Result description
The LARA system is a handheld, low-cost mobile device that enables field workers to ‘see beneath the ground’. The device brings together Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology, 3-D geographic information system (GIS) technology and geospatial databases with computer graphics and augmented reality to render complex 3-D models of underground networks including water, gas, sewerage and electricity. GNSS technology includes Galileo and EGNOS as well as GPS.
LARA’s high-precision, low-power, long-autonomy GNSS receiver module is able to achieve accuracy at the level of a few centimetres. Pinpointing the exact location of underground utilities is critical to the safety and mission of utility field workers. Other than this, poorly mapped regions slow down work and add an element of uncertainty to the work of excavation teams and their office-bound supervisors.
Precise intervention will reduce the overall maintenance cost, at the same time minimising the economic and social implications of lengthy surface works. The latter include unnecessary traffic congestion, pedestrian disruption, material wastage, use of people’s time, increased energy demand, visual intrusion and noise.
Addressing target audiences and expressing needs
- Collaboration
- Business Angels
- Venture Capital
- Research and Technology Organisations
- Private Investors
R&D, Technology and Innovation aspects
The consortium is performing minor improvements regarding the system usability and autonomy to showcase their technology in two major utility companies. Once the final prototype is completed, LARA’s affordable and simple-to-use system is expected to have a significantly positive impact on the competitiveness of the European utility industry as well as equipment vendors.
Result submitted to Horizon Results Platform by ARISTOTELIO PANEPISTIMIO THESSALONIKIS
