energy-efficient wireless systems – Science

UBCO Discovery Poised to Revolutionize Future Wireless Networks

Blake Davidson — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 20:31:29 +0000

Wireless communication, an indispensable part of our daily lives, is on the cusp of a transformative leap thanks to pioneering research emerging from the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus. Dr. Anas Chaaban and his team from the School of Engineering have developed a groundbreaking approach that promises to dramatically enhance the strength, clarity, and security of wireless signals by advancing the capabilities of stacked intelligent surfaces (SIS). This technology is poised to redefine how electromagnetic waves are manipulated, potentially unlocking unprecedented levels of performance in next-generation wireless systems.

Stacked intelligent surfaces represent an innovative departure from conventional wireless hardware architectures. Rather than relying on the bulky, power-intensive circuitry that characterizes traditional communication devices, SIS technology uses meticulously engineered layers of materials that interact directly with electromagnetic waves. These surfaces are composed of numerous discrete elements designed to subtly alter the waves as they propagate through, functioning in a manner akin to neural networks used in artificial intelligence. Each element performs precise modifications on incoming signals, collectively transforming the wave properties and enabling exceptionally efficient signal processing with drastically reduced energy consumption.

In conventional SIS designs, these wave-modifying elements operate linearly, limiting their ability to perform complex transformations on the signal. This linearity restricts the scope of operations to relatively simple manipulations, which curtails the potential for advanced applications such as multi-layered signal processing and interference mitigation. Dr. Chaaban’s team, however, introduces a novel nonlinear architecture which imbues each element with the capability to enact nonlinear functions on electromagnetic waves. This breakthrough allows these intelligent surfaces to emulate the intricate calculations performed by modern AI systems, particularly in how data is processed and filtered.

The nonlinear behavior integrated into each unit of the intelligent surface marks a paradigm shift. By incorporating nonlinearity, these surfaces can generate highly sophisticated wave patterns, facilitating operations that linear systems are simply incapable of achieving. This opens up a wealth of possibilities for wireless communication, including more resilient encoding schemas and dynamic signal routing. Co-author and doctoral student Omran Abbas emphasizes that harnessing nonlinearity provides a foundational enhancement to SIS’s operational intelligence, bridging the gap between simple signal relay and complex AI-like processing at the physical layer of communication.

Simulations of wireless networks utilizing these nonlinear stacked intelligent surfaces have demonstrated remarkable improvements in communication reliability. Notably, they reduce symbol error rates—a critical metric that measures how accurately data is transmitted and received in noisy or interference-heavy environments. The complex wave interactions enabled by the nonlinear elements create signal patterns that are far more robust against external disruptions. This resilience not only improves the fidelity of transmitted data but also enhances overall network efficiency, setting a new standard for wireless signal processing techniques.

The potential for physical realization of this advanced technology is bolstered by contributions from Dr. Loïc Markley, a collaborator possessing deep expertise in periodic structures and metamaterials. His work focuses on designing and fabricating the nonlinear unit cells that form the fundamental building blocks of these intelligent surfaces. With a successful physical prototype on the horizon, the team is poised to transition from theoretical models and simulations to real-world applications, offering a tangible demonstration of the profound advantages nonlinear SIS can deliver in wireless communication systems.

Beyond raw communication performance, the nonlinear intelligent surfaces offer significant promise for cybersecurity in wireless networks. Given the inherently unpredictable transformations imparted on electromagnetic waves by nonlinear elements, unintended receivers would find it substantially more difficult to intercept or decode transmitted signals without precise knowledge of the nonlinear functions applied. This feature introduces an innovative layer of security native to the physical transmission medium, providing an added safeguard against eavesdropping and unauthorized data access in increasingly connected and vulnerable wireless environments.

While these findings are currently grounded in detailed simulations and theoretical explorations, the UBC Okanagan team underscores the importance of continued research to fully validate and optimize nonlinear SIS for practical deployment. Future work aims to refine the physical designs, develop scalable manufacturing techniques, and rigorously test these devices under various real-world environmental conditions. Such efforts will be crucial in transitioning the technology from a laboratory prototype to a robust wireless communication component suitable for integration into consumer devices and infrastructure.

