The Bristol-based National Composites Centre today opens its doors for the first time to organisations and companies that want to test out new ways to use 5G in the manufacturing sector.
Giving the keynote speech at an event attended by 60 industry leaders, West of England Metro Mayor Dan Norris hailed the launch of the industrial 5G network as ‘cutting edge technology which puts our region firmly on the map as a digital powerhouse.’
Attendees heard how 5G can be used in a range of industrial scenarios such as locating items in a large warehouse; to using 5G’s superfast connectivity to link manufacturing robots and operate them from anywhere in the world – with the operator controlling them in real-time. Current 4G networks only operate with a time lag.
It is hoped that 5G will revolutionise the UK manufacturing sector, helping to reduce costs, increase sustainability and make the right parts first time, every time.
Dan Norris said: “This is a real vote of confidence in our region’s brilliance; it’s cutting edge technology which puts the West of England firmly on the map as a digital powerhouse. This West of England project is testing innovations which could revolutionise the UK manufacturing sector, making it more efficient and sustainable. It will create high-skilled jobs right here in our region and bring in investment. It’s good news for the West of England and GB PLC.”