IMDEA Networks targets 6G networks with DISCO6G project
The IMDEA Networks Institute began its participation in DISCO6G, an innovative project that aims to transform next-generation mobile networks in collaboration with leading regional universities, namely UC3M, UAM, and UPM, and is funded by the Madrid Regional Government. Its focus on Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) enables network infrastructures to transmit information while simultaneously functioning as distributed real-time sensors.
“DISCO6G represents a paradigm shift, as it turns the network into a system capable of detecting its environment while communicating, something crucial for critical applications in transport and healthcare,” explains Jesús Omar Lacruz, senior researcher at IMDEA Networks and principal investigator of the project.
The IMDEA Networks team is driving key advancements to evolve ISAC systems for 6G networks. These include the design of advanced ISAC architectures that integrate distributed sensing across multiple nodes to enhance real-time environmental awareness. Additionally, the team is working on ultra-precise synchronisation, a fundamental challenge in large-scale networks.
“We are developing mechanisms that reduce timing errors, which is essential for autonomous vehicles and medical diagnostics,” says Lacruz. IMDEA is also developing low-power ISAC by designing efficient technologies for healthcare devices, vehicular sensors, and smart cities.
DISCO6G aims to address several critical challenges in implementing 6G networks. Both transport and biomedicine require low-latency, high-precision data collection and transmission. Furthermore, using millimetre and submillimetre waves provides substantial bandwidth but makes the signal susceptible to interference. “To maximise the potential of these frequencies, we are developing reconfigurable intelligent surfaces and advanced AI algorithms that improve signal quality,” says Lacruz.
Another key challenge is the integration of multiple sensors. For example, combining LiDAR data, radio frequency, and other technologies enables more accurate detection and positioning. DISCO6G is also focussed on developing non-invasive sensing techniques in the biomedical field. “Currently, many diagnostic tests are invasive and slow. With DISCO6G, we are exploring radio frequency-based techniques that can detect pathogens in real time without physical contact,” explains the researcher.
DISCO6G aims to enhance transport safety and efficiency through the development of real-time object detection, traffic monitoring, and collision prevention in rail and road vehicle networks. Furthermore, the accurate real-time location of vehicles and people will improve rescue and evacuation strategies in critical situations. The project also focuses on advanced biomedical diagnostics by identifying viruses and pathogens using radio frequency, facilitating rapid, contactless detection testing. In addition, DISCO6G aims to establish sustainable communication networks through optimised spectrum usage to minimise energy consumption
“With DISCO6G, IMDEA Networks is redefining the future of mobile networks, driving connectivity that not only communicates but also perceives the environment to enhance safety, healthcare, and the efficiency of future infrastructures,” concludes Lacruz.
IMDEA
IMDEA DISCO6G
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UC3M
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