Microcellular propagation prediction model based on an improved ray tracing algorithm.

Area of Science:

• Electromagnetics and Wave Propagation
• Wireless Communication Systems
• Computational Electromagnetics

Background:

• Two-dimensional (2D)/two-and-one-half-dimensional ray tracing (RT) algorithms are crucial for channel prediction in urban microcellular environments.
• Existing RT algorithms offer high efficiency and reliable accuracy but can be further optimized for speed and convenience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose an improved RT algorithm for accelerating point-to-point prediction in urban microcellular environments.
• To enhance the efficiency of coverage prediction over large areas for microcellular communication applications.

Main Methods:

• Development of an improved RT algorithm integrating the "orientation face set" concept and a 2D polar sweep algorithm.
• Implementation of threshold control for ray paths and handling of visible grid points for reflection and diffraction sources.
• Validation through comparison of computed predictions with measured results in urban scenarios.

Main Results:

• The proposed improved RT algorithm significantly accelerates point-to-point prediction.
• Enhanced efficiency in coverage prediction for large urban areas was achieved.
• The model demonstrated good performance and accuracy in urban microcellular environments.

Conclusions:

• The improved RT algorithm is an effective and convenient tool for microcellular communication applications.
• The study validates the proposed model's utility for practical microcellular system design and analysis.