An improved demodulation method for image sensor based visible light communication using sparse estimation technique

Visible Light Communication (VLC) is a promising reserach field due to the versatility and ubiquity of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). In this study, we focus on VLC systems with image-sensor as a receiver for intelligent transport systems (ITS). The design of efficient demodulation methods for these systems remains a significant challenge, especially given the demand for a balance between computational complexity and demodulation performance. This paper introduces a demodulation method for the VLC systems that takes advantage of sparse estimation techniques. The proposed approach uses Orthogonal Matching Pursuit (OMP) coupled with Maximum-Likelihood Detection (MLD) to improve upon the performance of linear detectors such as Zero-Forcing and Minimum-Mean-Square-Error. Using a sparse characteristics, the OMP/MLD technique provides a refined estimation of transmitted signals. This method is showcased through numerical simulations and lab-based experiments, demonstrating improved performance compared to traditional techniques. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts in optimizing VLC systems and offers an enhancement in the demodulation process of Image-Sensor Communication systems.