Project description
Transforming communication by expanding 6G networks
As our world becomes increasingly connected, the demand for faster and more reliable communication networks grows. However, current wireless technologies face limitations in meeting the requirements of high-speed data transmission. This challenge is further compounded by the need for seamless integration between optical and wireless communication systems. In this context, the EU-funded 6G-EWOC project tackles the challenge of expanding the capabilities of future 6G networks, particularly in high mobility scenarios. By integrating optical and wireless technologies, it seeks to create a dynamic infrastructure supporting connected mobility. With 17 key performance indicators targeted for validation across three final demonstrations, 6G-EWOC represents a leap towards realising the potential of 6G networks in enabling seamless, high-speed connectivity for the future.
Objective
The 6G-EWOC project aims to contribute to the development of future 6G-AI based networks by ending with TRL-4-level developments on critical technologies and devices for expanding the reach of 6G, especially in high mobility scenarios. It is addressing Key Societal Value indicators (KVI) defined by the Work Programme and developing KV enablers such as services for coordination, precise positioning and localization, multi-agent supporting network architecture and joint communication and sensing. The three ambitions of 6G-EWOC focus on: AMB1, Optical Wireless Communications (OWC) for V2V and high-rate (Gb/s) V2I applications, chip-scale optical beamformers, and developing connected laser/radio detection, ranging, and communication (Lidar/Radar). AMB2, PIC and ASIC for tuneable transmitter and receiver concepts for fiber-based fronthaul supporting 50 Gbps and 100 Gbps per wavelength over DWDM fiber links and SDN-enabled photonic switching. AMB3 focuses on AI-assisted control and orchestration of resources for the multi-band, heterogeneous 6G-EWOC network concept and AI-based applications development for autonomous vehicles. Up to 17 KPIs are expected to be validated at three final demonstrations.
In conclusion, 6G-EWOC search to develop an AI-enhanced fibre-wireless optical 6G network in support of connected mobility by creating a new access network for high mobility scenarios and expanding the reach of 6G through the integration of optical and wireless technologies, free space optics, and joint communication and sensing. It is supported by a fast, reconfigurable, highly dynamic, and customizable optical fiber fronthaul infrastructure, minimizing optoelectronic transitions by tuneable and programmable devices and low energy photonic switching of (packet/optical) spectrum and spatial resources, controlled by AI-based SDN. Providing end-to-end connectivity between AI-based edge computation units supporting connected mobility in a fast reconfigurable network architecture.
Fields of science
- engineering and technologymechanical engineeringvehicle engineeringautomotive engineeringautonomous vehicles
- engineering and technologymaterials engineeringfibers
- engineering and technologyelectrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineeringinformation engineeringtelecommunicationsradio technologyradar
- natural sciencesphysical sciencesopticsfibre optics
- natural sciencesphysical sciencesopticslaser physics
Keywords
Programme(s)
- HORIZON.2.4 - Digital, Industry and Space Main Programme
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-JU-RIA - HORIZON JU Research and Innovation ActionsCoordinator
08034 Barcelona
Spain