  The present path loss models for wireless systems employing reconfigurable
intelligent surfaces (RIS) do not account for the elevation of the transmitter,
receiver, and RIS module. In this paper, we develop an analytical model for
path loss of a wireless system utilizing an NxM-element RIS module positioned
above the ground surface with elevated transmitter and receiver configurations.
Furthermore, we integrate the direct link into the path loss model to enhance
its applicability, a crucial aspect often neglected in previous research. We
also present simplified analytical expressions for path loss under various
configurations, including near-field and far-field scenarios. These expressions
elucidate the impact of elevation factors on path loss, facilitating more
accurate signal quality estimation at the receiver. Simulation results
corroborate that accounting for elevated RIS modules and transceiver units can
yield improved deployment strategies for RIS-based wireless systems.
