[Paper Review] 6G Channel Modeling: Requirement, Measurement, Methodology and Simulator

Jianhua Zhang, Jiaxin Lin+15 more|arXiv (Cornell University)|May 26, 2023

Advanced Wireless Communication Technologies31 citations

TL;DR

This paper surveys 6G channel research, reviews measurement and modeling for THz, massive MIMO, JPAS (JCAS), and RIS, and introduces a 6G channel simulation platform (BUPTCMG-IMT2030).

ABSTRACT

Sixth-generation (6G) mobile communications have attracted substantial attention in the global research community of information and communication technologies (ICTs). 6G systems are expected to support not only extended 5G usage scenarios but also new usage scenarios, such as integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), integrated artificial intelligence (AI) and communication, and communication and ubiquitous connectivity. To achieve this goal, channel characteristics must be comprehensively studied and properly exploited to promote the design, standardization, and optimization of 6G systems. In this paper, we first summarize the requirements and challenges in 6G channel research. Our focus is on channels for six promising technologies enabling 6G, including ISAC, extremely large-scale MIMO (XL-MIMO), mid-band and terahertz (THz) technologies, reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RISs), and space-air-ground integrated networks (SAGINs). A survey of the progress in 6G channel research regarding the above six promising technologies is presented in terms of the latest measurement campaigns, new characteristics, modeling methods, and research prospects. To support testing, optimization and evaluation, existing 6G channel simulators are summarized. Then, BUPTCMCCCMG-IMT2030 is introduced as an example of a simulator that was developed on the basis of the ITU/3GPP 3D geometry-based stochastic model (GBSM) methodology. We also address open issues covering standardization activities, AI-enabled methods, and system performance analysis in the context of 6G channel research. This paper offers in-depth, hands-on insights into the best practices of channel measurements, modeling, and simulations for the evaluation of 6G technologies, the development of 6G standards, and the implementation and optimization of 6G systems.

Motivation & Objective

• Highlight challenges of 6G channel research (high bands, large arrays, diverse scenarios) and motivate new modeling needs.
• Review measurement and modeling advances for four 6G enabling technologies: THz, massive MIMO, JCAS, and RIS.
• Introduce and describe a first 6G channel simulation platform (BUPTCMG-IMT2030) and provide implementation examples.

Proposed method

• Summarize ITU-R M.2412/3GPP TR 38.901 channel modeling principles and extend to 6G contexts.
• Review THz propagation mechanisms and channel characteristics, including reflection and scattering models with frequency/angle dependence (Fresnel, Rayleigh roughness, ER/B-K/RCS approaches).
• Present measurement campaigns and characterization for THz bands across 100–1100 GHz, including sounder types (VNA+RoF, correlated time-domain), and scenario types.
• Describe 6G channel model extensions to account for near-field effects, spatial non-stationarity, and polarization in 3D MIMO
• Outline a 6G channel simulation platform (BUPTCMG-IMT2030) with framework, steps, and example simulations (THz, non-stationarity, RIS).

Experimental results

Research questions

• RQ1 What are the key channel research challenges specific to 6G (frequency, arrays, propagation mechanisms, and scenarios)?
• RQ2 How do THz, massive MIMO, JCAS, and RIS technologies influence channel measurement, modeling, and parameterization for 6G?
• RQ3 How can a practical 6G channel simulation platform be designed and used to evaluate THz, non-stationarity, and RIS-enabled scenarios?

Key findings

• 6G drives up KPIs (bandwidth, rate, latency, reliability) necessitating new channel models beyond 5G ITU/3GPP norms.
• THz channels exhibit frequency- and angle-dependent reflection and scattering requiring advanced models (Fresnel, Rayleigh roughness, ER/B-K, RCS) and near-field considerations.
• Massive MIMO introduces near-field and spatial non-stationarity effects that must be captured in channel models and simulations.
• JCAS and RIS introduce unique channel modeling needs, including sensing-related signals and programmable surfaces, with incomplete mature models especially in near-field regimes.
• A first 6G channel simulation platform, BUPTCMG-IMT2030, is proposed with practical examples for THz, non-stationarity, and RIS scenarios.