Review for wireless communication technology based on digital encoding metasurfaces
Haojie Zhan, Manna Gu, Ying Tian, Huizhen Feng, Mingmin Zhu, Hao-Miao Zhou, Yongxing Jin, Ying Tang, Chenxia Li, Bo Fang, Zhi Hong, X. M. Jing, Le Wang
Abstract
Metasurfaces offer exceptional capabilities for controlling electromagnetic waves, enabling the realization of unique electromagnetic properties. As communication technology continues to evolve, metasurfaces present promising applications in wireless communications. This paper reviews the latest advancements in metasurface research within the communication sector, explores metasurface-based wireless relay technologies, and summarizes various wireless communication methods employing different types of metasurfaces across diverse modulation schemes. This paper provides a detailed discussion on the design of wireless communication systems based on coding metasurfaces to simplify transmitter architecture, as well as the development of intelligent coding metasurfaces in the communication field. It also elaborates on the application of vector vortex light fields in metasurface communication. Finally, it offers a forward-looking perspective on wireless communication systems that incorporate coded metasurfaces. This review aims to furnish researchers with a thorough understanding of the current state and future directions of coded metasurface applications in communications.