Experts in the field recognize the transformative potential of this innovation in the broader context of upcoming wireless standards. Dr. Chaaban highlights that nonlinear stacked intelligent surfaces could play a vital role in enabling the capabilities envisioned for 6G and beyond. These next-generation wireless systems demand unprecedented levels of speed, reliability, energy efficiency, and security—challenges that traditional communication architectures struggle to meet. By embedding intelligent, nonlinear processing directly into the physical environment of signal propagation, this technology offers a fundamentally new instrumentation for future networks.

This research thus paves the way toward smarter, more adaptive wireless environments. Imagine networks where surfaces in the physical world—not just complex central processors—actively participate in signal conditioning, tailoring communication in real time based on context, noise, or security needs. The implications extend far beyond mobile phones to encompass interconnected systems such as autonomous vehicles, remote sensing arrays, and massive IoT deployments, where signal integrity and security are paramount.

As the UBC team continues to explore these nonlinear intelligent surfaces, the multidisciplinary nature of the project becomes apparent, intersecting fields such as electromagnetics, artificial intelligence, materials science, and wireless communications engineering. The ability to co-opt principles from AI and metamaterials into physical layer communication technologies reflects the increasingly integrated and innovative approach driving modern research, and marks a critical step forward in harnessing the full potential of electromagnetic wave manipulation for practical use.

In conclusion, the advent of nonlinear stacked intelligent surfaces emerges as a landmark advancement with far-reaching consequences for the trajectory of wireless communication technology. By blending sophisticated nonlinear transformations with the inherent efficiencies of intelligent surfaces, this approach sets a promising course toward making wireless systems stronger, clearer, and more secure. If realized at scale, such innovation could fundamentally reshape how information flows through space, ushering in a new era of connectivity defined not just by speed, but by intelligence embedded in the very fabric of the communication channel.

Subject of Research: Wireless communication enhancement through nonlinear stacked intelligent surfaces
Article Title: Nonlinear Stacked Intelligent Surfaces for Wireless Systems
News Publication Date: 13-Mar-2026
Web References: IEEE Wireless Communications
References: DOI: 10.1109/MWC.2026.3666521

Keywords

Wireless Communication, Stacked Intelligent Surfaces, Nonlinear Systems, Electromagnetic Wave Manipulation, Signal Processing, Artificial Neural Networks, Wireless Security, 6G Technology, Metamaterials, Signal Reliability, Nonlinear Unit Cells, Energy-Efficient Communications

Three Illinois Tech Engineering Professors Recognized as IEEE Fellows

Denise Maddox — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:30:33 +0000

In a remarkable achievement for the Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech), three esteemed faculty members have been honored as fellows of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon less than 0.1 percent of IEEE voting members each year, underscoring the significance of their contributions to various engineering disciplines. The three honorees – Lin Cai, Boris S. Pervan, and Thomas Wong – represent a melding of expertise in electrical and computer engineering, mechanical and aerospace engineering, and high-frequency electronics, showcasing the interdisciplinary spirit that characterizes modern engineering research.

Lin Cai, a distinguished professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, has been recognized for her groundbreaking work in the realm of sustainable wireless communication and networking. Her research endeavors are focused on the intricate design and optimization of energy-efficient wireless systems, driving innovations in resilient wireless networks that are crucial for the burgeoning Internet of Things (IoT). As wireless technology becomes increasingly vital in our everyday lives, Cai’s work addresses the environmental impact of large-scale communication networks. By integrating machine learning techniques with network optimization, her research paves the way for more eco-friendly solutions in wireless communications.

Cai’s impact extends beyond academia; she is a recipient of the National Science Foundation CAREER Award, which is highly regarded in the engineering community. Through this award, Cai has advanced the design and deployment of communication networks that are powered by renewable energy sources such as solar and wind. This enables a sustainable approach to managing the growing energy demands of modern communication systems, while also enhancing their resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Her dedication to this field is helping shape the next generation of sustainable communication systems, ensuring they are both efficient and environmentally responsible.

