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5G Enabled Connected Devices - Transformation of Logistics

Over the past few years logistics have become increasingly complex requiring transformation to meet new challenges. The fifth generation of cellular networks, referred to as 5G is expected to shift the logistics industry to a data-driven mindset. 5G technology will revolutionise the process of getting the goods from factory to the customer through advanced Internet of Things (IoT) tracking, Augmented Reality (AR), video surveillance and analytics, intelligent transport systems, truck platooning etc.

Challenges:

The logistics industry plays a crucial part acting as the backbone to the country’s economy. Both local and national Government closely monitor the challenges and opportunities faced by the logistics industry through their duty of care in the UK’s transport infrastructure such as roads and rail networks. The logistics industry is now under significant pressure due to increasing movement of goods and high operating costs.

Although the demand for logistics is growing, many firms across the UK market are suffering from eroding margins[1] due to unstable diesel prices, shortage of drivers and increasing pressure to be more environmental friendly. Therefore, the industry’s focus is on cost-cutting and improving operational efficiency. It is expected that data analytics will be used in new technologies to help transform operations, improve efficiencies, reduce environmental impact and inform decision-making.

The role of 5G in digital transformation:

5G is expected to revolutionise the logistics industry by mitigating key challenges such as scalability, heterogeneity (multiple connected devices with diverse characteristics) and security.

5G enabled devices are expected to improve logistics strategies, processes and systems, which will maximise efficiency and reduce costs These systems will enhance decision making capabilities by allowing companies to predict the performance and optimised operational cost, based on the collected and analysed real and non-real time data. Furthermore, high data rate and low latency (time it takes for some data to get to its destination across the network) will boost the network response and will enable integration of more connected devices in order to deliver fast, safe and reliable logistics processes.

5G connected devices[2] are expected to address supply chain interruptions by improving on-time delivery. This includes :

  • reacting promptly to cargo temperature changes, shocks and tilts
  • controlling theft losses with alerts for route deviations
  • making better decisions using data analytics
  • reducing manpower for tracking and shipment related queries
  • increasing customer satisfaction by sharing delivery status of incoming goods and real-time information
  • increasing profitability through better planning

Swarm robots, autonomous vehicles, drones and sensors are a few examples where 5G can be deployed in logistics. Today, robots and humans are already working side-by-side in warehouses. The deployment of robotics solutions will continue to grow as 5G communication systems become more stable and reliable, thus preventing collisions and allowing for remote management and control. The logistics industry will benefit from the 5G ultra-low latency as it enables the development of autonomous driving through vehicle-to-vehicle or vehicle-to-infrastructure communications.

Application examples:

5G is a key technology to make digitalisation transformation possible through wireless connectivity.  5G can be implemented in the following areas:

Time-critical process optimisation: Warehouse automation using thousands of robots require reliable and predictable communication systems. A multi-bot picking system[3] helps workers to perform tasks easier, faster, and more accurately such as goods in, storage, sortation, picking and order fulfilment, packing and dispatch. Robots bring the work to the worker by minimising walking time hence lowering cycle times and improving productivity and health and safety.

Decrease distance driven and waiting times: Through 5G[4] wireless connectivity, distance driven by vehicles can be reduced by constantly receiving routes and schedule updates in real time[5]. Waiting times can also be predicted to ensure goods are transported when needed. In addition, 5G can enable customers to be informed of shipment status and location.

Connected automated vehicles: Due to environmental and economic reasons the transport industry is constantly looking to reduce its carbon footprint. Improvements in technologies such as adaptive cruise control, vehicle-to-vehicle communication systems and enhanced radar systems have made  truck platooning[6]possible whereby trucks move closer together. This reduces the amount of air turbulence and drag faced by each truck, hence significantly improving fuel efficiency, traffic flow, braking reaction and safety.

5G is also used in vehicle control for trailing vehicles, video surveillance of vehicle surroundings, remote surveillance and remote operation of vehicles.

Support available to investigate 5G implementation:

Deployment of 5G technology needs to be tailored to each business. For more information or to discuss your particular requirements please contact SOLVD@wlv.ac.uk or visit www.wlv.ac.uk/solvd.

Through the SOLVD Project, businesses can access 12 hours of fully funded support (*)with experts from the University of Wolverhampton.

*Please contact us to check your eligibility

 

Blog by Dr Muhammad Naeem – Research Fellow in Sensing, Processing and Communication at The University of Wolverhampton

  

[1] https://www.santandercb.co.uk/sites/default/files/documents/fta_logistics_report_2019.pdf

[2] https://www.sonynetworkcom.com/visilion-logistics

[3] https://locusrobotics.com/why-locus/

[4] https://smarttransportpub.blob.core.windows.net/web/1/root/5gs-impact-on-transport-and-logistics-280bn-of-benefits-in-2030-september-2020.pdf

[5] https://smarttransportpub.blob.core.windows.net/web/1/root/5gs-impact-on-transport-and-logistics-280bn-of-benefits-in-2030-september-2020.pdf

[6] https://media.nxp.com/news-releases/news-release-details/nxp-and-daf-trucks-commit-set-new-benchmark-truck-platooning-30