Integration of Non-Terrestrial Network for 5G IoT and Future 6G
Main Article Content
Keywords
NTN, UAV, Non-Terrestrial Network, NB-IoT, Satellite
Abstract
The exponential growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) has spurred the need for robust and extensive connectivity solutions. In response to the market and use-case requirements, the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) introduced Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT). The latest NB-IoT integration with Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) aims to bridge the coverage gaps in challenging terrains and address capacity issues in dense urban environments through the utilisation of satellites and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This research paper explores the potential of NTN systems to complement and enhance the capabilities of 5G NB-IoT and 6G technologies. Through a combination of academic research and simulation, it seeks to evaluate the advantages of NTN, such as extended coverage and improved signal quality, for massive IoT device connectivity. Our simulation results demonstrate a trade-off between coverage and network capacity: while higher UAV altitudes provide extensive coverage by reaching more receivers, they also suffer from reduced signal strength and capacity due to increased path loss. This paper provides an overview of technical specifications and challenges related to NB-IoT and NTN, an assessment of NB-IoT NTN performance in a real-world scenario, and an analytical framework with simplified graphical representations for evaluating NTN integration into NB-IoT.
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Oi Shan Wong, RMIT University
OI SHAN WONG received her Bachelor's degree (BA) in Telecommunication from Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA and her Master's Degree (MEng) in Telecommunication and Network Engineering from RMIT, Melbourne, Australia.
Mark A Gregory, RMIT University
MARK A. GREGORY (SM’99) is a Fellow of the Institute of Engineers Australia and a Senior Member of the IEEE. Mark A. Gregory received a Ph.D. from RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia in 2008, where he is an Associate Professor in the School of Engineering. In 2009, he received an Australian Learning and Teaching Council Citation for an outstanding contribution to teaching and learning. He is the Managing Editor of an international journal (IJICTA) and the General Chair of an IEEE Technically co-Sponsored Conference (ITNAC). Research interests include telecommunications, network design, public policy and technical risk.
Shuo Li, RMIT University
SHUO LI is a Lecturer in the School of Engineering, RMIT University, Australia. Dr Li received her B.Eng degree from the City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR in 2009 and her Ph.D. degree from the same University in 2014. Her research interests include the analysis and design of telecommunications networks, multi-access edge computing and security.
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