Repeater-IRS Architecture for NLOS mmWave Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G NR technology faces challenges in maintaining effective communication due to obstructions, particularly in non-line-of-sight (NLOS) scenarios and increased propagation losses at millimeter wave (mmW) bands, which affect the reliability and efficiency of wireless communications.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a repeater unit (RU) and a control entity associated with an intelligent reflective surface (IRS), where the base station detects obstructions and transmits indications to the control entity to configure the RU and IRS for optimal communication, using steerable or fixed beams to repeat and reflect signals around obstructions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If millimeter wave (mmW) bands are used for wireless communication, then data rate and capacity are improved, but propagation losses increase and communication reliability deteriorates in obstructed areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intelligent reflective surface (IRS) as an intermediary component to reflect mmW signals from base stations to user equipment in non-line-of-sight conditions. The IRS acts as a mediator that captures transmitted signals and redirects them around obstructions, enabling reliable communication without direct visual contact between transmitter and receiver.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes spatial reflection by positioning the intelligent reflective surface on three-dimensional structures such as building facades or walls. This transforms the communication path from a direct line-of-sight constraint to a multi-dimensional geometric relationship, allowing signals to reach users in previously inaccessible areas by bouncing off surfaces at different angles and positions.
2Reliability
If direct line-of-sight communication is required, then communication quality is improved, but coverage area is reduced and adaptability to obstructed environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic beam steering capability in the intelligent reflective surface, allowing the reflection angle and direction to be adjusted in real-time based on the positions of base stations and user equipment. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to maintain optimal communication quality while serving users in various locations, transforming static reflective surfaces into actively controllable signal routing elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The intelligent reflective surface is designed to serve multiple functions: it can reflect signals to different user equipment simultaneously, support multiple base stations, and adapt to various obstruction scenarios. This multi-functionality allows a single IRS deployment to enhance coverage across diverse environmental conditions and user distributions, significantly expanding the system's versatility.
3Reliability
If repeater units and intelligent reflective surfaces are deployed, then coverage and reliability in obstructed areas are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the repeater unit and intelligent reflective surface into an integrated system where both components work together under unified control. This merging reduces the need for separate control mechanisms and simplifies the overall system architecture by coordinating signal amplification and reflection through a single control entity, thereby managing complexity while maintaining enhanced coverage capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The intelligent reflective surface incorporates self-configuration capabilities that allow it to automatically adjust its reflection patterns based on detected signal conditions and user equipment positions. This self-service functionality reduces the need for complex external control systems and manual configuration, simplifying deployment and operation while maintaining adaptive performance in obstructed environments.
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
This solution enhances communication reliability and efficiency by enabling seamless communication even in obstructed areas, reducing path losses and improving coverage by using the IRS to reflect signals effectively, thus overcoming the limitations of mmW propagation.
Implementation Method 1
intelligent reflective surface (IRS)...using steerable or fixed beams to repeat and reflect signals around obstructions
Data Source
AI summary
A node including an RU and a control entity is disclosed. The node may receive, from a base station at a control entity of the node, an indication of at least one obstruction for communication via at least one reflective surface. The indication may indicate to the control entity to utilize an RU of the node and the at least one reflective surface for communication. The node may configure, upon receiving the indication of the at least one obstruction, the RU and the at least one reflective surface for communication with the base station. The node may forward communication received from, or forward communication to, the base station via the RU and the at least one reflective surface based on the at least one obstruction for communication.