Connectivity is key for the telecommunications industry and unlocking the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) is crucial for the sector. Technological infrastructure is vital in the development of our smart cities that include increasingly capable communication networks. Utilising AI components to monitor the complex web of underground cables on construction sites is at the interface between the digital and physical worlds – and this is where Inframent comes in. Recently selected to join the programme of ESA’s Dutch business incubator (ESA BIC Noordwijk), the startup is developing a smartphone app that may well quickly become that must-have piece of kit for engineers, construction companies and regulatory authorities alike due to its real-time benefits for gathering data.
Currently, land survey and asset registration at a construction site – with all the accompanying documentation of data that entails – typically occurs only after the trench has been closed. Inframent aims to empower construction crews to gather the required data about the underground cable network and infrastructure while the trench is still open, without the need for a specialist. Using global navigation satellite system (GNSS) augmentation on a dual-frequency smartphone, the unique AI component of the app will lead to higher accuracy and far less disruption in the construction process, providing better data sets for engineers. It will also provide benefits for network owners and project coordinators as it will enable more efficient data gathering and project management while offering access to accurate and up-to-date information.
The team consists of the two founders Marina Kurnevich (CEO) and Matt Szaszko (CPO), with experience in AI, computer vision and machine learning. Inframent already has potential partners in the telecom industry that can provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by contractors in the industry and the startup will soon be exhibiting at the industry event Total Telecom Congress, taking place in Amsterdam this November. The incubatee joined ESA BIC Noordwijk in July 2023 and has recently received Enterprise Leiden Fonds (ELF) pre-seed funding. Read on to find out more about Inframent as Marina answers our questions.
How do you describe the focus of Inframent?
Inframent is changing the approach to documenting underground infrastructure construction. Imagine a tool that not only tracks cable locations but also provides essential, real-time details. That’s precisely what we’re building. We’ve validated our concept and are now diving into the technicalities, using cutting-edge GNSS technology and AI. Our mission is to offer a seamless, all-in-one solution that simplifies our clients’ tasks and ensures accuracy in every step of their projects.
What is your team’s background?
Inframent’s genesis lies in our diverse expertise. My journey combines telecommunications, construction and economics from years of involvement in international projects. Matt brings technical prowess and a wealth of experience from his product roles in global startups, including insights gained during his time at companies supported by Y Combinator. Together, our skills became the backbone of Inframent.
How did the startup come about and what solution do you provide?
The motivation behind founding Inframent was to address the challenges in creating “as-built documentation” for infrastructure construction projects. As-built documentation is critical for ensuring that construction projects are built to specification and meet regulatory requirements. However, the process of creating as-built documentation, specifically for infrastructure, is often an afterthought due to the nature of executed works – i.e. the excavated trenches often need to be closed fast, it is a time-consuming process and prone to errors, and quite often it is carried out after the trenches have already been filled in, which can lead to costly rework.
We aim to automate the creation of as-built documentation and eliminate manual data input by leveraging the latest advancements in GNSS technology and data analytics. Our solution will enable construction crews to gather data while the trench is still open. We are developing algorithms that can accurately locate assets and generate high-quality data that can be used to create as-built documentation. This will help construction companies save time and money while improving the accuracy and completeness of their documentation.
What is your space connection?
We leverage space technology for our AI-powered solutions, specifically enhanced location services using GNSS augmentation. We see potential for utilising satellite telecommunications systems to enhance our platform’s capabilities. By incorporating satellite data into our solutions, we can provide more accurate and comprehensive information for our customers. Therefore, we hope to help them to optimise project management and gain a competitive edge.
Can you explain the AI aspect that is key to your startup’s offering?
Inframent’s solution includes an AI component that can recognise assets. This AI component will leverage machine learning algorithms to analyse the data collected by the dual frequency device and will identify the assets that are present at the construction site. Then, the GNSS augmentation technology will give the precise location.
By providing a more efficient and accurate solution, our automated approach will save time and money for construction companies. It will also lead to better-quality data sets for engineers, which will translate into more accurate and comprehensive as-built documentation. This will be beneficial for construction companies and regulatory authorities.
What steps did you take to get ESA BIC Noordwijk?
Our path to ESA BIC was serendipitous yet deliberate. We started our venture with Holland Startup in Utrecht, which is where our idea took root. As we validated our concept, we explored various incubators, co-working spaces and startup events across the Netherlands. Leiden’s vibrant startup scene captured our attention, especially with the guidance of a local advisor, and we then explored the space business ecosystem in Noordwijk. When we discovered ESA BIC, it felt like we had found our perfect ecosystem – a place where our vision could thrive.
What will your focus be during incubation?
Our short-term goal is to secure funding and complete the development of our product. During incubation, our focus is on creating a robust, minimum-viable product. We’re experimenting with innovative GNSS augmentation techniques to achieve the precision required for our solution.
This phase is not just about technicalities; it’s about ensuring our product aligns perfectly with our clients’ needs. Our prototype will be a testament to our dedication, combining advanced technology with user-friendly design.
What stage are you at now?
We are in the early stages of development and have a pilot project for the app that we are testing with a partner. It currently has a combination of off-the-shelf solutions and proprietary software. We are gearing up to move to the next level of user feedback and if anyone reading this wishes to be a beta tester, we invite you to get in touch.
What aspects of the ESA BIC programme are looking forward to?
Collaboration is at the heart of what excites us about being incubated at ESA BIC. The opportunity to work alongside fellow entrepreneurs and be close to ESA’s European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) is invaluable. Being part of a community that understands the challenges and triumphs of the entrepreneurial journey is essential. We eagerly anticipate events organised by SBIC and partners, like NL Space Campus, foreseeing these as vital platforms for learning, networking and establishing our brand’s presence.
What are your future ambitions for the company?
Looking ahead, we have bold ambitions. We envision Inframent becoming the go-to surveying tool for the fibre optic industry, setting new standards for accuracy and efficiency. Beyond that, we’re passionate about extending our solution to other infrastructure sectors. What truly excites us is the prospect of making a global impact. We’re eager to explore opportunities in developing countries, where our technology can address critical challenges in land registry systems.
We envision Inframent becoming the go-to surveying tool for the fibre optic industry, setting new standards for accuracy and efficiency
Marina kurnevich
How would you encourage entrepreneurs to join ESA BIC?
To budding entrepreneurs, I say this: embrace the application process. Yes, it might seem overwhelming – but it’s a transformative experience. Reach out to those who have walked this path before; their insights are gold. ESA BIC isn’t just an incubator; it’s a catalyst for your vision. It challenges you, helps you to refine your concept and connects you with a network that can change the trajectory of your startup journey.
Any final words for anyone considering applying to ESA BIC Noordwijk?
Just dive in! The application process is more than just paperwork; it’s an opportunity for self-reflection. Don’t shy away from the challenge; instead, let it push you to refine your ideas further. ESA BIC could be the launchpad your venture has been waiting for.
ABOUT INFRAMENT
Inframent is a technology startup that offers a unique solution to contractors in the telecom industry. The company’s platform utilises machine vision technology, artificial intelligence and global navigation satellite system augmentation. The mobile application extracts essential data like location, measurements and asset data from site images, streamlining project management and providing valuable insights. Inframent aims to transform the telecom industry by providing cutting-edge technology for on-site use by project managers and engineers. inframent.com
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