In a move to revolutionize industrial automation, Nokia and Rockwell Automation have joined forces to test private 5G technology. This collaboration aims to enhance connectivity, reliability, and performance in industrial environments. The partnership also focuses on integrating advanced technologies like AI, AR, and IoT to drive Industry 4.0 applications.
The Collaborative Initiative
Strategic Partnership
Nokia and Rockwell Automation have embarked on a transformative journey to test private 5G technology specifically tailored for industrial automation. The partnership’s primary objective is to employ private 5G in standalone mode within the 3.55-3.7 GHz Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) band in the United States. By leveraging EtherNet/IP protocols and integrating time-sensitive networking (TSN) capabilities, they aim to create a reliable and efficient network for industrial operations.
The emphasis on the 3.55-3.7 GHz CBRS band is crucial as it enables the deployment of private 5G networks in a controlled and dedicated spectrum, reducing the likelihood of interference and congestion seen in public networks. This strategic partnership signifies a major step towards achieving broader adoption of private 5G solutions in the industrial sector. The aim is to not only introduce high-speed connectivity but also to deliver a communication framework that can sustain the demanding requirements of industrial applications.
Technological Goals and Vision
The cornerstone of this initiative is the deployment of advanced 5G capabilities that promise to transform industrial landscapes. The goal is not just to provide high-speed connectivity but to enable seamless control and automation of industrial assets. Ensuring low latency and high reliability is vital for the execution of mission-critical applications, such as safety I/O and real-time industrial communication.
In this vision, the implementation of AI and AR within the 5G framework provides an added layer of functionality, enabling complex data analytics and real-time decision-making processes. The integration allows industries to leverage predictive maintenance, smart monitoring systems, and automated quality checks, significantly reducing operational downtime and enhancing productivity. This blend of 5G and advanced technologies is expected to pave the way for next-generation industrial automation solutions that are both robust and future-proof.
Technological Implementation
Key Technologies
Central to this collaboration are the technologies comprising private 5G standalone systems, EtherNet/IP protocols, and TSN capabilities. Operating under the wireless 5G standards defined in 3GPP releases 17 and 18, the setup facilitates robust connectivity essential for dynamic industrial environments. The Rockwell testbed integrates Nokia’s baseband units, radio access network (RAN) units, and the Nokia MX Industrial Edge (MXIE) server.
These technologies work together to create an environment where seamless connectivity supports a wide range of industrial devices. The use of EtherNet/IP protocols helps in the direct control and automation of assets, streamlining the communication between interconnected devices. TSN capabilities ensure that time-critical data transmissions occur with minimal delay, fostering a synchronized and efficient operational flow. As a result, the infrastructure is well-prepared to handle the rigorous demands of industrial automation.
Test Bed Composition
The test bed is meticulously designed to support a broad range of automation devices through a single wireless router, eliminating the need for additional tunneling or equipment. This configuration has successfully validated the required low latency and jitter, which is crucial for supporting EtherNet/IP standards and safety I/O communications right out of the box. This milestone represents a significant advancement towards achieving efficient and reliable industrial processes.
In achieving this, the MXIE server plays a pivotal role, ensuring that all industrial devices can be managed seamlessly from a centralized point. The validation of low latency and jitter confirms that the network can handle real-time data processing and communications effectively. This ensures that safety protocols, which require immediate response times, are met without any compromise. Consequently, the test bed’s success underscores the potential for private 5G networks to revolutionize industrial automation by providing high-efficiency and reliable connectivity solutions.
Performance and Applications
Achieving Low Latency and High Reliability
The rigorous testing conducted by Nokia and Rockwell has demonstrated the ability to maintain low latency and jitter, essential for industrial automation applications. Such performance metrics are critical for enabling real-time communication and control within industrial environments. These capabilities ensure that safety protocols and immediate response requirements are met without compromise.
The emphasis on low latency is particularly significant for applications that require precise timing and quick decisions, such as robotic systems and automated manufacturing lines. High reliability guarantees that communication channels remain stable and consistent, even in demanding operational scenarios. This combination of low latency and high reliability ensures that industrial processes run smoothly and efficiently, minimizing the risk of unexpected shutdowns or malfunctions due to communication delays.
