5G Deployment Models and Configuration Choices for Industrial Cyber-Physical Systems – A State of Art Overview

Abstract

The digital transformation of Industry 4.0 is driven by the automation of manufacturing processes. In this context, communication plays a vital role and the emergence of 5G wireless technology brings the promise of connectivity scenarios like the industrial Internet of Things and industrial cyber-physical systems. However, there are still several aspects to consider on how to employ 5G in practical industrial environments such that the highly demanding communication requirements of the use cases can be fulfilled. This article aims to review the essential enabling technologies of 5G and analyze real-world industrial use cases, with respect to available deployment options. While the article focuses primarily on 5G nonpublic network variants, the potential of network slicing, multi-access edge computing infrastructure, and 5G integration with time-sensitive networking and open platform communications unified architecture is also examined. A critical analysis of available results suggests that these technologies can effectively facilitate ubiquitous wireless industrial communication, despite the stringent needs of industrial applications, including support of different quality of service levels and security requirements. Furthermore, an evaluation of different 5G network deployment options with relevant example use cases is carried out. Lastly, an analysis of available real-world 5G deployments for industrial applications is presented. The article concludes by identifying challenges and open research questions that need further investigation in improving 5G capabilities for industrial networks.