Traffic optimization in a wireless network

Abstract

A mmWave communication network (1; 2) comprising a plurality of distribution nodes (DP1-DPn), each distribution node comprising: a plurality of N sectors (S1-S4), where N is an integer being at least three, each of the N sectors comprising a mmWave transceiver (4) arranged for mmWave communication with an adjacent distribution node; and a network processing unit (5) configured to route data traffic between sectors of the N sectors (S1-S4) of an individual distribution node such that the individual distribution node is in an operation mode of either: a default bridge mode in which data from any one of the N sectors (S1-S4) is routed to all other sectors (S1-S4); or a non-default bridge mode (B) in which data from one of the N sectors (S1-S4) is routed to a selected subset of the other sectors (S1-S4); wherein the number of sectors in the selected subset is I with 0 ≤ I ≤ N-2; wherein at least two distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes (DP1-DPn) are in a non-default bridge mode (B).

Description

[0001] TRAFFIC OPTIMIZATION IN A WIRELESS NETWORK

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates to the field of traffic optimization in wireless networks. More particularly, various methods, apparatus, and are disclosed herein related to providing multiple configuration options for some distribution nodes in the wireless network to enable a more flexible and adaptive data transportation.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The outdoor lighting grid (e.g. street lighting) offers a near-ideal grid to deploy wireless communication infrastructure (Wi-Fi, telecommunications 4G / 5G, E-band and V- band backhaul) because it offers proximity (to people, traffic), scale (ubiquitous presence), granularity (distance between poles matches typical requirements of RF network design) and elevation (height to mount equipment for signal coverage). One key challenge to get acceptance from cities (permits) and the public, is to provide aesthetic solutions and minimized form factors. There is consequently a strong wish to hide technology in unseen places.

[0006] The ever-growing data consumption (data throughput) require higher bandwidths, which in turn requires the use of ever higher frequencies. The radio frequencies used for telecommunication’s 5G standard are at first increasing to 3-6 GHz and will in the coming years grow to 26 GHz and beyond. These frequencies are typically referred to as millimeter wave (mmWave) because the wave lengths are in the order of (several) mm. Backhaul frequencies are typically 60 GHz, 70 GHz, and will over time grow beyond 100 GHz. Signals at these frequencies behave like optical waves in the sense that they do not penetrate walls and objects. Communication between two points require a clear line of sight (LOS), which means the transmitter and receiver must “see” each other via an uninterrupted, unobstructed, straight line.

[0007] The advancement of 5G technology is driven by a need for increased data throughput, which can be reached by operating at higher frequencies, more spatial streams (MIMO) and densification of devices. There 5G radios take care of the access layer, that is communication between the radio and the mobile user. However, the radio needs to be connected to the remainder of the Radio Access Network (RAN), and the part of the network accomplishing this is referred to as the transport network. Typically, the bandwidth requirements to the transport network exceeds the requirements for the access network. The gold standard is to use active or passive fiber optics network, but RF transport networks are also considered when fiber is practically or economically not viable. Although mmWave radios for transport networks typically operate at higher frequencies than the access networks, the multitude of radios they have to provide the backhaul for may cause their capacity to be insufficient at some locations.

[0008] WO2018217427A1 relates to a method that includes establishing, using a wired interface, a first connection with an access point having a dedicated connection with a core network, establishing, using a first radio of a plurality of radios, a first millimeter wave (mmW) connection with a first node of a mmW mesh network, and establishing, using a second radio of the plurality of radios, a second mmW connection with a second node of the mmW mesh network.

[0009] US 2002 / 167954 Al describes a communication system including a plurality of network nodes and communication links that link the network nodes to form a high bandwidth backbone network. At least one of the communication links forms a point-to-multipoint communications link between network nodes. At least one of the network nodes has a point- to-multipoint remote device at one end of the point-to-multipoint communications link. At least one of the network nodes has a point-to-multipoint sector transceiver at the other end of the communications link for transmitting via a point-to-multipoint downstream communications link with remote devices, including the linked point-to-multipoint remote device at the network node and receiving data from the point-to-multipoint remote device at the network node in a point-to-multipoint upstream communications link.

[0010] Furthermore, and referring to Fig. 1, a generic, prior art data transport network 100 comprising N nodes is illustrated. The N nodes are shown as circles. The network is intended to transport data to and from a location where there is a high capacity (typically in range of 5-10 Gbps) broadband connection, also called a Point of Presence or PoP. The PoPs are shown as diamonds and denoted A, B and C. The PoP may be a fiber connection, a copper connection, or a wireless connection. Since the PoP in many cases is a fiber PoP, the node closest to the fiber PoP is connected to the fiber and is nominated a fiber node (Distribution Point-Entry Point or DP -EP node). In Figure 2 there are three DP -EP nodes connected to PoP A, B and C. The data is transported via a number of distribution nodes (Distribution Point or DP nodes) to a location where there is a need for connectivity by a device that is external to the network, but at which location no wired connectivity is available. Such device is called customer premises equipment (CPE). The CPEs are show as triangles. An example of such an external device can be a camera, a Wi-Fi access point or a small cell radio (or base station). If the location of the external device coincides with the location of the node, it will be connected by means of a wired connection (in Fig. 1 this is a connection to CPE D). The wired connection can be ethemet, Power over ethernet, fiber, etc. If it is not coinciding it can connect to the nearest node by means of a terminal node (in Fig. 1 this is a connection to CPE E). Such terminal unit can make a wireless link to any node that is in its range in the same way as links between nodes are set up. The terminal node also has a connector to make a wired connection to the device external to the network. In both the direct connection and the connection via a terminal unit this (nearest) node is called Distribution Point-exit point node or DP-XP node. All nodes in the network that are not DP -EP nodes, nor DP- XP nodes, are called distribution point nodes (DP nodes). It is noted that that the definition of the individual nodes can change during evolution and use of the network. DP nodes can become DP -EP nodes when they are connected to a fiber PoP, and they can become DP-XP nodes when an external device is connected. It should also be noted that at the location of the fiber PoP also external devices can be connected, but they are disregarded herein since they do not use the wireless network for communication to the PoP. Also, terminal nodes are not considered part of the network because they do not distribute traffic.

