Split-panel antenna based massive MIMO systems in wireless communication networks

Abstract

The invention presents an innovative antenna panel design for Massive MIMO systems, aimed at achieving 180-degree cell coverage in 5G networks. The design incorporates a split-panel configuration, dividing the antenna array into two perpendicular panels, each covering a 90-degree sector. This approach minimizes the number of antennas needed per cell, reducing from three to two while maintaining full coverage. The split-panel design enhances beamforming precision and improves signal quality by effectively directing beams across a wide area, optimizing coverage and reducing interference. The antenna panels can be dynamically reconfigured to adapt to varying user distributions and environmental conditions, ensuring efficient network performance. The invention is particularly suitable for deployment in urban and suburban settings, offering a scalable and cost-effective solution to enhance network capacity and coverage.

Description

[0001] Split-Panel Antenna based Massive MIMO Systems in Wireless Communication Networks

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to wireless communication technology, specifically to optimizing massive Multiple Input, Multiple Output (MIMO) radio design in cellular networks. More particularly, the techniques for enhancing horizontal steering range and coverage in New Radio (NR) communication systems by reconfiguring antenna panel arrangements.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] Cellular communication systems are fundamental in providing wireless connectivity by dividing a geographic area into several cells, each served by a base station equipped with antennas. These base stations facilitate two-way radio frequency (RF) communications for subscribers within their designated areas. To maximize coverage, the base station antennas are often mounted on towers or elevated structures and are designed to transmit signals outward. A common configuration involves hexagonal cells divided into three 120-degree sectors, each sector being served by one or more base station antennas with an azimuth half-power beamwidth (HPBW) of approximately 65 degrees. These antennas are typically implemented as linear or planar phased arrays, which help in directing the radiation pattern efficiently. To increase the capacity and performance of these networks, base station antennas equipped with beamforming arrays and multiple-input multiple-output (Ml MO) technology have been developed. Beamforming involves using multiple columns of radiating elements to create antenna beams with narrower beamwidths, thereby increasing directivity and gain, which enhances data throughput. Meanwhile, MIMO techniques improve communication by dividing data streams and transmitting them simultaneously over multiple paths using specific coding methods. In practice, multi-column antenna arrays are often used for MIMO transmission, where each column is connected to a MIMO radio port, allowing simultaneous transmission and reception of multiple data streams. Dual-polarized radiating elements are commonly used to maximize the effectiveness of MIMO configurations.

[0006] In recent years, advancements such as 8T8R (eight transmit and receive) and 16T16R (sixteen transmit and receive) radios have further improved the capabilities of cellular networks. The 8T8R radios are connected to antenna arrays with four columns of dual-polarized radiating elements, enabling two streams of MIMO communication per antenna beam within a sector. The 16T16R radios, with twice the ports, connect to arrays with eight columns of dual-polarized elements, offering even higher gain, reduced interference, and enhanced throughput. However, while the 16T16R configuration provides substantial performance benefits, it also requires a larger antenna array and more expensive equipment, which can significantly increase the overall cost.

[0007] Despite these improvements, existing solutions still face limitations, especially when dealing with horizontal coverage. Conventional MIMO radios, due to their limited horizontal steering range, require multiple radiosoften three per site-to achieve complete coverage. This configuration increases both capital expenditure and operational complexity for network operators.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for innovative solutions that can provide the same or better coverage with fewer radios, thereby reducing costs and enhancing network performance.

[0009] Objective of the Invention

[0010] The principal objective of this invention is to optimize the coverage of Massive MIMO radios in cellular networks by reconfiguring the Radio design to achieve a wider steering range with fewer radios.

[0011] Another objective of this invention is to reduce the capital expenditure and operational costs for network operators by minimizing the number of radios required per site, without compromising performance or coverage.

[0012] Another objective of this invention is to enhance signal quality and minimize interference by improving grating lobe suppression and beam width resolution. Another objective of this invention is to provide a flexible antenna configuration that can be adjusted based on system requirements to achieve optimal coverage in various deployment scenarios.

[0013] A further objective is to increase energy efficiency by reducing the number of radios required, thus lowering power consumption and contributing to a more sustainable network infrastructure.

