Performance Bounds for Velocity Estimation with Large Antenna Arrays

Abstract: Joint communication and sensing (JCS) is envisioned as an enabler of future 6G networks. One of the key features of these networks will be the use of extremely large aperture arrays (ELAAs) and high operating frequencies, which will result in significant near-field propagation effects. This unique property can be harnessed to improve sensing capabilities. In this paper, we focus on velocity sensing, as using ELAAs allows the estimation of not just the radial component but also the transverse component. We derive analytical performance bounds for both velocity components, demonstrating how they are affected by the different system parameters and geometries. These insights offer a foundational understanding of how near-field effects play in velocity sensing differently from the far field and from position estimate.