The Use Cases of the Research Project iSEE-6G

To effectively exhibit the applicability of network MIMO, the use case aims to demonstrate its potential for both joint communications and sensing tasks by orchestrating coordinated transmission and reception strategies. The UC1 objective is to underscore the practical advantages of the ORAN architectural paradigm by showcasing its seamless integration into both sensing and communications frameworks.

Through the establishment of a simulated "multi-static radar" scenario within a dynamic 6G cell-free environment, the intention is to implement and thoroughly assess the efficacy of beamforming techniques for the precise identification and tracking of targets. In this use case the plan is to delve into an extensive exploration of multiple access techniques and schemes within a centrally coordinated, cell-free environment, with the overarching goal of elucidating their performance and suitability. The investigation will encompass the intricate process of joint positioning by amalgamating signals originating from diverse, widely distributed locations, thereby facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the associated challenges and potential solutions.

Read more about this Use Case in Chapter 4.1 of our Deliverable D2.1: iSEE-6G use case definition and initial set of requirements

A UAV corridor is a 3D designated airspace area to facilitate safe and efficient UAV flights. The primary objective of such corridors is to integrate UAVs into the airspace system while minimizing the risk of collisions, enabling seamless UAV-BS communication, optimizing infrastructure deployment, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and safety standards.

Considering the vast advantages of UV corridors, the United Kingdom (UK) government approved the project Skyway with a budget of $335.54 million. Project Skyway aims to build a 265 km long UAV corridor to connect the airspaces above Reading, Oxford, Milton Keynes, Cambridge, Coventry, and Rugby. A PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) report states that using UAVs could result in £22bn of net cost savings, a 2.4 million tons reduction in carbon emission, and the creation of 650,000 jobs alone in the UK. Therefore, this section will address the role of UAVs in UAV corridors, the implementation aspects of UAV corridors, and the technical requirements for such corridors.

Read more about this Use Case in Chapter 4.2 of our Deliverable D2.1: iSEE-6G use case definition and initial set of requirements

In the context of iSEE-6G, safety interventions utilizing 6G technology and UAVs amalgamate the cutting-edge communication capabilities of 6G with the versatility and agility of UAVs to create proactive safety measures.

In disaster management, rapid and efficient communication is vital for coordinating rescue operations and ensuring the safety of responders and affected individuals. 6G's ultra-reliable and low-latency communication facilitates real-time data exchange, enabling swift decision-making and resource allocation in high-pressure scenarios. UAVs equipped with 6G communication, as well sensing, capabilities serve as aerial relays, providing connectivity in remote or inaccessible areas, enhancing situational awareness, and enabling timely assistance.

Moreover, in industrial settings, where worker safety is critical, UAVs equipped with advanced sensors and 6G connectivity can monitor hazardous environments, detect anomalies, and relay critical information to control centers in real-time. This proactive approach minimizes risks and mitigates potential accidents, safeguarding both human lives and infrastructure.

Furthermore, in urban environments, where traffic management and public safety are pressing concerns, 6G-enabled UAVs can enhance surveillance, monitor traffic patterns, and assist in emergency response activities. By leveraging 6G's massive connectivity and UAVs' mobility, authorities can deploy targeted interventions, optimize resource allocation, and ensure the safety and well-being of citizens.

Read more about this Use Case in Chapter 4.3 of our Deliverable D2.1: iSEE-6G use case definition and initial set of requirements

The UC4 aims to present a compelling use case demonstrating the integration of 6G technology and UAVs within a precision agriculture framework, facilitated by AIoT technologies. The main objective is to showcase the effectiveness of UAVs in collecting agricultural data for crop monitoring, environmental sensing, and precision interventions, thereby enhancing agricultural productivity, resource utilization, and sustainability.

In this use case, a comprehensive framework will be implemented that leverages UAVs as remote sensors, equipped with advanced imaging and sensing capabilities. These UAVs will autonomously navigate agricultural fields, collecting a wealth of data on crop health, soil moisture levels, and environmental conditions. Through seamless integration with AIoT technologies, this data will be transmitted in real-time to a centralized platform for analysis and decision-making.

