Network virtualization is one of the most promising approaches to improve mobile network performance and efficiency; so much so that it is already employed in functions associated with the network edge: virtualization of the radio access network (vRAN). But virtualization alone cannot optimize sustainability in all envisioned B5G network deployment scenarios. To improve sustainability, the coordinated project also addresses the integration of two recent technologies to efficiently improve and extend network coverage: Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RIS) and Unmanned Autonomous Vehicles (UAV).

RIS provide the ability to configure their electromagnetic responses, allowing a greater degree of freedom for capacity improvements and energy savings, provided they can be orchestrated in a timely manner. UAVs, on the other hand, can provide temporary or permanent coverage to certain areas at a much lower cost than a traditional deployment. The integration of RIS and UAVs opens up new opportunities to improve coverage and reduce energy consumption.

This project addresses the design of a sustainable extended edge for B5G networks, composed of vRANs, RIS and UAVs. It pursues the development of the necessary mechanisms to optimize the operation of virtualized Base Stations (vBS), designing a control plane to support RIS configuration and introducing newly designed UAVs into the overall network orchestration, all taking into account the end user's quality of experience (QoE).