Multi-Antenna Base Station Layout for Airborne UE Interference Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Airborne user equipment (UEs) face challenges in maintaining reliable wireless connections with terrestrial networks due to interference and high installation costs of satellite systems, limiting service to critical flight phases.
Innovation Solution
A terrestrial multi-antenna system with separate antenna panels for ground and airborne UEs, utilizing interference mitigation measures to prevent signal interference and enable simultaneous communication with both types of UEs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If satellite-based wireless networks are used to serve airborne UEs, then interference with avionics is avoided, but installation costs are high and return on investment is low due to low density of airborne UEs
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is segmented into multiple antenna panels with different tilt angles - some panels are configured to communicate with airborne UEs while others communicate with ground-level UEs. This segmentation allows the system to serve both airborne and terrestrial users simultaneously without interference, avoiding the need for expensive satellite-based systems while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension by tilting antenna panels at different angles to differentiate between airborne and ground-level communications. This spatial differentiation in the vertical dimension allows the terrestrial base station to simultaneously serve both airborne UEs and ground users without frequency or spatial interference, providing a cost-effective alternative to satellite systems.
2Ease of manufacture
If terrestrial base stations are used to serve airborne UEs, then installation costs are reduced, but signal interference between ground and airborne communications occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is divided into separate panels dedicated to different communication functions. Some panels are configured with specific tilt angles to communicate with airborne UEs, while other panels communicate with ground-level UEs. This segmentation physically separates the communication paths and prevents signal interference between the two types of users.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the antenna system have different local qualities - specific panels have specific tilt angles optimized for their intended communication direction. This local differentiation ensures that each panel performs its function optimally without interfering with other panels, allowing cost-effective terrestrial deployment.
3Reliability
If airborne UEs are served only during critical flight phases, then service coverage is limited, but the number and types of airborne UEs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is designed with multi-functionality to serve multiple types of airborne UEs across all flight phases. By configuring specific antenna panels with appropriate tilt angles and communication parameters, the system can universally serve various airborne devices (drones, aircraft, helicopters) throughout their operational cycles, not just during critical phases.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its communication parameters based on the location and requirements of airborne UEs. The controller can adjust beamforming, tilt angles, and communication protocols in real-time to accommodate different flight phases and device types, enabling reliable service across the entire operational envelope.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to systems and methods for delivering telecommunications coverage to airborne user equipment (UE). More particularly, in aspects set forth herein, systems and methods utilize a multi-antenna system at a terrestrial base station in order to separately communicate signals to UEs at (or near) ground level and to UEs that are airborne.