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Deep Learning-Based Approach for User Activity Detection with Grant-Free Random Access in Cell-Free Massive MIMO

Ali Elkeshawy, HaÏfa Farès, Amor Nafkha

TL;DR

This work tackles the challenge of reliable user activity detection in grant-free random access for CF-mMIMO-based mMTC. It introduces a Deep Multilayer Perceptron (DMLP) that reframes activity detection as multi-binary label classification, trained on synthetic CF-mMIMO data under non-orthogonal pilot a settings and 3GPP channel models. A clustering-based detection scheme is proposed to reduce computational load while preserving accuracy, and the study analyzes robustness to input perturbations and fixed-point quantization. Results show the DMLP achieves high detection performance (up to 99% accuracy in simulations), with stronger resilience than covariance-based methods across diverse channel conditions and system configurations, highlighting its practical relevance for scalable IoT connectivity in CF-mMIMO networks.

Abstract

Modern wireless networks must reliably support a wide array of connectivity demands, encompassing various user needs across diverse scenarios. Machine-Type Communication (mMTC) is pivotal in these networks, particularly given the challenges posed by massive connectivity and sporadic device activation patterns. Traditional grant-based random access (GB-RA) protocols face limitations due to constrained orthogonal preamble resources. In response, the adoption of grant-free random access (GF-RA) protocols offers a promising solution. This paper explores the application of supervised machine learning models to tackle activity detection issues in scenarios where non-orthogonal preamble design is considered. We introduce a data-driven algorithm specifically designed for user activity detection in Cell-Free Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (CF-mMIMO) networks operating under GF-RA protocols. Additionally, this study presents a novel clustering strategy that simplifies and enhances activity detection accuracy, assesses the resilience of the algorithm to input perturbations, and investigates the effects of adopting floating-to-fixed-point conversion on algorithm performance. Simulations conducted adhere to 3GPP standards, ensuring accurate channel modeling, and employ a deep learning approach to boost the detection capabilities of mMTC GF-RA devices. The results are compelling: the algorithm achieves an exceptional 99\% accuracy rate, confirming its efficacy in real-world applications.

Deep Learning-Based Approach for User Activity Detection with Grant-Free Random Access in Cell-Free Massive MIMO

TL;DR

This work tackles the challenge of reliable user activity detection in grant-free random access for CF-mMIMO-based mMTC. It introduces a Deep Multilayer Perceptron (DMLP) that reframes activity detection as multi-binary label classification, trained on synthetic CF-mMIMO data under non-orthogonal pilot a settings and 3GPP channel models. A clustering-based detection scheme is proposed to reduce computational load while preserving accuracy, and the study analyzes robustness to input perturbations and fixed-point quantization. Results show the DMLP achieves high detection performance (up to 99% accuracy in simulations), with stronger resilience than covariance-based methods across diverse channel conditions and system configurations, highlighting its practical relevance for scalable IoT connectivity in CF-mMIMO networks.

Abstract

Modern wireless networks must reliably support a wide array of connectivity demands, encompassing various user needs across diverse scenarios. Machine-Type Communication (mMTC) is pivotal in these networks, particularly given the challenges posed by massive connectivity and sporadic device activation patterns. Traditional grant-based random access (GB-RA) protocols face limitations due to constrained orthogonal preamble resources. In response, the adoption of grant-free random access (GF-RA) protocols offers a promising solution. This paper explores the application of supervised machine learning models to tackle activity detection issues in scenarios where non-orthogonal preamble design is considered. We introduce a data-driven algorithm specifically designed for user activity detection in Cell-Free Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (CF-mMIMO) networks operating under GF-RA protocols. Additionally, this study presents a novel clustering strategy that simplifies and enhances activity detection accuracy, assesses the resilience of the algorithm to input perturbations, and investigates the effects of adopting floating-to-fixed-point conversion on algorithm performance. Simulations conducted adhere to 3GPP standards, ensuring accurate channel modeling, and employ a deep learning approach to boost the detection capabilities of mMTC GF-RA devices. The results are compelling: the algorithm achieves an exceptional 99\% accuracy rate, confirming its efficacy in real-world applications.
Paper Structure (21 sections, 20 equations, 14 figures, 1 table)

This paper contains 21 sections, 20 equations, 14 figures, 1 table.

Figures (14)

  • Figure 1: Cell-Free network model for mMTC.
  • Figure 2: Distribution of users and access points within the network.
  • Figure 3: Architecture of the DMLP algorithm proposed for UAD.
  • Figure 4: DMLP algorithm performance in scenario II from ganesan2020clustering.
  • Figure 5: Mathematical approach performance in scenario I.
  • ...and 9 more figures