[0011] Each node in the network can connect to multiple other nodes, thus creating an interlinked network, or mesh network. The links between nodes have a finite throughput capacity for data transport. The physical ports also have finite throughput capacity. It is assumed that the throughput capacity of the physical port connected to an external device always exceeds the throughput requirements of the external device, i.e. the physical port on a DP-XP node is suitable to deliver at least the peak data consumption of the CPE. It is further assumed that the physical port on the PoP node (DP -EP node) has finite capacity. This capacity can be limited by the physical properties of the port, or it can be limited by the data subscription that is purchased. For example, a 10 Gbps SFP+ port has a physical limitation of the port’s capabilities to 10 Gbps. The optical fiber connected to this port may have a data transport capacity that is a multiple of the port capacity. However, the capacity of the connection to the external data infrastructure, for instance a data center, may be limited to only 5 Gbps (or any other value), such limitation being imposed by contractual agreements (in such case, adaptation of the contractual agreement may result in higher data capacity for the DP -EP node).

[0012] Also, data traffic on CPEs maybe asymmetric: the download data requirements (resulting in data transfer from DP -EP to DP-XP) are higher than upload requirements (resulting in data traffic from DP-XP to DP -EP). For the example of a small cell, the asymmetry is significant, such as 80-90% of data traffic is download, DL, vs 10-20% upload, UL. Because of the asymmetry, the download traffic most likely is largest and can cause congestion in the network sooner than upload traffic when the transport network operates on a symmetric time division duplex, TDD, scheme. Congestion occurs when the data transport demand is higher than the data transport capacity.

[0013] There is a need to minimize cost of the network by limiting the data capacity on the DP-EPs and minimizing the number of DP-EPs in the network and by designing the network below the peak capacity required by the CPEs. Since the data capacity per CPE is typically lower than the capacity of PoP and the DP -EP node, there are more DP-XPs in the network than DP-EPs. This implies that the data traffic to / from the exiting devices gets aggregated (“adds up”) towards the PoPs. This problem is illustrated in a possible prior art network 100 lay-out shown in Fig. 2.

[0014] In this network there are four CPEs (not shown for simplicity), one connected to each of DP-XP 1, 2, 3, and 4. Each CPE requires 300 Mbps of download traffic each, and thus 1200 Mbps in total when all CPEs require DL traffic at the same time. All four DP-XPs are connected to the same DP -EP and also to the same sector of the DP -EP. Furthermore, the dotted lines represent the wireless links between the sectors and the arrow indicates the direction of the traffic and the numbers show the aggregated DL traffic demand for the link. If assuming that the network is designed for a link capacity of 1000 Mbps, it is clear that all links or nodes below DP-XP 4 (i.e., between DP-XP 4 and DP -EP) are getting congested when the CPEs require DL traffic at the same time. In a practical implementation where the nodes are mounted on street poles or integrated into the luminaires there is no current way to route more traffic through the nodes, simply because there is no light pole available at the other side of the street.

[0015] There is another type of problems occurring for nodes with limited link capacity, combined with limited locations available for mounting a node on street poles. This is illustrated in Fig. 3, which shows two networks 100 and 200 that need to run independent of each other. Network 100 transports data from DP -EP 1 to DP-XP 2 and network 200 transports data from DP -EP 2 to DP-XP 2. Because of line of sight requirements as well as link distance requirements, both networks need to use the DP denoted 400 in Fig. 3. However, in the prior art it is not possible to combine both networks 100 and 200 in one node.

[0016] There is thus a desire to provide a communication network, and in particular a mmWave communication network, with which at least one of the above-described problems are mitigated.

[0017] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mmWave communication network, with an increased or improved capacity, with an increased or improved resilience and with which congestion in the nodes of the communication network may be minimized or avoided. The goal of this invention is achieved by a mmWave communication network as claimed in claim 1, and by a method for data transportation in a mmWave communication network as claimed in claim 14.

[0019] In accordance with a first aspect of the invention a mmWave communication network is provided. A mmWave communication network comprising a plurality of distribution nodes, each distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes comprising: o a plurality of N sectors, where N is an integer being at least three, each of the N sectors comprising a mmWave transceiver arranged for mmWave communication with an adjacent distribution node; and o a network processing unit configured to route data traffic between sectors of the N sectors of an individual distribution node such that the individual distribution node is in an operation mode of either: a default bridge mode in which data from any one of the N sectors is routed to all other sectors of the individual distribution node; or a non-default bridge mode in which data from one of the N sectors is routed to a selected subset of the other sectors of the individual distribution node; wherein the number of sectors in the selected subset is I with 0 < I < N-2; wherein at least two distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes are in a nondefault bridge mode; wherein two out of the at least two distribution nodes in the non-default bridge mode (B) are adjacent to each other and linked by two parallel data links (L1-L2; L3- L4), and the two parallel data links (L1-L2; L3-L4) are used to either boost end to end capacity between the two adjacent distribution nodes or to transmit data with different quality of service, QoS, requirements, different security requirements, or different priority levels.

[0020] The mmWave communication network may be deployed using a streetlight infrastructure, such that a distribution node of the mmWave communication network may be placed on a pole of a streetlight or integrated in a streetlight. In such a way, mmWave pole to pole communication offers a potential solution for providing high-speed connectivity in urban and rural areas where traditional wired infrastructure is not feasible or cost-effective.

[0021] The default bridging mode provides connections among all the N sectors of a certain distribution node, such as to relay traffic among all the adjacent distribution nodes around the certain distribution node. The non-default bridge mode allows more flexibility to configure the bridging options, such that data from one of the N sectors is routed to a selected subset of the other sectors of the individual distribution node. The configuration can be made for uni-directional communication or bi-directional communication. In case of uni-directional communication, each sector may be configured independently with regard to selecting a different subset of the sectors.

[0022] According to the present invention, by configuring each distribution node individually into either the default bridge mode or the non-default bridge mode, different logical network layouts can be implemented and updated without any change to the physical deployment of the plurality of distribution nodes. The different logical network layouts may be determined according to different application requirements and / or the dynamics of traffic flows on the network. It may also help to maximize the usage of the throughput capacity of each individual distribution node, thereby maximizing the throughput of the entire network.

[0023] For each sector, in addition to the mmWave transceiver, it may further comprise a modem and / or a segmented antenna / antenna array, which may be used to establish links via beamforming with one or more sectors of other distribution nodes. Alternatively, one or more sectors out of the N sectors of an individual distribution node may share a common modem to reduce hardware costs.

