FNR VARRAY-5G

FNR VARRAY-5G: Vehicular Phase Array Antennas for 5G

Project Description:

In today's era, where autonomous vehicles and the demand for high-speed internet during transit are on the rise, enhancing vehicular communication systems has become critical. The integration of 5G technology is pivotal in achieving seamless connectivity, enabling vehicles not only to communicate with each other but also to access various online services without interruption. However, the widespread adoption of this technology faces a significant hurdle: the high cost of the necessary equipment for vehicles to utilize 5G.

The VARRAY5G project is dedicated to overcoming this challenge by developing more cost-effective solutions for vehicular 5G connectivity. This endeavor focuses on two main strategies:

1. Redesigning Antenna Layouts: VARRAY5G is exploring innovative configurations for antennas, which are crucial for sending and receiving signals. By adopting unconventional layouts arrays, the project aims to decrease the number of antennas required. This approach is akin to optimizing resource usage while ensuring performance is not compromised, thereby reducing production costs.

2. Advancing Antenna Covers: The project is also investigating the use of advanced materials for antenna covers, known as radomes, to enhance signal direction and strength. These radomes are designed to help antennas focus or steer their signals more efficiently, similar to how a lens focuses or bend light , enabling better communication at various angles and distances.

The ultimate goal of VARRAY5G is to cut down on the use of expensive components by about 40%, making 5G technology more accessible for the automotive industry. 

Duration:

3 years (starting 01.09.2025)

Funding:

This project is funded by the Luxembourg National Research Fund (FNR) under the CORE program in the 2024 call.

Non-Contractual Partner: SES Luxembourg

Research Team:

• Dr. Eva Lagunas (SnT) – PI

• Dr Juan Andres Vasquez-Peralvo (SnT) – VPI

• To be hired - PhD Student