6G Empowering Future Robotics: A Vision for Next-Generation Autonomous Systems

TL;DR

This paper explores how 6G communication technology will revolutionize robotics by enabling more autonomous, safe, and efficient systems through advanced network capabilities and integrated architectural frameworks.

Contribution

It provides a systematic mapping of 6G KPIs to robotic functions and proposes a holistic architectural framework for next-generation autonomous systems.

Findings

Mapping of IMT-2030 KPIs to robotic functions

Proposed a high-level integrated architectural framework

Demonstrated a real-time safety framework for human-robot collaboration

Abstract

The convergence of robotics and next-generation communication is a critical driver of technological advancement. As the world transitions from 5G to 6G, the foundational capabilities of wireless networks are evolving to support increasingly complex and autonomous robotic systems. This paper examines the transformative impact of 6G on enhancing key robotics functionalities. It provides a systematic mapping of IMT-2030 key performance indicators to robotic functional blocks including sensing, perception, cognition, actuation and self-learning. Building upon this mapping, we propose a high-level architectural framework integrating robotic, intelligent, and network service planes, underscoring the need for a holistic approach. As an example use case, we present a real-time, dynamic safety framework enabled by IMT-2030 capabilities for safe and efficient human-robot collaboration in shared spaces.