5G, the fifth generation in mobile communications, has come a long way since the 1980s when the first generation was introduced. Each evolution in cellular network technology has brought its own advances and changes like mobile web browsing or mobile video consumption and now 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 distinct applications, at their core, both MFA and PFA are dedicated to mapping, analyzing, and optimizing various flows within an organization. With consumer expectations at an all-time high and supply chains becoming increasingly complex, 5G emerges as the hero of modern material flow. By offering data transmission rates that are 100 times faster and connectivity to 100 times more devices compared to 4G, 5G addresses challenges in every stage of the supply chain, from inventory management to transportation.
The Challenge: Preventing Critical Disruptions
No matter what the cause of supply chain disruptions, be it due to material shortages or unforeseen circumstances, it can be devastating. The repercussions run anywhere from staggering financial losses to tarnished customer relationships. Material flow managers assist in pinpointing the cause of such disruptions, often in real-time, by seeking solutions and workarounds. Still, their analysis often depends on the data available to them and the technology used. They rely not only on their experience but also on phone calls, emails or spreadsheets. Gathering data that way takes time and may result in inconsistencies in the analysis. By integrating software solutions powered by 5G, material flow managers can derive real-time insights from each issue and exception.
5G Trends Revolutionizing MFA
1. IoT in Manufacturing
Internet of Things (IoT) has been instrumental in digital transformation 4.0. IoT helps gather data from various devices into data clouds. 5G can increase the amount of data collected, utilizing the 5G technology for multiple inputs and outputs, and 5G systems can offer unprecedented power savings and data speed improvements. As the number of connected devices in the supply chain ecosystem grows, the need for faster, efficient connections becomes evident – something 5G readily promises.
2. Smart Warehouses
With 5G's capacity to handle a significantly larger number of connections, integrating IoT extensively across the warehouse is now feasible. The adoption 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 tiny electronic devices that store information about the item they are attached to. RFID scanners positioned throughout the warehouse constantly read the tags providing real-time location and status updates of items. Automated bins equipped with sensors can signal when they are close to depletion, ensuring timely restocking. Material Flow managers have real-time location and status data, enhancing processes such as inventory management and picking.
3. Integration of Artificial Intelligence
The marriage of 5G with AI can transform MFAs – from predictive analytics to real-time problem solving. AI Algorithms can analyze the data provided by IoT more efficiently and accurately, providing insight into what is happening in the supply chain. AI also plays a role in keeping the 5G safe with potential for earlier response time to a cyber threat. With AI, demand can be forecasted based on identifying patterns, allowing algorithms to dictate where items are stored in the warehouse to allow for quicker picking. AI can answer questions using direct sentences like ChatGPT: “What materials are low in inventory?”
4. Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR & AR)
The benefits of 5G extend beyond just logistics and tracking. With the power of 5G high speed, VR and AR can be used more effectively for training staff, simulating various supply chain scenarios, and even for machinery maintenance. By practicing in a virtual environment, supply chain operatives can prepare for disruptions and develop strategies to mitigate them. Training sessions can be conducted across multiple geographic locations simultaneously. Additionally, AR can guide technicians in machinery repairs, minimizing downtime on the factory floor.
5. Cybersecurity
5G isn't just about speed and efficiency; it's also about security. With threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, 5G offers enhanced network safety features, ensuring that supply chain data remains 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 inspects in detail the data being sent over a computer network, and may take actions such as alerting, blocking, re-routing, or logging it accordingly. DPI provides a granular view of network packets, allowing for the detection of viruses, malware, and application-specific traffic even if they operate on non-standard ports or protocols. Network virtualization involves merging hardware and software network resources and functionalities into a unified, software-based administrative entity, a virtual network. This provides design, deployment and management capabilities that abstract the physical infrastructure, thus making the network more agile, secure and scalable. Both these features—deep packet inspection and network virtualization—are integral components of the comprehensive security suite provided by 5G, ensuring that supply chain operations remain uncompromised.
5G: Beyond 2023 and into the Supply Chain Future
With 5G's super-fast network, the influence on the supply chain will be profound. particularly in minimizing disruptions. It is not just about faster data or more connections – it's about creating resilient, agile, and future-proof supply chains. 5G promises to pave the way for innovations like digital twins, 3D robotic control and AI-driven predictive analyses. Its robust connectivity is already transforming the transportation sector, making systems like self-driving forklifts and autonomous trucks one step closer to the norm in warehouses.
6G is predicted to come out in 2030. That is a long time away with unclear standards. There is no need to wait for 6G when there is still much more to explore with 5G technology. 5G reduces supply chain disruption by integrating faster, more secure technology, making it easier for data collection and data analysis. As businesses and industries continue to adopt and integrate 5G into their operations, the supply chain will inevitably become more robust, agile, and disruption resistant.
