LiSense Project Targets Faster, More Secure Data in Harsh Industrial Environments
Digital Transit Limited, in partnership with the University of Huddersfield, has been awarded funding through the Impact Acceleration Account to develop LiSense, a proof-of-concept project focused on advancing condition monitoring systems through the use of Li-Fi communication technology.
Why Li-Fi Communication, and Why Now?
LISENSE explores the integration of Li-Fi (Light Fidelity) into shaft-mounted sensing devices (SMSD) for use in industrial environments. Li-Fi transmits data using visible light, unlike Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, which rely on radio frequencies. This fundamental difference brings clear benefits—particularly in settings where electromagnetic interference (EMI) is common and data security is a concern.
In traditional systems, EMI from machinery and other sources can disrupt wireless signals, affecting data reliability. Li-Fi is immune to this interference. Additionally, because Li-Fi signals do not travel through walls, they are significantly harder to intercept, offering enhanced cybersecurity for sensitive data applications. These benefits are critical for industries relying on high-integrity, real-time condition monitoring.
What LiSense Will Deliver
The project will result in a working prototype that demonstrates how Li-Fi can be used in shaft-mounted sensors to deliver fast, secure, and interference-resistant communication. This capability will improve how condition data is collected from industrial machines, making it easier to detect issues early and avoid unscheduled maintenance or downtime.
The LiSense system is being designed to meet the demands of modern industrial settings, where system performance, security, and data integrity are all under pressure. By introducing a new communication method tailored to these environments, the project aims to make predictive maintenance more precise and effective.
Partnership and What's coming Next
This project continues an established working relationship between Digital Transit and the University of Huddersfield. It reflects a joint focus on applying research in ways that lead to practical tools for industry. LiSense is an early-stage innovation, but one that builds on real industrial needs and previous sensing technology work.
Development and testing will take place over the coming months. While some project details will remain confidential to protect future commercial opportunities, we’ll be sharing selected updates as the prototype progresses. LiSense represents a promising step in our work on smarter, more secure condition monitoring – and there’s more to come!
