Antenna Array Dynamic Beam Pattern Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional telecommunications networks use static beam patterns that often result in poor or non-existent network coverage for user devices at varying elevations, such as in buildings, and require resource-intensive nano- or pico-cell deployments in areas with high-density tall buildings.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for dynamically managing beam patterns of antenna elements in an antenna array by shifting between different broadcast footprints based on elevation information of user devices, allowing the antenna array to adjust between horizontally and vertically oriented beam patterns to ensure consistent network coverage regardless of device elevation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If static beam patterns are used, then network coverage is provided for ground-level devices, but network coverage is poor or non-existent for devices at varying elevations such as in buildings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static beam patterns to dynamic beam patterns that can be adjusted in real-time. The base station determines device elevation and dynamically switches between horizontal and vertical broadcast footprints to maintain reliable network coverage across varying elevations, resolving the contradiction between providing consistent coverage and adapting to different device positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the beam pattern parameter (horizontal vs. vertical orientation) based on device elevation. By monitoring elevation information and adjusting the broadcast footprint orientation accordingly, the system maintains network coverage reliability while adapting to different spatial conditions, effectively resolving the contradiction between coverage consistency and elevation adaptability.
2Reliability
If nano- or pico-cell deployments are implemented in areas with high-density tall buildings, then network coverage for elevated devices is improved, but resource consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the existing macro-cell base station universal by enabling it to provide effective coverage for both ground-level and elevated devices through dynamic beam pattern adjustment. Instead of requiring separate nano- or pico-cells for elevated coverage, the base station adapts its broadcast footprint to serve multiple elevation zones, reducing the need for additional infrastructure resources while maintaining coverage reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The base station performs self-adjustment by autonomously determining device elevation and switching between horizontal and vertical broadcast footprints without requiring additional network infrastructure. This self-service capability allows the system to maintain coverage for elevated devices using existing resources, avoiding the need for resource-intensive nano- or pico-cell deployments.
3Reliability
If dynamic beam pattern adjustment is implemented, then network coverage for devices at all elevations is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coverage area into distinct elevation zones (ground-level and elevated) and assigns specific beam patterns to each zone. By dividing the broadcast footprint into horizontal and vertical orientations that can be selectively activated, the system manages complexity through clear segmentation rather than continuous adjustment, maintaining coverage reliability while keeping beam management tractable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements controlled dynamics by switching between discrete beam pattern states (horizontal and vertical) based on device elevation. This dynamic adjustment improves coverage across elevations while managing system complexity through predefined pattern states rather than continuous parameter optimization, making the beam management process more tractable.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for dynamic beam pattern management of one or more antenna elements of an antenna array at a cell site. The methods can include receiving information associated with one or more user devices, where the information includes elevation information, and determining whether the user devices are positioned at an increased elevation, a decreased elevation, or an equal elevation relative to a threshold elevation value. The methods can also include shifting between broadcast footprints, where the broadcast footprints are different in at least a vertical plane or in at least an azimuthal plane.