[0024] Beneficially, when the mmWave transceiver of at least one sector out of the N sectors is configured to establish more than one mmWave communication links with one or more adjacent distribution nodes, the network processing unit is configured to route data traffic between sectors of the N sectors on a per mmWave communication link basis in the non-default bridge mode. Note that the non-default bridge mode may be further configured on a per mmWave communication link basis, instead of a per sector basis. In such a way, different communication links originated from a same sector may be routed independently, such as to different one or more other sectors of the same distribution node or to different communication links of one or more other sectors of the same distribution node. For example, a first mmWave communication link of a first sector may be routed to a same or different subset of the other sectors as compared to a second mmWave communication link of the first sector. It may also be that the first mmWave communication link of a first sector is routed to a third mmWave communication link of a second sector, while the second mmWave communication link of the first sector is routed to a fourth mmWave communication link of the second sector.

[0025] Advantageously, one or more distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes comprise a wired data access port, and the wired data access port is connected to:

[0026] - at least one sector of the plurality of N sectors, or

[0027] - another wired data access port comprised in the same distribution node.

[0028] In addition to one or more mmWave communication links, a distribution node may also have one or more wired data access ports, such as SFP ports and ethernet ports. The one or more wired data access ports may be connected to one or more sectors, such that the one or more wired data access ports may be used as interface(s) to a backbone network for the mmWave communication. Alternatively, it may also be an option that the one or more wired data access ports are connected to each other, such as for providing a bi-directional communication link between the cloud and a surveillance camera attached to the distribution node.

[0029] In a further example, when a distribution node is operated in a default mode, any port (wired or wireless) of the node may be switched to any other port, thus acting as an N-port switch. In another word, all ports are bridged to one another.

[0030] In a preferred example, two out of the at least two distribution nodes in the non-default bridge mode are configured to set up a data communication link.

[0031] The operation mode of an individual distribution node may be configured during manufacturing or during installation. It is more preferred that the option mode is configured and updated adaptively to the actual use.

[0032] Beneficially, the operation mode of an individual distribution node is configured remotely. The operation mode of an individual distribution node may be configured via Internet, Cellular network, or a short range communication link, such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. For example, a network administrator or field engineer may use a smartphone or a commissioning tool to configure each distribution node individually. It may also be possible that a configuration command for setting the operation mode is sent to an individual distribution node via the mmWave communication link.

[0033] In another option, the mmWave communication network further comprises a network management system, NMS, configured to set or change the operation mode of an individual distribution node out of the plurality of distribution nodes.

[0034] The NMS may be configured to communicate with each distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes, such as to change the bridge mode, and thus the routing settings, of each distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes between the default bridge mode and a non-default bridge mode. For example, the central NMS may be configured to switch at least one pre-selected or pre-defined distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes from the default bridge mode to a non-default bridge mode, and vice versa. Thereby, a mmWave communication network enabling central or external control with the bridge mode switching and thus the data routing of some or all of the distribution nodes. This in turn enables simple and efficient control of the traffic flow and network topology.

[0035] The network management system may be incorporated in one or more of the distribution nodes in the network, and the command to set or change the operation mode of an individual distribution node may be sent via mmWave communication links among the distribution nodes. The network management system may also be placed in the cloud and connected to one or more of the distribution nodes in the network.

[0036] Advantageously, two out of the at least two distribution nodes in the nondefault bridge mode are adjacent to each other and linked by two parallel data links.

[0037] To boost the end to end capacity between two adjacent distribution nodes, two parallel data links may be established. This can be achieved by using two adjacent sectors for each distribution node. For example, a first data stream out of the two parallel data links enters into one sector of a first distribution node and a second data stream out of the two parallel data links enters into another sector of the first distribution node. The same applies to the neighboring distribution node.

[0038] Thereby, two data streams may run through the two adjacent distribution nodes independently of one another, which in a simple manner increases the throughput of the mmWave communication network. It is thus also possible to transport data with fewer amount of nodes to satisfy local peak throughput requirements, which offers a cost saving option on network deployment.

[0039] In one option, the two parallel data links are configured to be operated at mutually different frequencies and / or mutually orthogonal electromagnetic fields.

[0040] Thereby, crosstalk or interference between the two parallel data links and resulting noise in the data signal may be reduced or avoided.

[0041] Beneficially, the two parallel data links are used to transmit data with different quality of service, QoS, requirements, different security requirements, or different priority levels.

[0042] The two parallel data links may be used to serve the same application, such as to merely boost the throughput between the two adjacent distribution nodes, which may also be used to serve different applications. With the second options, the two data streams on the two parallel data links are isolated from each other to satisfy different quality of service, QoS, requirements, different security requirements, or different priority levels.

[0043] In one example, one or more distribution nodes out of the plurality of distribution nodes are configured to switch from a default bridge mode to a non-default bridge mode to split the mmWave communication network into more than one independent subnetworks, and vice versa.

[0044] Benefiting from the non-default bridge mode, it is thus possible to route traffic from different mmWave communication networks through a same distribution node. This also makes it possible to connect or merge or weave together two otherwise separate mmWave communication networks, which may also provide aesthetic communication network solutions and / or minimize form factors of the distribution nodes.

[0045] Advantageously, for one or more distribution nodes in the non-default bridge mode comprising at least four sectors, data traffic is routed among the four sectors in one of the following options: o from a first sector to a second sector, and independently from a third sector to a fourth sector; o from a first sector to a third sector, and independently from a second sector to a fourth sector; o from a first sector to a second sector and / or a third sector, but not to a fourth sector; wherein any one of the options may be implemented either in a unidirectional manner or bidirectional manner.

[0046] For example, he first sector and the second sector may be adjacent sectors, and the third sector and the fourth sector may adjacent sectors, also denoted a “bridge 2x90 node”, or the first sector and the second sector may be mutually separated by at least one other sector, and the third sector and the fourth sector may be mutually separated by at least one other sector, also denoted a “bridge 2x180 node”.

[0047] In both cases, two different data routes through a distribution node are obtained in a very simple manner. Especially employing the later possibility, that is switching one or more distribution nodes to form a “bridge 2x180 node”, enables not only connecting or merging two otherwise separate mmWave communication networks in a particularly simple manner, but also weaving together two otherwise separate mmWave communication networks in a particularly simple manner such as to, for instance, connect otherwise separate physical locations of one or both of the two otherwise separate mmWave communication networks.

[0048] Thereby, different data routes through a distribution node and thus different logic network layouts are obtained in a very simple manner.

[0049] As aforementioned, it is beneficial to make use of an existing infrastructure, such as an outdoor lighting infrastructure, to deploy the mmWave communication network. Considering the typically uniform distribution of light poles in practice, it is beneficial to have one or more distribution nodes comprise four sectors, for example with the orientation of the main beam of each sector being transposed by 90 degrees.

