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- Overview of Network Analyzer (+)
- The Network Analyzer (+) is a device developed to test and analyze the availability and quality of Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWANs) such as NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things) and LTE-M. This tool is essential for partners and customers to validate network coverage and performance for various IoT projects.
- Background and Purpose
- LPWANs are known for their extensive cell coverage, which makes them suitable for areas with poor network quality. However, testing the availability and quality of LPWANs across multiple planned project locations can be costly and time-consuming. The Network Analyzer (+) addresses this issue by allowing partners and customers to perform these tests independently. This device provides real-time data on signal strength and quality, facilitating a more efficient assessment process.
- Technical Details
- The Network Analyzer (+) is equipped with the following technical features:
- Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP): Measures the power level received from a reference signal.
- Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ): Assesses the quality of the received reference signal.
- Timestamp: Records the time of each measurement.
- Solution Description
- The Network Analyzer (+) functions by transmitting data on signal strength and quality for LPWANs (NB-IoT Cat-M1) and GSM at regular intervals to a server. The collected data can be viewed and analyzed through a dashboard, where it can be filtered by time. Additionally, the device includes an integrated E-paper display that shows the current measured values with a quality indication through bars, providing an immediate visual representation of the network conditions.
- Application Opportunities
- The Network Analyzer (+) offers several practical applications:
- IoT Investment Validation and Assurance: Ensures that the network infrastructure can support IoT deployments, providing confidence in the investment.
- Building Trust in the Network: Demonstrates the reliability and quality of the network to potential users.
- Self-Testing Solution: Allows service providers to test network coverage and quality independently without requiring extensive external support.
- Project Timeline
- The production timeline for the Network Analyzer (+) is as follows:
- April 2023: 500 devices produced
- End of May 2023: Full rollout planned
- Status and Reusability
- Current Status: In production
- Location: Germany
- Type: Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
- Reusability: Yes, the device can be reused for multiple projects and locations.
- Key Points of Contact
- For more information or to express interest in the Network Analyzer (+), the main point of contact is:
- SPOC: Tim Schaerfke
- Conclusion
- The Network Analyzer (+) is a crucial tool for validating and ensuring the quality of LPWAN networks. It empowers partners and customers to conduct their own network assessments, thereby saving time and reducing costs. By providing real-time data and an easy-to-use interface, the Network Analyzer (+) enhances the ability to plan and deploy IoT solutions with confidence.
- Overview of GigaBee Protect Solution
- The GigaBee Protect solution is a state-of-the-art IoT-based system designed to protect beehives from theft and environmental hazards. It is a compact, battery-operated device that provides beekeepers with real-time monitoring and alerts, ensuring the safety and security of their bee colonies.
- Background and Purpose
- Current methods of protecting beehives face several challenges:
- Theft and Vandalism: Beehives are susceptible to theft and vandalism, causing significant losses for beekeepers.
- Environmental Hazards: Beehives can be adversely affected by environmental conditions, including falls or displacement due to weather events.
- Limited Monitoring: Traditional methods offer limited monitoring capabilities, making it difficult for beekeepers to respond promptly to threats.
- The GigaBee Protect solution addresses these issues by providing a reliable, self-sufficient monitoring system that enhances beehive security and environmental resilience.
- Technical Details
- Hardware Components:
- Sensors: An accelerometer (LIS2DH12) for detecting movement and environmental changes.
- Microcontroller: A NORDIC nRF9160 microcontroller to manage device operations and connectivity.
- Modem: Utilizes LTE-M and NB-IoT for cellular positioning and communication.
- Battery: Designed to ensure the device remains operational for over 12 months on a single charge.
- Protective Casing: Ensures durability and protection against environmental factors.
- Software:
- Firmware: Developed using efficient programming to ensure low power consumption and robust performance.
- Cloud Platform: Allows remote monitoring and data visualization for beekeepers.
- Connectivity:
- Cellular Technology: Supports LTE-M and NB-IoT for reliable network connections, ensuring the device remains operational even in remote areas.
- Battery Monitoring: Constantly tracks battery levels to ensure continuous operation.
- Network Status Monitoring: Continuously checks network availability and quality to maintain stable connections.
- Solution Description
- The GigaBee Protect device uses advanced IoT technology to provide a stable and reliable monitoring system for beehives. Key features include:
- Movement Detection: Alerts beekeepers if the hive is moved or displaced.
- Environmental Monitoring: Provides data on environmental conditions affecting the hive.
