FURI | Fall 2025

Experimental Validation of a Solar-powered Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface

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This research focuses on designing and testing a solar-powered system capable of sustaining a reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) without relying on an external power grid. The system will integrate solar panels, a battery, current and voltage monitoring, and data logging to track performance over extended periods. By analyzing power consumption under different conditions and using a resistor load to simulate RIS behavior, the study aims to validate the feasibility of continuous, self-sustained RIS operation. The results will support the development of energy-efficient and easily deployable RIS technology for future wireless communication networks.

Student researcher

Ramakrishnan Gopinath

Electrical engineering

Hometown: Washington, D.C., District of Columbia, United States

Graduation date: Spring 2027