Link blockage modelling for channel state prediction in high-frequencies using deep learning

Sammanfattning: With the accessibility to generous spectrum and development of high gain antenna arrays, wireless communication in higher frequency bands providing multi-gigabit short range wireless access has become a reality. The directional antennas have proven to reduce losses due to interfering signals but are still exposed to blockage events. These events impede the overall user connectivity and throughput. A mobile blocker such as a moving vehicle amplifies the blockage effect. Modelling the blockage effects helps in understanding these events in depth and in maintaining the user connectivity. This thesis proposes the use of a four state channel model to describe blockage events in high-frequency communication. Two deep learning architectures are then designed and evaluated for two possible tasks, the prediction of the signal strength and the classification of the channel state. The evaluations based on simulated traces show high accuracy, and suggest that the proposed models have the potential to be extended for deployment in real systems.