ZTE Communications Special Issue on
Reconfigurable Antenna Systems for
Next-Generation Mobile Communications
The next-generation mobile communications, such as 6G and beyond, are set to revolutionize wireless connectivity with ultra-high data rates, extreme reliability, and massive device connectivity. At the heart of enabling these advancements lies the reconfigurable antenna system, a key technology that can dynamically adapt to the ever-changing and complex wireless environments. In order to improve the performance of the next-generation mobile networks, it is essential to explore the diverse landscape of reconfigurable antenna systems, encompassing various innovative types that offer unique capabilities.
Among these, fluid antennas stand out for their use of liquid-based or fluidic conductive structures, which allow for dynamic changes in shape and position. This adaptability enables reconfiguration of critical parameters like gain, radiation pattern, and operating frequency. Research in this area includes physics-based modeling and performance analysis, the creation of efficient control algorithms for fluid movement, and experimental validation in different wireless scenarios, as well as integration with emerging technologies such as millimeter-wave (mmWave) and terahertz (THz) communications.
Movable antennas, on the other hand, bring the advantage of adjusting their multi-dimensional positions and rotations within a defined space. This real-time adjustment capability optimizes signal transmission paths, significantly enhancing communication performance. Relevant research covers the design and implementation of such systems, the development of intelligent control algorithms based on user distribution and channel state information, and evaluations of their impact on network capacity and user experience. Additionally, studies addressing mechanical design challenges and power consumption issues are of great interest.
Pinching antennas introduce a novel approach to reconfiguration through mechanical pinching or deformation, altering their electrical and electromagnetic properties. Contributions in this area include design theories, fabrication techniques, performance analysis, and exploration of applications in wearable devices, flexible electronics, and Internet of Things (IoT) nodes, where their unique reconfigurability can be fully leveraged.
Reconfigurable holographic antennas utilize holographic techniques to generate and manipulate radiation patterns, offering highly directive and adaptable characteristics. Research here spans theoretical foundations, methods for real-time pattern reconfiguration, experimental demonstrations in mobile communication systems, and combinations with advanced signal processing techniques like multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) and non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA).
This special issue of ZTE Communications is dedicated to highlighting cutting-edge research and developments in reconfigurable antenna systems, with a focus on a range of innovative antenna types that are poised to shape the future of mobile communications.
This special issue seeks original articles on Reconfigurable Antenna Systems for Next-Generation Mobile Communications. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
Communication-theoretic analysis of reconfigurable antenna systems
Channel modelling and estimation of reconfigurable antenna systems
Wireless resource allocation in reconfigurable antenna systems
Multiple-access technology and robust interference management of reconfigurable antenna systems
Integration of reconfigurable antennas and MIMO
AI-inspired control and optimization for reconfigurable antenna systems
Security and Privacy in reconfigurable antenna systems
Network co-optimization of reconfigurable antenna systems
Integration with emerging wireless technologies like THz communication, satellite-terrestrial communication and SWIPT
Reconfigurable antenna material innovations
Physical architecture design and testbed implementations of reconfigurable antenna systems
Antenna Deployment and Standardization
Manuscripts must be written in English and submitted electronically in MS Word or a compatible format. The recommended length is between 3 000 and 8 000 words, with no more than 10 figures and tables included. Authors should provide mathematical content and graphics in editable formats.
Please submit your paper via the journal’s online submission portal at https://mc03.manuscriptcentral.com/ztecom.
