At RDT we continue to make progress in our commitment to innovation and technological development. We are proud to announce our participation in the DUNE and ERROTAID projects, both of which are part of the HAZITEK programme, a key initiative for boosting business R&D in the Basque Country. These projects are co-financed by the Basque Government and the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2021-2027.
DUNE - Augmented Reality for Data Integration in Machinery and Vehicles
Description
The DUNE project (Project No. ZE-2024/00620) aims to develop augmented reality (AR) technologies adapted to transparent screens, which allow information to be displayed on their surface without obstructing visibility. These solutions are designed for application in industrial sectors such as construction, agriculture and logistics, providing real-time information to operators to improve efficiency, safety and accuracy in complex processes.
Goals
DUNE proposes the development of advanced solutions that integrate augmented reality in industrial machinery by means of:
- Development of an automated real-time positioning and control system, which will allow better monitoring of processes.
- Innovative solutions for scanning and data transmission in harsh conditions, ensuring accurate operation in difficult environments.
- Advanced software for comparison of on-site data with theoretical models, allowing real-time adjustments to optimise task execution.
One of DUNE's key focuses is its application in the construction sector, where the integration of AR displays in vehicles and equipment will allow operators to view critical information - such as machine status, environmental conditions and process guidelines - directly on their existing windscreens or panels. This will reduce the need for additional interfaces, optimising decision-making and streamlining workflows.
The project's innovation is particularly relevant in tunnelling works, where low visibility, high dust levels and lack of GPS signals represent significant challenges. DUNE proposes the use of transparent Optical See-Through (OST) Augmented Reality displays, which will present crucial information directly on the excavation machines. Combined with advanced geolocation and positioning systems, these technologies will enable precise alignment of digital data with the physical environment, improving safety and operational efficiency.
Project participants
The DUNE consortium is led by Saitec with the participation of Lurpelan Tunnelling, RDT, Telesonic, together with the collaboration of Tecnalia Research & Innovation, member of the Basque Research and Technology Alliance (RVCTI). Each partner brings its specialised experience to the project:
- Saitec leads the coordination and technical strategy of the project.
- Lurpelan brings its expertise in tunnelling machinery.
- RDT focuses on the development of geospatial and LiDAR systems.
- Telesonic brings its expertise in visualisation technologies.
- Tecnalia provides key knowledge in immersive systems and software development.
This project is aligned with the global objectives of sustainability, optimising processes, reducing waste and improving the use of resources through hyperconnectivity between operators and their work environment.
ERROTAID - Wind Turbine Life Extension with AI and Drones
Description
The ERROTAID project (Project No. ZE-2024/00296) seeks to develop an integral solution for the extension of the useful life of wind turbine structures, combining real-time monitoring with advanced artificial intelligence and drones equipped with augmented reality vision.
Goals
ERROTAID addresses a crucial challenge in the wind energy sector: the need to assess and extend the operational life of existing wind turbines. To this end, the following key actions are proposed:
- Real-time monitoring of structural condition: Use of advanced sensor systems to detect possible failures or deterioration in the structure of wind turbines.
- Application of AI and machine learning: Development of algorithms to analyse the behaviour of wind towers and foresee possible incidents before they occur.
- Inspection with drones and augmented reality: Implementation of drones equipped with artificial vision and augmented reality tools to perform more accurate and safer inspections.
RDT's commitment to innovation and technological development
Our participation in the DUNE and ERROTAID projects reinforces our commitment to innovation and the development of technological solutions that boost industrial competitiveness and energy sustainability. Thanks to the funding and support of the Basque Government and the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), we continue to make progress in the creation of new technologies to improve efficiency and performance in different key sectors.
At RDT, we believe in the power of technology to transform industry and have a positive impact on society. We will continue to work to develop innovative solutions that add value and contribute to the sustainable growth of the technology and industrial sector.
