Research project: BASE MoVE - secure, multi-protocol, energy-efficient and updatable, the basis for future-proof IoT sensor technology

HA project no.: 530/17-12

Head: Prof. Dr Jens-Peter Akelbein, overall project management

Participants: Bettina Kurz, Mario Hoss, Paul Schmelzer

Duration: 05/2017 - 12/2019

Project partner:

• Rhine-Main University of Applied Sciences Prof. Marcus Thoss, Kai Beckmann
• Thermokon Sensortechnik GmbH
• Vonovia SE
• Entega AG
• Count+Care GmbH&Co KG
• T-Systems International GmbH

Abstract: As part of the BASE MoVE project, a new type of basis for future networkable sensor products is being developed. Internet technologies as a basis enable long-term use in commercial and private (smart home) building automation to protect investments. Support for multiple wireless protocols, the ability to update the device software and the use of open source technologies pave the way for broad interoperability with other devices and secure operation by closing security gaps. For retrofitting in existing living spaces, the devices draw their energy from the environment (energy harvesting) and avoid operating costs caused by changing batteries or investing in additional electrical installations. Building on this, concepts are being developed for future basic fixtures and fittings in rented flats that offer assistance functions for independent living in old age while protecting privacy.

Project description

The Internet of Things (IoT) is becoming increasingly present and is making inroads into private homes as smart homes. New business models and markets are also emerging for established market players such as landlords and insurance companies. In the future, a "smart home" could be part of the basic equipment of a home, just like a bathroom or kitchen is today. So far, different, competing technologies, protocols and standards have developed in this area. It is currently unclear what will prevail in the medium or long term.

From the perspective of a sensor technology provider, the question arises as to which technologies should be invested in, especially as current products are only able to utilise one standard at a time. There is a high risk that investments will be made in technologies that prove to be unsuitable for the future after a few years. Housing providers are faced with the same situation: after a few years, it will no longer be possible to add new devices to a basic smart home system. The strong link between home automation centres and supported sensor technology with a commitment to one manufacturer represents a high investment risk. It is problematic for end users not to be able to continue using their own devices with existing basic equipment after moving house.

The aim of the BASE MoVE project is to develop a modular IoT basis for future networkable IoT sensor products from the manufacturer Thermokon. This should form the basis both for the existing business environment of functional construction and for the development of new sales opportunities in the "smart home" environment. The support of several wireless protocols combined with the ability to update the sensor software should serve to decouple home automation centres and guarantee long-term usability, interoperability and the closing of security gaps. As security aspects, boot integrity, authorisation of updates and modularisation of the sensor software to separate key management from its use must already be taken into account in the design. Radio-based data transmission allows cost-effective retrofitting of existing living spaces without having to modify the electrical installation. An energy supply from ambient energy (energy harvesting) should allow sensors to be placed independently of a permanent energy supply or by using batteries. This avoids the biggest cost factor in the long-term use of today's battery-based sensor technology. For solutions in the field of ambient assisted living (AAL), this opens up the possibility of equipping even simple living spaces with assistance functions at low cost.

In addition to the implementation of a new basis for IoT sensor technology, an analysis with subsequent concept development will provide proposals for future infrastructures for networking and for the central functions in the smart home. These should aim to transition from today's proprietary products towards basic equipment for homes. In particular, the possibility of operation without a cloud connection should make it possible for the end user to consciously decide on the transfer of and access to data in accordance with the privacy-by-design principle and not be a prerequisite for achieving the added value of a smart home.

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