Capacity Enhancement for 5G Networks Using MmWave Aerial Base Stations: Self-Organizing Architecture and Approach

In 5G networks, an mAeBS can overcome on-ground constraints and enable rapid and flexible deployment, providing an ideal solution for CE in hotspot areas. However, how to control multiple mAeBSs for efficient CE is a challenging issue, and we refer to it as mACE. To tame the trivial management practices involved in mACE, we resort to the SON methodology and propose a self-organizing architecture. A closed-loop management process is correspondingly designed for it, which consists of four phases: analyzing, planning, devaluating, and executing. Thereafter, solutions to the key technical issues, including hotspot identification and mAeBS deployment, are investigated. The effects of the overall mACE approach are intuitively illustrated in a small-scale example case. A few more challenging issues related to mACE are also identified for future research.