While fifth-generation (5G) networks are still being rolled out across the globe, MSc Nikita Tafintsev’s doctoral dissertation is already looking ahead, focusing on the next frontier – sixth-generation (6G) networks and beyond. Envisioned as the successor to 5G, 6G networks are expected to provide unprecedented connectivity, offering faster data rates, lower latency, and increased capacity.
These advancements have the potential to revolutionize communications by enabling seamless connectivity for a wide range of applications. To achieve these goals, emerging cellular networks are designed to effectively use a wide spectrum range, emphasizing the utilization of the millimeter-wave (mmWave) spectrum. However, this brings challenges to communication service providers (CSPs).
Streamlined network architecture
One of the major challenges of deploying mmWave-based systems for CSPs is reduced cell range. To address this, a strategy known as network densification may be employed, which involves a deliberate increase in the number of base stations within a designated geographical area. However, establishing connectivity between all these sites through cabling proves to be intricate and imposes significant financial burdens.
Recently proposed IAB technology emerges as a viable solution to these challenges. IAB aims to streamline network architecture, enhance efficiency, and simplify deployments, especially in dense urban environments or areas with limited fiber connectivity.
“Think of a future where your mobile network never falters, even in the most crowded spaces. My research aims to make this a reality by providing the tools and methods needed to build more efficient and accessible mobile networks,” says Nikita Tafintsev.
“In my doctoral dissertation, I investigated and developed new approaches for ultra-dense network deployments. The main effort was made on the performance evaluation and further performance optimization, the benefits of heterogeneous self-backhauled networks, and the impact of data traffic dynamics," he explains.
The research results have been published in seven scientific publications: three top-level journal articles, three flagship conference papers, and one magazine publication. The venues include IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology, IEEE Open Journal of the Communications Society, IEEE Communications Magazine, IEEE International Conference on Communications, and International Congress on Ultra Modern Telecommunications and Control Systems.
Nikita Tafintsev currently works at Nokia as a Technical Patent Specialist in the Radio Protocols invention team, where he helps manage Nokia’s leading portfolio of 5G and 6G standard-essential patents.
Public defence on Wednesday 13 November
The doctoral dissertation of MSc Nikita Tafintsev in the field of Communications Engineering titled Performance Evaluation and Optimization of Integrated Access and Backhaul Systems will be publicly examined at the Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences at Tampere University, Hervanta Campus, in the auditorium TB109 of Tietotalo building (Korkeakoulunkatu 1, Tampere) on Wednesday 13 November 2024 at 12.00. The Opponent will be Professor Kaushik Chowdhury from University of Texas at Austin, USA. The Custos will be Professor Sergey Andreev from Tampere University, Finland. The work has been co-supervised by Professor Mikko Valkama from Tampere University, Finland.
The doctoral dissertation is available online
The public defence can be followed via remote connection