5G-VirtuFix is an innovative vertical experiment initiated by Intellia ICT and Neuron AI, and it is one of the projects selected for the second Open Call of Imagine-B5G. The project focuses on transforming industrial maintenance and port operations by integrating advanced 5G capabilities, Augmented Reality (AR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The experiment builds on cutting-edge 5G technologies to address critical port and machinery maintenance challenges. 5G-VirtuFix demonstrates how Beyond-5G (B5G) solutions can improve efficiency, scalability, and safety in complex industrial environments by enabling real-time AR guidance, AI-driven decision-making, and seamless remote collaboration.
Use-case description: The use case revolves around enhancing industrial maintenance operations through cutting-edge 5G and B5G technologies. The scenario involves field operators at the Port of Valencia, equipped with monocular and binocular AR glasses, performing complex machinery and infrastructure maintenance tasks. These operators are guided in real-time by remote experts at the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), who access live video feeds, equipment data, and AI-driven insights through an advanced backend system. Using AR glasses like Vuzix M4000 and Vuzix Shield (Figure 1), workers can visualize step-by-step instructions overlaid on the machinery, communicate with experts, and ensure precise maintenance procedures without needing experts to be physically present.
Figure 1: Vuzix M4000 (above) and Vuzix Shield (below)
The proposed solution is poised to impact IMAGINE-B5G on multiple levels:
- Management Level: 5G-VirtuFix validates advanced resource management capabilities, demonstrating zero-touch automation and efficient operational workflows. Open interfaces empower the vertical sector to implement AI-driven use cases, bridging the gap between “AI for networks” and “network for AI.”
- Societal Level: The experiment emphasizes safety and energy efficiency, reducing the need for personnel to work in hazardous areas while optimizing resource consumption. Additionally, the use case aligns with sustainability goals by promoting energy-efficient solutions and enhancing accessibility to remote support in underserved areas.
- Technical Level: The project showcases end-to-end system integration, merging IoT, edge computing, and cloud environments. It aligns with key B5G KPIs such as low latency, high reliability, and energy efficiency, providing a blueprint for scalable and distributed architectures in industrial settings.
- Vertical Area(s): Targeting the port and machinery maintenance sectors, 5G-VirtuFix addresses critical operational challenges, such as reducing downtime and improving maintenance efficiency. Leveraging AR and AI provides on-site operators and remote experts with powerful tools to streamline workflows and enhance decision-making.
5G-VirtuFix exemplifies how B5G technologies can revolutionize industrial maintenance and port operations. Its innovative approach, supported by Imagine-B5G facilities, demonstrates the transformative potential of 5G in real-world use cases.
This project has already started its work in the IMAGINE-B5G second open call. Stay tuned to our website and social media channels if you want to learn more about this and the other selected projects.
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