Wildfires have become one of the most devastating and uncontrollable threats to both natural ecosystems and human life. Every year, entire regions are destroyed by fires, causing irreversible damage and overwhelming emergency services. To address this critical issue, we conducted a pilot test on June 25, 2024, in Vigo, Spain, to explore innovative solutions for faster, more efficient fire detection and response.
About the Pilot Test
In collaboration with MASORANGE, Optare Solutions, Security forces and the University of Vigo, we demonstrated a practical use case for our edgeContinuum platform, highlighting AI-driven real-time emergency detection. Using 5G low latency and advanced AI, this pilot test offers a significant advance in wildfire prevention and management, enabling faster detection and response when it matters most.
In this Pilot Test, a lightweight drone designed without onboard computing to reduce energy consumption and extend flight time streamed live video directly to an AI-driven application running on edgeContinuum platform. Instead of processing data on the drone itself, all video analysis was handled remotely on an edge node using our edgeContinuum platform. This approach kept the drone light and maximized efficiency while still allowing for real-time video analysis.
Role of AI Technology at Edge
The AI application, was hosted on a computing edge node located within a MASORANGE cell tower. By placing the edge node in close to the data source, we minimized latency and maximized the efficiency of the system. Once smoke was identified, the edge platform automatically launched additional fire-detection applications to track the fire and assess nearby risks such as people, vehicles, or obstacles. This real-time hazard detection and monitoring system immediately sent critical information to emergency services.
Role of 5G Technology
The Ultra-low Latency 5G network connectivity required for real-time communication between the drone and AI application was powered by MASORANGE, with network slicing ensuring a reliable, congestion-free connection. This ensured the drone could stream data without interruption, making it ideal for emergency response scenarios.
Collaboration enabled by the GSMA EdgeCloud CAMARA Standards
The edgeContinuum platform adheres to the CAMARA GSMA EdgeCloud API Standard, designed to facilitate integration between edge computing platforms and 5G networks. CAMARA Project, a global initiative, establishes open and interoperable APIs that enable cross-network edge service collaboration, allowing mobile operators and developers to deploy edge applications across diverse environments efficiently.
By complying with these standards, our platform ensures Ultra-low Latency, High Performance connectivity critical for real-time emergency detection. In this pilot, Optare Solutions AI software analyzed video footage streamed from drones and instantly dispatched emergency alerts to authorities, showcasing the power of an interconnected, standardized edge environment.
Watch the Pilot Test in Action
This video highlights the entire process, from the drone’s live video stream to the automatic detection of smoke, real-time fire tracking, and risk identification. It showcases how our AI-powered edge computing technology improves emergency detection and response time, ultimately enhancing public safety.
About MASORANGE
MASORANGE is a leading telecommunications provider in Spain, MASORANGE played a critical role in the pilot by providing the 5G infrastructure needed for low-latency, real-time data transmission.
About Optare Solutions
Optare Solutions is a consultant firm working exclusively for telecom operators worldwide. They brought their expertise in AI and video analytics, delivering the software responsible for analyzing the live drone footage. Their AI algorithms, hosted on the edge node, detected smoke and triggered automatic fire-tracking applications, which helped to assess risks in real-time.
About edgeContinuum
edgeContinuum is an edge computing platform focused on scalability, hypervisor-agnostic infrastructure, and converged solutions that prioritize flexibility and efficiency. edgeContinuum provides standardized interfaces to integrate with 3GPP 5G networks, GSMA CAMARA EdgeCloud APIs, and supports a broad range of virtualization technologies, including virtual machines, containers, and more. In the context of this Pilot Test, edgeContinuum acted as the central hub for managing and deploying the applications used in the entire pilot. By integrating seamlessly with MASORANGE’s 5G network and hosting Optare Solution AI software on the edge node, edgeContinuum ensured low-latency data processing and real-time decision-making in critical emergency scenarios.
Special Thanks to the Local Police
The involvement of the local police of Concello de Vigo was essential for the practical application of this technology. Their prompt response to real-time alerts demonstrated how this platform can enhance public safety by enabling faster information relay and coordinated emergency response. Special thanks to the local police for their active participation and support.