Smart surfaces are metamaterials, meaning artificial materials not found in nature. They possess unique and intriguing characteristics: they can reflect data waves in unconventional ways, unlike mirrors, for example. Until now, emitted signals were reflected in all directions uncontrollably, but thanks to this new technology, the signals will be directed precisely and exclusively to their receiver. This is a significant advancement because it will also allow for:
• Reduce energy consumption, because they regulate the power of the emitted signal, thus benefiting the environment and prolonging battery life;
• Reduce interference levels and therefore improve coverage, as they can amplify signals so that they reach devices stronger and clearer;
• Improved security, as connections will be more robust and reliable. The results of the project, which involves the collaboration of two Korean universities, POSTECH (in the city of Pohang) and Korea University (in Seoul), as well as financial support from the Korean National Research Foundation, were recently presented at the SAL Symposium on 6G in Linz (Austria) by the director of the Fractus-UPF Chair, Prof. Angel Lozano.
The research began in 2022 within the framework of the Fractus-UPF Chair of Tech Transfer and 6G. Smart surfaces have become one of the main areas of research for future wireless networks to be implemented from 2030 onwards. In this regard, Professor Angel Lozano, also a lecturer and researcher at Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), states: “The research is challenging because it requires configuring a smart surface very precisely, so that all transmitted signals are reflected towards the intended user and away from other points. If we succeed, this technique could significantly increase the performance of wireless networks, and the results obtained so far are very encouraging.” Within the framework of the Fractus-UPF Chair of Tech Transfer and 6G, the researchers also receive guidance from Fractus regarding the protection of intellectual property rights for the future technologies developed and their potential for market transfer in the form of products and services.
