IndustryWeek
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Manufacturing - Endeavor Business Media

Accelerating digitalization

with 5G for Industry 4.0 smart factories and warehouses

The State of Industry 4.0

Today’s manufacturing, supply chain and logistics operations are seamless, interconnected systems of moving machines, people and systems. Products manufactured turn into goods in transport and fulfillment; this has been the story since the first industrial revolution. Now we’re in the middle of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) which requires a greater level of connectedness to operations. Digital technologies like the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), cloud computing, machine learning, extreme automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are dramatically changing the way we produce and fulfill products and services in the Industry 4.0 era.
The developments of the last decades brought us “just-in-time” and “lean” methodologies, but the challenges we have experienced over the last few years has taught us that this is not enough. Supply chains can be optimized to squeeze out every cent, but in so doing are no longer flexible. Automated assembly and fulfillment offer great benefits in speed but remain less than agile in the changing demands of the market. The new wave of Industry 4.0 digitalization brings together the best in connectedness, cloud virtualization and ubiquity, intelligent analytics, digital and physical automation for extreme yet flexible optimization and more. At the foundation of this new revolution is a high-performance, 5G connected network that enables the seamless, pervasive connectivity needed for today’s smart factories and smart warehouse environment.

Forging Ahead to Industry 4.0 Success

A 2022 survey from ABI Research and Nokia of over 1000 manufacturing management-level and executives across the world, indicated that unlike other industries who may have put plans on hold during the COVID pandemic, manufacturers did not. The overwhelming majority accelerated or stuck with their Industry 4.0 digital transformation plans despite the challenges over the last two years to help maintain business continuity and drive productivity.
Learn more about the drivers, influences and benefits manufacturers have seen from their digital acceleration.
Download the ReportOpens in a new window.
How has your digitalization strategy been affected by the global pandemic?
36%-We accelerated efforts; 35%-Stayed the same; 24%-Was delayed; 5%-Stopped altogether
Let’s take a look at the 5G future of manufacturing and smart warehouse logistics operations, the important role of choosing the right partners for your journey and how you can realize the best gains for your business.

The 5G Smart Factory

Why do we need 5G Smart factories?
Industry 4.0 technologies bring manufacturers greater visibility and operational awareness and control. They provide the digital foundation that is critical to build more sustainable manufacturing environments. They help manufacturers improve agility with more automated and flexible production lines to meet changing business demands, with shorter product life cycles, while optimizing production—even when facing supply chain issues.
 
At the same time, manufacturers need the automated intelligence and controls in place to monitor the assets in their plants to ensure they are performing at their peak level, functioning as efficiently and effectively as expected.
A 5G smart factory is only as intelligent as the network that connects it
A 5G smart factory is only as intelligent as the network that connects it
This level of performance requires the collection of more real-time data and analytics that drives the need for more computational processing at or near the factory floor. Edge-cloud computing ensures that critical processing or real-time data is easily and quickly available closest to where the functions are utilized. It also drives the need for reliable, secure broadband connectivity that can be delivered with a 5G private wireless network throughout the entire manufacturing campus operation. Now, with high-speed, low latency mobile access available everywhere to handle IoT sensor traffic, production data, machine-to-machine, machine-to-human communications and more, new applications, tools and capabilities become rapidly available to the manufacturer.
Performance enhancing tools like digital twins/digital threads, high-definition video for real-time quality inspection and more are all “on the table” for manufacturers when a 5G network foundation of connectivity is in place. With a constant flow of real-time data and automated controls throughout the operation you will know how you are performing, and your operation can adjust to meet the performance targets you need to achieve.
 
In a recent 2022 survey by Nokia and ABI Research, manufacturers indicated that the biggest benefits they achieved from the acceleration of their digital transformation included productivity enhancements and business continuity during the pandemic. While these two significant benefits stand out, there are many more advantages to digitalization for the manufacturer as detailed below.

Benefits seen by manufacturers in accelerating their digital transformation

Benefits seen by manufacturers in accelerating their digital transformation

Improved productivity
57%
Helped us maintain business continuity
49%
Adapt to remote work
41%
Adapt to supply chain changes
34%
Other benefit specific to our business
22%
No measurable benefit
3%
Source: Digital transformation in manufacturing: What’s new and next for private 5G, ABI Research and Nokia 2022.
Improved productivity
57%
Helped us maintain business continuity
49%
Adapt to remote work
41%
Adapt to supply chain changes
34%
Other benefit specific to our business
22%
No measurable benefit
3%
Source: Digital transformation in manufacturing: What’s new and next for private 5G, ABI Research and Nokia 2022.

