5G: the network of networks

摘要

In the manufacturing industry, the transition from analogue to digital to smart production is a big jump, but nonetheless a plunge many are eager to make. It’s a hot topic and somewhat controversial – a concept on the fringe between present and future – because some smart factory technologies do not yet have proven use cases in industry. But even prolific fashion industry names are on board, such as Hugo Boss and its Turkish production facility, for example, whose offices are plastered with smart factory concepts, mood-boarding how the application of digital technologies can impact the business and workflow. Elsewhere, around 76% of manufacturers are either engaged in or pursuing smart factory initiatives, says consultancy company Capgemini. It’s all in aid of tapping into a rapidly growing market. The smart factory sector was valued at US$252.29bn in 2019 and is predicted to almost double to US$427.37bn by 2025, according to Mordor Intelligence. Yet, despite all the proof of its colossal potential, only 14% of smart factories report success, which suggests there are barriers limiting smart factory progression, potentially from lacking R&D initiatives or even misguided opinions on essential, enabling technologies such as 5G.