Research for 6th generation (6G) communication currently focuses on nonterrestrial networks (NTNs) to promote ubiquitous and ultrahigh-capacity global connectivity. Specifically, multilayered hierarchical networks, i.e., the orchestration among different aerial/space platforms, including low-altitude platforms (LAPs), high-altitude platforms (HAPs), and satellites cooperating at different altitudes, currently represent one of the most attractive technological options to solve coverage and latency constraints associated with the NTN paradigm. However, several issues still need to be resolved for proper network design. In this work, we evaluate the performance of different multilayered nonterrestrial configurations. We also provide guidelines on the optimal working point(s) for which it is possible to achieve a good compromise between improved system flexibility and network performance with respect to a baseline stand-alone deployment.

中文翻译：

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多层分层非地面网络在 6G 中的潜力：网络架构之间的比较分析


第六代（6G）通信的研究目前主要集中在非地面网络（NTN）上，以促进无处不在的超高容量全球连接。具体而言，多层分层网络，即不同空天平台之间的编排，包括低空平台（LAP）、高空平台（HAP）和在不同高度协作的卫星，是目前最具吸引力的技术选择之一解决与 NTN 范例相关的覆盖范围和延迟限制。然而，为了正确的网络设计，仍然需要解决几个问题。在这项工作中，我们评估了不同多层非地面配置的性能。我们还提供了有关最佳工作点的指南，在这些最佳工作点上，相对于基准独立部署，可以在改进的系统灵活性和网络性能之间实现良好的折衷。