Benefits and the enhanced operations of the 5G smart factory campus network

Digital Factory Campus
Automated Shop Floor
Smart Asset
Connected Worker
Campus Connectivity; Digital Factory Twin; Environmental Sensing; Facility Management; Geofencing; Security & Surveillance; Multi-Functional Drones
Connection Types: Industrial private wireless networks (4G/5G); Industrial fixed networks (IP, Ethernet, Passive Optical LAN); IP/Optical site-to-site networks;  Wide Area Networks for seamless global connectivity
Campus Connectivity; Digital Factory Twin; Environmental Sensing; Facility Management; Geofencing; Security & Surveillance; Multi-Functional Drones
Digital Factory Campus
Automated Shop Floor
Smart Asset
Connected Worker
M2M Communication; Quality Management; Collaborative Robots; Cloud Robotics; Machine Sensing & Control; Process & Product Monitoring
Connection Types: Industrial private wireless networks (4G/5G); Industrial fixed networks (IP, Ethernet, Passive Optical LAN); IP/Optical site-to-site networks;  Wide Area Networks for seamless global connectivity
M2M Communication; Quality Management; Collaborative Robots; Cloud Robotics; Machine Sensing & Control; Process & Product Monitoring
Digital Factory Campus
Automated Shop Floor
Smart Asset
Connected Worker
Predictive Maintenance; Condition Monitoring; Asset Positioning; Remote Configuration & Control; Remote Maintenance; Automated Guided Vehicle
Connection Types: Industrial private wireless networks (4G/5G); Industrial fixed networks (IP, Ethernet, Passive Optical LAN); IP/Optical site-to-site networks;  Wide Area Networks for seamless global connectivity
Predictive Maintenance; Condition Monitoring; Asset Positioning; Remote Configuration & Control; Remote Maintenance; Automated Guided Vehicle
Digital Factory Campus
Automated Shop Floor
Smart Asset
Connected Worker
Augmented Worker; Connected Wearables; Remote Expert Support; Voice & Video Communication; Wireless Human Machine Interface; Wireless Safety; Virtual Reality; Worker Positioning
Connection Types: Industrial private wireless networks (4G/5G); Industrial fixed networks (IP, Ethernet, Passive Optical LAN); IP/Optical site-to-site networks;  Wide Area Networks for seamless global connectivity
Augmented Worker; Connected Wearables; Remote Expert Support; Voice & Video Communication; Wireless Human Machine Interface; Wireless Safety; Virtual Reality; Worker Positioning
Technology enablers of the 5G Smart Factory
  • 5G private wireless networks
  • Edge cloud
  • Enhanced real-time analytics
  • Backhaul and networks
  • Mobile industrial user equipment
View Nokia SolutionsOpens in a new window.
Building the Digital Factory of the Future
 Download the EbookOpens in a new window.
5G smart factory digitalization and sustainability at Arçelik Global

The 5G Smart Warehouse

Changing customer and marketplace dynamics, the drive for more sustainable operations, and the impacts from outside influences on the global supply chain have made it clear that improved resiliency for global logistics and supply chain management is needed. Digitalization holds the key to addressing resiliency needs and more to help realize the Supply Chain 4.0 future. Warehouses and logistics operations can use new digitalization tools to dramatically improve automation and bring agility and intelligence to operations. Tools like AI, IoT and data analytics, and functions like real-time end-to-end asset tracking, flexible capacity planning and efficient materials handling are possible with increased digitalization in the warehouse.
The intelligence designed into the operation through this digital transformation also brings the ability to manage the supply chain, and optimize for sustainability ensuring better CO2 management. The right foundation is needed to support a fully automated warehouse and to handle the massive amounts of real-time data across the Supply Chain 4.0 operation. 5G is the critical connectivity foundation that is essential to ensuring the maximum benefits and objectives are achieved from the transformation project. With ultra-low latencies, high-bandwidth and pervasive wireless connectivity delivered everywhere, 5G supports the operation as it leverages the new tools of Industry 4.0 digitalization.

