit;
toggle between sensing mode and communication mode based on the received control signals;
connect the primary FS output terminal (116) to the signal processor (110) when the first switch (112) is in sensing mode;
connect the secondary FS output terminal (117) to a second switch (114) when the first switch (112) is in communication mode;
iii. the second switch (SS) (114) comprises:
an SS input terminal (118),
a primary SS output terminal (120),
wherein the SS input terminal (118) is connected to secondary FS output terminal (117) when the first switch (112) is switched to communication mode,
wherein the second switch (114) is configured to:
receive control signals from the control unit;
toggle between active mode and inactive mode based on the received control signals;
connect the primary SS output terminal (120) to the respective microstrip transmission line (106) when second switch (SS) (114) is in active mode; and
connect the primary SS output terminal (120) to ground when the second switch (SS) (114) is in inactive mode.
2. The reconfigurable reflective device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the reflective element (104) comprises:
a. a first reflective layer (122) mounted on a substrate (121);
b. a second ground layer (120) positioned below the substrate (121) and configured to provide ground reference for the corresponding reflective element (104);
c. a third layer positioned below the second ground layer (120) comprising a plurality of copper layers; and
d. a fourth layer (128) positioned below the third layer comprising a microstrip transmission line (106);
wherein the first layer (122) is attached to the fourth layer (126) by means of plated through-hole connections.
3. The reconfigurable reflective device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first switch (112) further comprises a primary FS output terminal (116) and a secondary FS output terminal (117) that is connected in sensing mode or communication.
4. The reconfigurable reflective device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second switch (114) further comprises a secondary SS terminal (118) that is connected to the ground.
5. The reconfigurable reflective device (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first reflective layer (122) is plated with gold.

6. The reconfigurable reflective device (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the substrate (121) is made of a dielectric material with a dielectric constant tailored to optimize the phase adjustment of reflected RF signals.
7. The reconfigurable reflective device (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the plurality of copper layers in the third layer includes at least one layer configured as a microstrip transmission line (104) for improved signal transmission efficiency.
8. The reconfigurable reflective device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the reflective surface (102) and switching element (108) are configured as a two-dimensional array of reflective elements, with each element capable of independent phase adjustment.
9. The reconfigurable reflective device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second switch (SS) (114) includes a mechanism for dynamically adjusting the switching speed to optimize the performance of the communication mode.
10. The reconfigurable reflective device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device (100) further comprises a power supply unit configured to provide the necessary electrical power to the signal processor (104), the first switch (112), and the second switch (114).