[0050] In one example, at least one distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes is rotated such as to point a pre-selected sector of the N sectors towards a sector of an adjacent distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes.

[0051] Although the orientation of the main beam of each sector may be preconfigured according to the typical deployment scenario and the number of sectors comprised in a single distribution node, it is also possible to adjust the orientation by rotating the distribution node in order to achieve a non-typical beam alignment scenario. The rotation may be applied to all the sectors if the N sectors are mounted as an integrated component. It may also be possible to rotate a single sector independently to the other sectors, if the N sectors are mounted separately. Alternatively, instead of applying the rotation to the N sectors or an individual sector as a whole, it is also possible to rotate only the individual antennas of different sectors towards each other.

[0052] The thus obtained combination of re-orientation and switching to a non-default bridge mode allows to set-up a dual link between the two nodes that are set to the non-default bridge mode.

[0053] At least one distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes may be rotated by 45°, by 135°, or by 225°.

[0054] Such re-orientation allows for a choice of which sector of an adjacent distribution node the at least one distribution node should be oriented towards.

[0055] Beneficially, at least one distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes is integrated in a lighting fixture.

[0056] When one or more distribution nodes are integrated in lighting fixtures, the deployment of at least part of a mmWave network may be realized when deploying the outdoor lighting infrastructure.

[0057] In accordance with a second aspect of the invention a method for data transportation in a mmWave communication network is provided. A method for data transportation in a mmWave communication network with the mmWave communication network comprising a plurality of distribution nodes, the method comprising following steps of: o orienting by a network administrator or field engineer a sector out of a plurality of N sectors of an individual distribution node, out of the plurality of distribution nodes, to an adjacent distribution node out of the plurality of distribution nodes for mmWave communication, wherein N is an integer being at least three, and each sector comprises a mmWave transceiver; o routing, by a network processing unit of the individual distribution node, data traffic between sectors of the N sectors of the individual distribution node to configure the individual distribution node in an operation mode of either: a default bridge mode in which data from any one of the N sectors is routed to all other sectors of the individual distribution node; or a non-default bridge mode in which data from one of the N sectors is routed to a selected subset of the other sectors of the individual distribution node; wherein the number of sectors in the selected subset is I with 0 < I < N-2; o configuring by a network management system, NMS, or the network administrator or field engineer operation modes of at least two distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes to be a non-default bridge mode; wherein two out of the at least two distribution nodes in the non-default bridge mode (B) are adjacent to each other and linked by two parallel data links (L1-L2; L3-L4), and the two parallel data links (L1-L2; L3-L4) are used to either boost end to end capacity between the two adjacent distribution nodes or to transmit data with different quality of service, QoS, requirements, different security requirements, or different priority levels.

[0058] Beneficially, the method for data transportation further comprises a step of: configuring two out of the at least two distribution nodes in the non-default bridge mode to set up a data communication link.

[0059] Preferably, the method for data transportation in a mmWave communication network further comprises the step of: configuring by the NMS, or the network administrator or field engineer the operation mode of an individual distribution node remotely.

[0060] Beneficially, the method for data transportation further comprises the step of: establishing two parallel data links between two adjacent distribution nodes out of the at least two distribution nodes in the non-default bridge mode.

[0061] The invention further relates to a plurality of lighting fixtures, each lighting fixture comprising a distribution node, the distribution nodes of the plurality of lighting fixtures forming a mmWave communication network according to the invention.

[0062] The plurality of lighting fixtures may be arranged in a grid, such as a street light grid or a grid within a building or a grid within a limited geographical area.

[0063] It is noted that the invention relates to all possible combinations of features recited in the claims.

[0064] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0065] This and other aspects of the present invention will now be described in more detail, with reference to the appended drawings showing embodiment(s) of the invention.

[0066] Fig. 1 shows a schematic diagram illustrating a generic prior art communication network. Fig. 2 shows a schematic diagram illustrating a prior art communication network.

[0067] Fig. 3 shows a schematic diagram illustrating two prior art communication networks with crossing communication lines.

[0068] Fig. 4 shows a list of symbols and legend as used in all of Figs. 5A-12.

[0069] Fig. 5A shows an embodiment of a millimeter wave (mmWave) communication network according to the invention and comprising a plurality of distribution points.

[0070] Fig. 5B shows another embodiment of a mmWave communication network according to the invention.

[0071] Fig. 6 shows schematically an embodiment of a network processing unit of a distribution point of a mmWave communication network according to the invention.

[0072] Fig. 7 shows schematically an embodiment of the construction of a distribution point of a mmWave communication network according to the invention.

[0073] Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of a distribution point, DP, node of a mmWave communication network according to the invention.

[0074] Fig. 9 shows an embodiment of three neighboring and connected DP nodes of a mmWave communication network according to the invention.

[0075] Fig. 10 shows an embodiment of two mmWave communication networks according to the invention with crossing communication lines.

[0076] Fig. 11 shows another embodiment of two mmWave communication networks according to the invention with crossing communication lines.

[0077] Fig. 12 shows another embodiment of two mmWave communication networks according to the invention with crossing communication lines.

[0078] Figs. 13 and 14 show another embodiment of two mmWave communication networks according to the invention with crossing communication lines, before and after switching a selected distribution node to a non-default bridge mode, respectively.

[0079] Fig. 15 shows a flow diagram illustrating a method according to the invention. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the drawings.

[0080] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0081] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which currently preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness, and fully convey the scope of the invention to the skilled person.

[0082] Referring now to Figs. 5-14, various embodiments of a millimeter wave (mmWave) communication network 1, 2 according to the invention will be described. Generally, and irrespective of the embodiment, the mmWave communication network 1, 2 comprises a plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn. Fig. 4 shows the legend used to indicate the various operation modes of each distribution node DPl-DPn in the respective mmWave communication network 1, 2.

[0083] For this invention, we consider network distribution nodes DPl-DPn that comprise multiple antennas that cover a limited beam width. For example, a distribution node DPl-DPn may have four antennas that can create links covering a 90 degree field of view in the horizontal plane. Construction of the distribution node DPl-DPn may align the four antennas such that together they cover 360 degrees in the horizontal plane, i.e. all-around. In addition, these antennas may cover a certain field of view (such as 20 degrees) in the vertical plane. Each antenna may comprise of a number of smaller sub-antennas that work together to create one or more narrow beams that can be directed across coverage range (an antenna construction of this type is commonly called Active Antenna Array).

