Multiphysics simulations for microfluidic based reconfigurable intelligent surfaces

Abstract

Reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RISs) are emerging communication paradigms. Theoretical and simulation results indicate RIS as a promising solution for the evolved 5G and upcoming 6G wireless communications. RISs are composed of elements namely unit cells, where the reflection phase on each element can be controlled by different ways such as switching electronic components (e.g., PIN diode/varactor), micromechanical devices, controllable liquid crystals (through thermal, optical, and electrical bias), graphene, and microfluids/liquid metals. Among them, the microfluidic approach has many advantages such as flexible and continuous configuration, wide tuning range and potentially consume less power. This thesis will investigate the actuation of liquid metal inside different microchannels using COMSOL Multiphysicssoftware. The aim of understanding aspects related to their usefulnessthese results indicate the potential of the microfluidic method using liquid metal for the purpose of reconfiguring RIS in the sub-THz bands.