Distributed PHY-layer mesh networks

Mesh connectivity is traditionally dealt with at IP-layer, where packets are relayed to adjacent network nodes according to prior specified rules. Recently, the concept of data relaying at PHY-layer has gained widespread interest, where regenerative and transparent relaying are feasible M. O. Hasna, M-S. Alouini (2002). In parallel, investigations into MIMO systems have become mature. The current paper introduces a generalised concept of data relaying at PHY layer, where relaying is combined with MIMO technology. The thus created distributed PHY-layer mesh network is a natural generalisation of previously introduced virtual antenna arrays.