User-Centric Multi-RATs Coordination for 5G Heterogeneous Ultra-Dense Networks

Abstract

This column reviews the concept of user-centric access, which permits the network to tailor a “follow me” virtual cell for a user via multipoint coordination in a UDN environment. We further discuss the feasibility of extending such a virtual cell by considering tight integration of heterogeneous RATs exposed to the user, by taking the context information and instantaneous status of the user device into account. In particular, we conceive an edge/fog computing platform capable of acquiring and jointly processing information from multiple heterogeneous RATs and the users. Such a framework may have great potential to play key roles in 5G and beyond, in terms of realizing truly flexible radio access that can be customized for each individual user in the network.