We had the opportunity to interview Mohammad Newaj Jamil, a PhD student specialising in Pervasive and Mobile Computing at Luleå University of Technology. He gave us insights into Green Transition North's sub-project 11, "Sensor Fusion and Data Analysis"," which focuses on improving the recovery process of black pulp from lithium batteries through hydrometallurgy.

Can you tell us more about the sub-project and what goals you are pursuing with your work?
The main objective of this sub-project is to investigate and develop concepts, frameworks and prototypes that use distributed systems for monitoring, data collection, and control of industrial processes. Our focus is on making the control of processes more flexible, powerful and programmable. This includes implementing seamless failover, device replacement and avoiding technology lock-in, which is in line with the dynamic vision of a cutting-edge industry transitioning towards green technologies.

Sensor fusion sounds like a complex concept. Could you explain it in more detail?
Sensor fusion is a technique that combines data from multiple physical sensors to provide more reliable information, even if individual sensors are not completely reliable. This process minimises uncertainty and improves the overall performance of the task.

How is your research in line with sustainable development and environmental sustainability?
Sensor fusion and data analytics are integral to many artificial intelligence (AI) applications, such as robotics, autonomous vehicles, smart cities and the Internet of Things (IoT). The use of AI in various industries helps to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and drive innovation. Therefore, this research is in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

How do you think the advances in sensor technology and data analytics that you are researching in this project could impact the future of industrial processes?
This project will significantly influence the future of industrial processes in the following ways:
1. The integration of heterogeneous devices in plants and in the field, each with different design features and onboard functions to monitor and control industrial processes.
2. Implementing distributed operation and software updates without being locked into vendor-specific devices and software.
3. Achieve effective and efficient data analytics in the edge-cloud continuum.

Can you give us some insight into your background and the path that led you to this area? 
My educational path started with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Engineering. I then completed an Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Degree in Green Networking and Cloud Computing, which focused on assessing the environmental impact of ICT and optimising resource use in ICT. After completing my Master's degree, I felt inspired to contribute to green change and sustainable development.

How long have you lived in Sweden and what is your overall impression of life here?
I have been living in Sweden for about one and a half years. My experience of life here has been quite good.