Future industrial networking: from use cases to wireless technologies to a flexible system architecture

In this paper, we propose a communication network architecture for industrial applications that combines new 5G technologies with other existing communication technologies on the shop floor. This architecture connects private and public mobile networks with local networking technologies to achieve a flexible setup addressing many different industrial use cases. We show how the advancements introduced around the new 5G mobile technology can address a wide range of industrial requirements. We further describe relevant use cases and develop an overall communication system architecture proposal, which is able to fulfill not only technical requirements but also system requirements, which result from specific applications existing in today’s and future manufacturing scenarios.