Multi-Link MIMO Channel Modeling Using Geometry-Based Approach

Geometry-based stochastic channel models (GSCMs) are extended to support multi-link simulations by applying the concept of common clusters. This novel approach aims to control the correlation between different links, inter-link correlation, by adjusting the amount of power simultaneously propagating via the same clusters in the different links. The behavior of common clusters is analyzed based on dual-link channel measurements, and a multi-link GSCM is developed based on common clusters. In addition, the effects that the common clusters have on inter-link correlation and on sum rate capacity are investigated based on simulations. Finally, comparison between simulations and measurements is done in order to indicate the validity of the proposed multi-link GSCM.