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SoftBank Corp. successfully conducted a field trial in September 2023 using its cylindrical antenna for stratospheric-based wireless communication assistants. The trial took place at Hokkaido Spaceport in Taiki Town, Hokkaido, Japan. The main objective of the trial was to verify coverage area optimization technology that maximizes communication capacity across the entire coverage area

SoftBank utilized a 5G-ready cylindrical antenna for this field trial. The trial was based on the research project titled "Dynamic Area Optimization Technology Using CPS for Aerial Platforms," which was commissioned by the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) in Japan as part of its Beyond 5G R&D Promotion Project in 2022. Area optimization technology plays a crucial role in the development of HAPS-based broadband networks with high-capacity and high-quality communication. SoftBank's uncrewed aircraft assistant called "Sunglider" can cover a wide area of up to 200 km in diameter. However, to improve communication capacity in each area unit, it is necessary to cover the communication area with multiple cells. Communication capacity can also vary depending on the characteristics of the location within the communication area. To address these challenges, SoftBank is considering using its cylindrical antenna as an antenna type for the "Service Link" that facilitates data transmission and reception between HAPS in the stratosphere and ground communication devices

This is done by using beamforming and directional control through digital beamforming technology. SoftBank is developing area optimization technology that concentrates beams in areas with high population densities and traffic. This is based on information that includes the distribution of users on the ground to maximize communication capacity and deliver other network coverage enhancements. In the field trial, SoftBank measured the communication quality within the communication area formed by a cylindrical antenna mounted on an aerial work platform. The placement of cells was adjusted based on user location

To capture user distribution information, location-based information was used for optimized calculations of beam direction and beam width of six cells in the horizontal plane. Based on these results, beam control was performed using the cylindrical antenna. The field trial confirmed that it is possible to optimally control the placement of cells in outdoor environments. SoftBank also confirmed the feasibility and effectiveness of HAPS area optimization technology through this field trial. The knowledge and data obtained from the trial will help SoftBank in realizing the practical use of HAPS technology and enhancing its communication network. For more information on SoftBank's HAPS initiatives, please visit their website.