When light becomes a communication channel: Véronique Georlette honoured by AIMs
As connected objects continue to proliferate, the need for wireless communications keeps increasing. Yet these exchanges rely largely on radio frequencies, a limited resource that is already under heavy demand. Other approaches are therefore being explored to complement these technologies, particularly in environments where connectivity needs continue to grow.
This is the context of the work carried out by Véronique Georlette within the Department of Electromagnetism and Telecommunications at UMONS, under the supervision of Véronique Moeyaert and Sébastien Bette. Her thesis focuses on Visible Light Communication, or VLC, a technology that uses visible and infrared light as a medium for data transmission.
Testing communication through light in real-life conditions
The aim of her research was to assess the technical feasibility of low-data-rate VLC systems for applications related to smart cities and industrial environments. To achieve this, Véronique Georlette combined modelling, simulation and experimentation.
In particular, she developed realistic models of the optical transmission channel, which were then integrated into three-dimensional simulators to assess system coverage and performance. Beyond modelling, the researcher also worked on how to structure the light signal in order to transmit data. She then designed and tested several low-cost prototypes, using LEDs, photodiodes, solar panels and cameras, among other components.
“As an engineer, it was important to me that this thesis should not remain purely theoretical or limited to simulations, but should also lead to experimental validation in the field,” says Véronique Georlette.
Applied research, from smart cities to Industry 4.0
This work also stands out for its focus on environments that remain relatively underexplored in the scientific literature, such as outdoor and industrial spaces. A full-scale demonstrator was notably installed in the car park of Multitel, a UMONS Innovation Center and an important partner in the thesis as part of a European project.
“Receiving this prize is an important recognition, especially as it highlights work with a strong applied dimension,” Véronique explains.
After a postdoctoral stay at the University of Illinois Chicago, Véronique Georlette intends to continue her research, particularly on Intelligent Reflecting Surfaces — surfaces capable of directing or optimising signal propagation in wireless communication systems.