Prof. Zhiguo Ding
Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
Date/Time: Nov 30, 2026 – 15:00 – Online
Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/95307970408
Meeting ID: 953 0797 0408
Using Pinching Antennas to Shape Next-Generation Network Architecture
Due to the explosive growth in the number of wireless devices and diverse wireless services, next-generation wireless networks face unprecedented challenges caused by heterogeneous data traffic, massive connectivity, ultra-high bandwidth efficiency and ultra-low latency requirements. To address these challenges, flexible-antenna systems have been recognized as key enabling technologies of the sixth-generation (6G) wireless networks, as they can intelligently reconfigure users’ effective channel gains and hence significantly enhance their data transmission capabilities. However, the existing flexible-antenna systems have been developed to combat small-scale fading in non-line-of-sight (NLoS) conditions. As a result, they are lack of the capability to reconstruct strong line-of-sight (LoS) links which are typically 100 times stronger than NLoS links. Furthermore, the existing flexible-antenna systems exhibit restricted flexibility, where adding/removing an antenna is not straightforward. This talk focuses on an innovative flexible-antenna system, termed generalised pinching-antenna systems, and how such a new physical technology can reshape the future network architecture. The principles of generalized pinching-antenna systems are described first together with specific examples of generalized pinching-antenna systems, including Docomo’s dielectric waveguide based pinching antennas, leaky coaxial cable (LCX), etc. In addition, promising 6G related applications of generalized pinching antennas, including environment division multiple access (EDMA), integrated sensing and communication, multi-cell interference management, etc, are also illustrated. Finally, important directions for future research, such as antenna/waveguide deployment, channel estimation, etc, are highlighted.