Comprehensive analysis of mmWave antenna array for B5G/6G mobile device based on experimental measurements

This paper presents an in-depth investigation into the design and experimental validation of an antenna array for a metallic casing handset device, optimised for millimetre-wave (mmWave) 5G frequencies, specifically within the 3GPP n257 band (26.5-29.5 GHz). It outlines the transformation of a single antenna element into a 4 × 1 linear array configuration. Deploying three such arrays within the mobile device, the study evaluates their performance across various scenarios mimicking real-world user interactions, with a focus on signal blockage due to hand placement. The study demonstrates that the optimised antenna locations achieve considerable gain coverage, further enhanced through the implementation of beam steering, aimed at mitigating signal blockage effects. The paper also explores the diminishing returns of increasing the phase shifter resolution. Experimental results, supported by extensive simulations and far-field measurements, validate the antenna array’s efficacy in providing quasi-omnidirectional radiation patterns and robust performance in the face of user-induced blockages. The practical mobile device antenna array results are used for a comprehensive analysis in the form of the cumulative distribution function (CDF) performance of the mobile device. Spectral efficiency is also assessed for direct line-of-sight (LOS) scenarios, and also in reflective intelligent surface (RIS) assisted wireless environments in which LOS is not available, which showcases practicality of the device in B5G/6G applications. The set of conclusions provides valuable insights for next-generation mobile communication system design and deployment.