A UWB-based virtual MIMO communication architecture for beyond 3G cellular networks

This paper proposes a novel network architecture for beyond 3G (B3G) cellular networks, called UWB-based generalized virtual multiple-input multiple-output (G-VMIMO) architecture. The inherent characteristics of UWB technology bring some specifically suitable advantages to design an ad hoc network. The integration of B3G cellular networks and UWB-based wireless personal area network (WPAN) produces the virtual MIMO system. In this paper, we briefly introduce UWB-based wireless personal area network, and then describe the principle and the unique features of G-VMIMO architecture in detail. The feasibility and applicability of G-VMIMO system are validated by computer simulation. Simulation results indicate that the G-VMIMO system achieves good capacity gain. Finally, the challenges caused by the practical application of G-VMIMO system to cellular networks and wireless personal area network is analyzed.