Beam Steering Antenna for Millimeter-Wave Range and Interference Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fixed wireless networks face challenges in providing efficient and scalable broadband connectivity, especially with the increasing demand for 5G services, due to limitations in frequency range, interference, and infrastructure costs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a fixed wireless system using a Beam Steering Antenna Module (BSAM) that dynamically controls beam steering to optimize data paths based on latency, bandwidth, and computational constraints, enabling efficient communication in the millimeter wave spectrum.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If fixed wireless networks operate at higher frequencies (24, 39, 60, 70 GHz) to provide broadband access, then data transmission capacity and speed are improved, but signal range is reduced to just over a kilometer and specialized high frequency components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic beam steering capability that allows the antenna to electronically adjust and redirect signal beams in real-time. This dynamic adjustment compensates for the limited range of high-frequency signals by concentrating energy in specific directions and adapting to changing channel conditions, effectively extending the usable range while maintaining high data transmission capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by using beamforming and beam steering techniques that dynamically adjust signal direction, width, and intensity. These parameter changes allow the network to optimize transmission for each specific user and channel condition, overcoming the inherent range limitation of millimeter wave frequencies while preserving high bandwidth capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed wireless networks are deployed to provide broadband access, then connectivity is established, but infrastructure costs increase and scalability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The beam steering antenna system provides multi-functionality by serving multiple users and purposes with a single infrastructure element. The ability to dynamically steer beams to different users and adjust beam characteristics allows one antenna to replace what would traditionally require multiple fixed antennas, reducing infrastructure complexity while enhancing scalability
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-configuration capabilities where the beam steering antenna automatically adapts to channel conditions and user requirements without manual intervention. This self-service characteristic reduces the complexity of network deployment and maintenance, allowing the infrastructure to scale more easily as users are added or conditions change
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 enhances the capacity and flexibility of fixed wireless networks, allowing for efficient 5G connectivity, reduced interference, and lower infrastructure costs, while enabling self-configuration and adaptive beam management.
Implementation Method 1
The beam forms are generated with a beam steering antenna that is dynamically controlled such as to change its electrical or electromagnetic configuration with frequency and spatial dispersion to enable beam steering
Implementation Method 2
The beam forms are generated with a beam steering antenna that is dynamically controlled such as to change its electrical or electromagnetic configuration with frequency and spatial dispersion
Data Source
AI summary
Examples disclosed herein relate to a node in a fixed wireless network. A controller determines optimal paths between nodes through relational calculations. Phase shifts are made to signals generated from one node to another according to the optimal path direction.