Validating Properties of RIS Channel Models with Prototypical Measurements

Abstract: The integration of Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) holds substantial promise for revolutionizing 6G wireless networks, offering unprecedented capabilities for real-time control over communication environments. However, determining optimal RIS configurations remains a pivotal challenge, necessitating the development of accurate analytical models. While theoretically derived models provide valuable insights, their potentially idealistic assumptions do not always translate well to practical measurements. This becomes especially problematic in mobile environments, where signals arrive from various directions. This study deploys an RIS prototype on a turntable, capturing the RIS channels' dependency on the angle of incoming signals. The difference between theory and practice is bridged by refining a model with angle-dependent reflection coefficients. The improved model exhibits a significantly closer alignment with real-world measurements. Analysis of the reflect coefficients reveals that non-perpendicular receiver angles can induce an additional attenuation of up to -14.5dB. Additionally, we note significant phase shift deviations, varying for each reflect element.