Enabling Industry 4.0 Applications
The validated setup is a promising sign for the future of Industry 4.0 applications. With the demonstrated reliability and efficiency, the private 5G network is poised to support advanced technologies like industrial IoT, augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies can revolutionize connectivity in industrial operations, offering unprecedented levels of automation and operational efficiency.
By facilitating the deployment of IoT devices, the network enables comprehensive monitoring and control of industrial environments through an array of smart sensors and actuators. AR applications can improve maintenance operations by providing technicians with real-time data overlays and interactive guides. AI, on the other hand, can drive predictive analytics and optimize production workflows, fostering a more agile and resilient industrial ecosystem. Combined, these advancements signify a monumental leap towards fully realizing the potential of Industry 4.0.
Commercial and Practical Implications
Impact on Industry
The successful testing and implementation of private 5G technology hold significant implications for the industrial sector. Enhanced connectivity platforms enable more sophisticated and efficient industrial automation applications, driving forward the transition to Industry 4.0. The private 5G networks offer a reliable foundation for running complex and safety-critical processes in real-time.
These networks are envisioned to support the deployment of decentralized, intelligent systems capable of performing autonomous operations with minimal human intervention. The ability to integrate vast amounts of data from diverse sources into a unified network will enhance overall visibility and control over industrial processes. This transition towards smarter automation solutions is anticipated to boost productivity, improve product quality, and facilitate the development of more innovative manufacturing practices.
Economic Efficiency
The collaboration also underscores the potential for substantial economic benefits. By partnering with RUCKUS Networks, Nokia aims to introduce integrated fiber and Wi-Fi solutions that reduce energy costs by up to 40% and total cost of ownership by 50%. These cost-effective solutions are tailored for varied enterprise applications, making advanced connectivity more accessible and affordable for industrial environments.
The potential cost savings are not limited to energy efficiency alone but extend to operational and maintenance expenses as well. The streamlined connectivity infrastructure reduces the need for extensive cabling and complex network configurations, resulting in decreased setup and upkeep costs. Moreover, the enhanced reliability of private 5G networks lowers the probability of costly downtime, ensuring uninterrupted production and workflow continuity. These economic advantages collectively foster a more competitive and sustainable industrial landscape.
Broader Collaborative Efforts
Technological Synergies
In addition to their work with Rockwell Automation, Nokia’s collaboration with RUCKUS Networks aims to provide holistic broadband solutions. This partnership integrates fiber and Wi-Fi technologies to deliver comprehensive connectivity across multiple markets. The combined approach offers robust and flexible solutions suited for various enterprise segments, including multi-dwelling units, offices, large venues, and medical facilities.
These solutions are designed to ensure seamless connectivity and enhanced performance across different environments, accommodating a wide array of user needs. This holistic approach not only extends the benefits of high-performance networking beyond industrial settings but also addresses the growing demand for reliable broadband access in various sectors. By leveraging the strengths of both fiber and Wi-Fi technologies, the partnership seeks to deliver a versatile networking solution that can adapt to diverse operational requirements.
Hybrid Solution Benefits
Nokia and Rockwell Automation are joining forces to bring a revolution to industrial automation by testing private 5G networks. This partnership aims to significantly improve connectivity, reliability, and performance within industrial settings. By leveraging private 5G technology, they intend to streamline operations and maximize efficiency. The collaboration doesn’t stop at 5G, it also focuses on integrating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and the Internet of Things (IoT). These advancements are aimed at paving the way for Industry 4.0 applications, transforming conventional industrial processes into smart, interconnected systems. By merging their expertise, Nokia and Rockwell Automation aim to create a new wave of industrial innovation, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity. This initiative signals a significant leap forward in utilizing technology to meet the evolving demands of modern industries. The result is expected to set new standards in automation, making operations more intelligent and efficient while laying the foundation for future advancements in industrial automation.