ASSIST-IoT aims at design, implementation and validation of an open, decentralized reference architecture, associated enablers, services and tools, to assist human-centric applications in multiple verticals. Instances of the architecture will be supported by key enablers, like edge/fog computing, (semi-)autonomy, distributed AI, smart devices, interoperability, Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) atop a smart network infrastructure, with low latency capabilities, allowing execution of context-aware applications with new interaction interfaces (e.g. AR/VR/MR), etc. The proposed solution will integrate AI-based functions transferring intelligence closer to the edge (data sources), including devices. The reference architecture, and developed enablers, will be validated in three realistic pilots: (i) port automation; (ii) smart safety of workers, and (iii) cohesive vehicle monitoring and diagnostics. The proposed approach is focused on the edge-fog-cloud continuum model. However, to simplify the narrative the word “edge” captures all generic situations, in which data processing takes place in the appropriate location within the IoT ecosystem. This location is as close as possible to sensing/actuating. This means that the “edge node” is the one that was specifically selected, within the continuum, to perform given function(s).

ASSIST-IoT will design, implement and validate, in a realistic, measurable, and replicable way, a unified innovative multi-plane (semi-)autonomous decentralized edge-cloud reference architecture, supplemented by cross-cutting digital enablers. The architecture will support continuous integration and long-term sustainability of domain-agnostic, interoperable, self-* capable, intelligent, distributed, scalable, secure and trustworthy IoT ecosystems.

ASSIST-IoT architecture will be scalable in technically and economically meaningful ways, enabling usable, efficient, innovative human-centric applications, and supporting Tactile Internet, via innovative interfaces and low latency networks.

ASSIST-IoT will demonstrate how European industry can benefit from the decentralized AI-infused control/actuation reference architecture (e.g. intelligent services and digital enablers, distributed context-awareness across the ecosystem, data interoperability, AI, smart networking, and DLT-based security, privacy and trust), and build competitive advantages (e.g. reduced time to decisions, made near the edge; cost and time effective secure/trustable data sharing and control; semi-autonomous actions; agile operations; sustainable human-centric processes; or DLT for data provenance/interoperability).

The ASSIST-IoT approach will be generic and directly applicable to any vertical and cross-vertical business processes and multiple heterogeneous data sources, where there is a need for a decentralized IoT solution, enabling bottom-up formation of NGIoT ecosystems.