5G will challenge factory automation networking

It is generally expected that the launch of 5G networks will have a huge impact on automation and control applications, as it focuses on machine type communications and support for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). The 5G communication standard provides higher bandwidth and functions, can send more data at the same time, and supports more networked devices.

The basis for 5G industrial applications includes support for three types of factory communications: enhanced mobile broadband (Embb), large machine type communication (mMTC), and ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC).

Enhanced mobile broadband communications are expected to take advantage of 5G's high data rates and enhanced coverage, and open up wireless applications in areas such as augmentation and virtual reality (AR / VR). Possible uses include overlays on smart glasses for assembly line workers.

Large-scale machine-type communications are designed to provide wide coverage and to connect a large number of IoT devices per square kilometer. mMTC communication is designed to provide connectivity to networked devices with low hardware and software requirements, and to support low-energy, battery-optimized operations.

Ultra-reliable, low-latency communications leverage 5G's high system reliability and low millisecond response times. Can be applied to closed-loop control, mobile control panels with safety functions, process automation for mobile robots and motion control.

According to a white paper on the 5G ACIA website, 5G has the potential to provide wireless connectivity for a variety of different use cases in industry. In the long run, 5G may actually lead to the convergence of many different communication technologies used today, thereby significantly reducing the number of related industrial networking solutions, and it is expected to become the standard wireless technology choice.

This white paper comprehensively reviews how 5G key technologies, main functions, and basic 5G system architecture bring special benefits to smart manufacturing. But to realize the potential of 5G, major challenges need to be addressed. First, standardization bodies and manufacturing have not yet been completely unified.

Other challenges include how to develop 5G to support manufacturing; spectrum and operator models; security assurance; industrial components supporting 5G; establishing a common language; and transparency of 5G connections in wireless access and core networks.