5G, the fifth generation of mobile communications, has come a long way since the first generation was introduced in the 1980s. Each evolution of cellular network technology has brought its own advancements and changes, such as mobile web browsing and the use of mobile video. Today, 5G factories and warehouses are embracing the technology and the benefits it brings.
Since its introduction, 5G has played a role in material flow analysis (MFA) and process flow analysis (PFA). Although each has different applications, at their core, both MFA and PFA specialize in mapping, analyzing, and optimizing various flows within an organization. With consumer expectations higher than ever and supply chains becoming increasingly complex, 5G is emerging as a mainstay in modern material flows. By providing 100x faster data transfer speeds and 100x more connectivity to devices. Compared to 4G, 5G addresses challenges at every stage of the supply chain, from inventory management to transportation.
Challenge: Preventing major disruptions
Whatever the cause of supply chain disruption, whether it’s due to material shortages or unforeseen circumstances, it can have a devastating impact. The effects range from staggering financial losses to damaged customer relationships. Material flow managers can help identify the sources of such disruptions, often in real-time, by seeking solutions or workarounds. Still, their analysis often depends on the data available and the technology used. They rely not only on their experience, but also on phone calls, emails, and spreadsheets. Collecting data in this way is time consuming and may introduce inconsistencies in the analysis. By integrating 5G-powered software solutions, material flow managers can gain real-time insights from each issue or exception.
5G trends revolutionizing MFA
1. IoT in Manufacturing
The Internet of Things (IoT) has contributed to Digital Transformation 4.0. IoT helps in collecting data from various devices into a data cloud. 5G can leverage 5G technology for multiple inputs and outputs to increase the amount of data collected, allowing 5G systems to achieve unprecedented power savings and increased data speeds. As the number of connected devices within the supply chain ecosystem increases, the need for faster and more efficient connectivity becomes evident, and this is easily promised by his 5G.
2. Smart warehouse
5G’s ability to handle significantly more connections has enabled widespread integration of IoT throughout the warehouse. His introduction of 5G with IoT has given rise to the concept of “smart shelves” in “smart warehouses” that provide real-time inventory updates and AI-driven processes. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags are small electronic devices that store information about the item to which they are attached. RFID scanners located throughout the warehouse constantly read tags and update item locations and status in real time. Automatic trash bins equipped with sensors send a signal when the stock is depleted and ensure timely replenishment. Material Flow Manager captures real-time location and status data to power processes such as inventory management and picking.
3. Artificial intelligence integration
The convergence of 5G and AI will transform MFA from predictive analytics to real-time problem solving. AI algorithms will analyze data provided by IoT more efficiently and accurately, providing insights into what is happening in the supply chain. AI will also help keep 5G secure, potentially speeding response times to cyber threats. AI can be used to predict demand based on identifying patterns, allowing algorithms to determine where items are stored in the warehouse for faster picking. AI can use direct sentences like ChatGPT to answer the question, “What materials are in short supply?”
4. Virtual reality and augmented reality (VR & AR)
The benefits of 5G go beyond logistics and tracking. With the power of 5G high speed, VR and AR can be used more effectively for staff training, simulating various supply chain scenarios, and even machine maintenance. By practicing in a virtual environment, supply chain personnel can prepare for disruptions and develop strategies to mitigate them. Training sessions can be conducted simultaneously in multiple geographic locations. Additionally, AR can guide technicians in machine repairs and minimize downtime on the factory floor.
5. Cybersecurity
5G is not just about speed and efficiency. It also concerns security. As threats become increasingly sophisticated, 5G provides enhanced network safety features to ensure supply chain data is protected. 5G architecture includes deep packet inspection (DPI) and network virtualization to address the evolving needs and challenges of modern communication systems. Deep packet inspection (DPI) is a type of data processing that closely examines data sent over a computer network and may take actions accordingly, such as warning, blocking, rerouting, or logging. . DPI provides a detailed view of network packets and can detect viruses, malware, and application-specific traffic even when operating on non-standard ports and protocols. Network virtualization involves consolidating hardware and software network resources and functionality into a unified software-based management entity, a virtual network. It provides design, deployment, and management capabilities that abstract your physical infrastructure, making your network more agile, secure, and scalable. Both of these capabilities (deep packet inspection and network virtualization) are essential components of the comprehensive security suite provided by 5G, ensuring supply chain operations are not compromised.
5G: The future of supply chains beyond 2023
5G’s ultra-fast networks will have a profound impact on supply chains. Especially in terms of minimizing disruption. It’s not just about faster data and more connectivity; it’s about building resilient, agile, and future-proof supply chains. 5G promises to pave the way for innovations such as digital twins, 3D robotic control, and AI-driven predictive analytics. That robust connectivity is already transforming the transportation sector, bringing systems like self-driving forklifts and self-driving trucks one step closer to becoming the warehouse standard.
6G is predicted to arrive in 2030, but the standards are unclear and that’s a long way off. There’s no need to wait for 6G when there’s still so much to explore with 5G technology. 5G will reduce supply chain disruption and facilitate data collection and analysis by integrating faster and more secure technologies. As companies and industries continue to adopt and integrate 5G into their operations, supply chains will inevitably become more robust, agile, and resilient to disruption.