Digitalization for the smart warehouse

What is a smart warehouse?
A smart warehouse is a fully connected, fully automated operation. Some of the applications possible from a 5G warehouse operation are shown in the diagram below. Improved safety, dramatically improved productivity, maximized uptime and reduced costs are just a few of the benefits that can be achieved.
Enhanced support for automated infrastructure
  • Automated picking and packing
  • Autonomous guided vehicles
  • IoT Global asset tracking, Indoor asset tracking
  • Condition monitoring (IoT sensors, temperature for perishables-cold storage/speed/counting)
  • Augmented reality/virtual reality
  • Digital Twin for operational/process enhancement
  • Health and safety enhancements and analytics (anomaly detections, temperature sensing, worker safety monitoring)
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
Possible smart warehouse applications
Smart warehouse applications
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
Indoor and outdoor drones
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Predictive maintenance of material handling systems
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
Automated vehicles
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
Digitized warehouse operations
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
Video surveillance & analytics
Operational and surveillance video cameras with video analytics capabilities
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
IoT powered smart workers
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
Voice communications
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
Precise indoor and outdoor positioning solutions
Indoor and outdoor positioning
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
Smart facility management
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
VR/AR enabled training and picking
Indoor & Outdoor Drones
Predictive MHL Maintenance
Automated Vehicles
Digitized Warehouse Operations
Video Surveillance & Analytics
IoT Powered Smart Workers
Voice Communications
Indoor & Outdoor Positioning
Smart Facility Management
VR/AR Enabled Training & Picking
Gate Automation
Gate automation
Technology enablers of the 5G Smart Warehouse
  • 5G private wireless networks
  • Edge cloud
  • Enhanced real-time analytics
  • Backhaul and networks
  • Mobile industrial user equipment
View Nokia SolutionsOpens in a new window.
Building an Intelligent Supply Chain of the Future
 Download the EbookOpens in a new window.
Digital Transformation in the Logistics Industry

Ecosystems for Success

Achieving the full value of Industry 4.0

Successful digital transformation outcomes for manufacturers and logistics operations come from working with a broad ecosystem of experienced partners who, together, can plan and build extraordinary technology solutions that are value and results-driven for each unique business.

Leading network innovators

Leading networking innovators with deep industry knowledge and focus bring the digital connectivity foundation and expertise needed (4G/5G wireless, wired infrastructure, cloud, IoT connectivity and more) for seamless integration of Industry 4.0 technologies

Communications service providers

Communications service providers help forge connections, bridging spectrum needs to take advantage of the best 5G has to offer.

Strategic consultants and cloud system integrators

Strategic consultants and cloud system integrators design architectures and speed the deployment of Industry 4.0 solutions with integration support services purpose-built for manufacturing and logistics environments.

Industrial ecosystem, device and solutions partners

Industrial ecosystem, device and solutions partners bring co-developed solutions at the cutting edge of Industry 4.0 technology providing industry-tailored solutions to meet the applications and use cases needed for your operation.
Together with the right set of partners who look at innovations and applications that fit your business needs and objectives, you can achieve new levels of intelligence in your operation, new productivity gains and meet your environmental and safety objectives.

Case in Point

Real case studies from Industry 4.0 pioneers in the manufacturing and logistics industries

Flexible, reliable, secure LTE and 5G private wireless connectivity for Dow Inc.
Nokia and Kyndryl announced a global network and edge computing alliance aimed at helping enterprise customers accelerate their digital transformations with industrial-grade reliable and secure LTE and 5G private wireless networking.
Read the Press ReleaseOpens in a new window.
5G private wireless network in process manufacturing
In this interview experts discuss the driving factors behind why BASF, the largest chemical factory in southern Europe, decided to implement a 5G private wireless network.
 
Watch the VideoOpens in a new window.
At the Forefront of 5G:
Virtual table inspection

Nokia and Lufthansa Technik, the leading provider of technical aircraft services, have deployed a 5G industrial-grade private wireless network to accelerate a project that enables remote engine parts inspection for its civil aviation customers.

Watch the VideoOpens in a new window.
Nippon Steel improves manufacturing efficiency with Nokia solutions

The innovation and collaboration between Nokia and Nippon Steel showcases how industries can use private spectrum to accelerate IoT adoption and improve workplace safety.

 

Watch the VideoOpens in a new window.
Nokia selected by TOYOTA Production Engineering for 5G private wireless network
  • Initiative to assess potential of private wireless in TOYOTA Production Engineering Corporation’s manufacturing sites
  • Private network to support IoT devices, equipment digitization and visualization

 

 

 

Read the Press ReleaseOpens in a new window.
Nokia deploys 5G private wireless network for Volkswagen’s pilot project in Germany.
  • Private 5G wireless network supports industrial connectivity at the production development center and pilot hall at Volkswagen’s headquarters plant in Wolfsburg
  • Network uses Nokia Digital Automation Cloud solution for reliable, private wireless connectivity
  • High-bandwidth and low-latency enable real-time data processing at network edge allowing Volkswagen to investigate new operational use cases
Read the Press ReleaseOpens in a new window.
Digital Transformation in the Logistics Industry

Nokia and Alibaba continue to cooperate in the development of digital transformation solutions for one of the largest logistics vertical markets in the world.

 

Watch the VideoOpens in a new window.
Manufacturing automation with private wireless
In this first of a 3 part series, Nokia and Omron discuss the increased use of mobile robots in manufacturing which requires reliable wireless connectivity and how 5G can provide this connectivity.
Watch the VideoOpens in a new window.

Solutions

For more information on the solutions to accelerate your digitalization journey, see the links below: