Sensor Fusion and Resource Management in MIMO-OFDM Joint Sensing and Communication

This study explores the promising potential of integrating sensing capabilities into multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO)-orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM)-based networks through innovative multi-sensor fusion techniques, tracking algorithms, and resource management. A novel data fusion technique is proposed within the MIMO-OFDM system, which promotes cooperative sensing among monostatic joint sensing and communication (JSC) base stations by sharing range-angle maps with a central fusion center. To manage data sharing and control network overhead introduced by cooperation, an excision filter is introduced at each base station. After data fusion, the framework employs a three-step clustering procedure combined with a tracking algorithm to effectively handle point-like and extended targets. Delving into the sensing/communication trade-off, resources such as transmit power, frequency, and time are varied, providing valuable insights into their impact on the overall system performance. Additionally, a sophisticated channel model is proposed, accounting for complex urban propagation scenarios and addressing multipath effects and multiple reflection points for extended targets like vehicles. Evaluation metrics, including optimal sub-pattern assignment (OSPA), downlink sum rate, and bit rate, offer a comprehensive assessment of the system's localization and communication capabilities, as well as network overhead.