【中国电信研究院（孙震强）】2024面向6G的空地一体网络架构（AGIN）的思考报告_15页_3mb

6G Air-Ground Integrated Network (AGIN) Architecture Summary

Core Content

The document outlines the 6G Air-Ground Integrated Network (AGIN) architecture, emphasizing the integration of communication, sensing, and AI to support a wide range of new and existing use cases. It discusses the vision, requirements, and design principles for 6G networks, highlighting the need for multi-scenario support, 3D coverage, and enhanced network capabilities.

Main Requirements and Vision

New Services

• Metaverse: Requires high connectivity and integrated AI/communication.
• 3D Coverage: Full coverage of the Earth's surface, including ground, sea, low altitude, aviation, near space, and outer space.

New Scenarios

• 2C (Consumer): General connectivity and services.
• 2B (Business): Customized and localized access.
• Temporary Networks: Flexibility in network deployment for dynamic environments.

Key Technologies

Network AI

• Federated Learning: Enables decentralized training while preserving data privacy.
• Knowledge Graphs: Enhance network intelligence and decision-making.
• Large Language Models (LLM): Support AI-driven network optimization and management.

Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC)

• Space Communication: Utilize satellites for global coverage.
• HAPS (High Altitude Platforms): Provide wide-area coverage at altitudes between 20–50 km.
• LAPS (Low Altitude Platforms): Support low-altitude and terrestrial communication.

Challenges and Design Principles

Problem-Driven Design

• Complex Architecture: 5G networks have over 40 NFs and 80 logical interfaces, leading to high complexity and difficulty in failure localization.
• Robustness: Long fault recovery time and frequent network disasters.
• Flexibility: Customized demands in the 2B field.

Design Principles

1. Cloud Network Integration: The third stage of cloud network convergence.
2. Deep Convergence: Integration of AI and communication, sensing and communication, and other DOICT (Digital, Optical, Information and Communication Technology) convergence.
3. Sensing Built-in: Networks should support integrated sensing capabilities.
4. Computing Native: Emphasize native computing functions within the network.
5. AI Built-in: AI should be embedded in network functions for intelligent decision-making.
6. Trust Built-in: Ensure secure and trustworthy communication.
7. Wide Convergence: Support space, air, ground, and sea for 3D coverage.

6G Network Architecture Evolution

From 5G to 6G

• 6G will continue the "three layers" cloud/virtualization architecture and expand it to "four Planes" based on the 5G specification.
• Architecture Simplification: Logic function refactoring, interface and protocol optimization.
• Message Flow Simplification: Signaling processes can be reduced by up to 50%.
• Dual Bus: SBI (Service-Based Interface) and DCI (Data Communication Interface) collaborate to improve data interaction efficiency.

6G Distributed Networking

Centralized Network

• Provides basic coverage and intelligent scheduling.
• Functional Network: Dedicated network for specific new functions.

Distributed Subnetwork

• Supports customized and localized needs in various scenarios.
• Includes 2C network sinking nodes, 2B localized access, and AGINs (Air-Ground Integrated Networks).
• Enables connect+ for enhanced flexibility and robustness.

A4N: Air Platforms Enrich 6G Networks

• The ground-based IMT network covers less than 7% of the Earth’s surface, which is insufficient for emergency and IoT communications.
• HAPS (High Altitude Platforms) provide broad coverage and can act as super macro cells to supplement existing ground deployments.
• HAPS can be deployed in remote areas, mountains, deserts, and oceans to bridge the digital divide.
• HAPS also support emergency communication in disaster-affected areas.

N4A: Network for Air Information Services

• Focuses on 3D full coverage of the Earth’s surface.
• Requires ground-based and air-based access methods for intelligent bodies in the air and on the sea.
• The N4A network connects to the 6G centralized network for connection+ sensing+ control+ computing.

Use Case: Low Altitude Dedicated Network

• Fly as a Service: A dedicated network for low-altitude drones.
• Independent Network Logic: Manage drone customers with a logical private network.
• Network Slicing: Provide differentiated services for different drone groups.
• Third-Party Interface: Enable subnets to interface with external customers.

Final Thoughts

• The document concludes that 6G is getting closer, and the AGIN architecture is a key enabler for future communication systems.
• The saying "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, together" underscores the importance of collaboration and integration in achieving the 6G vision.

Summary of Key Points

Conclusion

The AGIN architecture represents a fundamental shift in 6G network design, focusing on multi-scenario support, 3D coverage, and integration of AI and sensing. By leveraging HAPS, satellites, and distributed networking, 6G aims to provide ubiquitous connectivity, flexibility, and resilience, ultimately supporting the Metaverse, IoT, and emerging 2B applications.