A Survey on the Latest Developments of OFDM Schemes for Optimizing the Capacity and Reliability of Visible Light Communication (VLC) Systems

Abstract

This paper reviews recent advancements in Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) techniques for Visible Light Communication (VLC), focusing on Direct Current-Biased OFDM (DCO-OFDM), Asymmetrically Clipped OFDM (ACO-OFDM), and Layered ACO-OFDM (LACO-OFDM). It analyses the principles, advantages, limitations, and optimization strategies, including integrating machine learning and Peak-to-Average Power Ratio (PAPR) reduction techniques. Although OFDM variants significantly enhance VLC transmission rates, reliability, and adaptability, several challenges remain, including practical engineering implementation, nonlinear distortion compensation, and dynamic channel adaptation. Future research should prioritize intelligent optimization methods, adaptive modulation and coding, and multi-scenario validation to facilitate the deployment of OFDM-based VLC systems in applications such as smart lighting, indoor positioning, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Cross-disciplinary collaboration and focusing on real-world needs will be crucial to advancing VLC-OFDM technology.