Enhancing Factory Automation with 5G at KUKA
The field of industrial automation integrates various technologies to create highly efficient, precise, and flexible manufacturing processes. This domain relies heavily on the synergy between robotics, software, and cutting-edge connectivity solutions, aiming to revolutionize the traditional factory floor. The advent of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and the deployment of private wireless networks are pivotal advancements that drive significant improvements in this sector, enhancing operational efficiency and production flexibility.
Company Overview: KUKA
KUKA, based in Augsburg, Germany, stands as a global leader in the industrial automation industry, specializing in the production of advanced robotic systems and automation solutions. With a workforce of approximately 14,000 employees and a turnover of €2.6 billion, KUKA represents one of the foremost suppliers of intelligent automation solutions worldwide. The company’s offerings span from individual robots to fully automated systems, catering to various sectors including automotive, electronics, consumer goods, and healthcare.
Project Scope + Objectives
The heart of this project was the implementation of Nokia’s Digital Automation Cloud (DAC), a comprehensive platform offering high-bandwidth, low-latency private networking combined with local edge computing capabilities. The DAC platform supports product development by providing network and user equipment, a cloud-based operation monitoring system, and industrial connectors for seamless protocol connectivity. This deployment enabled KUKA to create a highly reliable and secure communication environment for its development and production processes.
Technologies + Solutions Deployed
Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC):
The heart of this project was the implementation of Nokia’s Digital Automation Cloud (DAC), a comprehensive platform offering high-bandwidth, low-latency private networking combined with local edge computing capabilities. The DAC platform supports product development by providing network and user equipment, a cloud-based operation monitoring system, and industrial connectors for seamless protocol connectivity.
5G SA Private Wireless Networking
The transition to 5G technology is a cornerstone of KUKA’s strategy, enabling the company to leverage faster, more reliable, and secure connectivity for its automation solutions. The 5G SA network facilitated by Nokia empowers KUKA to implement advanced automation and robotics applications that require real-time data transfer and processing.
This deployment enabled KUKA to create a highly reliable and secure communication environment for its development and production processes.
Benefits + Outcomes
Accelerated Development and Innovation
The integration of 5G connectivity has significantly accelerated KUKA’s development of smart automation solutions. The high-speed, low-latency characteristics of 5G enable more dynamic and flexible manufacturing processes, allowing for real-time adjustments and improved coordination between different components of the automation system.
Enhanced Product Portfolio
With the support of Nokia’s 5G technology and the DAC platform, KUKA has been able to develop and test new use cases for its range of robotic solutions. This technological advancement has enriched KUKA’s product portfolio, offering customers innovative solutions that meet the evolving demands of modern industry.
Strengthened Market Position
By embracing 5G technology, KUKA has solidified its position as a leading provider of intelligent automation solutions. The successful deployment of 5G SA private wireless networking underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and its capability to meet future challenges in industrial automation.
The project was successfully executed by Nokia and KUKA without channel partner involvement.
Case Summary
The partnership between KUKA and Nokia in deploying a 5G SA private wireless network represents a significant step forward in the digital transformation of manufacturing processes. This collaboration not only showcases the potential of 5G technology in enhancing industrial automation but also sets a benchmark for other companies in the sector. As KUKA continues to explore and develop new applications leveraging 5G connectivity, it paves the way for the next generation of smart factories, characterized by greater efficiency, flexibility, and intelligence.
Partnering for Future Success
As companies in the industrial automation and robotics manufacturing explore opportunities to modernize their operations and enhance connectivity, Infinity stands ready to offer its expertise and support.
While not involved in this specific project, Infinity’s dedicated engineering teams possess the knowledge and experience to assist similar organizations in deploying Nokia solutions tailored to their unique requirements.
By partnering with Infinity, companies can leverage cutting-edge technologies to optimize their operations and achieve their digital transformation goals.
References
- https://www.nokia.com/about-us/news/releases/2021/07/08/nokia-to-deploy-5g-sa-private-wireless-networking-for-kuka-germany/
- https://www.computerweekly.com/news/252503858/KUKA-taps-Nokia-to-facilitate-industrial-5G-SA-private-wireless-network
- https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/nokia-nok-to-power-kuka-automation-solutions-with-5g-network-2021-07-09
Image Credits
- https://www.kuka.com/-/media/kuka-corporate/images/home/stage/kuka-production_systems.jpg?rev=cd2ad2a2028943c38b26878680d4d277&w=1400&hash=16911DC24F7BD824DADBDEF7BC4D3003
About Infinity Technology Solutions
Infinity Technology Solutions specializes in broadband and critical communications infrastructure development. We help our channel partners create and deploy private wireless, microwave backhaul, IP/MPLS, and optical networking technologies.
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