Boris S. Pervan, a professor and Frank Gunsaulus Faculty Fellow in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, has been acknowledged for his contributions to satellite navigation integrity. His research focuses on enhancing the accuracy and integrity of navigation systems, a critical aspect for any GPS-driven application. High integrity in satellite navigation systems is paramount, particularly for safety-critical operations such as aviation and autonomous vehicles, where any slight deviation can have serious consequences. Through his work, Pervan is pioneering advancements that ensure not only precise navigation but also the reliability necessary to maintain safety standards.

In his role as the director of the Center for Assured and Resilient Navigation in Advanced Transportation Systems (CARNATIONS) at Illinois Tech, Pervan leads collaborative efforts between the university and industry to develop safe, scalable, and seamless navigation systems for uncrewed aircraft. This ambitious $10 million project, funded by the United States Department of Transportation, aims to create robust navigation solutions that can withstand the complexities of airspace interactions and ensure safe operations across various transportation modes.

With his extensive background in the field, Pervan has distinguished himself as a fellow of the Institute of Navigation (ION) and an associate fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. His recent accolade, the prestigious Johannes Kepler Award from ION, highlights his unwavering commitment to the advancement of high-integrity Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology. This recognition is a testament to Pervan’s dedication to the field, emphasizing his contributions to both navigation technology and education.

Thomas Wong, professor emeritus of electrical and computer engineering, has also garnered recognition for his vital contributions to high-frequency electronics and materials characterization. Wong’s long-standing academic career, which began in 1981, has been marked by significant research advancements in material measurements and charge transport within various conductors, ranging from ionic to electronic. His research has had far-reaching implications in millimeter-wave communication systems and the propagation effects observed in high-speed semiconductor devices and integrated circuits.

Wong’s work in collaboration with prestigious research institutions such as Argonne National Laboratory and Fermilab underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in tackling complex engineering challenges. His research initiatives have explored dielectric-loaded accelerators and the design of couplers for superconducting multicell cavity resonators, contributing to a foundational understanding of these intricate systems. Furthermore, Wong’s innovative investigations into nanoscale position sensors highlight the intersection of advanced materials and electronic applications, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to engineering design.

Wong’s scholarly contributions extend to authorship, with his seminal work on distributed amplifiers published in 1993 being the first book dedicated to the subject. His expertise has earned him recognition as a fellow of the International Association of Advanced Materials, reflecting his stature in the scientific community. Through this recognition, Wong continues to influence the field by sharing knowledge and mentoring the next generation of engineers.

The recognition of these three faculty members as IEEE fellows is not just an honor; it reflects the remarkable research environment at Illinois Tech, where innovative ideas converge to address pressing challenges in engineering and technology. The work of Cai, Pervan, and Wong exemplifies the university’s commitment to fostering talent and inspiring future advancements in electrical and computer engineering, aerospace systems, and high-frequency electronics.

This achievement stands as a milestone not only for the individuals involved but also for the broader academic community, as it emphasizes the critical role that universities play in driving technological progress. By nurturing researchers who are dedicated to addressing the complexities of modern communication and navigation systems, Illinois Tech is paving the path toward a more sustainable and safe technological future.

In conclusion, the elevation of Lin Cai, Boris S. Pervan, and Thomas Wong to the rank of IEEE fellows serves as an inspiring reminder of the vital contributions made by academic institutions to the field of engineering. Their research not only enhances our understanding of theoretical concepts but also provides actionable solutions that can be implemented in real-world scenarios. As the landscape of technology continues to evolve, the insights offered by these esteemed professors will undoubtedly shape the next generation of innovations that benefit society as a whole.

Subject of Research: Contributions to wireless communication, satellite navigation integrity, and high-frequency electronics
Article Title: Illinois Institute of Technology Faculty Members Recognized as IEEE Fellows
News Publication Date: Not specified
Web References: Not available
References: Not available
Image Credits: Credit: Illinois Institute of Technology

Keywords

Applied sciences, Engineering, Electrical engineering, Telecommunications, Navigation, Electronics