By Juan Pedro Tomás
Rogers said that researchers will have the possibility to use machine learning techniques combined with traffic modeling and simulations
Canadian operator Rogers Communications has signed a two-year partnership with Sheridan College that will focus on 5G autonomous vehicle research and development.
In a release, Rogers said that research and development in this field will be channeled through Sheridan’s Center for Mobile Innovation (CMI).
The collaboration will involve studying the potential of integrating navigation, diagnostics, and infotainment systems into autonomous vehicles over new 5G wireless technologies and networks, and research into the areas of intelligent transport systems in a multi-user environment.
“Sheridan is thrilled to partner with Rogers on this exciting new research,” said vice provost of research at Sheridan College, Andrea England,. “Together, we have an opportunity to lead autonomous vehicle research and innovation in Canada that will make meaningful economic impacts, while also providing our students relevant problem-solving skills and expertise as they proceed on their career path.”
As part of the joint project, researchers and students will also have the possibility to use machine learning techniques combined with traffic modeling and simulations to generate insights into how Rogers can deliver innovative services to drivers and prepare a roadmap for autonomous vehicles operating on its 5G networks.
The research will focus on in-car non-driving systems in autonomous vehicles like navigation, diagnostics and infotainment and will explore connectivity with Intelligent Transport Systems using Cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) technology. The 5G research will focus on certain applications including autonomous public transportation systems, driverless taxis, autonomous delivery systems and assisted driving for seniors and people with disabilities.
“5G innovation is opening up a whole new world of opportunities for Canadians and businesses and our partnership with Sheridan continues to build on our strong partner ecosystem,” said CTO of Rogers Communications, Jorge Fernandes,.
This partnership is one part of Rogers more than CAD25 million (US$19.5 million) national investments in research and development and strategic partnerships at leading Canadian institutions, including Communitech, Ryerson University, UBC, University of Calgary and University of Waterloo, to incubate and commercialize 5G use cases and applications.
In October 2021, Rogers Communications announced the launch of its Standalone 5G core network. Rogers built its Standalone 5G network using Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G core. The Canadian operator had partnered with Ericsson in 2018 as its exclusive 5G vendor for its full network infrastructure, including core and Radio Access Network.
In 2020, Rogers Communications initially launched Non-Standalone (NSA) 5G communications in Ottawa and Montreal. Rogers is using 2.5 GHz, AWS and 600 MHz spectrum to provide 5G coverage throughout the country.
In March 2021, Rogers Communications had announced that it will purchase Shaw Communications Inc. in a CAD20 billion deal. If the agreement is approved by regulators, the deal will shake up Canada’s wireless industry as two of the country’s largest telecom and cable providers merge into one company.
“The combination will also create a true competitor to Canada’s only other national network creating choice for business, government and consumers. Teams from both Rogers and Shaw have been working to ensure the regulators have the information they need to fully assess the significant benefits that the combined company will bring to businesses, consumers, and the Canadian economy (…) We have also been working together on integration plans, which will allow the combined company to hit the ground running following approval,” Rogers Communications’ president and CEO, Tony Staffieri previously said during a conference call with investors.
