Abstract
The performance demands from data-intensive applications, such as multimedia streaming, as well as the growing number of devices connecting to the Internet, will increase the need for higher capacity wireless communication links. The research community has recently explored regions of the spectrum, including the Terahertz band (0.1 THz to 10 THz), that are underutilised for communications. THz frequencies come with a plethora of special challenges, one of which is the very narrow effective beam, thereby requiring a Line of Sight (LoS) between sender and receiver. Researchers have explored the use of reflectors that can redirect beams around blockages. In this paper, we propose a THz signal guidance system where a Digital Twin is used to model, predict and control the signal propagation characteristics of an indoor space. Our approach finds the best THz signal path from the base station to the mobile target via the tunable metamaterial walls, avoiding obstacles as needed, using geometric (ray tracing), path loss and Terahertz Potential Field (THzPF) models. With this knowledge, the digital twin guides the selection of antenna strips at a base station and the reflectors along the signal path. A top-view camera, with advanced image processing, provides context updates (obstacle and mobile target locations) to the digital twin. The image processing system also senses factors like water vapour concentration, and the material composition and surface roughness of obstacles. Such factors affect propagation strength, and the digital twin modifies the beam paths to adapt. Simulation results have shown the efficiency of our control system to maintain a reliable signal connection while minimising the use of antenna and reflector strips. Our system is the first proposal that maximises THz signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) through such a dynamic and robust control system, which integrates image processing of a room with base station configuration.
Highlights
Wireless communication systems have witnessed tremendous transformation through different generations over the years, where we have seen their scope expand beyond mobile devices, to machines and even wireless-enabled ‘‘things’’
Based on the candidate beams with the highest Terahertz Potential Field (THzPF) value, the Controller determines the optimal path from the base station to the metasurface reflector and on to the mobile device
The example presents the lowest value of the THzPF, which is a path from the base station to the metasurface reflector
Summary
Wireless communication systems have witnessed tremendous transformation through different generations over the years, where we have seen their scope expand beyond mobile devices, to machines and even wireless-enabled ‘‘things’’. Image processing techniques can capture the presence of some gases that can affect the THz signals through molecular absorption By collecting this information, the Digital Twin will construct an SNR map with which to identify ideal virtual paths through a Terahertz Potential Field (THzPF), to provide accurate decisions on the best signal paths from the base station to the metasurface reflector that will redirect beams to the mobile endpoint [17]. Based on the candidate beams with the highest THzPF value, the Controller determines the optimal path from the base station to the metasurface reflector and on to the mobile device (this is established through the Potential Field Calculation module). We avoid complex beamforming solutions, such as digital beamforming, and their respective increase in circuity design for beam generation [24]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
