ABOUT THIS POSITION

A number of enablers are researched for adoption in the targeted 6G mobile network technology, incl. ultra-massive MIMO beamforming, the use of sub-THz spectrum, network ultra-densification, cell-free networking, Joint Communications and Sensing (JCAS) and the use of Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs). With a unique ability of dynamically steering the direction of reflected signals, RIS has potential to resolve the coverage gaps and/or to enhance throughputs of future wireless networks. However, how much performance gain can be expected from utilising such a surface? And in which scenario is it best suitable for? A RIS typically comprises of multiple elements, with the phase shift of each element individually or jointly controlled. An overall control on the reflected beam is achieved by determining these phase shifts, which we call as a RIS configuration. Determining an optimal RIS configuration is crucial in order to achieve gains from using the RIS. However, determining this in real-time is challenging since the radio channel varies due to multipath fading as well as user movement.

WHAT WE EXPECT FROM YOU

You are a graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree, preferably in the direction of Electrical Engineering or Computer Science. You have affinity with / interest in mobile networks, RF hardware, embedded engineering. You have an enterprising, flexible and cooperative nature. You are also communicative, creative and innovative. Duration of the master graduation project is about nine months.

Key strengths we are looking for:

• Familiarity with using hardware and radio experimental equipment. You will be working with signal generators, spectrum analyzers, antennas, and FPGAs. You may be required to understand complex datasheets and integrate different hardware and software components together.
• Previous knowledge/expertise in concepts such as 5G, wireless communications, millimetre-wave communications .
• Ability to conduct research independently under mentorship/supervision.
• Fluency in English in speaking as well as writing.

At TNO, we are now in the process of developing a RIS demonstrator with which, we want to test the feasibility of RIS, determine suitable use-cases and perform sensitivity analysis on RIS performance with respect to change in mobility, environment, algorithmic choices etc.
Key activities of the proposed project are:
(i)To set up the RIS demonstrator with a RIS working at milli-meter wave and other necessary radio hardware and equipment (signal generator, spectrum/network analyser, antennas, etc.). In this setup, a milli-meter wave signal is generated, reflected in a desired manner by the RIS, and received by a receiver. (The demonstrator may also be available, depending on the effective starting date of this master project).
(ii)To design/optimize RIS control algorithms (measurement-based) with which the optimal RIS configuration can be dynamically identified that enables the reflection in the desired direction. This would involve optimizing the algorithm considering the beamwidth of the reflected signal and reconfiguration latency (incl. the latency introduced by the RIS controller).
(iii)To utilise aforementioned demonstrator to conduct an extensive set of experiments for a range of relevant scenarios, for example, different receiver speeds, locations, etc.
(iv)To derive key insights and conclusions w.r.t. both the attainable performance and the sensitivity thereof w.r.t. selected scenario aspects and algorithmic choices.
This internship project involves close collaboration with TNO employees. Further, the internship project will be conducted as part of the large nationally funded research programme ‘Future Network Services’, bringing together 50-60 partners for a targeted period of six years. In addition, this project will be conducted in collaboration with ITRI (Industrial Technology Research Institute), a technology research and development institution in Taiwan. The proposed MSc project is thus envisioned to involve collaborations/regular interactions with FNS partners and ITRI.