Grant: Alliance Grants

In response to the pressing challenges posed by natural disasters in Canada, this research proposal embarks on a strategic endeavor to revolutionize terrestrial and non-terrestrial network (TNTN) technology. These disasters have inflicted significant loss of life, structural damages, and debilitating power and communications outages across the nation. Concurrently, the paradigm shift towards terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, integrating terrestrial, aerial, and satellite platforms, is envisioned as a cornerstone of the sixth-generation mobile system standard (6G). This research proposal aims to advance TNTN technology by focusing on the integration of terahertz (THz) communications, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS), and hybrid multiple-input multiple-output (HMIMO) systems into TNTNs. The proposal highlights several key challenges and gaps in existing research, including the lack of comprehensive channel models for THz links, limited application of channel estimation techniques in THz-RIS-HMIMO-based TNTNs, and the need for efficient resource management and deployment strategies. Therefore, the research project will focus on three main aspects: (1) Developing novel 3D channel modeling and estimation techniques for THz-RIS-HMIMO-based TNTNs, (2) Designing and implementing AI/ML-based efficient RRM algorithms for THz-RIS-HMIMO-based TNTNs, and (3) Enhancing TNTN coverage and capacity through intelligent planning of TNTN elements as well as RIS and HMIMO surfaces. For Canada, the AI-empowered integrated THz-RIS-HMIMO network holds significant importance, particularly in disaster management scenarios. The project's outcomes will provide valuable insights to operators and policymakers in the Canadian telecommunications industry, enhance Canada's expertise in 6G wireless networks, and strengthen its global standing as a leader in these domains. Furthermore, the initiative fosters innovation and economic growth, and reinforces Canada's position in AI and wireless networks, crucial for the future digital economy and the operational capabilities of the Canadian Forces.