6G Networks: Fusion of Communications, Sensing, Imaging, Localization and Other Verticals

Abstract

Throughout this book, 6G has been introduced as a network that might be the first to truly fuse the likes of communications, sensing, imaging, localization and many other verticals. Some of the verticals that are expected to be introduced in 6G, as well as those that might become available earlier, over the course of the 5G evolution that is expected in the next ten years, have been discussed sporadically in the previous nine chapters. It seems fitting, however, to dedicate this complete chapter to a more detailed discussion of each of the most important envisioned 6G services or applications. At the same time, this topic presents the most logical place to conclude this book.Throughout this book, 6G has been introduced as a network that might be the first to truly fuse the likes of communications, sensing, imaging, localization and many other verticals [1,2]. 6G will practically be a network of services, with communication being only one of many available services [3]. 5G networks were initially thought of in a similar way, and certainly take a step in this direction, but it appears that, at least in early releases, the emphasis is still predominantly on delivering fast and reliable communications, albeit no doubt of far better quality than previous wireless network generations. However, 5G does still come with limited verticals, and ten years is a very long period in terms of wireless technologies. Thus, it can be said without any doubt that one can expect to see notable changes in the (beyond) 5G architecture over the coming years, eventually paving the road for the ultimate 6G experience. At the same time, 6G enabling technologies will continue to evolve, allowing some 6G ideas that have not been able to see the light of day due to technology limitations to date, to appear in the fresh 6G release. Some of the verticals that are expected to be introduced in 6G, as well as those that might become available earlier, over the course of the 5G evolution that is expected in the next ten years, have been discussed sporadically in the previous nine chapters. It seems fitting, however, to dedicate one full chapter to a more detailed discussion of each of the most important envisioned 6G services or applications. At the same time, this topic presents the most logical place to conclude this book.

A double layer FSS filter for sub-THz applications

“…The terahertz band (0.1–10 THz) and especially the sub-THz (0.1–0.3 THz) band are new unallocated radio bands offering new possibilities for future sixth generation (6G) communications, sensing, imaging and joint communication-sensing 1 – 5 . Applications in telecommunication, imaging and spectroscopy benefit from the increased bandwidth, small wavelength and high penetrability of non-ionizing radiation 3 , 6 – 9 .…”

“…Applications in telecommunication, imaging and spectroscopy benefit from the increased bandwidth, small wavelength and high penetrability of non-ionizing radiation 3 , 6 – 9 . In localization, sensing and imaging applications, the millimeter (mmWave) technologies offer greater accuracy, which promotes the emergence of new applications 5 , 10 – 14 .…”