Intelligent Reflecting Surface for 6G Wireless Communication

Abstract

In the context of future 6G wireless communication, addressing challenges related to non-line-ofsight communication is paramount. This paper presents the design and prototyping of Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces (IRS) as a solution to provide wireless connectivity in the absence of Line-of-Sight (LoS) propagation paths for effective wireless communication. We simulated phase-shifter unit cell structures of IRS utilizing CST Studio software suite. A prototype IRS consisting of a two-dimensional array of unit cells was designed and built. Our tests on the prototype revealed the effectiveness of the design exhibiting a remarkable 315o of dynamic range in phase shift performance at 2.4 GHz. The losses introduced by the IRS in reflecting an incident signal were brought down to an acceptable limit via an iterative design and simulation process. Measurements on phase shifting properties were performed using a low-cost Vector Network Analyzer (VNA). A comparative study was carried out on the simulation and experimental outcomes and good agreement was found confirming the effectiveness of the prototype IRS.