A Critical Review on Channel Modeling: Implementations, Challenges and Applications

Abstract

In recent years, the use of massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems and higher frequency bands for next-generation urban rail transportation systems has emerged as an intriguing research topic due to its potential to significantly increase network capacity by utilizing available narrowband and broadband spectrums. In metro and mining applications, the high-reliability wireless sensor network (WSN) plays a vital role in providing personal safety, channel optimization, and improving operational performance. Through the duration of 1921–2023, this paper provides the survey on the progress of fifth-generation (5G) and beyond-fifth-generation (B5G) wireless communication systems in underground environments such as tunnels and mines, the evolution of the earliest technologies, development in channel modeling for vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications, and realization of different wireless propagation channels in high-speed train (HST) environments. In addition, the most recent advanced channel modeling methods are examined, including the development of new algorithms and their use in intelligent transportation systems (ITS); mathematical, analytical, and experimental techniques for propagation design; and the significance of the radiation characteristics, antenna placing, and physical environment effect on wireless communications. Leaky coaxial cable (LCX) and distributed antenna system (DAS) designs are introduced in the demonstrated systems for improving the channel capacity of narrowband and wideband channels as well as the spatial characteristics of various MIMO systems. The review article concludes by figuring out open research directions for future technologies.

Machine Learning-Based Beamforming Algorithm for Massive MIMO Systems in 5G Networks

“…The precise channel modeling constitutes the important part of beamforming optimization. A review by Saleem et al [16] presents critical analysis of implementations, challenges and applications to channel modeling approaches. This study provides the necessary background of challenges involved in modeling a wireless channel and prepares the ground for advanced beamforming algorithms.…”

Radio Link Model for Node Deployment in Underground Mine Sensor Networks

“…Waveguides have characteristic cut-off frequencies, below which EM waves cannot propagate. Frequencies that are above the cut-off can propagate via multiple bounces off the walls, though at the expense of reflection path losses [18,19]. The loss increases at higher frequencies, which is why 433 MHz-based devices have been used for experiments within the proposed study for low data rates and high-range applications.…”

“…The prior studies contain propagation measurements at the 433 MHz band conducted in various environments, such as underground to underground and underground to above-ground communication, but not in underground mine environments [1,2,4,5,12]. Prior research does not contain radio models for different cross-sections of underground mines and tunnels in different structural layouts [18,19].…”