Mobile edge computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and the Internet of Things can all play a role in 5G manufacturing.
5G is a powerful technology, but the concept of 5G manufacturing—using 5G to drive digital transformation within manufacturing enterprises—involves more than just networks. To improve efficiency in manufacturing and other key verticals, 5G needs to be combined with mobile edge computing (MEC) infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors.
"5G is not the end goal, it's a means to an end," said Intel's Caroline Chan at a 5G Manufacturing Forum. Chan, vice president of the Networking and Edge Group and general manager of the Networking Business Incubator, spoke about the capacity and latency advantages of 5G, but noted that high-impact use cases such as machine vision or automated guided vehicles (AGVs) also require localized computing, artificial intelligence, and connected cameras using sensors.
She said that 5G “provides a very convenient intersection for all these different technologies, especially in the industrial sector. Beyond simply bringing telecommunications systems into manufacturing environments, meaningful enterprise adoption requires a new level of coordination between the information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) functional groups. That’s no small matter.”
“Whether the goal is to enable 5G manufacturing processes or to truly bring 5G to any vertical industry, we’ve noticed that even non-technology companies… must become technology companies to make progress,” said Jillian Kaplan, Telecom and 5G Thought Leader at Dell Technologies. “Manufacturing is no exception; investing in technology can potentially reduce costs and time for applications.”
Kaplan says target applications include more granular workflow scheduling, digital twins, more flexible and efficient production lines, predictive machine maintenance, custom design, augmented and virtual reality, reduced production waste, and worker safety.
Another important dynamic in the market revolves around the division of responsibilities during the construction and operation phases of an enterprise network's lifecycle. Specifically, in an era where regulators are providing spectrum to enterprises, hardware is commoditized, and network functions are migrating to the cloud, who can do what? This new model means that enterprises may face a decision: whether to purchase networks and hosting services from operators, build and operate their own networks, or something in between.
Kaplan points out that carriers' business revolves around operating networks, and this architecture should extend to the enterprise space. She says, "All these applications need networks, and that's what (carriers) do. Dell's role is to help communications service providers monetize their 5G investments through these enterprise [vertical markets] and ensure these manufacturers can save money, save time, save lives… We can build these custom solutions to address these enterprise challenges."
