Future wireless networks aim to deliver performance akin to wired networks, featuring ultra-high data rates (Tbps), ultra-low latency (less than 1 ms), precise sensing (e.g. millimeter-level localization accuracy), and exceptional reliability (e.g. 1 in a billion transmission errors). Current 5G technologies fall short of these requirements. TIMES tackles this by integrating advanced radio channel propagation measurements, THz spectrum communications, intelligent mesh networking protocols, and reconfigurable metasurfaces.
Although the technologies developed by TIMES apply to various beyond-5G scenarios, the project specifically targets industrial environments where high performance, reliability, and sensing are crucial. TIMES focuses on three main areas:
1. Measurement and characterization of THz propagation channels, including metasurfaces and electromagnetic leakage in complex environments.
2. Development of reliable THz communications enablers such as intelligent beam management, ultra-massive MIMO, THz-specific PHY and MAC designs, metasurfaces, and novel mesh-based architectures.
3. Implementation of a THz mesh network prototype with both active transceiver and passive metasurface nodes to validate the technological advancements.
TIMES aims to achieve its goals through eight objectives:
1. Develop new THz channel models based on industrial measurements.
2. Design PHY and MAC layer solutions tailored to the THz spectrum.
3. Create advanced THz front-ends and antennas.
4. Design a multifunctional mesh-based Radio Access Network (RAN) with active nodes and Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces (IRS).
5. Fabricate IRSs operating at THz frequencies.
6. Integrate sensing and communication capabilities into the network.
7. Define use cases and requirements for next-gen industrial applications.
8. Implement and validate a proof of concept (PoC) in real industrial settings.
