Prisma

Self-deployable receiver improving disaster response workflows

Prisma

Self-deployable receiver improving disaster response workflows

2026


Lund University School of Industrial Design

Master Thesis

16 Weeks

2026


Lund University School of Industrial Design

Master Thesis

16 Weeks

In collaboration with

In collaboration with

This master's thesis explored the importance of telecommunications in natural disaster response and how current network recovery workflows and processes can be improved. The project resulted in a receiving antenna that gives first responders at hospitals and other critical infrastructure the ability to independently connect to temporary networks used in current disaster response efforts.

This master's thesis explored the importance of telecommunications in natural disaster response and how current network recovery workflows and processes can be improved. The project resulted in a receiving antenna that gives first responders at hospitals and other critical infrastructure the ability to independently connect to temporary networks used in current disaster response efforts.

See the process.

Footage - UNICEF/UNI639342/Pham Ha Duy Linh

See the process.

Footage - UNICEF/UNI639342/Pham Ha Duy Linh

See the process.

Footage - UNICEF/UNI639342/Pham Ha Duy Linh

Prisma

Prisma

Ericsson Prisma is a self-deployable receiving antenna that reinterprets current telecommunications response workflows in natural disasters. By enabling local staff to connect to the emergency network independently, the time required to restore connectivity at critical sites can be significantly reduced. Therefore, the antenna is designed to be inherently simple to install, even for users without prior experience.

Ericsson Prisma is a self-deployable receiving antenna that reinterprets current telecommunications response workflows in natural disasters. By enabling local staff to connect to the emergency network independently, the time required to restore connectivity at critical sites can be significantly reduced. Therefore, the antenna is designed to be inherently simple to install, even for users without prior experience.

Installation Workflow

Installation Workflow

Ground Placement

Ground Placement

The tripod mount allows the user to install the antenna on the ground without any tools. Its legs provide stability on uneven terrain, while a ripstop net between them allows weight to be placed on it, adding stability against varying wind conditions.

The tripod mount allows the user to install the antenna on the ground without any tools. Its legs provide stability on uneven terrain, while a ripstop net between them allows weight to be placed on it, adding stability against varying wind conditions.

Pole Mount

Pole Mount

Utility poles are common in the intended deployment environment. The V-shaped pole mount adapts to different pole diameters and attaches securely with zip ties, enabling fast, tool-free installation.

Utility poles are common in the intended deployment environment. The V-shaped pole mount adapts to different pole diameters and attaches securely with zip ties, enabling fast, tool-free installation.

Wall Mount

Wall Mount

Wall mounting is another common installation option where a suitable surface is available. This mounting method requires basic tools.

Interface

The interface was designed to be intuitive for users with no installation experience. Dot-matrix indicators provide a simple visual representation of signal strength for antenna alignment and battery level when external power is unavailable. The iconography is based on familiar mobile phone symbols, making both indicators easy to understand across different users and regions.

Power and Connectivity

Users can connect both the power and RJ45 connectors to the receiver using IP65-rated bayonet connectors. This connector system simplifies and speeds up assembly. The RJ45 cable can be routed to the nearest router or network system, allowing the antenna to provide network connectivity. Power can be be supplied either through the dedicated power cable, which supports various sources such as generators or portable solar panels, or through the RJ45 cable using Power over Ethernet (PoE). This redundant power supply ensures that the antenna remains powered even if one source becomes unavailable.

Design for Manufacturing

The design considers the technical package, IP requirements, and EU right-to-repair standards. The goal was to simplify assembly and servicing as much as possible. The housing is designed for injection moulding using an ASA-PC blend to withstand demanding environmental conditions such as UV exposure and physical stress.

User Journey

In collaboration with experts, the existing user journey was redesigned. The core concept is to shift the installation of receiving antennas from Ericsson Response personnel to staff already present at critical infrastructure sites such as hospitals or fire stations. This enables all sites to connect simultaneously to the temporary telecommunications network deployed by Ericsson Response. Beyond reducing the workload on response teams, this approach empowers local personnel to quickly restore connectivity where it is needed most.

© 2026 Yannik Engels

© 2026 Yannik Engels

Last update: October 20, 2026

Last update: October 20, 2026