Antenna Array Split Selection for Traffic-Adaptive Beamforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G NR wireless networks face challenges in adapting optimal antenna array split configurations and beams for CSI-RS ports, which vary by cell and deployment, necessitating a need to optimize beamforming based on traffic density distribution.
Innovation Solution
A network node device generates a beam dictionary, estimates traffic density distribution, determines optimal beams for each array split configuration using dynamic programming-based optimization, and selects the configuration that maximizes utility functions like signal power and spectral efficiency, applying the optimized configuration to the transceiver antenna array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed antenna array split configuration is used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different traffic density distributions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation of antenna array split configurations by allowing the network node to switch between different split configurations (e.g., 2x2, 4x1, 8x1) based on estimated traffic density distributions. The system continuously monitors channel quality information and adjusts the array split configuration in real-time, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that adapts to changing traffic conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of array split configuration based on traffic density estimation. By estimating traffic density distribution from channel quality information and selecting optimal array split configurations accordingly, the system adjusts key parameters (number of antenna ports, beamforming weights) to optimize performance for different traffic scenarios.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic adaptation of array split configuration is implemented, then adaptability to traffic density distribution is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-optimization by autonomously estimating traffic density distributions from channel quality information and selecting optimal array split configurations without requiring manual intervention. The network node automatically adjusts beamforming weights and antenna port configurations based on real-time traffic conditions, enabling self-service adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the network node continuously monitors channel quality information from user equipment, estimates traffic density distributions based on this feedback, and adjusts array split configurations accordingly. This closed-loop feedback system enables adaptive optimization while managing complexity through intelligent control algorithms.
3Reliability
If beam dictionary and optimization algorithms are maintained, then downlink performance is improved, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-generates a beam dictionary containing multiple beamforming weight sets corresponding to different array split configurations before actual operation. This preliminary preparation allows the system to quickly select from pre-computed optimal beams during runtime, reducing real-time computational complexity while maintaining high downlink performance through optimized beam selection.
Data Source
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AI summary
Beam and antenna array split configuration optimization is disclosed. A network node device generates a beam dictionary defining a set of beams. The network node device estimates a traffic density distribution for a radio channel based on obtained channel quality information. The network node device determines, for each of at least two array split configurations associated with a transceiver antenna array of the network node device, a set of optimal beams from the beam dictionary that optimizes a utility function, based on the estimated traffic density distribution. The network node device selects an array split configuration that maximizes the utility function across a coverage area of a radio cell associated with the network node device. The network node device applies the selected array split configuration to the transceiver antenna array in response to evaluating that the selected array split configuration improves downlink performance.