Okumura Hata Propagation Model Optimization in 400 MHz Band Based on Differential Evolution Algorithm: Application to the City of Bertoua

Abstract

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 differential evolution algorithm to set up a propagation model adapted to the physical environment of the Cameroonian cities of Bertoua. Drive tests were made on the LTE TDD network in the city of Bertoua. Differential evolution algorithm is used as the optimization algorithm to deduct a propagation model which fits the environment of the considered town. The calculation of the root mean square error 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 free space models, allowed us to conclude that the new model obtained is better and more representative of our local environment than the Okumura Hata currently used. The implementation shows that Differential evolution can perform well and solve this kind of optimization problem; the newly obtained models can be used for radio planning in the city of Bertoua in Cameroon.