Efficient IRS Deployment in IRS-Assisted OWC Networks Using a Circle Packing Algorithm

Laser-based optical wireless communication (OWC) can provide ultra-high-speed mobile connectivity for future networks. To address the misalignment challenges inherent in laser-based OWC systems, this paper introduces a novel intelligent reflecting surface (IRS)-assisted indoor OWC system. This system employs a multi-cell architecture and leverages passive IRS elements to enhance user coverage. The concept of angular coverage in indoor laser-based communication is introduced, and an analytical framework is proposed to calculate the angular coverage probability of users. Additionally, an innovative IRS deployment strategy, inspired by circle-packing principles, is proposed to enhance the angular coverage of users with varying locations and orientations. Numerical results validate the proposed IRS deployment strategy, demonstrating its superior performance compared to a conventional laser-based OWC architecture, achieving at least a threefold improvement in angular coverage probability.