West Midlands 5G (WM5G) has successfully installed a standalone private 5G network at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry.
West Midlands 5G (WM5G) has successfully installed a standalone private 5G network at the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry.
The pilot set out to give SMEs, corporate partners, and nearby universities the opportunity to explore private 5G and on-premises multi-edge computing, as well as to drive opportunities for innovation in the West Midlands region beyond the duration of the government-funded programme.
The MTC has recently launched its first 5G-enabled demonstrator system to trial the technology, which features 5G-connected robotics, computer vision and edge computing.
The tests have demonstrated the potential of 5G and advanced connectivity for the manufacturing sector. For example, the pilot demonstrated an automated inspection process which showed how intelligent automation can help to maximise productivity and reduce product waste.
Managing Director of WM5G saying: “Manufacturing is at the heart of the economy in the West Midlands, and at WM5G we are working collaboratively with our partners to ensure that public and private sector organisations can remain competitive in the global marketplace and develop cutting edge technologies to advance their capabilities.”
Technology Manager in the MTC’s Digital Engineering Group, added: “Our connected facility at the MTC will allow manufacturers of all sizes, research, and technology suppliers to explore the benefits of 5G in manufacturing. Through our enduring collaboration with nexGworx and BT we are now planning to further build on the initial capability we’ve created here at the MTC to push the boundaries of what can be achieved with the help of 5G technology.”