Elektroautomatik, together with Ericsson, has conducted tests of private 5G for our AGV solutions. The tests were carried out to verify 5G communication and confirm that the technology can be used both in new AGV solutions and when modernising existing vehicles.
An AGV relies on communication with surrounding systems to carry out its transport tasks. At the same time, the vehicle moves through different parts of a production facility, placing demands on network connectivity.
As more vehicles, machines and other devices become connected, the network infrastructure becomes an increasingly important part of automated production.
Why connectivity matters
5G is relevant for AGVs because the vehicles are mobile while requiring continuous communication with higher-level systems. Private 5G can provide reliable connectivity across larger production areas while supporting multiple connected vehicles and devices within the same network.
Ericsson highlights mobile robots such as AGVs and AMRs as industrial applications where 5G can support communication as units move through the production environment. Read more about 5G in manufacturing at Ericsson.
For an AGV fleet, private 5G can provide continuous connectivity, support more connected vehicles and devices, and provide coverage across larger production areas.
This makes 5G one of the options to consider when designing the communication solution for an AGV installation.
Testing together with Ericsson
Together with Ericsson, Elektroautomatik has conducted tests in which our AGV solutions communicated over private 5G. These tests have enabled us to verify the technology for use in our solutions.
For us, the work is not about 5G as a technology in itself. What matters is being able to select a communication solution based on the requirements and conditions of each production environment.
ifferent production environments have different requirements when it comes to coverage, mobility, the number of connected devices and availability. 5G therefore provides another option to consider when we design an AGV solution for a customer’s production.
5G when modernising existing AGVs
5G is not limited to new AGV installations.
Many AGVs have been in operation for a long time and still have mechanics in good condition, while control systems, safety technology or communication may need to be updated.
Elektroautomatik works with retrofit and modernisation of existing AGVs, where parts of the technology can be upgraded without replacing the entire vehicle.
As part of such a modernisation, the communication solution can also be reviewed. The tests we have conducted confirm that 5G can also be used for existing AGVs where the requirements and conditions of the production environment make it a suitable option.
This allows existing equipment to remain in operation while the technology surrounding the vehicle is adapted to meet today’s requirements for communication and connectivity.
Would you like to learn more about 5G for AGVs or how we work with new and existing AGV solutions? Contact us to find out more.