Grant: Discovery Grants Program - Individual

Mobile traffic is experiencing an exponential growth, set to persist over the next five years. Fifth-generation (5G) cellular technology has recently been introduced in several countries. Concurrently, another ground breaking technology is making inroads into numerous global mobile devices: impulse-based communications. Originally integrated to deliver ranging information, impulse-based communication will provide numerous advantages in the coming decade: ultra-low latency for real-time human interfaces, minimal power consumption for increased battery life, and ultra-fast data rates for improved user experience. However, the seamless integration of the RF front-end poses several challenges in the realization of this next-generation wireless communication paradigm. Firstly, impulse-based communication mandates ultra wide bands (UWB) of operation, necessitating a larger spatial allocation, causing integration challenges for mobile devices. Secondly, wideband system regulations vary from one country to another, compelling the adoption of a "least common denominator" strategy to achieve global regulatory compliance, significantly constraining the performance of current systems. Lastly, these regulations impose stringent requirements on both in-band and out-of-band emissions, compelling a reduction in performances, thus hindering the full exploitation of the technology's advantages. The overarching goal of this research program is to pioneer enabling technologies for the seamless integration of high-performance impulse-based RF front-ends. Specifically, over the next 5 years, this comprehensive research initiative will concentrate on investigating next-generation integrated front-ends for impulse-based wireless networks. To achieve this objective, we will pursue three immediate goals: 1. Thoroughly investigate a fully integrated reconfigurable Low Temperature Co-Fired Ceramic (LTCC) front-end; 2. Explore single-antenna point-to-point localization techniques; 3. Engage in research on advanced frequency-selective technologies for dynamic interference rejection and spurious signal management. This research program addresses various facets of UWB system integration, encompassing miniaturized passive devices, frequency-adjustable components, and positioning techniques. At the industrial level, this program will yield technologies that extend the capabilities of wireless systems beyond previous boundaries. This impact will resonate across sectors such as transportation, building automation, healthcare, consumer electronics, environmental management, and industrial processes, enhancing Canada's competitive edge. Our research program will nurture expertise at the forefront of this emerging field, promising substantial economic benefits for Canada across diverse domains. Additionally, it will offer invaluable training to 11 Highly Qualified Personnel (HQPs), exposing them to the intricacies of radio-frequency microsystems design, fabrication, and integration.