Mmimo Antenna Sub-array Steering via Machine Learning Prediction

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Solution Overview

Problem

In 5G millimeter wave backhaul networks, antennas in arrays face significant lagging time when focusing on client devices, leading to inefficiencies in SSB (Synchronization Signal Block) and reduced network capacity and coverage, which affects signal strength and data throughput.

Innovation Solution

A Machine Learning (ML) model predicts probable client device locations, providing spatial coordinates to steer unallocated antenna sub-arrays, optimizing focus direction and reducing lagging time without affecting existing infrastructure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If antennas in arrays focus on client devices using conventional methods, then signal transmission is achieved, but lagging time increases and network capacity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelagging timeVSAvoidnetwork capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by using machine learning models to predict client device locations before actual communication begins. The system pre-determines optimal beam directions and antenna configurations based on predicted locations, allowing the antenna array to be pre-positioned and pre-oriented. This eliminates the need for reactive adjustment after client devices are detected, thereby reducing lagging time and increasing network capacity by preparing the system in advance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Area of stationary object

If antennas steer focus direction dynamically, then coverage is improved, but thermal performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidthermal performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary thermal management by predicting client locations and determining optimal beam directions before active transmission begins. This allows the antenna array to be configured in advance with proper cooling pathways and thermal dissipation routes already established, rather than dynamically adjusting during operation. The pre-planned configuration reduces thermal stress during dynamic steering operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the machine learning model continuously refines predictions based on actual client device locations and system performance. This feedback loop allows the system to adjust beam steering configurations optimally, reducing unnecessary thermal generation from incorrect or excessive steering movements while maintaining comprehensive coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If machine learning model predicts client locations, then focus accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation prediction accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces machine learning models as intermediary components that bridge the gap between raw sensor data and optimal antenna configuration. These models act as intelligent mediators that process complex patterns from client device behavior and environmental data to produce accurate location predictions. The intermediary nature of these models allows the system to achieve high measurement precision without directly implementing complex real-time optimization algorithms in the antenna control path.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

By performing location prediction and beam direction determination in advance through machine learning, the system reduces the computational burden during actual communication operations. The complex analysis is completed beforehand, allowing simpler, faster execution during active transmission. This preliminary action approach manages system complexity by shifting computational tasks to appropriate time windows.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10873371B1Antenna for massive multiple input and multiple output (mMIMO)
Publication Date: 2020.12.22 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC
  • US10873371B1 patent drawing
  • US10873371B1 patent drawing
  • US10873371B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An antenna may be provided. First, a Machine Learning (ML) model may be used, at a predetermined time, to predict a probable location of at least one of a plurality of client devices. Next, spatial coordinates may be obtained for the probable location from the ML model. Then an antenna sub-array of an antenna array may be steered toward the spatial coordinates of the probable location. The antenna sub-array may be unallocated.