Adaptive Antenna Repeater for Wireless Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Next-generation mobile communication systems face challenges in achieving sufficient signal-to-noise and interference ratio (SNIR) due to increased data demands, limited radio resources, and the need for higher carrier frequencies, especially in mobile applications like trains and buses, where signal attenuation and Doppler shift complicate network coverage and handover processes.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a repeater system with adaptive directional antennas that adjust beam pattern characteristics based on location data and signal quality, utilizing GPS and spectrum analysis to optimize signal routing and frequency shifting, thereby enhancing SNIR and minimizing interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If higher carrier frequencies are used to increase bandwidth, then bandwidth is improved, but propagation loss increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovebandwidthVSAvoidpropagation loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs adaptive beamforming techniques that dynamically adjust antenna weightings and beam patterns in response to changing channel conditions. The system continuously monitors signal quality and interference levels, then adapts the beamforming parameters to maximize signal strength and minimize propagation loss at higher frequencies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes physical parameters including antenna array configuration, beamforming weightings, and frequency selection to optimize performance. By adjusting these parameters adaptively, the system compensates for increased propagation loss while maintaining the bandwidth benefits of higher carrier frequencies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If small cell coverage areas are deployed to increase capacity, then spectrum efficiency is improved, but network complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectrum efficiencyVSAvoidnetwork complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple small cell base stations into a coordinated network system that shares resources and information. Through network MIMO and coordinated beamforming, the system manages the complexity of multiple small cells while achieving high spectrum efficiency through cooperative operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention creates a universal small cell architecture that can operate in various configurations (standalone or coordinated with macro cells) and support multiple functions including data transmission, interference management, and handover coordination, thereby managing network complexity through multi-functional design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If beam pattern characteristics are adjusted to improve signal quality, then SNIR is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSNIRVSAvoidantenna control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors signal quality metrics including SNIR, then uses this feedback to adjust beam pattern characteristics. The control unit receives channel state information and adapts antenna weightings accordingly, improving SNIR through closed-loop control while managing complexity through efficient feedback processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The invention enables the antenna system to self-adjust beam patterns based on received channel information without requiring complex external control. The base station autonomously processes channel state information and configures antenna weightings to optimize signal quality, reducing the need for complex external coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution significantly improves SNIR and reduces interference by dynamically adjusting antenna patterns and frequencies, ensuring reliable network coverage and efficient data throughput even in high-speed mobile environments.

Implementation Method 1

at least one of the beam pattern characteristics of the adaptive antenna is adjustable

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBeam forming:

Implementation Method 2

utilizing GPS and spectrum analysis to optimize signal routing and frequency shifting

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrequency shifting:

Implementation Method 3

The control unit is configured to adjust the at least one adjustable beam pattern characteristic of the adaptive antenna based on location data of the repeater

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGPS signal reception:

Data Source

PatentEP2802089B1Repeater for a wireless communication network
Publication Date: 2019.02.27 ANDREW WIRELESS SYSTEMS GMBH(DE)
  • EP2802089B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2b
  • EP2802089B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2802089B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

A repeater (1, 21, 29, 30, 32, 33, 34) for a wireless communication network, the repeater (1, 21, 29, 30, 32, 33, 34) comprising a donor side (3), a coverage side (6), a control unit (8, 11, 12) and a signal line between the donor side (3) and the coverage side (6) for repeating a downlink-signal from the donor side (3) to the coverage side (6) and for repeating an uplink-signal from the coverage side (6) to the donor side (3), wherein at least at one of the donor side (3) and the coverage side (6) the signal line is coupled with an adaptive antenna (19, 36, 43), wherein at least one of the beam pattern characteristics of the at least one antenna (19,36, 43) is adjustable, and wherein the control unit is configured to adjust the at least one adjustable beam pattern characteristic of the first antenna (19, 36, 43) based on location data of the repeater (1, 21, 29, 30, 32, 33, 34).