Explanation-Guided Federated Deep Reinforcement Learning for Joint Resource Allocation and Scheduling in 6G in-X Subnetworks

Abstract

Sixth-generation (6G) wireless systems are envisioned as networks of networks, integrating diverse in-X subnetworks that provide localized, high-performance connectivity. Ensuring reliable communication in dense deployments, such as industrial robots and vehicles, is challenging due to dynamic interference and strict performance requirements. Traditional radio resource management (RRM) methods have limitations, prompting the need for AI-based solutions. In this paper, we address the challenges of dynamic resource allocation and scheduling in 6G in-X subnetworks supporting applications with heterogeneous characteristics by proposing a novel framework that combines Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning (MARL), Federated Learning (FL), and Explainable AI (XAI). Our solution is designed to improve the reliability, robustness, and transparency of resource management and intra-subnetwork scheduling while ensuring data privacy and fairness across multiple co-existing subnetworks. Unlike existing works, our approach considers a realistic scenario with multiple devices per subnetwork, thereby offering a more comprehensive and scalable solution. The proposed explainable RL framework enables agents to collaboratively optimize channel allocation and scheduling without the need to share raw data, preserving the privacy of each participating subnetwork. Extensive simulations based on 3GPP scenarios demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, showing significant improvements in performance, and transparency over existing solutions.