Read more about this Use Case in Chapter 4.4 of our Deliverable D2.1: iSEE-6G use case definition and initial set of requirements

The use case involves integrating JCCSP and UAVs equipped with advanced sensing capabilities and B5G/6G communication technology to enhance coordination and collaboration among autonomous vehicles. Utilizing the JCCSP framework, UAVs engage in real-time data exchange with each other and with ground infrastructure. This continuous data flow facilitates monitoring services, optimized route planning, collision avoidance, and comprehensive traffic management.

The deployment of 6G technology plays a critical role in this scenario by ensuring reliable communication, minimizing latency, and enabling extensive connectivity. These features enhance the robustness and resilience of communication networks essential for the seamless operation of autonomous vehicles. The integration of UAVs, 6G, and JCCSP not only ensures the safe and efficient operation of autonomous mobility but also signifies a transformative shift in transportation dynamics, impacting urban mobility, logistics, and emergency response sectors.

By embracing Connected and Cooperative Autonomous Mobility (CCAM) powered by JCCSP and 6G technology, this use case marks a significant advancement in transportation. It unlocks unprecedented opportunities for enhanced efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the increasingly interconnected world.

In practical terms, UAVs patrol the highway, collecting and transmitting real-time data on traffic flow, congestion, and accidents to the MEC system. AI/ML algorithms at the MEC analyze this data to optimize traffic patterns and allocate network resources dynamically. This ensures that bandwidth and computing power are directed to critical areas, such as high-density traffic zones or emergency situations.

For instance, in the event of an accident, UAVs quickly arrive on the scene to provide live video feeds and environmental data to the MEC, which then coordinates with emergency services. This real-time intervention helps clear paths for responders, facilitated by AI-driven traffic management strategies. Additionally, UAVs continuously monitor environmental conditions like air quality and weather, providing data that predicts and mitigates potential hazards.

Ground vehicles receive constant updates and guidance from the MEC, improving their navigation and reducing travel time. Passengers benefit from real-time information on traffic conditions and alternative routes. The integration with smart highway infrastructure, including RSUs and embedded sensors, ensures comprehensive traffic management and dynamic control of elements like traffic lights and variable message signs.

Read more about this Use Case in Chapter 4.5 of our Deliverable D2.1: iSEE-6G use case definition and initial set of requirements

An undesirable outcome arising from the projected proliferation of the IoE devices, in addition to the associated large amounts of transmitted data, is the ever-increasing energy consumption by the communication and information technologies. Additionally, the limited availability and reliability of power grids pose a significant challenge in achieving universal connectivity, emphasizing the necessity of reducing reliance on traditional power sources in next-generation networks. These obstacles are further compounded by the imperative to slash CO2 emissions in wireless communication systems by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels, and to attain climate neutrality by 2050 in response to climate change and the energy crisis.

Moreover, despite the tremendous benefits offered by the IoT/IoE networks such as in healthcare, environmental monitoring, smart cities etc., the frequent replacement of batteries for IoE devices, especially for sensor type devices with constrained size which also limits battery size, impedes the development of sustainable IoE networks. Thus, despite the promising prospects of future cellular networks, there exists a tangible risk of them becoming environmentally unsustainable, imposing financial strains on network operators due to escalating energy expenses and contributing substantially to carbon emissions. Thus, as technological advancements continue, innovative strategies to mitigate escalating energy consumption are becoming increasingly vital for the sustainability and efficiency of communication networks.

Fortunately, the wireless transmission of energy from dedicated radio frequency sources to IoE devices under the emerging wireless power transfer paradigm makes the self-sustainability of IoE networks in the 6G landscape feasible. Finally, the integration of wireless power transfer with joint communications and sensing is expected to revolutionize wireless communications introducing energy efficient, autonomous, and intelligent networks.

Read more about this Use Case in Chapter 4.6 of our Deliverable D2.1: iSEE-6G use case definition and initial set of requirements