Implementation, validation and application of the 3GPP 3D MIMO channel model in open source simulation tools

Abstract

Beamforming and Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) have been identified as key technologies to meet the ever increasing capacity demands in future mobile cellular networks. So far, these features have mainly been investigated in the azimuth dimension, considering one-dimensional antenna arrays. Recently, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project has released a new 3-dimensional (3D) spatial channel model that also accounts for the elevation. It supports two-dimensional antenna arrays and enables to scrutinize concepts such as elevation beamforming and Full Dimension-Multiple Input Multiple Output. However, existing studies have mainly been carried out with commercial tools, thus largely limiting their reproducibility. This paper provides a guideline for the practical implementation of the 3D channel model into existing link-and system level simulation tools. Considering the complexity of the model itself, our main focus is on computational efficiency. We validate our approach with the Vienna LTE-A Downlink System Level Simulator and present simulation examples with various planar antenna arrays and polarization schemes.

3GPP 3D MIMO channel model: a holistic implementation guideline for open source simulation tools

“…7.3) and implemented in [17] for the desired channel. This consists of 12 steps, which we will subsequently denote as 'Step N' with N∈ {1, .…”

“…In the 3GPP 3D channel model, channel coefficients H i,u,s,n (t) are determined individually for each eNodeB sector i, each cluster n, and each receiver-and transmitter antenna element pair {u,s}, respectively. Similar to the implementation in [17], the calculation of H i,u,s,n (t) requires to generate delays (Step 5), cluster powers (Step 6) as well as arrival-and departure angles for both azimuth and elevation (Step 7). After coupling the rays within a cluster (Step 8), cross polarization power ratios (XPRs), and random initial phases are drawn (Step 9 and 10).…”

“…In [17], we have demonstrated the implementation of the 3GPP 3D model for the desired channel. We now extend this approach by also taking into account the interfering links.…”

“…Two scenarios, 3D-UMa and 3D-UMi, are investigated. In [17], the calibration results for large-scale parameter statistics are based on the angular parameters, which are generated in Step 4. In this contribution, we provide the calibration results for large scale parameter statistics, using the circular angle spread method, as recommended in [25].…”

“…In [17], we have introduced the implementation and validation of the 3GPP 3D channel model in open source simulation tools, considering only the desired signal channels, while the interfering channels are modeled by Rayleigh fading. In this contribution, we extend our approach considering also the interfering links to fade according to the 3GPP 3D channel model.…”