A Lightweight Graph Neural Networks Based Enhanced Separated Detection Scheme for Downlink MIMO-SCMA Systems

The combination of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology and sparse code multiple access (SCMA) can significantly enhance the spectral efficiency of future wireless communication networks. However, the receiver design for downlink MIMO-SCMA systems faces challenges in developing multi-user detection (MUD) schemes that achieve both low latency and low bit error rate (BER). The separated detection scheme in the MIMO-SCMA system involves performing MIMO detection first to obtain estimated signals, followed by SCMA decoding. We propose an enhanced separated detection scheme based on lightweight graph neural networks (GNNs). In this scheme, we raise the concept of coordinate point relay and full-category training, which allow for the substitution of the conventional message passing algorithm (MPA) in SCMA decoding with image classification techniques based on deep learning (DL). The features of the images used for training encompass crucial information such as the amplitude and phase of estimated signals, as well as channel characteristics they have encountered. Furthermore, various types of images demonstrate distinct directional trends, contributing additional features that enhance the precision of classification by GNNs. Simulation results demonstrate that the enhanced separated detection scheme outperforms existing separated and joint detection schemes in terms of computational complexity, while having a better BER performance than the joint detection schemes at high
$E_{b}/N_{0}$
(energy per bit to noise power spectral density ratio) values.