5G communication systems promise extremely high bandwidth connections, ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) links for real time communication and interaction, and support for huge numbers of connected devices in small areas. Beyond just providing faster internet access to more users, 5G communication enables new ways of doing business across industries, from enhanced IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) enabled smart manufacturing to safe autonomous driving and remote surgery.
5G device manufacturers and network infrastructure providers have the challenging task of delivering the expected high performance in a short time, to cost, and without compromising compliance and safety standards. The technological challenges faced by companies investing in these areas are significant and many engineering problems remain unsolved.
Electromagnetic simulation software from SIMULIA enables the rapid design and placement of multiple antenna systems so that they meet 5G specifications, do not interfere with each and are not susceptible to interference from other on-board systems. In addition, using simulation compliance and certification for radiated emissions and human safety can be virtually tested, including for the latest 5G mm-wave cellular standards.
5G Communication Device Design Requires Accurate Multi-physics Simulation
Ubiquitous 5G communication links at sub-6 GHz and mm-wave frequency ranges requires the use of massive MIMO (multiple input multiple output) and antenna array technology both in small cell base stations and user equipment like smartphones.
Adding support for 5G communication standards to already crowded compact devices places huge pressure on engineers to provide innovative high performance solutions that do not create electromagnetic compatibility or electromagnetic interference (EMC/EMI) issues like desense of other communication systems. Additional considerations, like designing for acceptable thermal performance of devices that are more densely packed, or allowing for the finer mechanical tolerances required of components operating at mm-wave frequencies, increase the need for well integrated multi-physics and multi-domain product design.
Accurate 5G simulation, across physics and at all stages of the design process, from early concept exploration to virtual compliance testing, is essential. The extensive Dassault Systèmes SIMULIA portfolio of simulation technology, including mechanical, structural and stress analysis with Abaqus, electromagnetic simulation with CST Studio Suite technology, and other tools for thermal, fatigue and system simulation. Combined with the benefits of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, they allow competitive products to be brought to market on time and on budget, despite the increased challenges posed by designing for 5G communication.
6G - The Next Mobile Communications Standard
6G is already in the research stage and a number of novel technologies and frequency bands are under investigation, including smart reflective surfaces, ultra-massive MIMO and THz and optical communication. Simulation will play a pivotal role to ensure viable specifications and standards are ultimately created. SIMULIA is working closely with emerging 6G stakeholders to develop optimal workflows, best practices and automation.
Consumer Electronics
There are many challenges in designing smart consumer devices. Good antenna design and placement is at the heart of realizing the benefits of modern 5G communication technology. It is essential to overcome the inherent increase in complexity of the required antenna systems. Electromagnetic simulation has become a key tool for Antenna Designers to create and test designs virtually.
Smart Factory and Manufacturing IIoT
High-tech manufacturers are in a great position to use the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) to increase manufacturing flexibility. Modeling and physics-based simulation can significantly reduce the risks and costs of 5G device and infrastructure hardware development and deployment by providing a virtual design and test environment. Virtual deployment scenarios can optimize placement of IoT devices and small cell locations for maximum coverage effectiveness and reliability.
Telecommunications Infrastructure
Telecommunications infrastructure ensures that your data is picked up, transported and delivered to the right addressee. In 5G mobile communications the entrance to the infrastructure is represented by a base station. The base station picks up the signal from a mobile phone through an antenna array. Being able to simulate and predict installed performance of the antenna array as well as interference with other communication devices ensures continuous connectivity.
ADAS & Autonomous Driving
Modern vehicles require full awareness of their surroundings. They detect their environment using a number of technologies such as cameras, radar and sensors. Robust 5G mobile data connectivity is critical to ensuring ADAS and Autonomous Vehicle (AV) systems can interface with internet services, smart road infrastructure and other vehicles and devices. Simulation can help in the design of the components that comprise these systems, as they are are sensitive to placement effects, soiling and electromagnetic interference.
