Sensing system for ISAC based on mmWave base station

Abstract

The increased density of base stations within cities provides improved radar
coverage opportunities. The new generation of communication technology
has given radar and other functions more room to maneuver. The work
presented in this report aims to utilize existing communication base stations
to implement radar functions to provide sensing services. In this way, the
utilization of current devices can be increased while offering additional
services.
A remote-controlled monostatic radar system is built based on two
commercial mmWave base stations. Different environmental sensing
methods were explored, such as channel knowledge and signal cross
correlation. To improve the resolution of the system, the effect of the phase
compensation technique on the results is also explored, as well as a variety
of other techniques.

Popular Abstract

Radar technology has come a long way since its initial military applications in the early 20th century. Radar systems have traditionally been used to detect long-range objects and image remote areas,
often called sensing in this area. Although radar and communication systems focus on different use cases, they share similar bases. The possibility of integrating radar and base station functionality into one system has been pondered and is now studied in 3GPP under the name Integrated Sensing and
Communication (ISAC). In this research, we explored the integration of radar function into Ericsson’s existing communication base station, thus creating a hybrid system capable of providing both
communication and sensing services.
Consider that the base station is Mr. J, a person who wants to talk to you. If Mr. J knows your exact
position, he can focus his voice on the direction where you are and adjust the volume he needs to
use, thus better communicating his voice and message to you. In this research, the base station first scanned a large area to find the target, which means Mr. J looked around and found you. After
acquiring your direction information, Mr. J raised his hand as a reference. He knew that his hand is 30 centimeters from himself and compared the time delay in receiving the reflected echo from you. In
this way, he knows where you are.
The integrated sensing and communication system offers a number of advantages. First, when the
base station is not fully occupied for communications tasks, this spare capacity could be used for
radar to offer additional service. It optimizes the utilization of existing equipment, thereby reducing the need for additional infrastructure. This approach can also provide enhanced sensing services,
such as tracking moving objects or detecting e.g., downs in the air., without the need for an extra
radar installation. For example, imagine an intelligent vehicle equipped with such a system that can obtain very clear and instantaneous environmental information without additional equipment simply
by utilizing existing onboard radar. By utilizing integrated radar capabilities, such systems can improve energy efficiency and responsiveness.
By integrating 5G NR technology into daily life, this advancement paves the way for providing
individuals with more convenient services. This integration revolutionizes the way we perceive and
utilize wireless infrastructure, ultimately shaping a future where communications and sensing coexist seamlessly.

• author: Yan, Hao and Xia, Siqing
• supervisor: Fredrik Tufvesson
• organization: Department of Electrical and Information Technology
• course: EITM02 20241
• year: 2024
• type: H2 - Master's Degree (Two Years)
• subject: Technology and Engineering
• keywords: ISAC, MIMO, Radar, 5G.
• report number: LU/LTH-EIT 2024-1008
• language: English
• id: 9170119
• date added to LUP: 2024-07-09 13:21:15
• date last changed: 2024-07-09 13:21:15