Dual-Function Edge Beamforming for Moving UE Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges such as signal attenuation, coarse positioning accuracy, and high infrastructure costs, particularly in mmWave communication, leading to issues with latency, data rate, and Quality of Experience (QoE) in 5G and upcoming 6G networks.
Innovation Solution
A dual-function edge device with integrated sensing and beamforming capabilities provides precise, centimeter-level tracking and dynamic beam adjustment to maintain high-performance and reliable communication, reducing the need for infrastructure deployment by optimizing beam concentration and power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If mmWave beamforming is used to provide directional communication, then data rate and signal strength are improved, but positioning accuracy requirements increase and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary positioning using coarse location data before establishing mmWave beamforming connections. This preliminary action provides advance notice of UE movement, allowing the system to prepare beamforming adjustments in advance, thereby reducing the burden on real-time positioning accuracy while maintaining high signal strength
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism that combines coarse positioning data with beamforming control. This intermediary layer translates imprecise location information into actionable beamforming parameters, enabling the system to achieve accurate beam direction without requiring equally precise real-time positioning
2Reliability
If conventional repeater devices are deployed to extend coverage, then connectivity is improved, but infrastructure cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables existing base stations to perform multiple functions: they provide both wide beam coverage for initial access and connectivity extension, and concentrated beamforming for high-speed data transmission. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate repeater devices, reducing infrastructure cost while maintaining connectivity reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The base station dynamically adjusts its beam characteristics based on UE location and service requirements. When UEs are far from the base station, it switches to wide beam mode to maintain connectivity; when UEs are in optimal positions, it transitions to concentrated beamforming for high-speed data, thereby extending coverage without additional infrastructure
3Ease of operation
If wide beam access is used for initial connection, then ease of connection is improved, but data rate decreases at greater distances
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically transitions between wide beam and concentrated beam modes. During initial access, wide beams provide easy connection establishment. Once connected, the system switches to concentrated beamforming to maintain high data rates even at greater distances, thereby achieving both ease of connection and high productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary beam alignment using wide beams to establish connection quickly. After connection is established, it preliminarily positions the concentrated beam based on UE location information, enabling high data rate transmission to begin without delay while maintaining ease of initial connection
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
Ensures seamless connectivity and enhanced QoE while reducing infrastructure costs by up to 30-50% through accurate beam steering and reduced signaling load, supporting high throughput and ultra-reliable communication for moving UEs.
Implementation Method 1
execute beamforming to direct a first beam of RF signal having a signal strength greater than a threshold to the first UE in motion
Implementation Method 2
a sensing function to sense a surrounding area of the edge device
Data Source
AI summary
An edge device includes an antenna array and control circuitry. The control circuitry tracks a position of user equipment (UE) in motion in terms of a current distance and a current angle from the edge device and executes beamforming to communicate a beam of radio frequency (RF) signal to the UE. The beam of RF signal is communicated in a specific radiation pattern based on the track of the position of the UE. Also, the beam of RF signal has a signal strength greater than a threshold. The control circuitry further calibrates the specific radiation pattern of the antenna array to further communicate the beam of RF signal in a specific beam shape that is suitable for a defined period.