From Ground to Sky: Architectures, Applications, and Challenges Shaping Low-Altitude Wireless Networks

TL;DR

This paper introduces LAWN, a reconfigurable 3D layered low-altitude wireless network architecture that integrates sensing, communication, and control for complex environments, highlighting enabling technologies and future challenges.

Contribution

It presents a novel LAWN architecture that uniquely combines multiple functionalities in a reconfigurable 3D layered system for low-altitude airspace.

Findings

LAWN enables seamless connectivity and sensing in dynamic environments.

Integration of ISAC, semantic communication, and control systems enhances performance.

Roadmap for future research in low-altitude wireless networks.

Abstract

In this article, we introduce a novel low-altitude wireless network (LAWN), which is a reconfigurable, three-dimensional (3D) layered architecture. In particular, the LAWN integrates connectivity, sensing, control, and computing across aerial and terrestrial nodes that enable seamless operation in complex, dynamic, and mission-critical environments. Different from the conventional aerial communication systems, LAWN's distinctive feature is its tight integration of functional planes in which multiple functionalities continually reshape themselves to operate safely and efficiently in the low-altitude sky. With the LAWN, we discuss several enabling technologies, such as integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), semantic communication, and fully-actuated control systems. Finally, we identify potential applications and key cross-layer challenges. This article offers a comprehensive roadmap for future research and development in the low-altitude airspace.