The Vision of Project Mesh
Project Mesh aims to extend the wireless reach of low-cost, non-mobile Android devices by configuring them to network cooperatively. This project will develop mesh capabilities that will allow wirelessly-enabled devices to autonomously discover and connect with similarly configured devices within range.
The developed capabilities will be integrated with Grey-box’s UNI Android app. Project Mesh will also set the stage for developing software features that will utilize the mesh for new functionality. This will increase the amount of content available to users and provide a framework for offering new functionality.
Project Mesh plans to integrate and use UNI’s existing wireless card functionality to create a virtual wireless interface. By doing so, the device can act as both an access point and a wireless client simultaneously, allowing traffic to be forwarded between devices by individuals in low connectivity areas.
The solution involves developing new functionality to monitor nearby access points and automatically connect to them as a client.
Who Can Benefit?
50% of the world lives offline; have not connected to the internet within the last 3 months. In Africa, on average the cost for 1gb of data equals 7% of the average monthly salary. In half of rural Canada, there is a lack of access to the minimum speed required for a vast amount of internet content today.
Project Mesh would allow these individuals in low connectivity areas, areas without much existing infrastructure to support internet connectivity, or where internet access is too costly the opportunity to continue to access content reliably, cheap, and safely.
This would be achieved by providing a framework to low-cost Android devices through the UNI android app to connect and network with each other cooperatively and send files and messages over long distances, without this internet connectivity.
PORTABLE
An app on a android device
Allows the user to network with other android devices with the app
Send and share content between devices
Low Power
Using existing UNI infrastructure and compatible with older Android phones,
Cellphone Charger, Portable Battery, and Solar Charging
Cybersecurity Commitment
Connect securely to other devices using UNI infrastructure without intrusion.
Safe and quick
LONG RANGE
100-metre range connection
Connect up to 20 devices at a time
How does Project Mesh contribute to the SDG Goals?
Project Mesh aligns with Goal 9 by promoting innovation and infrastructure development. By extending the wireless reach of low-cost, non-mobile Android devices and enabling them to network cooperatively, the project facilitates the creation of a mesh network infrastructure. This infrastructure allows devices to autonomously discover and connect with each other, expanding the reach of wireless communication in a cost-effective manner. This innovation can contribute to the advancement of industry and infrastructure, particularly in areas with limited access to traditional networking infrastructure.
Project Mesh strongly aligns with Goal 11 by promoting sustainable cities and communities. By extending the wireless reach of low-cost devices and enabling them to form a mesh network, Project Mesh helps bridge the digital divide and expand connectivity in communities. This can lead to increased access to information, communication, and online services for individuals who may have limited access to traditional internet infrastructure. By providing affordable and autonomous networking capabilities, Project Mesh supports the development of sustainable and inclusive communities.
Project Mesh supports Goal 16 by enhancing communication capabilities and fostering inclusivity. Access to reliable communication channels is essential for promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions. By extending the wireless reach of low-cost devices and enabling them to form a cooperative mesh network, Project Mesh empowers individuals and communities with improved communication options, potentially bridging gaps in connectivity and promoting social inclusion.
Roadmap of what’s to come
Related Work
| Project | Focus Area | Project Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Project Symmetry | EdTech, Natural Language Processing | Increase the quality and quantity of digital content to be accessed offline in less represented languages |
| UNI Project | EdTech, Social Innovation | Allows more digital content in different languages to be stored and accessed by the population in need |
| Project Scraper | EdTech, Social Innovation | Allows you to to clone websites to make Internet browsing an offline experience. |
Interested?
Let us know what you think about Project Mesh and whether you want to help us make it a reality!