A Review of Hybrid VLC/RF Networks: Features, Applications, and Future Directions

Area of Science:

• Communication Engineering
• Wireless Networks
• Internet of Things (IoT)

Background:

• Next-generation communication systems (beyond 5G/6G) require high reliability, throughput, low latency, and energy efficiency.
• Radio Frequency (RF) and Visible Light Communication (VLC) are complementary technologies.
• Integrating RF and VLC creates hybrid networks to meet advanced communication demands.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a comprehensive state-of-the-art review of hybrid VLC/RF networks.
• To analyze indoor and outdoor scenarios, applications, challenges, and future research directions for these hybrid networks.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of hybrid VLC/RF network research.
• Analysis of indoor scenarios: lighting requirements, channel models, load balancing, resource allocation, and topologies.
• Analysis of outdoor scenarios: characteristics and implementation under adverse conditions.
• Examination of technological, economic, and socio-environmental applications.
• Identification of challenges and future research avenues.

Main Results:

• Hybrid VLC/RF networks offer complementary cooperation without interference, boosting data rates and reducing coverage gaps.
• These networks are suitable for diverse Internet of Things (IoT) applications, including smart lighting, healthcare, and industrial automation.
• The study covers indoor and outdoor implementations, diverse applications, and key challenges.

Conclusions:

• Hybrid VLC/RF networks are crucial for realizing the full potential of next-generation communication systems.
• Further research is needed to address identified challenges and explore new opportunities in hybrid network design and deployment.