Intelligent wireless networks with innovative MIMO topology

Background

The cellular network technology has evolved over five generations (from 1G to 5G), but the need for more efficient and reliable wireless communication is never-ending. To take the next major step, we must think outside the box; we need to leave the cellular network topology with its compact antenna boxes and spread the antennas over the coverage area; we need to stop creating cells with competing antenna boxes and instead design a cell-less network topology where the antennas jointly provide ubiquitous connectivity.

Purpose and goal

The project will explore three innovative multi-antenna (MIMO) technologies that might revolutionize the design and topology of future networks: communication using large-aperture antenna surfaces (instead of conventional compact boxes), cell-less network operation (instead of conventional cellular operation), and the use of reconfigurable semi-passive reflective surfaces that can control the propagation environment (instead of conventional systems that only control the transmitter and receiver hardware).

Expected outcome

The project aims to lay the theoretical foundation for new MIMO technologies that can play a key role in 6G. The outcome will be refined channel and system models that capture the key properties of the new MIMO topologies, which will then be utilized to design new signal processing algorithms and develop new communication theory methods for the system operation and performance prediction.

Planned approach and implementation

The project is led by Professor Emil Björnson and is funded by a Future Research Leader Grant from the Swedish Foundation for Strategic Research. Two doctoral students and one postdoc have been recruited to work on this research project.

Duration

2021-2025

Contact person

External link

Please see the video: Towards 6G: Massive MIMO is a Reality—What is Next?