Mirror-aided non-LOS VLC channel characterizations with a time-efficient simulation model

Abstract

The emerging cost-efficient visible light communication (VLC)-based indoor wireless network requires an economical solution for backhaul transmission. Non-line-of-sight (non-LOS) VLC links are generally applicable candidates to set up a backhaul network without rearrangement of existing lighting fixtures. Here, we describe non-LOS channels aided by the first-order specular reflection from mirrors, which can be used to overcome the multipath effect of purely diffuse non-LOS channels. Characterizations of purely diffuse and mirror-aided non-LOS channels are conducted with a time-efficient simulation model based on an iterative algorithm. Any bounce of reflections combined with specular and diffuse reflections can be simulated using the proposed iterative VLC model in polynomial time. Simulation results show that mirror-aided non-LOS channels outperform purely diffuse non-LOS links regardless of the link configuration. The effect of concentration and directionality of non-LOS VLC channels is also shown and discussed.