Airbus has joined forces with Ericsson to implement a private 5G network for its smart factory operations. This represents a significant step in modernizing aerospace manufacturing, connecting people, machines, and vehicles within their Hamburg facility. This move enhances operational efficiency, enabling better, faster, and smarter processes.
Technicians can now utilize augmented reality glasses, overlaying detailed component visuals without connectivity issues. This new setup is instrumental in ensuring precise digital records of each aircraft’s assembly. Additionally, it enables robots to shift tasks swiftly, optimizing time and resource management.
Integrating telecoms innovation with aerospace’s safety protocols presented challenges. However, Ericsson’s solution facilitated a rapid deployment of the network, setting a global standard for Airbus across Germany, France, and soon in Spain, the UK, and North America.
Hakim Achouri, 5G expert at Airbus, declared, “Our objective is to migrate all our industrial networks towards 5G to ensure unified, ultra-reliable connectivity from the operator’s workstation to the aircraft cabin.” He highlighted the deployment’s role in propelling projects such as 3D simulation, augmented reality, and predictive maintenance across Airbus’s operations.
Manish Tiwari, Head of Enterprise 5G at Ericsson, noted the partnership’s embodiment of industrial and technological synergy, providing secure, scalable connectivity.
This collaboration showcases the transformative potential of private 5G networks in demanding industrial environments. It serves as a model for manufacturers worldwide, regardless of size. Moving forward, Airbus foresees advancements like fully connected aircraft cabins, advancements in 6G, and leveraging satellite networks for remote operations.
