Distributed Antenna System Mesh Redundancy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital distributed antenna systems (DAS) face challenges in achieving redundancy and reliability due to the limitations of ring and star topologies, which can lead to service outages when nodes or links fail, especially in large networks where the risk of multiple node failures increases and central hub units are vulnerable.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a mesh configuration with distributed connections between nodes, where each digital remote unit supports more than two high-speed connections, providing multiple paths for redundant data transport, and using a routing algorithm that selects main and redundant routes based on cost metrics to avoid common failure points and ensure data delivery even in case of link failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a ring topology is used to provide redundancy, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiple connections and routing management
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the network into multiple independent topological configurations (ring, star, mesh, daisy-chained) that can be selected based on specific deployment requirements. Each DRU can operate in different connection modes, allowing the network to be divided into manageable segments with different redundancy characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection topology is made dynamic rather than fixed. DRUs can dynamically adjust their connection modes (e.g., switching between ring and star configurations) based on operational conditions, failure scenarios, and traffic requirements, enabling the system to adapt its complexity level to actual needs.
2Device complexity
If a star topology with hub nodes is used to simplify routing, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates because central hub units become vulnerable single points of failure
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the network are assigned different topological characteristics. Hub nodes provide simplified star-like connectivity in specific local areas where complexity reduction is prioritized, while other parts of the network maintain ring or mesh configurations for enhanced reliability. Each DRU can have different connection patterns based on local requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple hub nodes are introduced as intermediaries that distribute traffic and provide redundancy. Instead of a single central hub, the system uses multiple hub units that can take over if one fails. DRUs can connect to different hubs, creating a distributed hub architecture that maintains the simplicity of hub-based routing while eliminating the single point of failure.
3Adaptability or versatility
If digital signal processing with active nodes is used to enable flexible routing, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for active signal manipulation at each node
Solution Approach 1:
Each DRU is designed as a universal node capable of performing multiple functions: it can operate as a simple passive relay, an active signal processor, a hub node, or a ring member, depending on configuration. This multi-functionality allows the same hardware to adapt to different routing requirements without requiring specialized complex processing at every node.
Solution Approach 2:
DRUs automatically configure their own connections and routing paths based on pre-established rules and local conditions. The system performs self-service routing where each node independently determines its connection mode and signal forwarding behavior, reducing the need for centralized complex signal processing and control.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of configuring a distributed antenna system (“DAS”) having digital remote units configured to provide a DAS interface to wireless communication devices connecting to the DAS, and at least one digital master unit configured to provide a DAS interface to base stations connecting to the DAS. The method includes connecting digital remote units such that each digital remote unit is connected either to at least another digital remote unit and the digital master unit or to at least two other digital remote units. The method further includes connecting at least one of the digital remote units either to other the digital remote units and the digital master unit, or to at least three other digital remote units, and connecting the digital master unit to at least two of the digital remote units, thereby providing at least one path for redundant data transport.