[0084] Many constructions are possible. The present invention assumes that there are at least three, and in the embodiments shown in Figs. 5-14 four, independent communication channels per distribution node DPl-DPn, by which each distribution node DPl-DPn can create a wireless link. Thus, each distribution node DPl-DPn can potentially create four wireless distribution links to other distribution nodes DPl-DPn. Typically, such a channel comprises an antenna and a modem. As the channels will typically be oriented so as to cover non-overlapping ranges, we herein refer to them as sectors.

[0085] The invention can be easily extended to different numbers of sectors than the four sectors shown in Figs. 5-14, sectors that have some overlap in their respective ranges etc.

[0086] Reference is now made specifically to Fig. 8, which schematically illustrates a distribution node DP for a mmWave communication network 1, 2 according to the invention. Generally, and irrespective of the embodiment, each distribution node DPl-DPn of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn comprises a plurality of N sectors S1-S4, where N is an integer being at least three, as well as a network processing unit 5. Each of the N sectors S1-S4 comprise a mmWave transceiver 4. The mmWave transceiver 4 is oriented to an individual direction for mmWave communication with an adjacent distribution node DPl-DPn.

[0087] The network processing unit 5 is configured to route data traffic between sectors of the N sectors S1-S4 of the distribution node DP in such a way that the distribution node DP is in one of two possible bridge modes. The network processing unit 5 may be implemented as a bridge 5’ as is illustrated in Fig. 6. More generally, the network processing unit 5 comprises a plurality of data links. Referring to Fig. 6, the data links are denoted rf.1 to rf. n and may be radio frequency (RF) links. The plurality of data links rf.l-rf. n comprises n data links, where n is an integer being equal to or larger than the number N of sectors S1-S4, that is n > N. Fig. 6 further shows that the distribution node DP may comprise a plurality of local ports loc.1 to loc.n as well as a data link denoted “management”, which is a link to a management interface.

[0088] Each of the N sectors S1-S4 are associated with at least one data link of the plurality of data links rf.1 to rf.n. As illustrated in Fig. 6, each of the N sectors S1-S4 are associated with one data link of the plurality of data links rf.l to rf.n. As illustrated in Fig. 7, it is also feasible that one or more of the N sectors S1-S4 are associated with more than one data link of the plurality of data links rf.1 to rf.n., cf. sector S2 in Fig. 7. The network processing unit is configured to route data traffic between sectors of the N sectors (S1-S4) of the distribution node in such a way that the distribution node is in one of a number of possible bridge modes.

[0089] One of the possible bridge modes is a default bridge mode, in which data can be routed between any two sectors of the N sectors S1-S4. This default bridge mode is in Fig. 4 denoted “regular distribution node (all bridged)”. More particularly, in the default bridge mode the at least one data link rf.1 to rf.n of all of the N sectors S1-S4 are coupled in a data transfer relationship with the at least one data link of all other of the N sectors S1-S4. In other words, the question mark in Fig. 6 would in the default bridge mode represent one single data link node in which all data links rf.1 to rf.n meet.

[0090] The other possible bridge mode is a non-default bridge mode B chosen among a plurality of non-default bridge modes B. The plurality of non-default bridge modes B comprise non-default bridge modes B in which the at least one data link rf.1 to rf.n of each of the N sectors S1-S4 are coupled in a data transfer relationship with the at least one data link rf.1 to rf.n of no more than I of the N sectors S1-S4, where I is an integer being 0 < I < N-2. For instance, plurality of non-default bridge modes B comprise non-default bridge modes B in which the at least one data link rf.1 to rf. n of at least one of the N sectors S1-S4 are not coupled in a data transfer relationship with any of the at least one data links rf.l to rf. n of any of the other of the N sectors S1-S4, i.e. in which at least one of the N sectors are unbridged.

[0091] For instance, in an embodiment where the number of sectors S1-S4 is N = 3, the plurality of non-default bridge modes B comprise non-default bridge modes B in which the at least one data link rf.1 to rf.n of each of the three sectors S1-S4 are coupled in a data transfer relationship with the at least one data link rf.1 to rf.n of either zero or one other sector of the three sectors S1-S4. Thus, I is here an integer being 0 < I < 1.

[0092] For instance, in an embodiment where the number of sectors S1-S4 is N = 4, such as illustrated in Fig. 8, the plurality of non-default bridge modes B comprise non-default bridge modes B in which the at least one data link rf.1 to rf.n of each of the N sectors S1-S4 are coupled in a data transfer relationship with the at least one data link rf.1 to rf.n of zero, one or two of the N sectors S1-S4. Thus, I is here an integer being 0 < I < 2.

[0093] Generally, and irrespective of the embodiment, at least two distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn are in a non-default bridge mode B, and the non-default bridge mode B is configured to implement different logical network layouts in the mmWave communication network 1; 2, and / or is configured to improve the throughput between the at least two distribution nodes in the mmWave communication network 1; 2.

[0094] Thus, each distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn comprises multiple modes of operation, and more specifically at least the four modes of operation described above and listed in the legend of Fig. 4.

[0095] The three non-default bridge modes illustrated in Fig. 4 are denoted “Bridge 2x90 distribution node”, “Bridge 2x180 distribution node”, and “Bridge 3x90, 4th sector not in any bridge”, respectively.

[0096] Referring still to Fig. 8, one or more sectors of the N sectors S1-S4 of at least one distribution node DPl-DPn may further optionally comprise its own antenna 6, radio unit 7 and / or modem 8.

[0097] Referring now to Figs. 5A and 5B, two different embodiments of a millimeter wave (mmWave) communication network 1 according to the invention are shown. In each case, the mmWave communication network 1 now comprises a network management system, NMS, 9. The NMS 9 is configured to communicate with each distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn. The NMS 9 is further configured to switch at least one pre-selected or pre-defined distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl- DPn from the default bridge mode to the non-default bridge mode B, and from the non-default bridge mode B to the default bridge mode, as the case may be. The central NMS 9 is further configured to change the mode of operation, and thus the routing settings, of each distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn. The NMS 9 may be a central NMS in the sense that the NMS 9 may be configured to control several of the plurality of distribution nodes. The NMS 9 may alternatively be configured to control only one of the plurality of distribution nodes. The NMS 9 may be a remote unit. The NMS 9 may be comprised by a distribution node. The NMS 9 may also be configured to manage each node manually, e.g., by Bluetooth.

