Automated decision technology for network design in cellular communication systems

The location and configuration of transmission infrastructure for cellular communication networks is a complex engineering task involving many competing objectives. While minimising commitment to infrastructure and maintenance, the network needs to meet quality of service requirements based on signal quality, area coverage and call traffic capacity. In response to this, operators must make decisions over antennae type, power control, tilt and azimuth of equipment in addition to site location. In this overview paper, we describe the problem facing cellular providers using FD-TDMA technology and present an automated approach for managing the entire design process, taking into account the full complexity of the problem. Meta-heuristic optimization procedures are used to both select sites and configure equipment. This results in a deterministic process for designing networks which is not contingent on human experience or judgement.