Network-Controlled Relay Apparatus for mmWave Coverage Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
The reduction of coverage area for base stations using high frequency bands, such as millimeter wave and terahertz wave bands, due to the high rectilinearity of radio signals, poses a challenge in mobile communication systems.
Innovation Solution
A network-controlled relay apparatus that includes repeaters capable of beamforming and a control terminal for controlling the repeaters through wireless communication with the base station, allowing for the specification of control value sets for controlling the propagation state of radio signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high frequency band radio signals are used for broadband transmission, then transmission capability is improved, but coverage area is reduced due to high rectilinearity
Solution Approach 1:
A repeater apparatus is introduced as an intermediary device between the base station and user equipment. The repeater receives radio signals from the base station, amplifies them, and retransmits them to extend coverage. This mediator approach allows the base station to maintain its original coverage limitations while the repeater extends the effective coverage area, resolving the contradiction between broadband capability and coverage area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies beamforming technology that directs radio signals in specific spatial directions rather than omnidirectional transmission. By controlling the beam direction and focusing energy in particular dimensions (spatial orientation), the system extends coverage in needed directions while maintaining signal strength, effectively expanding coverage area without sacrificing transmission capability.
2Area of stationary object
If repeater apparatus is used to extend coverage, then coverage area is improved, but interference occurrence increases
Solution Approach 1:
The repeater apparatus applies beamforming to concentrate radio signals in specific local directions rather than broadcasting omnidirectionally. By controlling the spatial distribution of signal energy locally, the system extends coverage in target areas while minimizing signal spillage into other areas, thereby reducing interference with other base stations and user equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the repeater and base station exchange control information to adjust transmission parameters dynamically. This feedback loop allows the system to adapt to changing conditions and optimize signal direction and power levels, reducing interference while maintaining extended coverage.
3Reliability
If beamforming control is implemented, then signal directionality is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The repeater apparatus is designed with multi-functional capabilities, integrating beamforming control, signal amplification, and communication functions in a single device. This universal design consolidates complexity into one apparatus rather than requiring separate control systems, making the increased control complexity manageable while maintaining improved signal directionality and reliability.
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 the coverage area of base stations while minimizing interference by amplifying and directing radio signals, thereby improving communication reliability and range.
Implementation Method 1
relaying, by one or more repeaters included in the relay apparatus, a radio signal from a base station to a user equipment through beamforming
Implementation Method 2
amplifying a radio signal received from the base station and transmitting the radio signal through directional transmission
Data Source
AI summary
A communication method used in a mobile communication system including a relay apparatus configured to be controlled by a network includes relaying, by one or more repeaters included in the relay apparatus, a radio signal from a base station to a user equipment through beamforming, and controlling, by a control terminal included in the relay apparatus, the repeater by performing wireless communication with the base station. The one or more repeaters include multiple elements to which control values for controlling a propagation state of a radio signal are applicable respectively. The controlling includes specifying a codebook based on a configuration from the base station, the codebook defining a control value set as a set of the control values for each index value.