PI: Fredrik Tufvesson (LU)
The rapid evolution of the wireless communication systems has significantly changed the daily life of people in the past decades. Fifth Generation (5G) and beyond 5G (B5G) wireless communication systems are expected to provide much higher network capacities, multi-Gigabit-per-second (Gbps) data rates, low latency and ultra-reliable communication while at similar cost and energy dissipation as today. The millimeter-wave (mmWave) and lower THz frequency bands (30-300 GHz) have been seen as the key enabler for B5G. Research for understanding the mmWave and lower THz propagation channel is essential, since the propagation channels are distinct at different frequency bands, and devices and applications have to be designed with the constraints set by the propagation channel. Currently, extensive measurements and investigations have been conducted across the world at 28, 38, 60, and 73 GHz. Standard bodies and projects such as 3GPP, METIS and mmMAGIC have also proposed channel models for below-100 GHz frequency bands based on extensive field data. Compared to frequencies below 100 GHz, there are much wider spectrum slots available above 100 GHz, which have the potential for advanced applications such as wireless backhaul for fix links, indoor/WiFi access, velocity sensors, passive mmWave cameras, radar, navigation, and on-body communication. Among the spectrum slots, the D-band (110-170 GHz) is favorable due to the low atmospheric absorption loss and its very wide available spectrum. However, very little is known about the channel characteristics at this lower THz band. The reasons for the scarcity of investigations include the difficulties in developing double-directional channel sounders for dynamic channel characterization, efficiently and accurately extracting propagation channel parameters from the measurement data, and developing low-complexity channel models yet with high fidelity to the real channels. To fill the gaps, the project aims to explore the “new frequency bands” and the possibilities these open up for. The goal of the project is to create basic theory, technology and knowledge in channel characterization, parameter estimation, and modeling for the lower THz channel. We aim to gain the very first understanding, make breakthroughs and provide guidelines to open up for realistic system design and performance analysis of communication, positioning and sensing in the lower THz band.
Project number: A11