[0098] Fig. 5A and 5B shows an embodiment of a mmWave communication network 1 according to the invention which compared to the prior art mmWave communication network 100 of Fig. 2 comprises the same locations for the distribution point nodes DP-XP, DP and the DP -EP. It is noted that a DP is a distribution point distribution node, that a DP-XP is a distribution point - connection point distribution node, and that a DP -EP is a distribution point - entry point distribution node. Also, the traffic requirement from the customer premises equipment, CPE, in the download, DL, direction is identical to the situation illustrated in Fig. 2, namely 300 Mbps for each CPE. The difference from the prior art of Fig. 2 is that the distribution point nodes denoted DP-B-XP4 and DP-B in Figs. 5A and 5B are switched to a non-default bridge mode by a central NMS 9, and more particularly in this embodiment in a 2 x 90 bridge mode. This means that traffic from a first sector SI of a first distribution point distribution node DP-B is bridged to another sector S2 that is 90 degrees oriented to the first sector SI, and the same for the remaining two sectors S3 and S4. In order to direct the sectors towards their neighboring distribution node to set up a data link L, the non-default bridged distribution point nodes DP-B may be rotated by 45 degrees compared to their original orientation as is also illustrated in Figs. 5A and 5B. Such a rotation of a distribution point distribution node DPl-DPn is quite simple to obtain for a pole-mounted distribution node but may however require additional means to obtain when the distribution node is integrated in a luminaire. Alternatively, when a sector S1-S4 of a distribution point distribution node DPl- DPn comprises its own antenna 6, it may also be possible to rotate the antennae 6 of different distribution nodes towards each other. The combination of re-orientation and switching to the non-default bridge mode B allows to set-up a dual link LI, L2 or L3, L4 between two distribution point distribution nodes, DP-B or DP-B-XP, that are set to non-default bridge mode B - see also Fig. 9. When linking the DL data stream into the non-default bridged distribution point nodes DP-B special attention should be taken to ensure that a first data stream enters into one sector of the non-default bridged distribution point distribution node DP-B and a second data stream enter into another sector of the non-default bridged distribution point distribution node DP-B. The same holds for exiting the DL data stream from the non-default bridged distribution point distribution node DP-B. Figs. 5A and 5B show that aggregated traffic from distribution node DP-XP 1 and distribution node DP-XP 2 is linked to one sector of the non-default bridged distribution node DP-B-XP 4 and traffic from distribution node DP-XP-3 is linked to another sector of DP-B-XP 4, such that these data streams run independently of each other through the same distribution node DP-B-XP 4. Two parallel links L indicated by the number 2x600, meaning 2 links L with a capacity of 600 Mbps each, is now obtained between each of the DP-B distribution nodes. Therefore, it is advantageous to operate each of these links L at mutually different frequencies or with orthogonal electromagnetic fields such as to mitigate the potential interference between the parallel links.

[0099] Furthermore, Figs. 5A and 5B illustrate that data links between the DP-B distribution node and the DP-E distribution node at the bottom of each of Figs. 5 A and 5B may be created in two different ways. A first way is depicted in Fig. 5A, in which the DP-E is rotated by the same 45 degree angle as the DP-B distribution nodes, in order to set up the dual link. An alternative method employing an additional distribution point distribution node DPA is shown in Fig. 5B, where the DP-B distribution node forms a single link connection with the one sector of the DP-E distribution node, and the DP-B distribution node connects to another sector of the DP-E distribution node through the additional distribution point distribution node, DPA.

[0100] Turning now to Fig. 10, another embodiment of a mmWave communication network 1 according to the invention is shown. Fig. 8 illustrates another network configuration, in which switching distribution point nodes DP into non-default bridge mode in part of the units may be used to reduce the amount of distribution point nodes DP in the mmWave communication network 1. Fig. 10 more particularly shows a street map of an imaginary city, with distribution point nodes DP available at the crossing of some of the streets 3. It is noted here that the invention is not limited to grids consisting of streets but may also be any other type of grids in which distribution point nodes DP may be available at crossings of some or all grid lines 3. Referring again to Fig. 10, in the south-west comer SW of the street map there is envisaged a location with fiber, so that a DP -EP can be created. Furthermore, at the north-east corner NE of the map there is a data stream (dashed line) coming from three CPEs (not shown) that connect into DP-XP 1-3 and another data stream (dotted line) coming from three CPEs (not shown) that connect to DP-XP 4-6. Like in the previous example, all CPE have a data requirement of 300 Mbps, so the aggregated data transport requirement is 900 Mbps from both triplets of CPEs. With the available set of distribution point nodes DP in normal (default bridge) mode it is not possible to transport the data from the DP-XP distribution nodes to the DP -EP distribution node, because the distribution nodes would have to have data transport over links along both the dotted and the dashed line. This would create loops in the network, which in a layer two routing schema would create broadcast storms and make the network instable.

[0101] The solution according to the invention is to switch part of the distribution point nodes DP into non-default bridge mode B, see Fig. 10. The distribution point nodes DP- B are switched to non-default bridge mode B at the location where there is coinciding traffic from the two data streams (dotted line and dashed line, respectively). In the embodiment shown in Fig. 8 the non-default bridge mode B is 2 x 90 degrees, that is bridging between two adjacent sectors of each distribution node. In this way it becomes possible to transport the two data streams using fewer distribution nodes, which is a cost saving.

[0102] As is shown in the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11, it is also possible to obtain the same result by switching distribution nodes DP-B to a non-default bridging mode B being 2 x 180 degrees, that is bridging between next neighboring sectors of each distribution node. The respective data streams (dotted line and dashed line, respectively) will the follow a different path, which is illustrated in Fig. 11.

[0103] As is thus already illustrated in Fig. 11, it is possible to weave data streams, or letting mutually independent data streams cross each other, in a network by applying one or more distribution nodes in either a 2x90 or a 2x180 degrees non-default bridge mode B. This principle may also be used to weave data streams of different networks or letting data streams of mutually independent networks cross each other. A general illustration of the weaving of two different mmWave communication networks 1 and 2 is shown in Fig. 12.

[0104] The area denoted “Area of network 1” is representing the physical location of a first mmWave communication network 1, and the area denoted “Area of network 2” is representing the physical location of a second mmWave communication network 2. Both networks comprise have a plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn, which may be DP-EPs, DPs and DP-XPs, as is also visualized in Fig. 12. At the location where the mmWave communication networks 1 and 2 intersect, a distribution node DP-B can be switched to non-default bridge mode B, here a 2 x 180 degree bridge mode. In that way it is enabled that the data traffic from the first mmWave communication network 1 and the data traffic from the second mmWave communication network 2 may pass through the same distribution node.

