While the infrastructure for the 5G standard is still under construction, research is already underway to optimize it in the “ARIADNE” project (Artificial Intelligence Aided D-band Network for 5G Long Term Evolution). 5G is characterized by high frequencies and thus high transmission rates, which enable almost latency-free data transfer. However, the necessary line of sight between transmitter and receiver is not always guaranteed, especially in urban areas. The so-called cancelling effect, in which a reflected copy overlays the actual signal, can lead to connection interference. Such scenarios should be easier to handle with the “Beyond 5G” technology of the ARIADNE project. The aim is to develop energy-efficient and reliable mobile communications in the high-frequency D-band (130 - 174.8 GHz).

Main research topics

ARIADNE is dedicated to three major research areas:

Development of hardware components: Fraunhofer IAF contributes its expertise in the field of high-frequency electronics to this research area. Together with its partners, it develops new radio modules with highest spectral efficiency that exploit frequency diversity and provide a control interface for optimization in the network. The new 20 nm InGaAs HEMT technology will be used on silicon for the first time.

Research of metasurfaces: In order to avoid network interference in non-line of sight connections, ARIADNE is researching the optimization of radio communication by metasurfaces. Metasurfaces are adjustable reflectors for radio waves and are intended to counteract network control problems in urban areas by reflecting radio waves and thus ensuring propagation outside the line of sight. Metasurfaces are already used in lower frequency ranges, but will be adapted to the D-band within the framework of ARIADNE. The metasurfaces are controlled by a central network controller.

AI-based adaptation of network control: In order to provide a constant and reliable radio connection in all weather conditions, methods of machine learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are to be used for network management. Machine learning will provide a sound data analysis, on the basis of which an AI-based network control system will be able to detect and prevent problems at an early stage.

Demonstrators illustrate research results

Two demonstrators will have been built when the project is completed at the end of 2022: The first demonstrator should achieve a reliable connection over 100 m with a data rate of 100 Gbit/s in any weather condition. The second demonstrator is intended as a proof of concept in the laboratory to show how a metasurface can improve the propagation condition of radio transmissions.

Besides Fraunhofer IAF, ten other partners from five European countries are involved in ARIADNE. The project is funded by the European Union within the framework of the “Horizon 2020” program.