[0014] Summary of the Invention

[0015] In the realm of cellular network optimization, this invention introduces a novel design for Massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) radios to enhance coverage and efficiency. Traditionally, achieving 360° coverage with Massive MIMO radios requires multiple radios due to limited horizontal steering ranges and significant interference issues, such as grating lobes, at higher steering angles. This design constraint results in increased costs and power consumption, as operators rely on three radios per site to achieve the desired coverage and performance.

[0016] The core innovation involves splitting the antenna panel of the radio into two perpendicular sections, each covering a 90-degree angle. This configuration provides a combined 360-degree coverage with only two radios per sector, significantly reducing the number of radios needed while maintaining or improving coverage quality. By positioning the antenna panels at a 90-degree angle, the design enhances steering control, minimizes grating lobes, and reduces interference, leading to better signal quality and higher performance within the sector. The angle of the two antenna panels can be rearranged at any angle as required based on the system requirements.

[0017] This new radio design integrates with existing cellular infrastructure, requiring no major changes to current hardware setups. It offers a cost-effective solution by lowering capital and operational expenditures associated with multiple radios. Additionally, the design optimizes power consumption and installation costs by reducing the number of radios needed, while maintaining the same level of throughput and improving beam width resolution and grating lobe suppression.

[0018] The invention delivers improved coverage, reduced costs, and enhanced performance for Massive MIMO radios in cellular networks. Its ability to provide wider coverage with fewer radios makes it a valuable advancement in antenna technology, catering to the demands of modern and future wireless communication systems.

[0019] Brief description of the drawings

[0020] The figures described below depict various aspects of the system and methods disclosed herein. It should be understood that each figure depicts an embodiment of a particular aspect of the disclosed system and methods, and that each of the figures is intended to accord with a possible embodiment thereof. Further, wherever possible, the following description refers to the reference numerals included in the following figures, in which features depicted in multiple figures are designated with consistent reference numerals.

[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates the Split-Panel Antenna Radio Coverage Diagram (100) according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 2 is a flow chart of a Massive MIMO Antenna Panel (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 3(A) and FIG. 3(B) shows the radiation pattern of a typical Massive MIMO Radio 192 Antenna Elements (300).

[0024] Figure 4 provides a detailed overview of the radiation patterns in different panel orientations (400) of the present invention.

[0025] Fig 4(A) illustrates the directivity with both panels driving a beam straight ahead at their boresight, offering a concentrated beam directly in front for optimal coverage.

[0026] Fig 4(B) shows the beams directed towards the right edge, enhancing coverage and signal strength on the right side.

[0027] Fig 4(C) depicts the beams aligned towards a common edge, focusing energy along that edge to optimize coverage in specific areas.

[0028] Fig 4(D) features the beams oriented towards the left edge, improving signal distribution on the left side.

[0029] Fig 4(E) demonstrates the radiation pattern with beams directed towards the extreme edges, broadening the coverage area and ensuring effective signal distribution across a wide range. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and may have not been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figure may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures.

[0031] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0032] The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of exemplary embodiments of the invention as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary.

[0033] Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described herein can be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0034] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings but are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0035] It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a component surface” includes reference to one or more of such surfaces.

[0036] By the term “substantially” it is meant that the recited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to those of skill in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect the characteristic is intended to provide.

[0037] Figures discussed below, and the various embodiments used to describe the principles of the present disclosure in this patent document are by way of illustration only and should not be construed in any way that would limit the scope of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented in any suitably arranged system. The terms used to describe various embodiments are exemplary. It should be understood that these are provided to merely aid the understanding of the description, and that their use and definitions, in no way limit the scope of the invention. Terms first, second, and the like are used to differentiate between objects having the same terminology and are in no way intended to represent a chronological order, unless where explicitly stated otherwise. A set is defined as a non-empty set including at least one element.

[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates a Split-Panel Antenna Radio Coverage Diagram (100) designed to enhance coverage efficiency and reduce the number of radios in a network, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. This innovative design optimizes the use of resources, especially in 5G NR (New Radio) networks, by dividing the coverage area into distinct sectors.

[0039] MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) is a wireless communication technology that employs multiple antennas at both the transmitter and receiver ends to enhance the performance of communication systems. By using multiple antennas, MIMO can significantly boost data throughput, improve signal quality, and offer more reliable connectivity, particularly in challenging environments with high interference or obstructions.

