Enclosed mmWave Wearable Networks: Feasibility and Performance

TL;DR

This paper evaluates the feasibility and performance of mmWave frequencies for wearable personal networks in enclosed environments, analyzing reflections and blockages using stochastic geometry.

Contribution

It introduces a novel analysis combining stochastic geometry and shape theory to assess reflections and blockages in dense mmWave wearable networks.

Findings

Reflections can enhance signal power but also increase interference.

Blockages by obstacles and people can reduce interference, improving network performance.

Feasibility of mmWave wearable networks in enclosed settings is supported by the analysis.

Abstract

This paper investigates the feasibility of mmWave frequencies for personal networks of wireless wearable devices in enclosed settings (e.g., commuter trains, subways, airplanes, airports, or offices). At these frequencies, specular reflections off surfaces are expected to contribute intended signal power and, simultaneously, to aggravate the interference at the receivers. Meanwhile, blockages by obstacles and people---including the individuals wearing the devices---are expected to shield receivers from interference. With the aid of stochastic geometry and random shape theory, we assess the interplay of surface reflections and blockages for dense deployments of wearable networks equipped with directional antenna arrays in relevant indoor settings.