Design of a Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface With Memristors for Future 6G Applications

Abstract

The next-generation 6G wireless communication systems will bring connectivity to a whole new level to satisfy ever-increasing demands for ultra-high-speed data transfer, ubiquitous coverage, and energy-efficient networks. Achieving these ambitious goals requires revolutionary advancements in wireless technology, with Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs) emerging as an important solution. RIS technology enables dynamic manipulation of electromagnetic waves, allowing signals to be intelligently redirected to improve connectivity, coverage, and energy efficiency. These low-cost, low-power surfaces can be strategically deployed in both indoor and outdoor environments to optimize the performance of 6G networks.

Central to the operation of RIS is the control circuit, which governs the behaviour of each element on the surface. Precise control of these elements is essential to achieve functionalities such as beam steering, signal enhancement, and dynamic coverage optimization. This is accomplished by integrating advanced circuits that modify the electromagnetic properties of the surface through the application of external voltages or currents. For this work, memristors are employed as the switching mechanism within the RIS unit cells due to their non-volatile properties and energy-efficient operation. By exploiting memristor-based control, this dissertation seeks to contribute to the design, implementation, and testing of a standalone circuit that enables the control of memristors, capable of dynamically altering their characteristics in response to different operating conditions.

As a result, this dissertation outlines the hardware and software methodologies used to develop the RIS control system, emphasizing energy efficiency, scalability, and performance.