- Battery Life: Long-lasting battery designed for over 12 months of operation without recharging.
- Real-time Alerts: Sends immediate notifications to beekeepers in case of theft, displacement, or environmental threats.
- Application Opportunities
- The GigaBee Protect solution is versatile and can be deployed in various settings:
- Apiaries: Protects commercial and private beehives from theft and environmental threats.
- Agricultural Areas: Ensures the safety of bee colonies in agricultural settings where pollination is critical.
- Remote Locations: Suitable for beehives located in remote or hard-to-reach areas where regular monitoring is challenging.
- Project Timeline
- 06/21: Project inception and initial design phase.
- 08/21: Installation of devices in 10 Vodafone beehives.
- 08/21 - 11/21: Testing and showcasing at various events, including a press conference and Youtopia event in Cologne.
- Ongoing: Further development, testing, and integration based on feedback.
- Future Development
- The current status of the GigaBee Protect solution is in active use and ongoing development. Future plans include:
- Scaling Production: Aiming to increase production by 2023.
- Feature Enhancements: Adding capabilities such as a foulbrood detector, smoke detector, and a beekeeper app for detailed hive parameter visualization.
- Productization: Securing funding and completing patent processes within the next 2 to 4 years.
- Key Points of Contact
- For further information or to express interest in the GigaBee Protect solution, the main point of contact is:
- SPOC: Vodafone IoT Future Lab Team
- Conclusion
- The GigaBee Protect solution offers a robust and reliable monitoring system for beekeepers, ensuring the safety and security of their beehives. With continuous monitoring of movement and environmental conditions, the GigaBee Protect device provides peace of mind, significantly enhancing response times and protection against theft and hazards.
- Overview of HydroSense
- HydroSense is an innovative Internet of Things (IoT) solution developed for the continuous and real-time monitoring of lake water quality. This system employs a buoy equipped with various sensors to measure multiple water parameters, offering a more efficient and timely assessment compared to traditional manual sampling methods.
- Background and Purpose
- Traditional methods of analyzing lake water quality involve manual sampling, typically performed only a few times per year. This sporadic testing results in a lack of real-time data, making it difficult to monitor ongoing pollution and environmental changes. The European guideline EG/2000/60 highlights the necessity for automated monitoring solutions, prompting the development of HydroSense to address this need.
- Technical Details
- Hardware Components:
- Sensors: The buoy is equipped with four sensors:
- One single sensor
- Three sensors integrated into a multiparameter sonde
- Power Supply: The system is powered by solar panels, ensuring a sustainable and continuous power source for the sensors and other components.
- Software and Connectivity:
- Dashboard: Data collected by the sensors is transmitted to the IoT Future Lab Dashboard, where it is visualized and analyzed.
- Connectivity: Uses Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) for reliable and efficient data transmission from the buoy to the dashboard.
- Solution Description
- HydroSense monitors the following water parameters:
- Temperature
- pH Level
- Electrical Conductivity
- Redox Potential
- Dissolved Oxygen
- Turbidity
- The buoy’s design, including its case and swim body, is 3D printed to ensure cost-effective production and deployment. The collected data is sent over NB-IoT and displayed on a dashboard, allowing for real-time monitoring and analysis of lake water quality.
- Application Opportunities
- The HydroSense solution can be deployed in any lake, making it highly versatile. Potential applications include:
- Municipal Use: Cities and communities can use HydroSense to monitor local water bodies.
- Environmental Restoration: Companies involved in environmental restoration projects can leverage this technology to assess and improve lake conditions.
- Project Timeline
- The development and implementation timeline for HydroSense includes:
- 07 June 2022: Project initiation
- 20 July 2022: Arrival of sensors
- 05 August 2022: Completion of swim body and case
- 05 September 2022: Project completion
- 08 September 2022: Implementation with Landesanstalt für Umwelt Baden-Württemberg (LUBW) at Bodensee
- Showcase Features
- The HydroSense showcase is a scaled-down, interactive version designed for demonstrations:
- Measured Parameters: The showcase focuses on two key parameters: oxygen and temperature.
- Design: It features a 74-liter tank with synthetic plants, stones, and sand to simulate a natural lake environment. Sensors float in the water and send real-time data via 5G to a dashboard.
- Interactivity: Users can alter water conditions using two buttons:
- One button increases oxygen levels.
- Another button raises the water temperature.
