VTT seeks solutions to autonomic service networks consisting of machines

The amount of network-connected devices, capable of M2M communication, is increasing rapidly. Connecting these devices to a network and services is challenging even for experts and almost impossible for consumers. VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland is coordinating an European ICT project, which focuses on services offered through Machine-To-Machine networks consisting of a variety of electronic devices, such as mobile phones, sensors, actuators and machines.

The project aims to apply autonomic computing and communication paradigms in a way which permits problem caused by increasing complexity in M2M networks to be solved. For example, making equipment and service products work in complex environments is very challenging for consumers, and therefore customer support functions may be expensive for companies.

Autonomic Services in M2M networks (A2Nets) project approaches the problem from a horizontal viewpoint, aiming to fulfil the requirements of several domains. The horizontal architecture, standards and enabling solutions of M2M systems are being developed to boost the technology usage in several vertical solutions. The results of the project are being evaluated in test environments related to telematics, energy and well-being.

Made up of 24 partners, the international Eureka/ITEA2 A2Nets consortium has received 23.5 million euros of funding for its M2M research. In addition to VTT, the project consortium includes among others Atos, Bull, Gemalto, Innova, Polar, Rücker Lypsa and Thales. The project will run until spring 2014.