Multi-Beam Reflector Array for NLOS Millimeter-Wave Range Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional millimeter wave communication systems face challenges in extending RF range due to physical obstructions, which limit network coverage and performance in fifth-generation communication networks.
Innovation Solution
A multi-beam antenna array network is implemented, utilizing active and passive reflector devices that dynamically select and configure reflector devices based on criteria such as distance, interference, and obstructing objects to establish the most optimal non-line-of-sight radio path, enabling beam forming and steering to extend RF range and improve network performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If conventional millimeter wave communication systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the RF range is limited due to physical obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
Reflector devices are introduced as intermediary elements to bounce millimeter wave signals around physical obstructions. These reflectors act as mediators that enable signal propagation through non-line-of-sight paths, effectively extending RF range without requiring direct line-of-sight between transmitter and receiver.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from traditional two-dimensional beam steering to three-dimensional signal propagation by utilizing reflector devices positioned at various spatial locations. This adds a vertical and reflective dimension to signal paths, enabling coverage in previously inaccessible areas around obstacles.
2Area of stationary object
If reflector devices are dynamically selected and configured to extend RF range, then network coverage is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects and configures reflector devices based on real-time communication conditions, user positions, and signal requirements. This dynamic adaptation allows the network coverage area to be optimized continuously, with reflectors being activated or deactivated as needed rather than requiring all reflectors to be permanently configured.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms to monitor signal quality, coverage gaps, and reflector performance. Based on this feedback, the controller automatically adjusts which reflectors are active and how they are configured, enabling intelligent optimization of network coverage without manual intervention.
3Length of moving object
If multi-beam antenna array with reflectors is implemented, then RF range is extended, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is segmented into multiple independent beam-forming units, each capable of generating and directing individual beams. This segmentation allows the complex task of covering extended RF range to be divided into multiple simpler beam management tasks, with each antenna element or subset operating semi-independently under coordinated control.
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
The solution effectively extends RF signal range, enhances network coverage, and maintains high network performance by dynamically selecting and managing reflector devices to optimize transmission paths, even in obstructed environments, thereby improving data throughput and access speed.
Implementation Method 1
an RF transmitter radiates or steers radio waves in a specific direction by adjusting amplitude and phase of a transmission signal from each of the active antennas of the multi-antenna array system
Implementation Method 2
an RF receiver receives the radio waves via each antenna element from a plane wave in only a selected direction combined coherently
Implementation Method 3
utilizing active and passive reflector devices that dynamically select and configure reflector devices based on criteria such as distance, interference, and obstructing objects to establish the most optimal non-line-of-sight radio path
Data Source
AI summary
A system, in a radio frequency (RF) transmitter device, selects one or more reflector devices that comprises an active reflector device, along an optimized non-line-of-sight (NLOS) radio path based on a defined criteria. Further, the selected one or more reflector devices are controlled based on one or more conditions. The optimized NLOS radio path is determined from a plurality of NLOS radio paths. In an RF receiver device that communicates with the selected one or more reflector devices using the determined optimized NLOS path. The active reflector device comprises at least a first antenna array and a second antenna array. The first antenna array transmits a first set of beams of RF signals to at least the RF transmitter device and the RF receiver device. The second antenna array receives a second set of beams of RF signals from at least the RF transmitter device and the RF receiver device.