On the Interplay of 5G NR, WiFi and LiFi Towards 6G Multi-Connectivity

In industrial environments, multiple wireless networks such as fifth generation (5G) cellular, wireless fidelity (WiFi), visible light communication and radar based communication coexist nowadays. The resulting diversity offers many options for data transmission and an efficient utilization of these networks requires intelligent management. This paper proposes the multi-connectivity interplay of different such wireless access technologies (WATs) into the 5G core network to achieve a soft handover between the technologies. Specifically, WiFi and LiFi are combined with 5G new radio (NR) and coupled with an open source 5G core network. We outline tests with a prototype in an experimental testbed and report findings with a focus on intertechnology hard handovers. The results show that having radio telemetry available when taking such handover decisions is a key requirement for future 6G systems.