OFDM Waveform for Monostatic ISAC in 6G: Vision, Approach, and Research Directions

TL;DR

This paper explores how OFDM waveforms can be utilized for monostatic sensing in 6G networks, proposing practical methods to enable radar-like functionalities on communication devices.

Contribution

It introduces practical approaches for implementing OFDM-based monostatic sensing in 6G, an area with limited prior exploration.

Findings

OFDM signals can enable radar-like sensing capabilities

Proposed methods facilitate ranging and Doppler estimation

Stimulates further research in OFDM-based ISAC

Abstract

Integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) is widely regarded as a key enabling technology for 6G wireless networks. While extensive research has explored the coexistence of sensing and communication functionalities, the use of orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) waveforms for monostatic ISAC remains underexplored. In this article, we present practical approaches for enabling monostatic sensing on wireless communication devices and illustrate how OFDM signals can provide radar-like sensing capabilities such as ranging, Doppler estimation, and environmental perception. We hope this article will stimulate further research on OFDM-based monostatic ISAC and accelerate its adoption in 6G networks.