By Jan Diekmann, technical account manager solutions, and Viswanath Kolur, senior solution sales director, Ericsson Enterprise

Wireless Solutions Manufacturers require scalable systems that can evolve with their business needs. The connectivity platforms driving digital transformation in these factories must possess the appropriate infrastructure to manage the growing volume of data and connected devices.

This is especially crucial for deploying autonomous things, the next evolution of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT), which will play a significant role in realising the potential of smart factories. Autonomous things are physical devices that use artificial intelligence (AI) to automate functions previously performed by humans. To truly unlock the benefits of this technology, manufacturers need to rethink and upgrade their networks with secure, reliable and high-capacity connectivity. They need private 5G networks.

Autonomous things – enabling factories of the future

Some of the most recognisable forms of autonomous things are smart robots, drones and autonomous vehicles – each with diverse options and use cases within a smart factory. For example:

• Autonomous mobile robots use sensors and AI to navigate autonomously and deliver materials to work stations, optimising production workflows.
• Collaborative robots (Cobots) are designed to work alongside human workers, performing tasks such as assembly, sorting and packaging.
• Drones can be deployed for aerial inspections in hard-to-reach areas or used to deliver small packages.

Connected devices can continuously transmit sensor data like temperature, object recognition and issues on the floor to a central system. This helps factory managers stay ahead of maintenance needs and keeps equipment running smoothly. Additionally, the constant flow of data makes the entire system more efficient and “smarter” over time, enabling a situation where processes are constantly improving. This is an important step on the road to “lean manufacturing” where production time is reduced and manufacturers can be nimbler in response to changes in demand or along the supply chain.

However, the benefits of autonomous things extend beyond operational efficiencies. By automating hazardous tasks, autonomous things can increase safety, significantly reducing the risk of workplace injuries while allowing human workers to focus on other tasks. More efficient operations can also drive overall cost reductions across manufacturing processes.

The data collected from autonomous things can also be analysed by powerful AI and machine learning tools in the cloud – another functionality supported by private 5G networks. These insights can further optimise behaviour, refine workflows and improve the overall flow of work in the factory.

Why 5G private networks are essential for autonomous things

Private networks are the connectivity foundation. To support this advanced technology, robust connectivity is crucial. Traditional networks simply cannot meet the ever-growing demands of sensors, mobile devices, data transfer and real-time communication required by a true smart factory.

Private networks are designed to be configured to an enterprise’s specific needs within a defined area and they offer numerous advantages over traditional wired and WiFi networks, particularly in supporting autonomous things.

For a smart factory to function, it needs the high-speed, low-latency connection that private networks provide, enabling real-time communication between devices and central control systems while minimising signal delays. Private networks can also handle a high volume of connections essential for collecting the data autonomous things need to function and interact with their environment.

Private networks also offer enhanced security with dedicated frequencies and end-to-end encryption, protecting sensitive data and safeguarding against cyberattacks that could disrupt operations. Organisations receive consistent, reliable coverage across all environments with granular control over the devices on the network, ensuring only approved devices can connect.

Keys to a successful autonomous things solution

Successful implementation begins with identifying areas where autonomous things can be integrated to add value to operations. Manufacturers should then focus on implementing software solutions, integrating data and procuring third-party hardware with pre-configured solutions for autonomous applications.

Manufacturers can then build a connectivity infrastructure to establish reliable communication channels, ensuring seamless data exchange between the devices and centralised systems.

When paired with the right partners, businesses can design and deploy scalable solutions that evolve alongside the changing needs and priorities of factories of the future. As autonomous technologies evolve and the capabilities of private 5G networks expand, the potential to streamline operations and optimise manufacturing processes is limitless.