UNITY-6G: UNified archITecture for Open RAN-enabled Distributed, Scalable and SustainabilitY-enhanced 6G Networks

Abstract

This paper proposes a highly sustainable and scalable integrated AI-native architecture defining UNified archITecture for Open RAN-enabled Distributed, Scalable and SustainabilitY-enhanced 6G Networks (UNITY-6G) project that can support the diverse requirements of 6G networks by relying on advanced technologies, such as distributed ledger technology, semantic communications, digital network twinning to enhance the performance, cost-efficiency and trustworthiness of integrated 6G network services and applications. The focus is on scalability and sustainability for integrated networks (Non-Terrestrial and Terrestrial Networks, xHaul, Open RAN, Non-Public Networks, Edge, Core and Cloud). Furthermore, we aim to evolve to realtime distributed and network state-aware Open RAN that can leverage the integration of distributed applications in the integrated architecture. This will enable fine-grained data-driven management and control via incorporating dApps, distributed applications that complement existing xApps/rApps and use cases with stricter timing requirements in an integrated network. Common interfaces and protocols will be defined so that different heterogenous domains can communicate seamlessly. To better guide the design, This paper also use the principles of service based architecture for integrated networks and leverage digital twins for network evaluation and considers four use cases targeting: i) Sustainable networks for disaster handling, (ii) Immersive Experience with Real-time XR/holographic communications, (iii) Digital Twin for Integrated 6G Network Evaluation, (iv) MultiRAT O-RAN enabled NPN for supporting time sensitive applications for Industry 4.0.