[0105] Turning now to Fig. 13, another embodiment of a mmWave communication network 1, 2 according to the invention is shown. Fig. 13 illustrates another network configuration, in which switching one or more distribution point nodes DP of the mmWave communication network 1, 2 in the into non-default bridge mode may be used to reduce the amount of distribution point nodes DP in the mmWave communication network 1, 2. Fig. 13 more particularly shows a street map of an imaginary city, with distribution point nodes DP available at the crossing of some of the streets 3. The imaginary city of Fig. 13 features two mmWave communication networks 1 and 2. Both mmWave communication networks 1, 2 are served by respective fiber PoPs or cable PoPs using respective DP -EP distribution nodes, where distribution nodes DP -EPl and DP-la-c serves mmWave communication network 1 and distribution nodes DP-EP2 and DP-2a-c serves mmWave communication network 2. It is assumed here that at least two distribution nodes from each of the separate mmWave communication networks 1 and 2 comprise an RF link to a distribution node from the other mmWave communication network 2 and 1. As shown in Fig. 13 this is illustrated as distribution node DP-lc comprising an RF link with distribution node DP -2a and distribution node DP-lb comprising an RF link with distribution node DP -2b. Each of the distribution nodes DP -EPl, DP-la-c, DP-EP2, DP-2a-c in both mmWave communication networks 1 and 2 is setup with the default bridge mode (all sectors S1-S4 bridges together) except for at least one of the two common distribution nodes to the other mmWave communication network. In the embodiment of Fig. 13, two of the common (RF-linked) distribution nodes DP-lc and DP- 2b between mmWave communication network 1 and mmWave communication network 2 are setup with a non-default 3 x 90 bridge mode which connects three sectors SI -S3 of the distribution node together logically (at 2 x 90 degrees so forming a logical T-shape) where the fourth sector S4 is not part of any bridge.

[0106] As can be seen from Fig. 13, distribution node DP-lb is linked with a distribution node switched in a non-default 3 x 90 bridge mode, namely distribution node DP- 2b, to disable a logical connection with mWave communication network 2. Similarly, distribution node DP -2a is linked with a distribution node switched in a non-default 3 x 90 bridge mode, namely distribution node DP-lc, to disable a logical connection with mmWave communication network 1. This setup enables two mmWave communication networks 1 and 2 with neighboring distribution nodes in each of the mmWave communication networks 1 and 2 preventing a connection (single or multiple) between the separate mmWave communication networks 1 and 2.

[0107] The embodiment shown in Fig. 13 further describes a way to offer resilience for the aspect of a connection loss to the EP distribution node of a mmWave communication network 1 or 2 without needing additional distribution nodes. As can be seen from Fig. 13 a connection loss of distribution node DP -EPl to the wide area network (WAN) would render mmWave communication network 1 as an isolated network unable to reach the wide area network.

[0108] Referring now also to Fig. 14, a simple way to enable resilience could then be to switch distribution node DP -2b from the 3 x 90 non-default bridge mode to the default bridge mode. This would connect the earlier separate mmWave communication network 1 to mmWave communication network 2 through the RF-link now established between distribution nodes DP -2b and DP-lb as illustrated in Fig. 12, and thereby render (temporarily as long as resilience action is needed, that is at least until the connection of distribution node DP -EPl to the WAN may be reestablished) a single mmWave communication network 1; 2 where all distribution nodes would still have connectivity to the WAN without needing extra distribution nodes. A similar approach could be followed in case of distribution node DP-EP2 loosing connectivity to the WAN, which would result a non-reachable mmWave communication network 2. In this case, as a similar resilience action, distribution node DP-lc could be switched from 3 x 90° non-default bridge mode to the default bridge mode for the duration of the connectivity loss.

[0109] An alternative approach to the setup described in Figs. 13 and 14 would be to switch all “common-RF” distribution nodes DP-lc, DP-lb, DP -2a and DP -2b between mmWave communication network 1 and mmWave communication network 2 in the 3 x 90° non-default bridge mode to provide isolation between the mmWave communication networks 1 and 2 as long as both mmWave communication networks 1 and 2 are connected to a WAN. However, this approach or setup would render a mmWave communication network 1 or 2 that suffers a loss of WAN connection totally isolated and unreachable because no NMS 9 could ever reach any of the distribution nodes anymore to change any distribution node bridge setting as a resilience action. This situation may be avoided by providing a number n > 1 common (RF-link) distribution nodes (in Figs. 13 and 14 the four distribution nodes DP-lc, DP-lb, DP -2a and DP -2b) between mmWave communication network 1 and mmWave communication network 2, where n-1 of these common distribution nodes of each mmWave communication network 1 and 2 are switched in the 3 x 90° non-default bridge mode in a mutually exclusive setup, so that the distribution nodes at both side of the common RF link are switched in the default bridge mode at one side (for instance distribution node DP -2a of mmWave communication network 2) and in a 3 x 90° non-default bridge mode at the other side (for instance distribution node DP-lc of mmWave communication network 1).

[0110] The principles and embodiments described herein referring to Figs. 12-14 may of course also be applied to a network system with a multiple (> 2) of separate mmWave communication networks, each having their own WAN provision via a dedicated DP -EP distribution node.

[0111] Finally, it is envisaged that any of the mmWave communication network setups according to the present invention and described above may be integrated in another suitable network of devices. For example, the distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn of any of the mmWave communication network setups according to the present invention and described above may each be integrated into an existing lighting fixture. The lighting fixtures may form a grid, such as a street lighting grid. In such a setup it may further be envisaged that the antennae 6 of each of the N sectors S1-S4 of a first distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn may be oriented in a first orientation when operated in the default bridge mode, and that the antennae 6 of each of the N sectors S1-S4 of the second distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn may be oriented in a second orientation when operated in non-default bridge mode. It is noted that he rotation of the antennae 6 is independent from the housing of the lighting fixture. Turning now to Fig. 15, a method according to the invention and for routing data communication in a mmWave communication network 1; 2 according to any of the abovedescribed embodiments and comprising a plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn is illustrated and will be described.

[0112] Generally, and irrespective of the embodiment, the method comprises a step 1001 of, among the plurality of non-default bridge modes B, selecting a non-default bridge mode B being configured to implement different logical network layouts in the mmWave communication network 1; 2 and a step 1002 of switching at least two distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn from the default bridge mode to the selected nondefault bridge mode B.

[0113] The method may further comprise a step 1003 A of establishing data communication between at least one of the mutual sectors S1-S4 of the at least two distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn. Step 1003 A may form part of step 1003.