[0040] The feature of MIMO technology is its use of multiple antennas to transmit and receive signals. This setup allows for spatial multiplexing, where a single high-rate data stream is divided into several lower-rate streams and transmitted simultaneously across different antennas. This process increases the capacity of the communication link without requiring additional bandwidth or higher transmission power. Another key technique is beamforming, which directs signals in specific directions rather than broadcasting them uniformly. This focused approach enhances signal strength, reduces interference, and extends coverage, making MIMO especially effective in dense urban settings.

[0041] MIMO systems also leverage diversity gain to improve communication reliability. By transmitting the same data stream through multiple antennas in slightly varied ways, MIMO can mitigate signal fading and other forms of interference. This diversity helps maintain a stable and robust communication link even in less-than-ideal conditions. Furthermore, MIMO technology enables interference mitigation by distinguishing between multiple signals arriving from different paths. This capability improves performance in environments with significant interference, such as crowded areas or complex indoor spaces.

[0042] The applications of MIMO technology are broad and impactful. In WiFi networks, MIMO is integral to modern standards like 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4), 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5), and 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), enhancing data rates and coverage. In cellular networks, MIMO plays a crucial role in 4G LTE and 5G NR (New Radio) technologies, increasing data rates, spectral efficiency, and network capacity to meet growing demands. MIMO is also used in wireless backhaul solutions to connect base stations, providing a practical alternative to fiber optic cables in areas where installation is challenging or expensive.

[0043] Advanced applications of MIMO, such as Massive MIMO, involve using a large number of antennas at base stations to further increase capacity and spectral efficiency. Massive MIMO is a key enabler for 5G networks, allowing them to handle more users and higher data volumes simultaneously. Overall, MIMO technology offers significant advantages, including increased capacity, improved signal quality, and better coverage, making it a cornerstone of modern wireless communication systems.

[0044] Massive MIMO array antennas may have a large number of radiating elements, usually in a rectangular grid with element spacing equal to one half the wavelength of the carrier frequency. This spacing may vary but is usually less than the wavelength of the carrier frequency. When dual polarized elements are used, often + / ~45-degree antenna elements or 0 / +90 degree elements are co-located, and spaced apart from the next pair of elements in the grid. These dual polarized elements enable the antenna to couple signals to and from the channel in vertical and horizontal polarization. Massive MIMO array antennas are valid for both uplink and downlink signals, supporting division duplexing (TDD) or frequency division duplexing (FDD). Packets can be interspersed between downlink packets and uplink packets.

[0045] In one embodiment, the Massive MIMO antenna in the radio is split into two separate panels (102), named as first panel and second panel (101), positioned perpendicularly to each other, creating a 90-degree angle between the panels. This configuration allows each panel to cover a distinct 90-degree sector, resulting in a total combined coverage of 180 degrees with a single radio. The split-panel design provides comprehensive coverage using fewer radios, which reduces hardware requirements and simplifies the deployment process.

[0046] Each antenna panel is driven independently by the radio, offering significant flexibility in their arrangement and operation. This independent control allows the panels to be repositioned at various angles based on specific system requirements and environmental conditions. The system can adapt to different coverage needs and optimize performance in diverse scenarios by managing beamforming and signal distribution effectively. This ensures optimal signal strength and quality throughout the entire coverage area.

[0047] The approach of splitting the antenna panel into two parts and positioning them at a 90- degree angle brings several benefits. Each panel only needs to cover its designated 90-degree sector. The total number of electronic components remains the same, but this intelligent design allows for more efficient use of these components, enhancing system performance.

[0048] With this split-panel configuration, a site is divided into two 1800sectors, needing only two radios per cell instead of the three typically used in conventional setups. This reduction in the number of radios lowers deployment and maintenance costs and simplifies the system architecture. The improved coverage provided by this design ensures high-quality network performance, minimizing interference and maximizing spectrum utilization efficiency. The split-panel antenna design offers several advantages over traditional flat-panel configurations, especially in dense urban environments where efficient spectrum use, and minimal interference are crucial. By reducing hardware requirements and enhancing flexibility in deployment, this design represents a significant improvement in antenna technology for modern wireless communication networks.

[0049] FIG. 2 presents a flow chart for developing a Massive MIMO Antenna Panel (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention. This flow chart outlines a comprehensive process aimed at enhancing antenna performance and addressing coverage limitations through an innovative design approach.

[0050] At step 205, the process begins with the initiation of the project, setting the stage for the development of an improved Massive MIMO antenna panel. This marks the commencement of the design and optimization cycle.

