Unveiling the Potential of NOMA: A Journey to Next Generation Multiple Access
Journal:
arXiv
Published Date:
Dec 22, 2024
Abstract
Revolutionary sixth-generation wireless communications technologies and
applications, notably digital twin networks (DTN), connected autonomous
vehicles (CAVs), space-air-ground integrated networks (SAGINs), zero-touch
networks, industry 5.0, and healthcare 5.0, are driving next-generation
wireless networks (NGWNs). These technologies generate massive data, requiring
swift transmission and trillions of device connections, fueling the need for
sophisticated next-generation multiple access (NGMA) schemes. NGMA enables
massive connectivity in the 6G era, optimizing NGWN operations beyond current
multiple access (MA) schemes. This survey showcases non-orthogonal multiple
access (NOMA) as NGMA's frontrunner, exploring What has NOMA delivered?, What
is NOMA providing?, and What lies ahead?. We present NOMA variants, fundamental
operations, and applicability in multi-antenna systems, machine learning,
reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS), cognitive radio networks (CRN),
integrated sensing and communications (ISAC), terahertz networks, and unmanned
aerial vehicles (UAVs). Additionally, we explore NOMA's interplay with
state-of-the-art wireless technologies, highlighting its advantages and
technical challenges. Finally, we unveil NOMA research trends in the 6G era and
provide design recommendations and future perspectives for NOMA as the leading
NGMA solution for NGWNs.
