Reconfigurable Antenna Cell Partitioning for Interference Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication networks face challenges in optimizing the number of cells associated with an antenna site, leading to interference and uneven traffic distribution, which affects coverage and capacity.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced to optimize the number and shapes of radiation diagrams of reconfigurable antennas by partitioning the coverage area into cells, identifying and removing overlapping areas, and redistributing traffic capacity to ensure even distribution and adequate coverage, using a control unit to modify signal amplitudes and phases for each cell.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Area of stationary object

If the number of cells associated with an antenna site is increased to improve coverage area, then coverage is improved, but interference increases and traffic distribution becomes uneven

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecoverage areaVSAvoidinterference
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The coverage area is partitioned into multiple cells, each served by a specific radiation diagram. By segmenting the coverage area and assigning dedicated radiation diagrams to each cell, the system achieves comprehensive coverage while managing interference through structured spatial division.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different radiation diagrams are assigned to different cells based on local traffic conditions and propagation characteristics. Each radiation diagram is optimized for its specific cell's requirements, allowing tailored coverage and interference management for each spatial region.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If reconfigurable antennas are used to adapt radiation patterns to network planning requirements, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveradiation pattern adaptabilityVSAvoidantenna system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs reconfigurable antennas that can dynamically change their radiation patterns in response to varying traffic conditions and network requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows the same physical antenna to serve multiple cells with different characteristics, reducing the need for additional fixed antennas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

A single reconfigurable antenna system performs multiple functions by configuring different radiation diagrams for different cells. The antenna array can be electronically reconfigured to serve various spatial regions with appropriate radiation patterns, replacing what would traditionally require multiple dedicated antennas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If cells are optimized for even traffic distribution, then load balancing is improved, but the number of cells and system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraffic distribution balanceVSAvoidnumber of cells
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary optimization by determining the optimal number of cells and their corresponding radiation diagrams before actual network operation. This advance planning ensures even traffic distribution from the outset, avoiding the need for complex real-time adjustments during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The optimization process involves adjusting key parameters such as the number of cells, radiation diagram shapes, and beam directions to achieve even traffic distribution. By systematically varying these parameters during the planning phase, the system finds the optimal configuration that balances traffic while minimizing the number of cells required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP2189001B1Method and system for configuring a communicaton network, related network and computer program product
Publication Date: 2017.04.05 TELECOM ITALIA SPA
  • EP2189001B1 patent drawing
  • EP2189001B1 patent drawing
  • EP2189001B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An antenna site equipped with reconfigurable antennas in a communication network and having capacity to serve communication traffic in a respective area of competence (A) is configured by partitioning the area of competence into a set of cells (?