[0051] At step 210, the existing antenna system is assessed to identify coverage limitations. This involves evaluating the current system’s performance to determine areas with insufficient signal strength, inadequate coverage range, or reduced quality. The goal is to pinpoint specific deficiencies that the new design aims to address.

[0052] At step 215, following the identification of coverage issues, a detailed analysis of the current radio configuration is conducted. This step involves reviewing the existing antenna arrangement, radio specifications, and operational parameters. The analysis helps to understand the functionality of the current system and identify opportunities for improvement.

[0053] At step 220, with a clear understanding of the limitations and current configuration, the next step is to conceptualize a new antenna design. This involves developing innovative design concepts that address the identified coverage limitations. The objective is to create a design that enhances performance and meets system requirements.

[0054] At step 225, the conceptualized design is developed into a practical split-panel configuration. The antenna is divided into two separate panels arranged to provide optimized coverage. The split-panel design is developed to address the specific needs identified in earlier stages, focusing on improving coverage and efficiency.

[0055] At step 230, once the split-panel design is developed, simulations are conducted to test its performance in a virtual environment. This step evaluates how the new design performs under various conditions and scenarios, providing insights into its effectiveness and identifying potential issues.

[0056] At step 235, this step involves adjusting critical aspects of the splitpanel configuration, such as panel angles, spacing, and antenna orientations, to enhance overall performance. The goal is to refine the design to achieve optimal coverage and efficiency.

[0057] At step 240, a physical prototype of the new antenna panel is constructed in this step. The prototype is then subjected to real-world testing to assess its practical performance. This step helps to validate the design's effectiveness, identify any additional refinements needed, and ensure that the antenna panel meets performance expectations.

[0058] At step 245, the results from prototype testing are compared with the performance of the existing antenna system. This analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of the new design’s improvements, including performance gains and any remaining issues. The comparison helps to guide final adjustments before deployment.

[0059] At step 250, based on the comparative analysis, the final design is prepared for deployment. This involves making any necessary adjustments and finalizing the design for production and field implementation. The goal is to ensure that the new antenna panel is ready for practical use and meets all design specifications.

[0060] At step 255, the process concludes with the finalization and deployment of the new Massive MIMO antenna panel design. This marks the completion of the development cycle and the introduction of the enhanced system into operational use.

[0061] FIG. 3 illustrates a typical single radio equipped with 192 antenna elements (300), showcasing the advanced capabilities of a Massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) system.

[0062] Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) is a crucial metric for understanding the radiated power of the antenna in a specific direction, taking into account the gain of the antenna. For the radio operating at a transmitter power of 320 watts, the EIRP is calculated by converting this power to decibel-milliwatts (dBm). Using the formula:

[0063] EIRP = 10 x log10(Power in Watts) + 30

[0064] the transmitter power of 320W converts to approximately 55 dBm. When the antenna gain at the maximum steering angle is factored in, measured at 24.4 dB, the total EIRP sums up to 79.4 dBm. This high EIRP reflects the strong signal radiated by the antenna, enabling it to reach users over considerable distances and penetrate challenging environments, thereby ensuring robust communication quality.

[0065] The Half Power Beam Width (HPBW) is a vital parameter that defines the angular width over which the antenna's radiated power drops to half its maximum value. In the described system, the HPBW at the maximum steering angle is 16 degrees. A narrower HPBW indicates a more concentrated beam, which is advantageous for targeting specific areas or users. This focused beam capability enhances the resolution and directivity of the signal, making it particularly useful in scenarios where minimizing interference and maximizing signal strength are critical. This precision is essential in densely populated urban environments or when providing services to users located at varying distances from the base station.

[0066] In Fig 3(A), the radiation pattern for a steering angle of +45 degrees is depicted, demonstrating how the antenna directs its energy towards a specific sector. When the antenna is steered to +45 degrees, the main lobe of the radiation pattern is shifted 45 degrees away from the boresight or reference point. This orientation allows the antenna to concentrate its energy in the targeted direction, enhancing both signal strength and quality for users located within this sector.

[0067] This capability for directional steering is crucial in environments with uneven user distribution, as it enables precise control over coverage. By focusing the antenna’s energy towards areas with higher demand or specific user locations, the system ensures that high-quality signals are delivered where they are most needed. This targeted approach not only improves communication performance but also optimizes the overall efficiency of the network, making it more effective in managing varying user requirements and maintaining robust connectivity across different sectors.

