Semantic Revolution from Communications to Orchestration for 6G: Challenges, Enablers, and Research Directions

TL;DR

This paper discusses the challenges and proposes a framework for implementing semantic communications in 6G, focusing on knowledge management and resource allocation to improve efficiency and enable advanced service interactions.

Contribution

It introduces the KB-MANO framework for knowledge base management and resource allocation, integrating lifelong learning and computing-network convergence concepts for 6G semantic communications.

Findings

Proposes KB-MANO framework for knowledge and resource management.

Demonstrates integration of KB-MANO with radio access network resources.

Highlights future research directions for semantic-oriented 6G systems.

Abstract

In the context of emerging 6G services, the realization of everything-to-everything interactions involving a myriad of physical and digital entities presents a crucial challenge. This challenge is exacerbated by resource scarcity in communication infrastructures, necessitating innovative solutions for effective service implementation. Exploring the potential of Semantic Communications (SemCom) to enhance point-to-point physical layer efficiency shows great promise in addressing this challenge. However, achieving efficient SemCom requires overcoming the significant hurdle of knowledge sharing between semantic decoders and encoders, particularly in the dynamic and non-stationary environment with stringent end-to-end quality requirements. To bridge this gap in existing literature, this paper introduces the Knowledge Base Management And Orchestration (KB-MANO) framework. Rooted in the concepts of Computing-Network Convergence (CNC) and lifelong learning, KB-MANO is crafted for the allocation of network and computing resources dedicated to updating and redistributing KBs across the system. The primary objective is to minimize the impact of knowledge management activities on actual service provisioning. A proof-of-concept is proposed to showcase the integration of KB-MANO with resource allocation in radio access networks. Finally, the paper offers insights into future research directions, emphasizing the transformative potential of semantic-oriented communication systems in the realm of 6G technology.