Invited speakers

Radio Localization and Sensing towards 6G: the Carrier Pendulum Swing

Abstract: The evolution of mobile communications systems, from 3G onwards, has consistently pushed the boundaries of technology into higher carrier frequencies to harness increased bandwidth and, consequently, greater data capacity. This progression has not only revolutionized communication but also significantly enhanced positioning technologies. Since the 3GPP’s 16th release, the integration of positioning services has become increasingly critical, evolving alongside each generation of mobile technology. As the world transitions from 4G to 5G, and now edges towards 6G, the quest for frequencies capable of meeting the rigorous demands of extreme positioning accuracy and innovative sensing capabilities intensifies. This talk delves into the exploration of these new frequency bands, evaluating their impact and utility from a positioning and sensing perspective. We will analyze the roles of various frequency bands—from below 10 GHz, traversing through the 28 GHz landmark of 5G, and venturing into the sub-THz bands anticipated (by some) in 6G—before circling back to reassess the value of lower frequencies. This presentation aims to shed light on the models, methods, and potential challenges that lie ahead in the relentless pursuit of precision and reliability in radio localization and sensing technologies.

Bio: Henk Wymeersch obtained the Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering/Applied Sciences in 2005 from Ghent University, Belgium. He is currently a Professor of Communication Systems with the Department of Electrical Engineering at Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden. Prior to joining Chalmers, he was a postdoctoral researcher from 2005 until 2009 with the Laboratory for Information and Decision Systems at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Prof. Wymeersch served as Associate Editor for IEEE Communication Letters (2009-2013), IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications (since 2013), and IEEE Transactions on Communications (2016-2018) and is currently Senior Member of the IEEE Signal Processing Magazine Editorial Board.  During 2019-2021, he was an IEEE Distinguished Lecturer with the Vehicular Technology Society.  Since 2024, he is a Fellow of the IEEE. His current research interests include the convergence of communication and sensing, in a 5G and Beyond 5G context.

Recent trends in high precision PNT landscape