Artificial Intelligence-enabled Massive Multiple-input multiple-output (AIMM)

The fifth-generation of mobile network (5G) aims at transforming the role of wireless technology in society through providing ubiquitous connectivity and many other improvements. In the initial phase of 5G, coverage will only be available in certain areas in a number of large cities worldwide. Increasing the 5G footprint requires additional investments from the operators to deploy new antennas, add spectrum, and upgrade their existing infrastructure. Telcos hence need to look for efficiency and monetization opportunities, beyond simply providing connectivity. 5G through its inherent attributes is anticipated to create the potential for a host of new services, use-cases, business and revenue models. To achieve full monetization, 5G networks must embed new emerging technologies including edge caching, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI) -- with the goal of generating actionable insights and maximizing key performance indicators (KPIs). Creating strong partnerships between telcos, vertical industries, and public agencies is the way forward to realise this.

AIMM is a collaborative research and development project involving BT, the largest fixed and mobile operator in the country, Vilicom, an SME specialising in wireless connectivity solutions, and leading research institutions in University of Bristol and Loughborough University. The objective of AIMM is to enhance the performance of mobile radio networks through utilization of AI techniques. Data regarding the distribution, radio channel conditions and service requirements of users will be accessed from the network. AI techniques will be employed to improve performance with existing antenna structures and radio network architectures by enabling better radio access network (RAN) management and optimisation. The value of new items of data that could be collected from both existing architectures and new techniques will also be assessed. The network data sets will also enable AI to unlock the true potential of large-scale antenna arrays (known as massive MIMO), deployed at a central location or distributed over an area, as an important commercial solution for 5G RAN and beyond. At all times, close attention will be paid to the appropriate use and sharing of data between network functions.

AIMM therefore addresses two aspects of AI for the 5G RAN and beyond: (1) using AI to optimise the performance of the air-interface and enable the practicable implementation of advanced antenna structures and (2) using AI to manage and optimise network parameters at the system level. AIMM intends to ensure that UK leads the innovation of the next phases of 5G telecoms networks and services.