Multiple-Frequency-Bands Channel Characterization for In-vehicle Wireless Networks

TL;DR

This paper presents comprehensive measurements of in-vehicle wireless channels across multiple frequency bands, revealing similarities and differences in channel properties that inform future vehicle communication system designs.

Contribution

It provides the first comparative analysis of in-vehicle channel characteristics across sub-7 GHz, mmWave, and Sub-THz bands through extensive measurement campaigns.

Findings

High similarity in delay properties between below 7 GHz and mmWave bands in engine bays.

Sparse channels observed at Sub-THz frequencies in engine bay scenarios.

Identified major multipath components and their trajectories across different frequency bands.

Abstract

In-vehicle wireless networks are crucial for advancing smart transportation systems and enhancing interaction among vehicles and their occupants. However, there are limited studies in the current state of the art that investigate the in-vehicle channel characteristics in multiple frequency bands. In this paper, we present measurement campaigns conducted in a van and a car across below 7 GHz, millimeter-wave (mmWave), and sub-Terahertz (Sub-THz) bands. These campaigns aim to compare the channel characteristics for in-vehicle scenarios across various frequency bands. Channel impulse responses (CIRs) were measured at various locations distributed across the engine compartment of both the van and car. The CIR results reveal a high similarity in the delay properties between frequency bands below 7GHz and mmWave bands for the measurements in the engine bay. Sparse channels can be observed at Sub-THz bands in the engine bay scenarios. Channel spatial profiles in the passenger cabin of both the van and car are obtained by the directional scan sounding scheme for three bands. We compare the power angle delay profiles (PADPs) measured at different frequency bands in two line of sight (LOS) scenarios and one non-LOS (NLOS) scenario. Some major \added{multipath components (MPCs)} can be identified in all frequency bands and their trajectories are traced based on the geometry of the vehicles. The angular spread of arrival is also calculated for three scenarios. The analysis of channel characteristics in this paper can enhance our understanding of in-vehicle channels and foster the evolution of in-vehicle wireless networks.