New indoor propagation model proposed for future B5G/6G rollout

Abstract

Abstract The rollout of the fifth-generation (5G) mobile network was completed in 2020. Now, the focus shifts towards exploring the new perspectives of Beyond 5G (B5G) and 6G. Despite being a key enabler of 5G, millimeter wave technology has not yet been fully implemented due to various deployment challenges. Over the past decade, numerous efforts have been dedicated to modeling the propagation channel across the spectrum from 0.5 to 100 GHz. Propagation models such as Close-In (CI), Floating Intercept (FI), and single frequency Alpha-Beta-Gamma (ABG) have been extensively utilized. However, a significant deviation between co- and cross-polarization models has been observed in many estimated models in the literature. In this paper, we propose an optimization of the classic CI model by considering both TX and RX antenna heights, along with a correction coefficient. Initially, we estimate the propagation channel using the classic CI model in indoor environments, revealing a notable deviation between co- and cross-polarization models. Subsequently, we introduce a new model aimed at reducing this deviation and optimizing the Path Loss Exponent (PLE). With our proposed model, the estimated channel depolarization in Line-of-Sight (LOS) conditions stands at 2.8 dB, 5.6 dB, and 2.9 dB for room, corridor, and stairwell environments, respectively. In contrast, utilizing the conventional model yields channel depolarization figures of 4.8 dB, 8.2 dB, and 7 dB for the same environments. This disparity in channel depolarization can have significant implications for millimeter wave propagation, particularly during meteorological events such as rainfall.