Propagation Model Optimization Based on Ion Motion Optimization Algorithm for Efficient Deployment of eLTE Network

Propagation models are the foundation for radio planning in mobile networks. They are widely used during feasibility studies and initial network deployment, or during network extensions, particularly in new cities. They can be used to calculate the power of the signal received by a mobile terminal, evaluate the coverage radius, and calculate the number of cells required to cover a given area. This paper takes into account the standard K factors model and then uses the Ion motion optimization (IMO) algorithm to set up a propagation model adapted to the physical environment of each of the Cameroonian cities of Yaoundé and Bertoua for different frequencies and technologies. Drive tests were made on the CDMA network in the city of Yaoundé on one hand and on an LTE TDD network in the city of Bertoua on the other hand. IMO is used as the optimization algorithm to deduct a propagation model which fits the environment of the two considered towns. The calculation of the root-mean-square error (RMSE) between the actual data from the drive tests and the prediction data from the implemented model allows the validation of the obtained results. A comparative study made between the RMSE value obtained by the new model and those obtained by the Okumura-Hata and K factors standard models, allowed us to conclude that the new model obtained in each of these two cities is better and more representative of our local environment than the Okumura-Hata currently implemented. The implementation shows that IMO can perform well and solve this kind of optimization problem; the newly obtained models can be used for radio planning in the cities of Yaounde and Bertoua in Cameroon.