The COREnext project’s Work Package 4 (WP4) focuses on developing foundational digital components for communication systems. By addressing key areas such as hardware acceleration for power efficient signal processing and protocol acceleration, hardware orchestration and trusted environments, WP4 contributes to the advancement of technologies required for 6G networks. Recent progress demonstrates developments in these areas.
Efficiency Increase
WP4 has delivered solutions aimed at improving the energy efficiency of communication systems. The introduction of programmable many-core RISC-V accelerators, including the TeraPool-SDR cluster, supports low-latency and high-throughput tasks necessary for 5G and future 6G systems. Additional work on vector processing accelerators and LDPC decoders has enabled efficient and reliable data transmission with throughput capabilities reaching gigabit-per-second levels. To optimise resource usage, WP4 developed AI-based MAC scheduling accelerators that improve resource allocation in complex networks.
Security Enhancements
In terms of security, the TokSek framework enables multi-tenant use of FPGA resources in cloud environments while maintaining data integrity and confidentiality. This approach addresses challenges in securely sharing hardware resources.
Further advancements include the virtualisation of DSPs to improve computational resource management and the development of tile-based processing platforms equipped with isolation mechanisms to enhance security. RF fingerprinting, used for device authentication, provides an additional layer of trust by accurately identifying devices in communication networks.
Contributions to Research and Standardisation
WP4 has produced several publications documenting the outcomes of its work, with contributions to open-source tools and methods. The RF fingerprinting technology has led to a patent application, indicating potential for future applications in communication systems.
The work aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG9 (Innovation in Infrastructure) and SDG11 (Sustainable Cities). By focusing on energy efficiency, WP4 supports the broader goals of sustainable and resilient communication systems.
Readiness for Deployment
The technology readiness levels (TRLs) of platforms developed under WP4 have increased, indicating progress towards deployment. The validation of the RISC-V environment, encompassing both hardware and software, creates opportunities for practical application and further development in communication technologies.
WP4’s ongoing work in digital components contributes to the technical objectives of the COREnext project, with progress focused on addressing practical needs and ensuring alignment with long-term goals for communication system development.
Want to know more stories from COREnext? Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on LinkedIn, X, and YouTube to keep up to date!