- These changes are accompanied by bubbles and lights for an engaging and educational user experience.
- Future Development and Communication
- HydroSense's showcase is set for further testing and lab establishment by March 2023. Communication strategies include updates through Vodafone's external and internal channels, such as the newsroom and social media platforms, ensuring widespread awareness and engagement with the project.
- Conclusion
- HydroSense represents a significant advancement in automated environmental monitoring, providing real-time data and analysis to help manage and protect lake ecosystems. Its innovative design and technology make it a valuable tool for municipalities, environmental organizations, and restoration projects.
- Overview of IoT Configurator Solution
- The IoT Configurator Solution is an advanced platform developed by Vodafone, designed to facilitate the creation and deployment of IoT prototypes. This platform leverages IoT hardware cubes, connectivity technologies, and cloud services to enable rapid prototyping and scalable IoT solutions.
- Background and Purpose
- Vodafone Innovation Park in Germany has developed the IoT Configurator to address the complexities of IoT ecosystems and the need for end-to-end (E2E) perspectives in launching successful IoT products. The solution allows for the co-creation of innovative prototypes and solutions to unlock the full potential of IoT. It aims to provide customers with a comprehensive understanding of IoT, from the initial idea to the final product, emphasizing individualization and scalability.
- Technical Details
- Hardware Components:
- Sensors: Various sensors to capture environmental and operational data.
- Microcontroller Module: For processing and managing sensor data.
- Case: Enclosures to protect and house IoT components.
- Energy Source: Battery or other power sources to ensure continuous operation.
- 3D Printing: Used for creating custom components and enclosures.
- Software and Data Visualization:
- Firmware: Manages sensor data collection and communication.
- Dashboard: Visualizes collected data for real-time monitoring and analysis.
- Web-App Integration: Facilitates user interaction and control over IoT prototypes.
- Connectivity Technologies:
- Cellular Connectivity: 2G, 4G, 5G, NB-IoT, and LTE-M for robust data transmission.
- Cloud Server: For data storage, processing, and analytics.
- Solution Description
- The IoT Configurator Solution offers an extensive introduction to IoT, covering the history, technical details, and development process. It provides customers the opportunity to develop their own IoT prototypes using interactive hardware cubes. The solution includes:
- E2E IoT Rapid Prototyping: From ideation to deployment, ensuring scalable solutions.
- Real-time Data Visualization: Through a user-friendly dashboard.
- Hands-on Experience: With customizable IoT hardware cubes.
- Application Opportunities
- The IoT Configurator can be utilized in various scenarios, including:
- VIP Lab Tours: Demonstrating IoT capabilities to potential clients.
- Customer Contact: Engaging customers with interactive IoT solutions.
- Fairs and Exhibitions: Showcasing IoT innovations and prototypes.
- Project Timeline
- Initial Idea of First IoT Showcase: January 2021
- Pitch and Agency Selection: March 2021
- Hardware Alignment and Exhibit Delivery: February 2021
- Content Preparation and Programming: Throughout 2021 and early 2022
- Estimated Completion of Showcase: February 2023
- Future Development
- The IoT Configurator is an ongoing project with future goals including:
- Extended Use Cases: Adapting the solution for broader applications across different industries.
- Productization: Moving from a showcase to a market-ready product.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Exploring advanced connectivity options for better performance.
- Key Points of Contact
- For more information or to express interest in the IoT Configurator Solution, please contact:
- Laura Biermann: Vodafone SPOC
- Conclusion
- The IoT Configurator Solution by Vodafone provides a robust platform for developing and deploying IoT prototypes. By combining hardware, software, and connectivity technologies, it offers a comprehensive approach to IoT development, enhancing transparency, analytical capabilities, and operational efficiency. This solution holds potential for widespread application across various industries, driving innovation and improving revenue generation.
- Overview of Push To Talk (PTT) Solution
- The Push To Talk (PTT) solution is an emergency call system designed for office spaces. It is a wall-mounted, battery-operated unit that enables quick and reliable communication with emergency services such as the police, fire service, or maintenance department.
- Background and Purpose
- Current emergency calling devices in office environments face several limitations:
- They are dependent on power supply and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems, which can fail during power outages or network issues.
- Companies often lack visibility into the operational status of these devices, which can result in employees being at high risk during emergencies if the devices are not functioning properly.
- The PTT solution addresses these shortcomings by offering a more reliable, self-sufficient emergency communication system.
