OCSN - Open City Sensor Network
In the spring of 2017, Lund installed a wireless LoRa network that allowed free experimentation with sensors and the collection of environmental data. The network was one of the first free and open communication networks for IoT and sensor solutions, and everyone from sensor-interested individuals and students to companies at a pre-commercial stage could freely try innovative solutions in Lund's own Internet of Things.
Finanisär
In spring 2017, three base stations for an open city-wide wireless network were installed in Lund's central agglomeration. The network was free to use for various actors at a pre-commercial stage. This made it easier for students, interested individuals and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to participate in the development of the Internet of Things.
- This provides an opportunity for SMEs to commercialize their services. A common innovative environment reduces investment barriers when you are in a testing phase, said Anders Trana, Future by Lund, project manager. This is one of the first free and open communication networks for IoT and sensor solutions.
To make this possible, the project will use several complementary technologies for citywide wireless networks, such as LoRa and NB-IoT which were then newly developed standards for wireless sensors in cities. Lund University, Kraftringen and Lund Municipality provided sites for the infrastructure. The network was held together by software from the Lunda company Sensative, which ensured that there is a secure data sharing between different types of networks, sensor owners and users.
The difference between this initiative and other LoRa city networks was that it was not run by private interests but was instead managed by Lund Municipality and University together. The project aimed to build a model that in the future would cost as little as possible.
The project also took part in the Malmö University of Applied Sciences's app training. 40 students tried through coursework to build apps for the smart city, combining social innovation with the latest technology.
In addition to the long-term operations, it also held trainings in the different techniques. There, interested parties could meet under different themes and work out solutions to problems.
What was the result?
Lund started the first free and open communication network for IoT and sensor solutions. LoRa technology was used in the network and the network covered large parts of Lund and the surrounding area.
How is the project taken forward?
The network formed the basis for the entire open testbed of the projects AS, LOSC and FLOW.
In autumn 2019, the energy company Kraftringen took over the sensor network in Lund. Even after Kraftringen takes over, it is possible to test products at a pre-commercial stage in the network.
The project that made Kraftringen an IoT provider
Facts of the Open City Sensor Network
Financier: 600 000 kr
Project Time: Dec 2016 — Aug 2017
Project Manager: Anders Trana
Project partners: LTH, Lund Municipality, Rise, Sensative
