Industry Agnostic System Integration
We excel in system integration, a process where sensors, devices, and functional modules are integrated through multilayer control and communications. System Integration involves linking various subsystems or components physically or functionally towards holistic operation. A system deployed in industrial applications may have hundreds of electronic, mechanical, optical, or other elements with complex protocols of communications involving wired and/or wireless connectivity with a goal of coordinated and efficient operations.
Our capabilities in system integration are industry-agnostic, meaning we tailor and customize solutions to suit the unique needs of businesses regardless of the industry sectors. The value of system integration for industry is paramount, fostering streamlined operations, improved decision-making through consolidated data, and increased agility to adapt to evolving industry landscapes.
Our areas of focus include:
- Sensor Development and Applications
- Data Acquisition and Analytics
- Technology enhancements
- System Control
- Automation
- Robotic Application
- Remote Monitoring and Control
- Multi-discipline Prototype Development
- Digital Interfaces
- Cloud-based data storage and processing
- Data Visualization
Advanced Materials, Devices, and Systems
We are engaged in research and development in emerging technologies that involve novel materials, devices, and systems. Research and development on new materials over recent years have contributed to innovative solutions to socioeconomic and technology challenges across all industry sectors. Synthesis, simulation, and characterization of nanomaterials and nano dimensional structures have resulted in the development of new material systems for efficient and sustainable energy systems, improved monitoring and detection systems, and overall improvements in quality of life. Advancements in electro-opto-mechanical devices including microelectromechanical systems, inspired by developments in quantum and infrared technologies, have created opportunities for new integrated systems that can improve industry processes through automation, control, and predictive analytics.
We are engaged in research initatives in the areas of advanced materials, devices, and systems with key activities on:
- Quantum Technologies
- Electro-Optical systems
- Infrared, Mid-infrared, and Terahertz Systems
- Spectroscopic Detection Systems
- Nanomaterials characterisation
- Multiphysics Simulation
- Monte Carlo Simulation
- Finite Element Simulation
- Optical Ray Tracing
- Real-time Predictive Analytics
Automation and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)
Automation, the technology-driven process of performing tasks without human intervention, is the backbone of modern industries, streamlining operations for efficiency. It is intricately linked but distinct from System Integration which focuses on connecting diverse components into a unified system. By automating processes, industries can achieve heightened operational efficiency, reduced costs, and improved overall performance.
Our expertise extends beyond conventional automation. We excel in developing custom systems that seamlessly integrate automated processes. Furthermore, our capability in machine learning enables us the design and implementation of control, monitoring, and real-time prediction systems through Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions. By infusing Artificial Intelligence into connected devices, we empower industries to make data-driven decisions, enhancing productivity and performance.
Environmental monitoring for air, water, and biodiversity, including identification and mitigation of climate change stressors (e.g. greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation) are areas of focus by provincial and federal governments. Advancements in sensor technologies and low-footprint IIOT applications have enabled the implementation of distributed monitoring networks towards the detection and mitigation of pollution and emissions.
Our focus areas within this research theme include:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Machine Learning
- Real-time data acquisition
- Environmental monitoring and analytics
- Distributed-area Environmental Monitoring
- Greenhouse gas emissions quantification
- Hardware-software interfacing and backend programming
- Cloud-based Data Archiving and Analytics
5G Cellular Technology
The advent of 5G technology has become a catalyst for transformative growth across diverse industries. Its unparalleled speed and low latency redefine the landscape for businesses, enabling seamless connectivity and accelerating innovations. Despite the benefits 5G brings to the economy across industries, many businesses face the challenge of not being able to access this technology. This is where our expertise and resources are of immense value.
In addressing this challenge head-on, our commitment to technological progress is exemplified through our state-of-the-art 5G facilities housed within NAIT’s Productivity and Innovation Centre (PIC). This on-site infrastructure provides a robust foundation for businesses to harness the full capabilities of 5G. Moreover, our portable 5G system offers unparalleled, flexibility, allowing businesses to set up high-speed connectivity anywhere. Both 5G systems enable companies to validate 5G applications and technologies before market commercialization.
The Private 5G networks and wireless technologies lab at NAIT Applied Research can bring to its partners opportunities from different angles such as:
- Proof of Concept (POC) for industry and public use cases.
- New product integration and testing with 5G.
- Existing product transformation to 5G.
- Consultancy in 5G implementation and solutions/systems design.
- Applied research use cases and Industrial IoT solutions.
- Partnering with Alberta organizations in digital transformation.
- Telecommunication services such as spectrum scanning and analysis, coverage mapping and planning, etc.
- Information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) services.
- Connectivity solution integration with 5G: LoRaWAN, SigFox, WiHART, NB-IoT, BLE, etc.
- General and customized 5G theoretical and practical training based on client request.
- Beyond 5G technology - on the way to 6G technology (Future G).