A Robust Tensor-Based Receiver for Joint Channel Estimation and Symbol Detection in UAV Assisted Communication Systems

In this paper, for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) assisted communication systems, we propose a robust tensor-based receiver for joint channel estimation and symbol detection. Firstly, at the source node (SN), the proposed receiver adopts a superposition transmitting scheme for information symbol and pilot signal. Then, the UAV amplifies and forwards the received signals to the destination node (DN), and the signals received at DN are constructed to a fourth-order tensor model. Finally, a robust algorithm is developed to fitting the constructed tensor model for joint channel estimation and symbol detection. The proposed receiver can effectively estimate channels and detect symbols. Compared with the existing receivers, our receiver has better performance of channel estimation and symbol detection.

I. Introduction

Recently, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has been widely used in various fields with their high flexibility and reliability [1]. For example, in the case of reconstruction services after natural disasters or traffic diversion in sudden traffic accidents on the ground, UAV can play a huge role as a space base station. Compared with traditional terrestrial communication systems, UAV assisted communication system can achieve orders of magnitude performance improvement [2]. On the other hand, the UAV relay can be placed at any position and height as needed [3], [4], and the performance index of the UAV relay can be dynamically deployed according to demand [5]. In conclusion, MIMO relay node based on UAV can provide network operators with greater flexibility.