Radio-Optical Confluence in Intelligent Edge Networks

2026-08-13

AI Summary

This work addresses the efficiency and scalability challenges posed by the densification of wireless access networks by proposing a novel paradigm of full confluence between radio frequency (RF) and optical networks, transcending the limitations of conventional disaggregated architectures. By integrating intelligent edge computing, RF–optical co-design, and an innovative converged network architecture, the approach enables deep synergy between RF and optical domains at the intelligent edge. This holistic integration offers a highly efficient and scalable solution for ultra-dense wireless access scenarios, significantly enhancing overall system performance and resource utilization efficiency.

Abstract

Challenges associated with densification of radio access networks are motivating exploration of more efficient and scalable architectures. We examine recent progress in one direction that involves moving beyond radio and optical convergence to full confluence.

Problem

• radio-optical confluence
• dense radio access networks
• intelligent edge networks
• network scalability
• network architecture

Innovation

• radio-optical confluence
• intelligent edge networks
• network densification
• converged architecture
• scalable RAN