[0114] The method may further comprise a step 1003B of establishing multiple bridges within the at least two distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl- DPn. Step 1003B may form part of step 1003.

[0115] The method may further comprise a step 1003D of establishing data communication between at least one of the at least two distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn of the mmWave communication network 1; 2 and a distribution node of a neighboring mmWave communication network 1; 2. Step 1003D may form part of step 1003.

[0116] The method may further comprise a step 1003C of establishing two parallel data links L1-L2; L3-L4 between two adjacent distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn. Step 1003C may form part of step 1003. Step 1003C may further comprise three sub-steps, namely selecting 1003C1 the at least two distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn as two adjacent distribution nodes, establishing 1003C2 two parallel data links L1-L2; L3-L4 between the two adjacent distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes DPl-DPn, and operating 1003C3 the two parallel data links L1-L2; L3-L4 at one or more of mutually different frequencies and mutually orthogonal electromagnetic fields.

[0117] The person skilled in the art realizes that the present invention by no means is limited to the preferred embodiments described above. On the contrary, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

[0118] Additionally, variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by the skilled person in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measured cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A mmWave communication network (1; 2) comprising a plurality of distribution nodes (DPl-DPn), each distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes comprising: o a plurality of N sectors (S1-S4), where N is an integer being at least three, each of the N sectors comprising a mmWave transceiver (4) arranged for mmWave communication with an adjacent distribution node; and o a network processing unit (5) configured to route data traffic between sectors of the N sectors (S1-S4) of an individual distribution node such that the individual distribution node is in an operation mode of either: a default bridge mode in which data from any one of the N sectors (S1-S4) is routed to all other sectors (S1-S4) of the individual distribution node; or a non-default bridge mode (B) in which data from one of the N sectors (Sl- S4) is routed to a selected subset of the other sectors (S1-S4) of the individual distribution node; wherein the number of sectors in the selected subset is I with 0 < I < N-2; wherein at least two distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes (DPl-DPn) are in a non-default bridge mode (B); wherein two out of the at least two distribution nodes in the non-default bridge mode (B) are adjacent to each other and linked by two parallel data links (L1-L2; L3-L4), and the two parallel data links (L1-L2; L3-L4) are used to either boost end to end capacity between the two adjacent distribution nodes or to transmit data with different quality of service, QoS, requirements, different security requirements, or different priority levels.

2. The mmWave communication network (1; 2) according to claim 1, wherein when the mmWave transceiver of at least one sector out of the N sectors is configured to establish more than one mmWave communication links with one or more adjacent distribution nodes (DPl- DPn), the network processing unit is configured to route data traffic between sectors of the N sectors (S1-S4) on a per mmWave communication link basis in the non-default bridge mode (B)3. The mmWave communication network (1; 2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one or more distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes comprise a wired data access port, and the wired data access port is connected to:- at least one sector of the plurality of N sectors (S1-S4), or- another wired data access port comprised in the same distribution node.

4. The mmWave communication network (1; 2) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the operation mode of an individual distribution node is configured remotely.

5. The mmWave communication network (1; 2) according to claim 4 further comprising a network management system, NMS, (9) configured to set or change the operation mode of an individual distribution node out of the plurality of distribution nodes (DPl-DPn).

6. The mmWave communication network (1; 2) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the two parallel data links (L1-L2; L3-L4) are configured to be operated at mutually different frequencies and / or mutually orthogonal electromagnetic fields.

7. The mmWave communication network (1; 2) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein one or more distribution nodes out of the plurality of distribution nodes are configured to switch from a default bridge mode to a non-default bridge mode (B) to split the mmWave communication network into more than one independent sub-networks, and vice versa.

8. The mmWave communication network (1; 2) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein for one or more distribution nodes in the non-default bridge mode (B) comprising at least four sectors (S1-S4), data traffic is routed among the four sectors (S1-S4) in one of the following options: o from a first sector (SI) to a second sector (S2), and independently from a third sector (S3) to a fourth sector (S4); o from a first sector (SI) to a third sector (S3), and independently from a second sector (S2) to a fourth sector (S4);o from a first sector (SI) to a second sector (S2) and / or a third sector(S3), but not to a fourth sector (S4); wherein any one of the options may be implemented either in a unidirectional manner or bidirectional manner.

9. The mmWave communication network (1; 2) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein at least one distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes (DPl-DPn) is rotated such as to point a pre-selected sector of the N sectors (S1-S4) towards a sector of an adjacent distribution node of the plurality of distribution nodes (DPl-DPn).

10. The mmWave communication network (1; 2) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein at least one distribution node (DPl-DPn) of the plurality of distribution nodes (DPl-DPn) is integrated in a lighting fixture.

11. A method for data transportation in a mmWave communication network (1 ; 2) with the mmWave communication network (1; 2) comprising a plurality of distribution nodes (DPl-DPn), the method comprising following steps of: o orienting, by a network administrator or field engineer, a sector out of a plurality of N sectors (S1-S4) of an individual distribution node, out of the plurality of distribution nodes (DPl-DPn), to an adjacent distribution node out of the plurality of distribution nodes (DPl-DPn) for mmWave communication, wherein N is an integer being at least three, and each sector comprises a mmWave transceiver (4); o routing, by a network processing unit (5) of the individual distribution node, data traffic between sectors of the N sectors (S1-S4) of the individual distribution node to configure the individual distribution node in an operation mode of either: a default bridge mode in which data from any one of the N sectors (S1-S4) is routed to all other sectors (S1-S4) of the individual distribution node; or a non-default bridge mode (B) in which data from one of the N sectors (Sl- S4) is routed to a selected subset of the other sectors (S1-S4) of the individual distribution node; wherein the number of sectors in the selected subset is I with 0 < I < N-2;o configuring by a network management system, NMS, or the network administrator or field engineer operation modes of at least two distribution nodes of the plurality of distribution nodes (DPl-DPn) to be a non-default bridge mode (B). wherein two out of the at least two distribution nodes in the non-default bridge mode (B) are adjacent to each other and linked by two parallel data links (L1-L2; L3-L4), and the two parallel data links (L1-L2; L3-L4) are used to either boost end to end capacity between the two adjacent distribution nodes or to transmit data with different quality of service, QoS, requirements, different security requirements, or different priority levels.

12. The method for data transportation in a mmWave communication network (1; 2) according to claim 11 further comprising the step of configuring by the NMS, or the network administrator or field engineer the operation mode of an individual distribution node remotely.

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