- Technical Details
- Hardware Components:
- Push Buttons: Three buttons designated for different emergency services.
- Connectivity Board: A custom-developed board that facilitates communication.
- Modem: A Quectel modem for network connectivity.
- Battery: Ensures the device remains operational even during power outages.
- Microphone and Speaker: For clear audio communication.
- Microcontroller: Manages the device’s operations and connectivity.
- Software:
- Developed using React and C++ to ensure robust performance.
- Connectivity:
- Supports 4G and 2G Circuit Switched Fallback (CSFB) for reliable network connections.
- Solution Description
- The PTT device uses cellular technology to ensure a stable and reliable connection, even when traditional power and network systems fail. Key features include:
- Battery Monitoring: The device constantly monitors its battery level to ensure it is always ready for use.
- Network Status Monitoring: Continuously checks network availability and quality.
- Emergency Buttons: Three push buttons allow users to call specific emergency services directly.
- Modem Functionality: The modem actively searches for the best available connection to ensure successful communication.
- Application Opportunities
- The PTT solution is highly versatile and can be deployed in various settings:
- Office Buildings: Ensures employee safety on every floor by providing immediate access to emergency services.
- Public Places: Useful in locations that require constant maintenance and where quick communication with emergency services is crucial.
- Hazardous Environments: Suitable for areas where mobile phones are not permitted, but emergency communication is necessary.
- Project Timeline
- 04/22: Start of the project, with the initial design of the audio circuit.
- 05/22 - 08/22: Testing of the first Printed Circuit Board (PCB) for audio functionality and official review of the audio circuit from Quectel.
- 09/22: Designing the second version of the audio circuit, integrating it, and completing the 3D design.
- Ongoing Tasks: Further testing and integration based on initial results and feedback.
- Future Development
- The current status of the PTT solution is a Proof of Concept (PoC), and efforts are underway to secure funding for productization. The estimated timeline for patent completion is 2 to 4 years.
- Key Points of Contact
- For further information or to express interest in the PTT solution, the main point of contact is:
- SPOC: TETI Tim Schaerfke
- Conclusion
- The Push To Talk solution provides a robust and reliable emergency communication system for office spaces and other environments where traditional methods may fail. With continuous monitoring of battery levels and network status, the PTT device ensures that help is always just a button press away, significantly enhancing safety and response times during emergencies.
- Overview of RFID Automation Enabler Solution
- The RFID Automation Enabler is an advanced IoT-based device designed to track samples, products, and commodities at production sites. It utilizes RFID technology combined with LTE-M connectivity to provide real-time tracking and data forwarding to a cloud instance, enhancing automation and inventory management for various industries.
- Background and Purpose
- Prezero, a German environmental services provider, faces challenges in tracking the ingredients of processed trash cubes for resale purposes. Traditional tracking methods are inefficient due to the attenuation of RFID signals through trash piles. The RFID Automation Enabler addresses these challenges by offering:
- Enhanced Tracking Accuracy: Mitigates signal attenuation issues.
- Real-time Data Transmission: Provides up-to-date tracking information.
- Improved Inventory Management: Helps streamline processes and optimize resources.
- Technical Details
- Hardware Components:
- RFID Reader: Thinkmagic M6E-NANO for reading RFID tags.
- Modem: BG95-M3 Modem (LTE-M) for reliable network connectivity.
- Battery: Lithium-ion battery ensures continuous operation.
- Extendable Rods: Allows the device to be positioned at optimal heights for accurate readings.
- Software:
- Firmware: Manages RFID reading and data transmission.
- Dashboard: Visualizes the collected data, showing the presence of Electronic Product Codes (EPCs).
- Connectivity
- LTE-M: Ensures robust data transmission to the cloud, even in challenging environments.
- Future Upgrade: Potential upgrade to RedCap devices for enhanced performance.
- Solution Description
- The RFID Automation Enabler reads all EPCs of nearby RFID tags and forwards this data through LTE-M to a backend system. A user-friendly dashboard visualizes the data, showing real-time status of tracked items. Key features include:
- Reliable RFID Reading: Overcomes signal attenuation issues in dense environments.
- Real-time Data Forwarding: Ensures immediate availability of tracking information.
- Ease of Deployment: Extendable rods facilitate easy positioning and testing on-site.
- Application Opportunities
- The RFID Automation Enabler can be deployed across various industries and environments:
- Production Sites: Tracks commodities and products within large manufacturing areas.
