Advancing 6G Innovation through FNS
Chalmers University of Technology is playing a key role in the evolution of next-generation wireless communication. As a partner in the FNS-6G program, the Swedish institution contributes its expertise in antenna design, communication algorithms, and international research collaboration. Marianna Ivashina, professor at Chalmers, provides insight into the university’s involvement, challenges, and ambitions.
Driving Innovation in Wireless Communication
Chalmers University brings multi-disciplinary academic competence to the FNS-6G initiative, particularly in the fields of 5G/6G antenna design, wireless communication, sensing, and localization. “We offer expertise through our PhD students and the insights we bring from the international projects such as The Smart Networks and Services Joint Undertaking 6G Flagship project Hexa-X-II , which shapes, among other projects, the European 6G agenda,” Prof. Ivashina explains.
The university’s involvement in FNS aligns with its mission to bridge the gap between academia and industry. “FNS provides a unique collaboration platform that fosters innovation in next-generation communication technologies while also developing highly skilled professionals,” she adds. This collaboration has the potential to create spin-off collaboration projects and further research initiatives that reach out beyond 6G applications.
Research Focus: Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces, Smart Algorithms, and Digital Twin Models
Prof. Ivashina’s primary research within FNS centers around reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS), or ‘smart skins’ — an antenna technology that uses metamaterials to manipulate electromagnetic waves, improving communication efficiency in urban environments and large distances. In addition, her colleagues at Chalmers, including Prof. Henk Wymeersch and Prof. Thomas Ericsson, focus on developing digital twin deterministic propagation models for high-quality wireless links and optimizing algorithms for hardware-constrained communications. Our research involves close collaboration with Ericsson (Sweden), where our PhD students benefit from industrial co-supervisors and specialized industry training in 6G technologies. Additionally, we maintain strong partnerships with industry leaders in the Netherlands, particularly at TNO.
Beyond the FNS program, Chalmers is actively engaged in 5G/6G research through the Swedish WiTECH Center (2024-2033), a national initiative with around 20 partners. “This initiative offers strong synergy with FNS and opportunities for exchanging knowledge in both research and innovative forms of collaboration with industries,” Ivashina notes.
Overcoming Challenges in 5G/6G Implementation
One of the major challenges in next-generation wireless communication is ensuring efficient signal propagation in complex environments with physical obstacles. To address these challenges, Prof. Wymeersch explores advanced digital twin deterministic propagation modeling and collaborate with Ericsson and TU Eindhoven on high-frequency channel measurements (e.g., 26 GHz, 140 GHz). Additionally, we are advancing massive MIMO systems by optimizing A/D conversion strategies – the work, led by Prof. Eriksson in collaboration with Ericsson, to reduce design complexity without compromising system performance. “Integrating RIS with existing communication infrastructure in a sustainably way is another challenge,” Prof. Ivashina says. Sustainability extends beyond just energy consumption, it is about the overall environmental impact, therefore, it remains a driving force behind these developments, requiring a multi-disciplinary approach to problem-solving.
Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
Chalmers University brings extensive expertise in wireless technologies to FNS, contributing to both research and the training of young professionals. “Our close collaboration with industry leaders like Ericsson and TNO allows us to accelerate the commercialization of FNS research results and foster stronger partnerships across the 6G value chain,” Prof. Ivashina highlights.
The university is actively involved in Program Line 1 of FNS, contributing to Work Packages 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3. These focus on developing digital twin propagation models, communication algorithms, and advanced antenna designs. “We aim to collaborate with other partners by sharing knowledge, engaging in joint research projects, and exchanging lessons learned,” she adds.
The Future of 5G/6G and Global Impact
Looking ahead, Prof. Ivashina envisions a future where 5G/6G technologies make wireless communication more adaptive and efficient. “Our research will help enhance wireless systems, ensuring better connectivity and lower energy consumption,” she explains.
A key aspect of FNS that Prof. Ivashina emphasizes is its ability to bring together experts from different countries and disciplines. “International collaborations are essential to drive innovation. Access to specialized expertise beyond national borders strengthens research and accelerates technological advancements,” she concludes.
As 6G development progresses, Chalmers University of Technology remains committed to contributing groundbreaking research, fostering strategic collaborations, and shaping the future of wireless communication.