[0068] In Fig 3(B), the radiation pattern for a steering angle of -45 degrees is illustrated, demonstrating how the antenna directs its main lobe in the opposite direction from the boresight. When the antenna is steered to -45 degrees, the main lobe is shifted 45 degrees in the negative direction relative to the reference point. This adjustment enables the antenna to focus its energy on a different sector, which is essential for targeting areas that may experience lower signal strength or require enhanced reception.

[0069] This directional control is particularly valuable in scenarios where user locations or environmental conditions are dynamic. By steering the antenna to -45 degrees, the system can adapt to changing demands and ensure that areas needing improved signal coverage receive adequate support. This capability helps maintain consistent and reliable connectivity across various sectors, optimizing network performance and enhancing the overall user experience by addressing coverage needs in different directions.

[0070] Grating lobes are undesired side lobes that can occur when an antenna array is steered at certain angles, potentially interfering with the main lobe and degrading overall system performance. In the case of the typical radio with 192 antenna elements configuration, grating lobes are noted to be about 11 dB below the main lobe at maximum steering angles. Although the main lobe remains dominant, the presence of grating lobes can lead to interference with other signals, particularly in environments with high signal density. Understanding and managing grating lobes is crucial for optimizing antenna design and ensuring that the system operates efficiently without significant loss of performance due to interference. The gain of the radio while steering to the extreme ends is also reduced in comparison to the gain at boresight

[0071] Figure 4 offers a detailed depiction of the radiation patterns (400) generated by the present invention. Each subfigure in this figure presents the directivity of the antenna across various angular configurations. These configurations are essential for analysing how the antenna system can efficiently direct its signals in different directions. The following sections provide an in-depth analysis of each part of Figure 4, highlighting the distinct radiation characteristics and the antenna's ability to focus energy across multiple angles. Figure 4(A) illustrates the directivity of a Massive MIMO radio system with both antenna panels aligned to drive a beam straight ahead at their boresight. In this configuration, the radiation pattern displays a pronounced main lobe cantered at 0 degrees, indicating optimal signal strength directly in front of the antennas. This alignment significantly enhances directivity, as the energy is concentrated in the forward direction, which is essential for applications requiring focused coverage, such as cellular networks. The main lobe's narrow Half Power Beam Width (HPBW) allows for precise targeting of the coverage area, minimizing interference and maximizing effective range.

[0072] The configuration effectively suppresses side lobes, which are kept to a minimum and significantly lower than the main lobe, ensuring that the majority of the radiated power is directed towards the intended coverage zone. This focused approach not only improves the overall performance of the radio system but also enhances user experience by providing a stronger and more reliable signal in the desired direction.

[0073] Figure 4(B) illustrates the directivity of the Massive MIMO radio system with the antenna panels oriented to direct their beams towards the right edge, specifically at angles of 39 degrees and 129 degrees (which is 90 degrees + 39 degrees). This configuration enhances coverage and signal strength on the right side, effectively targeting areas that may require improved connectivity. The directivity values at these angles indicate a significant concentration of radiated power, with the main lobe peaking at both specified angles, which is crucial for optimizing performance in the desired sector.

[0074] The radiation pattern reveals a pronounced main lobe at both 39 degrees and 129 degrees, reflecting the system's ability to deliver strong signals to users located in those directions. The narrow HPBW associated with this configuration allows for precise energy delivery, minimizing interference from adjacent sectors and ensuring that the majority of the signal is focused where it is most needed.

[0075] Figure 4(C) illustrates the directivity of the Massive MIMO radio system with the antenna panels aligned to direct their beams towards a common edge, specifically at angles of 39 degrees and 51 degrees (which is 90 degrees - 39 degrees). This configuration focuses the energy along the common edge, optimizing coverage in specific areas that may require enhanced signal strength. The directivity values at these angles indicate a significant concentration of radiated power, with the main lobe peaking at 39 degrees and a corresponding lobe at 51 degrees. This arrangement allows the system to effectively deliver strong signals to users located in these directions, ensuring robust connectivity.

[0076] The narrow HPBW associated with this configuration facilitates precise energy delivery, minimizing interference from adjacent sectors and ensuring that the majority of the signal is directed where it is most needed. The suppression of side lobes in this configuration also contributes to the overall efficiency of the system, as it reduces unwanted radiation in other directions.

