Distributed Inbuilding Relay Using Beam ID for Spatial Diversity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Implementing effective and cost-efficient inbuilding relay coverage for 5G millimeter wave networks is challenging due to high signal loss through cables and aerials, requiring complex beamforming with multiple transceivers, which increases costs and difficulties in repeaters and inbuilding solutions.

Innovation Solution

A distributed inbuilding relay apparatus using beam identification (ID) to optimize spatial diversity, comprising a distributed unit transmitting data signals with beam ID information to grouped termination units, which selectively radiate signals based on matching beam ID information, reducing the need for beamforming and minimizing the size and power consumption of active antenna units.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If beamforming with multiple transceivers is implemented to compensate for mmWave signal loss, then signal coverage and quality are improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal coverageVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the inbuilding coverage function into multiple distributed termination units spread throughout the building. Each termination unit independently receives and retransmits signals, eliminating the need for complex centralized beamforming while achieving comprehensive coverage through spatial distribution of multiple simple nodes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using one complex beamforming system, the patent deploys multiple simple termination units that copy the basic receive-and-retransmit function across different locations. Each unit is a simplified copy that collectively provides the coverage equivalent to a complex beamforming system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Loss of energy

If multiple transceivers and array antennas are deployed for beamforming, then mmWave signal loss is compensated, but implementation cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal lossVSAvoidimplementation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive, complex beamforming equipment with multiple inexpensive termination units. Each termination unit is a low-cost device that can be deployed throughout the building, sacrificing individual unit sophistication for overall system cost-effectiveness and ease of deployment

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Reliability

If beamforming technology is used to concentrate radio waves, then signal penetration through buildings is improved, but the number of required components and system complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal penetrationVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the signal transmission function across multiple geographically distributed termination units. Instead of concentrating complexity in one beamforming system, each unit independently handles local signal reception and retransmission, achieving penetration through distributed presence rather than focused beam energy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP4072037A1Method and apparatus for extending inbuilding relay coverage
Publication Date: 2022.10.12 SK TELECOM CO LTD
  • EP4072037A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2A
  • EP4072037A1 patent drawingFigure 2B
  • EP4072037A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present disclosure in some embodiments relates to an inbuilding relay coverage extension method and apparatus capable of maximizing spatial diversity in place of beamforming which is a major core technology in 5G technology in an inbuilding solution based on an RF repeater and an optical repeater using the beamforming.