- Waste Management: Monitors the composition of processed trash cubes for resale.
- Logistics and Supply Chain: Enhances visibility and efficiency in inventory management.
- Project Timeline
- Project Start: Initial design and development phase.
- On-site Presentation: Demonstration planned to address signal attenuation concerns.
- Prototype Completion: Estimated by 1st February 2024.
- Future Development
- Currently a Proof of Concept (PoC), the RFID Automation Enabler is under development with plans for further testing and refinement. Future goals include:
- Improved RFID Range: Enhancing the device's ability to read tags through dense materials.
- Productization: Moving from PoC to a market-ready product.
- Extended Use Cases: Adapting the solution for broader applications across different industries.
- Key Points of Contact
- For further information or to express interest in the RFID Automation Enabler solution, the main points of contact are:
- Tim Schaerfke
- Laura Biermann
- Conclusion
- The RFID Automation Enabler provides a robust and efficient solution for tracking items in challenging environments. By combining RFID technology with LTE-M connectivity, it offers real-time tracking and data visualization, significantly improving inventory management and operational efficiency. This solution holds potential for widespread application across various industries, enhancing transparency, analytical capabilities, and revenue generation.
- Overview of Smart Sanitizer Dispenser Solution
- The Smart Sanitizer Dispenser is an IoT-based solution designed to enhance workplace hygiene by automating sanitizer dispenser management. This system ensures that sanitizer dispensers are always functional and filled, providing a reliable health security measure for companies of all sizes.
- Background and Purpose
- Ensuring compliance with pandemic-related health guidelines is a challenge for many companies, especially those with large workspaces like the Vodafone campus. Manual monitoring and refilling of sanitizer dispensers are labor-intensive and inefficient. The Smart Sanitizer Dispenser aims to:
- Automate Fill Level Monitoring: Eliminate the need for manual checks.
- Enhance Workplace Hygiene: Ensure dispensers are always filled and functional.
- Optimize Dispenser Placement: Use data analytics to improve dispenser locations.
- Technical Details
- Hardware Components:
- Microcontroller: Measures and calculates the sanitizer usage.
- Sensors: Detect the fill level of the dispenser.
- Connectivity Module: Transmits data over Narrowband-IoT (NB-IoT).
- Battery: Powers the device for continuous operation.
- Software:
- Firmware: Developed to efficiently monitor and transmit usage data.
- Dashboard: Provides a user-friendly interface for monitoring dispenser status and usage analytics.
- Connectivity
- Narrowband-IoT (NB-IoT): Ensures reliable data transmission even in areas with poor network coverage.
- Continuous Monitoring: Regularly updates fill level status and usage statistics.
- Solution Description
- The Smart Sanitizer Dispenser automates the monitoring process, ensuring that dispensers are always ready for use. Key features include:
- Automated Fill Level Control: Housekeeping staff can check fill levels via a dashboard, eliminating manual checks.
- Usage Analytics: Tracks how often dispensers are used, helping to optimize their placement and predict refill dates.
- Real-time Alerts: Notifies staff when a refill is needed or if there are any issues with the dispenser.
- Application Opportunities
- The smart fill level tracking solution is versatile and can be applied to various types of dispensers beyond sanitizers, offering potential for more complex Industry 4.0 applications:
- Office Buildings: Maintains hygiene in large corporate environments.
- Public Spaces: Ensures dispensers in high-traffic areas are always functional.
- Industrial Settings: Can be adapted for other dispensing needs in manufacturing and logistics.
- Project Timeline
- 04/21: Project inception and initial design phase.
- 12/07/21: Completion of initial showcase.
- Ongoing: Further evaluation and potential expansion to other types of dispensers.
- Future Development
- The Smart Sanitizer Dispenser solution has completed its prototype phase and is currently in use. Future developments include:
- Expansion: Adapting the technology for use with other dispensers.
- Enhanced Analytics: Improving data analytics capabilities for better insights.
- Integration: Potential integration with other smart building solutions.
- Key Points of Contact
- For further information or to express interest in the Smart Sanitizer Dispenser solution, the main point of contact is:
- SPOC: Leon Kersten
- Conclusion
- The Smart Sanitizer Dispenser offers a robust and efficient solution for maintaining hygiene in workplaces and public spaces. By automating fill level monitoring and providing real-time usage data, the system ensures that dispensers are always ready for use, enhancing health security and operational efficiency.
- The battery used here is 4.2V lithium ion battery.
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