[0077] Figure 4(D) illustrates the directivity of the Massive MIMO radio system with beams oriented towards the left edge, specifically at angles of -39 degrees and 51 degrees (where 51 degrees is derived from the calculation of 90 degrees - 39 degrees). This configuration effectively concentrates the radiated power towards the left side, enhancing signal distribution for users in that area. The directivity values indicate a strong main lobe directed at -39 degrees, which signifies a focused energy delivery that improves connectivity for users positioned in that direction.

[0078] The presence of the 51 -degree angle further emphasizes the system's capability to provide coverage across a broader range on the left side, ensuring that signals are effectively transmitted to users located at various positions. The HPBW associated with this orientation allows for precise targeting, minimizing interference from adjacent sectors and maximizing the efficiency of the signal distribution.

[0079] Figure 4(E) illustrates the radiation pattern of the Massive MIMO radio system with beams directed towards the left edge, showcasing directivity values at -39 degrees and 129 degrees (the latter being calculated as 90 degrees + 39 degrees). This configuration effectively concentrates the radiated power towards the left side, enhancing signal distribution for users located in that direction. The strong main lobe at -39 degrees signifies a focused energy delivery, ensuring that users in that area experience improved signal strength and connectivity. The additional directivity at 129 degrees allows for effective signal transmission to users positioned at that angle, thereby maximizing coverage across a broader range.

[0080] The HPBW of about 12 degrees associated with this orientation facilitates precise targeting, minimizing interference from adjacent sectors and optimizing the efficiency of signal distribution. This dual-directional approach not only broadens the coverage area but also demonstrates the adaptability of Massive MIMO technology in addressing varying communication demands.

[0081] The gain of the radio with this configuration is higher even at the widest steering angle. The grating lobes are suppressed substantially by over 20 dB. The EIRP of the Radio is higher due to the additional gain of the antenna panel.

[0082] The throughput of the radios is analysed by comparing the existing radio configuration with the proposed new design. The existing radio, which utilizes 64 transmit-receive (TR) elements, is capable of supporting 16 downlink (DL) layers and 8 uplink (UL) layers, facilitating a certain level of data transmission efficiency. In contrast, the new proposed radio design splits the configuration into two panels, each consisting of 32 TR elements, which can support 8 DL layers and 4 UL layers per panel. Despite this division, the overall throughput per sector remains unchanged, as the combined capabilities of the two panels effectively match the performance

[0083] "? of the single existing radio. This innovative approach allows for improved coverage and flexibility without compromising the data transmission capacity, ensuring that the system can efficiently handle user demands across different sectors.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A method for enhancing coverage in massive MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) radio systems, the method comprising:configuring at least one antenna array in a panel arrangement (100), wherein the antenna array diverge into one or more panels; and positioning orthogonally at least two panel, a first panel and a second panel, and driving each panel independently to provide beam steering and coverage for the respective sectors.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the configuration of the panel arrangement facilitates the steering range and reduces the number of radios required per cell to two, thereby allowing for more efficient coverage and deployment in the wireless communication network.

3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the configuration of the panel arrangement further comprising:adjusting the angular orientation of the panels to optimize coverage based on specific deployment requirements, allowing for flexibility in different operational environments.

4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the configuration further comprising:minimizing grating lobes and interference by limiting the steering range of each panel to its respective sector, enhancing signal quality and maintaining high-resolution beamforming; andmaintaining system throughput by configuring each panel as an independent transmission-reception entity, ensuring comparable downlink and uplink performance per sector as traditional systems.

5. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein each antenna panel is configured to provide a horizontal steering range of 90°, and the combined coverage is achieved by positioning the antenna panels at a 900angle relative to each other.

6. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising:configuration of antenna array into four panels to achieve 360° coverage, wherein each panel covering a 90° sector coverage.

7. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the configuration further including optimizing power distribution between the two antenna panels to maintain equivalent Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) levels while minimizing power consumption.

8. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the configuration is capable of operating the radio system with a two-radio setup for each site by maintaining the throughput levels per sector.

9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the radio with split panels maintains a total throughput capacity equivalent to the existing 64TR system, with each panel capable of handling 8 downlink (DL) and 4 uplink (UL) layers, resulting in a combined total of 16 DL and 8 UL layers per sector.

10. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising:configuring the antenna panels to suppress grating lobes, such that the grating lobes are at least 20 dB lower than the main lobe when the panels are driven at their maximum steering angle.

Images