Non-linear processing breakthrough: faster and more efficient wireless networks thanks to Surrey research

University of Surrey researchers are developing new, close-to-market signal processing methods that can revolutionise future wireless communication systems.

They will do so by optimising the way we explore the limited available spatial, frequency and time resources, in a project called NL-COMM.

In order to support the plethora of the new, pending, transformative use-cases, ranging from enhanced industrial automation and smart transportation to multi-sensory extended reality, we need wireless systems able to fully exploit the available spatial, frequency and time resources of the wireless channel, in power efficient manner.

By solving long-standing theoretical and practical problems we show how non-linear processing can substantially improve, if not revolutionise, future wireless networks.

Thanks to this award, we hope to turn our proven results into commercially viable products. NL-COMM promises substantial gains in terms of spectral-efficiency and connectivity capabilities, as well as increased power efficiency and reduced deployment and operation costs to mobile network operators. Dr Konstantinos Nikitopoulos, Associate Professor at the University of Surrey's Institute for Communication Systems, and leader of this research.

Attached picture Capture: Achievable Spectral Efficiency for a 4x4, software-based, Multi-User MIMO set-up with linear and non-linear processing.

As the team shows in this video using this demonstrator, more users can be accommodated with fewer antennae, better exploring the spatial, frequency and time resources, and potentially resulting in substantial power savings.

NL-COMM is one of the two Surrey projects awarded funding through the Small Business Research Initiative in Future Telecommunications Challenge. This forms part of a £62m investment from UKRI, the public body that funds research and innovation.

Another team of Surrey researchers will investigate a new kind of 'sweeping' antenna. These could reduce mobile 'blackspots' by deploying a network of swept beam masts.

Our new antenna could radically improve the coverage in mobile cellular networks without increasing the electromagnetic footprint.

"We are grateful to UKRI for this significant investment that will help us make wireless networks more energy efficient and sustainable.
Dr Atta Quddus, Lecturer in Wireless Communications