Evaluation of 5G for safer and smarter working environments

Important results from the project

The purpose of the project was to investigate how 5G and NB-IoT can be used to solve measurement problems, as well as how business models can be developed to enable large-scale installations with smart sensors in for example mines, industrial vehicles and smart cities.

Expected long term effects

The project as a whole has achieved the objective set at the beginning. We have developed a technology platform with a few different sensors (eg heat camera, microphone and vibration sensor). We can now measure a variety of phenomena and send measurement data to a cloud service where AI is used to classify events. We have also developed a minimalist AI solution for downgrading the 5G unit. All parts of the system are designed for low power consumption with multi-year battery operation. We have also identified business models that we have discussed with partners and potential customers.

Approach and implementation

At the beginning of the project, we started designing a low-power platform for use in a number of products. At the same time, we started working on neural networks on battery-powered systems. We have also looked at business models together with end customers on how to install large numbers of wieless devices. This has been done with Ericsson and Telstra in Melbourne. We will from now continue with both and become a technology supplier. Everything looked good until March when Covid-19 broke out. Since then, we have not been able to have physical meetings.