This discipline lies at the intersection of VLC and integrated network systems (traditionally under the domain of radio communication technologies). ENLIGHT'EM* will recruit and train a new generation of innovators and provide them with the technical expertise to lead the real-world development and implementation of IoT, both now and in the future of 5G.
Dr. Domenico Giustiniano, Principal Investigator of ENLIGHT'EM, explains: “Light-emitting diodes, commonly known as LEDs, are driving a revolution in lighting systems due to their high energy efficiency (up to 80% higher than that of fluorescent or incandescent lights). In this project, we are exploring the potential of LEDs to develop network communication functionalities. Our proposal is to bring connectivity to every LED bulb using VLC technology. Each LED bulb can become a transceiver, thus complementing the existing radio frequency (RF) infrastructure and enabling the creation of truly sustainable and ubiquitous networks where IoT systems can operate.”.
Integrating VLC into lighting environments and IoT systems requires designing networked and intelligent lights. This will necessitate the development of novel technologies, algorithms, and innovative communication and networking techniques. Therefore, the convergence of solid-state lighting penetration, networked VLC, and a constantly growing IoT will demand highly skilled professionals in a new discipline born at the intersection of VLC and integrated networked systems. These professionals will be responsible for driving the enormous market potential of LED luminaires as visible light IoT systems.
Energy, light, life and connected cities
Fifteen early-stage researchers (ESRs) will be recruited and trained at ENLIGHT'EM through a multidisciplinary European network of experts from universities, research institutes, SMEs, and large corporations, all coordinated by IMDEA Networks. These early-stage researchers will become top-level experts in a wide range of fields leading to the integration of low-power VLC into the Internet of Things. They will acquire and refine cutting-edge technical skills in IoT areas such as energy, lighting, connected living, and connected cities, while also developing the entrepreneurial mindset necessary to successfully apply their knowledge and research findings to the business world. The professionals trained through this European Training Network will therefore be crucial for Europe to gain a competitive edge through the deployment of IoT via VLC and its integration into the 5G ecosystem.
“LEDs are already entering the IoT market with integrated sensor functionalities,” said Dr. Giustiniano. “Once we manage to incorporate connectivity into the equation, LEDs enabled for visible light communication will be a game-changer in the IoT ecosystem in the not-too-distant future.” ENLIGHT'EM represents a step in this direction, as it consolidates pan-European collaboration between leading groups in the field of VLC and radio communication technologies, embedded networks, solid-state lighting, and the sustainable development of smart applications.
“It is of utmost importance that new technologies be designed to achieve sustainable socioeconomic development,” stated Dr. Giustiniano. “Since energy is a scarce resource, new VLC technologies entering the market must be designed to consume minimal energy throughout their lifespan. Leveraging the multidisciplinary expertise of the project partners, ENLIGHT’EM will analyze key technical aspects in detail to achieve this goal, including simultaneous data and power transfer in the visible light spectrum, passive communication and capture, as well as emerging vertical sectors such as communication, transportation, and the manufacture of V2X (Vehicle-to-Anything) technologies for the automotive industry. Scientific leadership and technology transfer are essential to this project.”.
*ENLIGHT'EM: European Training Network in Low-Energy Visible Light IoT Systems
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