Project description
Bridging the gap with near-field positioning in 6G networks
As the technological world marches ahead, the advent of sixth-generation (6G) networks promises unprecedented advancements in communication capabilities. Key to 6G are large array structures like extremely large antenna arrays, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces, and cell-free multiple-input multiple-output. Traditional far-field positioning and tracking methods struggle in this near-field environment due to curved wavefronts. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) programme, the NEAT-6G project aims to develop innovative near-field positioning and tracking techniques. The project encompasses three work packages: designing optimal waveforms for large antenna arrays, developing phase-coherent sensing for non-isotropic targets, and creating algorithms for carrier-phase positioning. Using compressive sensing, optimisation, and machine learning, NEAT-6G strives to establish a robust framework for 6G networks.
Objective
As the technological world marches ahead, the advent of the sixth generation (6G) networks promises unprecedented advancements in communication capabilities. One of the core components of 6G systems will be the inclusion of various large array structures such as the extremely large antenna array, reconfigurable intelligent surface, and cell-free multiple-input multiple-output. Ttraditional positioning and tracking methodologies (which are based on far-field signal models) are ill-suited for these innovations. This is mainly caused by curved wavefront in the near-field models. Consequently, the conventional methods for positioning both passive objects (e.g. walls) and active users (e.g. phones) will be severely degraded when the far-field assumption does not hold. On the other hand, the radio signals optimized for positioning and sensing in the far-field are sub-optimal in the near-field regime. To address this gap, this research aims to develop novel positioning and tracking methods tailored explicitly for the near-field environment of these large array structures. To this end, three work packages (WP) are conducted. WP1 is to design optimal signal waveforms for positioning and sensing with large and/or sparse antenna arrays that can make full use of the near-field features. WP2 is to develop phase-coherent sensing and tracking methods for non-isotropic and extended targets. WP3 is to develop algorithms for carrier-phase based positioning and tracking of active targets, by using the near-field signals transmitted by them. This research intends to solve these challenges through the development and implementation of innovative algorithms and methodologies, such as compressive sensing, convex or non-convex optimization, and machine learning, establishing a dedicated framework for near-field positioning and tracking in 6G networks.
Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
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Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2023-PF-01
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
412 96 Goteborg
Sweden
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.