As part of a Finnish research project Helvar and Oulu University have made the first successful lighting control trial over 5G test network (5GTN).

5G, the next mobile network generation following the currently used 3G and 4G, enables very large scale data transfer over the air, linking wireless devices to the internet with minimal latency and much higher speed than today. 5G also provides optimised network architecture for machine to machine communication with optimised energy consumption for connected devices. This open doors for developing Internet of Things (IoT) based services, enabling real-time applications for wireless devices for example for lighting control.

In the future, lighting systems in commercial buildings will play a central role in collecting and transferring data from various sensors. The data collection can be extended beyond lighting applications. Lighting is commonplace everywhere in buildings where people move and work, thus the lighting systems that can be used to provide also additional services in the future, such as connecting mobile devices to building management services without a need for a Wi-Fi network.

Helvar’s ActiveAhead solution used in the test is one step towards Internet of Things. It is a fully automated, self-learning wireless lighting control system based on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Using the solution reduces the time and cost for installations and commissioning dramatically. Helvar’s ActiveAhead solution can act in a stand-alone mode, or it can be connected to a cloud system to be able to provide even more additional services for facility personnel and end users in the building.

“Since 5G will play central role for the wireless connectivity in future, we want to learn more about the opportunities with  the 5G and Active Ahead lighting control solution. The 5G test network in Oulu is a perfect playground for these purposes.” says Max Björkgren from Helvar.

“One of the main targets of 5GTN is to offer industry partners possibility of bring their innovations, and then develop it further jointly with research partners and ecosystem. We’re more than happy to see Helvar using this possibility” says 5GTN project manager Olli Liinamaa from CWC/University of Oulu.

The TEKES funded VIRPA C project launched in 2016, is aimed at making commercial premises more attractive and their use more sustainable through digital property services. Digital sensors and cloud services can be used to increase the effectiveness of property maintenance and the monitoring and control of the conditions at the property. READ MORE

5GTN, running since 2015,  is offering with other TEKES funded Finnish 5th Gear testbeds the best and most appealing 5G test network environment and ecosystem in the world for research and business development. READ MORE