PAGE CONTENTS
Objectives
Starting from the Open Air Interface (OAI) framework, the FLEX-SPACE 5G project focuses on following objectives:
- Constructing a modular and flexible end-to-end (E2E) 5G-NR NTN test platform, which allows deployment of User Equipment(s) (UE(s)), gNB(s) and Core Network while seamlessly integrating the system with Lasting’s multi-orbit channel emulator CELEOS. By harnessing SDR technology, this setup enables end users to simulate their 5G-NR use cases over GEO and LEO satellites, as NTN support is embedded within the UE, gNB and channel emulator software.
- Leverage SIB19 support on UE and gNB side to optimise 5G-NR NTN operation over GEO and LEO satellites.
- Enhancing the support for adaptive modulation and coding scheme, enabling the system to react to impairments on the radio link, as emulated by the channel emulator.
- Providing support for handovers using a GEO and LEO satellite link.
- Integrating with the O-RAN SMO framework, by utilising the OAI Non-Real Time RIC to control handover execution.
Challenges
Key challenges:
- Adapt to OAI LEO roadmap and implementation plans.
- Implementation of SIB19 on UE and gNB side, as well as the development of an NTN-Agent that provides ephemeris data to the gNB allowing timely broadcast of SIB19 information.
- Virtualisation of all applications (applications are running in containers).
- Development of an xAPP which controls the HO execution.
System Architecture
The product consists of a 5G-NR NTN communication system capable of dealing with all channel impairments specific to a GEO and LEO satellite channel. It is designed for laboratory use in a cabled RF environment to emulate a real 5G NTN-capable network. The following diagram illustrates the high-level architecture:
Plan
The project milestones are the following:
- PCR: Product definition phase completion.
- PDR: Approval of the high-level architecture for the system.
- TRR: Completion of technical level design and preliminary test reports.
- FR: Presentation and completion of the final report.
Current Status
The project has been successfully demonstrated and closed.
