Subventions et des contributions :

Subvention ou bourse octroyée s'appliquant à plus d'un exercice financier (2017-2018 à 2020-2021).

Canada's vast and rugged geography has always challenged the vision of Canada as one connected nation.x000D
Today, many Canadians who live away from population centres have limited access to broadband Internet andx000D
the digital services that depend on it. Sparse populations, challenging terrain, and lack of basic infrastructurex000D
limit ground-based wireless infrastructure in many remote areas. Satellite communications are theoreticallyx000D
able to solve this problem, however the cost and complexity of satellite services is high, resulting in servicesx000D
that are more cumbersome, less affordable, less reliable, and less mobile than their terrestrial counterparts.x000D
In this applied research project, Algonquin College's professor Wahab Almuhtadi will partner with TELUS tox000D
investigate novel, cost-effective ways to increase the reach of terrestrial infrastructure to better serve ruralx000D
communities. The project will explore three innovative approaches:x000D
1) Low-cost options for (a) network 'backhaul' and (b) small-scale local power generation. These could reducex000D
the deployment cost of cellular infrastructure in remote regions.x000D
2) Use of novel aerial platforms such as 'kytoons' (kite-balloons) and other 'uncrewed' aircraft as means tox000D
increase base-station height.x000D
3) Use of long-reach communications techniques, including "Internet of Things" interfaces, low ratex000D
error-control codes, and high-gain antennas, to extend range without increasing power.x000D
The project will provide experiential learning opportunities for Algonquin students under a variety ofx000D
disciplines, under the supervision of prof Almuhtadi. The outputs of the project will help TELUS to expand itsx000D
geographical and population coverage, bringing a range of safety, health, and economic benefits to Canadians.