Abstract:This paper presents a comprehensive exploration of Angle of Arrival (AoA) estimation techniques in 5G environments, using the Sounding Reference Signal (SRS) in Uplink scenarios both in simulations and with actual measurements. Leveraging 5G capabilities, we investigate AoA algorithms for single-base station positioning. The study includes simulations and practical tests on a developed dedicated testbed featuring a base station equipped with a three-element Uniform Linear Array (ULA), considering Line of Sight conditions in an open environment. The testbed, employing Ettus E312 as the transmitter and Ettus N310 as the receiver, details waveform structures and reception processes. Additionally, our study examines the performance of Angle of Arrival (AoA) estimation algorithms, such as Multiple Signal Classification (MUSIC), Estimation of Signal Parameters via Rotational Invariant Techniques (ESPRIT), and Joint Angle and Delay Estimation (JADE) ESPRIT. A MATLAB ray tracing propagation model of the environment where the measurements are conducted, has been constructed. Simulation results using this model are presented, along with the actual measurements. The obtained results affirm the effectiveness of our implementation.
Abstract:This paper presents a novel testbed designed for 5th-Generation (5G) positioning using Universal Software Radio Peripherals (USRPs). The testbed integrates multiple units: an Operation Unit for test management, a User Unit equipped with an Ettus E312 USRP, and a Station Unit featuring an Ettus N310 USRP equipped with a three-element Uniform Linear Array for Angle of Arrival estimation. Alongside ultra wideband ranging, the testbed estimates the user's position relative to the base station. Signal processing algorithms are executed in a dedicated processing unit. Key challenges addressed include phase misalignment between RX channel pairs due to different Local Oscillators in the Ettus N310, necessitating real-time calibration for precise signal alignment. High sampling rates (up to 61.44 MSps) result in large IQ sample files, managed efficiently using a snapshot technique to optimize storage without compromising testbed positioning capabilities. The testbed synchronizes angular measurements with ranging estimates allowing consistent performance evaluation for real-life cases of dynamic users (e.g. pedestrian). Experimental results demonstrate the testbed's effectiveness in achieving accurate pedestrian user localization.
Abstract:A Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface (RIS) can significantly enhance network positioning and mapping, acting as an additional anchor point in the reference system and improving signal strength and measurement diversity through the generation of favorable scattering conditions and virtual line-of-sight paths. In this paper, we present a comprehensive framework aimed at user localization and scatterer position estimation in an indoor environment with multipath effects. Our approach leverages beam sweeping through codebook-based beamforming at an 1-bit RIS to scan the environment, applies signal component extraction mechanisms, and utilizes a super-resolution algorithm for angle-based positioning of both connected users and scatterers. To validate the system's effectiveness, accurate 3D ray tracing models are employed, ensuring the robustness and effectiveness of the proposed approach in practical scenarios.