FIDAL

The advent of 5G technology has transformed multiple industries and enabled the convergence between the physical and virtual worlds, paving the way for the vision of 6G-connected intelligence. Concepts such as immersive communication, cognition, and digital twinning involve creating virtual representations in the digital world of entities from both the physical and human realms. These representations maintain dynamic interactions with sensors, actuators, screens, and cameras. In this context, connections between virtual representations in the digital world replace traditional connections between mobile devices.

The advanced application of 5G technology in the remote control of mobile robots enables real-time, high-speed communication with enhanced reliability and reduced latency. This capability is crucial in critical environments where immediate and precise actions are essential. An additional component that enhances the effectiveness of remote robot control is the use of a Digital Twin, which acts as a virtual representation of the real environment and assists robot operators in real time.

The FIDAL-VLC project aims to develop, integrate, and execute an innovative Beyond 5G (B5G) use case while extending the FIDAL infrastructure with a new node located at the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) campus for large-scale trials. This node will provide a testing environment with advanced B5G features, including a next-generation 5G private network and immersive, real-time Digital Twin capabilities, facilitating the applications of 6G and the connection between the real and virtual worlds.

The role of Robotnik is based on the implementation of a cloud robotics platform, as well as the enhancement of the mobile robot’s capabilities, including GPS localization and obstacle avoidance. Additionally, Robotnik will collaborate in defining use cases, requirements, and KPIs for real-time Digital Twins, particularly regarding cloud architecture and data transfer from robots for integration into the Digital Twin and subsequent processing using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML).

FIDAL-VLC will involve Robotnik and Fivecomm in conducting various tests through a use case focused on the remote piloting of the RB-SUMMIT robot, connecting the real and virtual worlds via a Digital Twin-based interface. The demonstration will feature an immersive race between two mobile robots remotely controlled through a 5G private network at UPV’s outdoor velodrome. The pilots, located indoors at the Immersive Communications Lab, will use remote-driving cockpits, where they will visualize key real-time data such as the robots’ speed.

This scenario encompasses multiple sectors:

By integrating advanced 5G technology, Digital Twins, and Artificial Intelligence, FIDAL-VLC will set a new standard in the fusion of physical and virtual environments, paving the way for future 6G networks.

FIDAL is a Horizon 2020 opencall project.