On Resource Optimization in Multi-IRS-assisted and Interference-coupled Multi-cell Systems

Deploying Intelligent reflecting surfaces (IRS) to enhance wireless communications is a promising technique. In this paper, we consider resource minimization in a multi-IRS-assisted multi-cell system, subject to finite user data demand. In our problem, the interference generated by a cell is not known a priori, as it depends on the resource consumption level of the cell. Therefore, the cells are highly coupled in interference, and the overall problem is non-convex. To tackle it, we first solve the single-cell problem by an algorithm based on the Majorization-Minimization method. Then, we embed this algorithm into an algorithmic framework to obtain a locally optimal solution to the multi-cell problem. Simulation results demonstrate the benefit of optimal IRS configuration in time-frequency resource utilization in the multi-cell system.