Most of the technologies on which the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) depends are already well established – at least in theoretical terms. Advanced robotics and 3D printing, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, advanced sensors and the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, virtual and augmented reality, advanced data analytics – whether applied to supply chains, production processes, or products and services provided to customers, most manufacturing companies recognize the value of these technologies. But few companies are currently making big bets to deploy these technologies throughout their operations.

A 2019 study by Pricewaterhousecoopers and the American Manufacturing Association showed that more than half of manufacturers are only in the early stages of experimenting with emerging technologies, and some are far from it. Today, ultra-fast and ultra-flexible 5G wireless communication technology has begun to be applied around the world. 5G technology will enable highly reliable, almost instantaneous data connectivity – a key component to support visions such as smart factories, connected supply chains, and iot enabled products.

1794-AENTR 5G May not immediately improve the inherent productivity of 4IR, but no manufacturer can ignore its potential, and in the near future, 5G will enable the use of many new technologies and processes in the factory.

Think smart manufacturing

The modern factory is already a highly complex environment. If not a reality, 4IR is expected to drive a wide range of organizations to digitalization in manufacturing. Advanced machines and robots are loaded with sensors that are connected to a high-performance analytics engine in the cloud to evaluate equipment performance, manage production schedules, ensure supplies and schedule activities within the plant.

Imagine how 5G networks could transform factories: with speeds of up to 10Gbps, 5G far exceeds 1794-AENTR wi-fi, and its near-zero latency will reduce previous concerns about the speed and reliability of wireless protocols.

Moving away from wired networks, 5G will bring greater flexibility and support for high-speed manufacturing environments. Compared to wired networks or previous wireless devices, factories deploying 5G networks can incorporate more sensors into the network connection, ultimately enabling the Internet of everything.

How 5G improves productivity The following areas have the greatest potential for optimization:

Production optimization. Real-time access to equipment, inventory and production data allows companies to analyze production patterns in detail. Based on this information, companies can determine the correct sequence of production activities at the plant, optimizing processes while helping to improve the flow of production cycles and reduce waste.

1794-AENTR Modular factory. 5G’s high density, high speed, high bandwidth and low latency will bring considerable flexibility. Manufacturing tools and robots are quickly reused, increasing efficiency and creating an environment that enables mass customization and on-demand production.

Enterprise connectivity. 5G facilitates the integration of a plant’s infrastructure, operational technologies and resources with enterprise IT systems, optimizing plant production processes and enabling remote control.

Human machine interface. The high speed and density of 5G can provide employees with the means to move data and visualization solutions, such as tablets and augmented reality devices, allowing employees to visually interact with machines and products, freeing them from fixed computer terminals.

Supply chain integration. With increased supply chain transparency, the integration of 5G networks into factory production tools can guarantee fast and automatic replenishment of parts and supplies, thereby minimizing production delays and improving efficiency.

Preventive maintenance. Dense sensor arrays help companies monitor the status of 1794-AENTR production equipment in real time, which in turn allows companies to perform regular maintenance on equipment as needed, predict the need for unscheduled maintenance before problems arise, and help integrated equipment suppliers implement remote diagnostics.

It’s safe. The application of various sensors and the near-instantaneous response time of 5G will create a very safe manufacturing environment, with fewer employees required on site and a more sensitive response to emergency shutdown signals.

Take the experience of a German manufacturer of metal leaf discs for jet engines. The process of making a leaf disk is long and complicated,

This results in a defective rate of up to 25% and the failure to identify faulty discs until the product is completed. By installing sensors that can detect potential failures in real time and connecting them using 5G networks, manufacturers will be able to stop machines before a failure occurs. The result: a significant reduction in defective rates and a saving of thousands of euros in the average individual production costs of leaf discs.