Electromagnetic and thermal characterization of a smart wall with embedded antennas and cables

Next-generation wireless networks are envisioned to support the growing demand of higher data rate and bandwidth. In this regard, millimeter wave communications have received considerable attention due to large available bandwidth. Despite that, higher frequencies introduce a higher path loss, making the outdoor to indoor communication more challenging. Furthermore, indoor coverage is constrained by new energy efficient buildings, equipped with high insulated structures. As a solution to the indoor coverage problem, the use of passive antenna systems embedded into building walls is proposed in this work. Analytical and numerical models are presented to characterize a load bearing wall from a thermal and electromagnetic point of view. Afterwards, a novel thermal equivalent model to evaluate the heat transfer along a coaxial cable has been introduced. Analytical and numerical models of passive ultrawideband antenna solution embedded in a wall, also called signal-transmissive wall, have been developed. In addition to this, an analytical transmission model that takes into account the overall electromagnetic behavior of the signal-transmissive wall has been derived. Results show that over a wideband the electromagnetic transmission of the wall with embedded antennas and cables is considerably improved with respect to the ordinary wall, without compromising thermal insulation. The choice of coaxial cable conductor materials is essential for the performance of the proposed solution.