Intelligent walls by the use of reconfigurable intelligent surfaces

The convergence of advancements in the construction industry with the growing demands of wireless communication technologies is central to the development of next-generation networks. However, modern construction techniques hinder signal propagation, and at higher frequencies, achieving reliable coverage becomes challenging. These challenges underscore the urgent need for innovative techniques to enhance RF coverage within buildings. Therefore, this thesis explores macroscopic realistic models for the design and integration of RIS into buildings structures, offering a novel approach to addressing the signal propagation challenges faced in higher frequency bands such as those utilized in 5G and 6G networks. RIS, which can be embedded within walls, windows, and other architectural elements, provides a flexible and energy-efficient solution for enhancing coverage by dynamically shaping electromagnetic wave behavior. A part of this research focuses on the development of macroscopic RIS models: a Huygens based bilateral model and a ray-based macroscopic model. The latter is validated against existing physical optics methods, demonstrating high accuracy while maintaining computational efficiency. This thesis highlights the potential to optimize indoor coverage in a way that complements modern architectural trends by integrating RIS into building structures. Additionally, experimental studies were conducted to assess material penetration losses across multiple frequency bands. The results indicate substantial signal attenuation through common construction materials which further underscores the importance of intelligent surface deployment in overcoming these obstacles. By aligning advancements in construction with the needs of wireless communication, this thesis presents RIS as a potential transformative solution for smart environments. The proposed framework not only addresses the challenges of high-frequency signal propagation but also emphasizes the possibility of integrating communication technologies within building designs. This work is a contribution to the development of smart buildings and cities, where architectural innovations and wireless communication systems work in harmony to support future applications.