Digital innovation with 5G – transforming people’s lives

Fujitsu / June 27, 2023

Hybrid IT Uvance Network Network Data Driven Data and Security Digital Transformation

Imagine you regularly work with heavy forestry machinery in a remote location. Operating in the area is essential, but also has the potential to be dangerous. Wouldn’t it be better if, instead, you could work remotely from a central location, using cameras and sensors to operate the machines effectively? Broadband won’t get the job done, and neither will 4G.
5G technology presents a new global wireless standard, emerging as a driving force to contribute to the welfare and security of citizens, communities, and employees, while also accelerating innovation and improving efficiency.

Private 5G networks, meanwhile, are deployments of 5G technology for just one organization. They combine high-speed communication with local Edge computing and processing capabilities, facilitating the transmission, collection and processing of large amounts of data from a diverse range of connected devices - from industrial machinery to individual sensors.

The technology supports massive machine-type communications and enables real-time data collection, generating vast amounts of raw data that can be processed to extract valuable insights. This empowers industries to make data-driven decisions and supports applications that require real-time capabilities, such as autonomous vehicles or augmented maintenance on the factory floor. In this blog, we will explore the applications of 5G technology and its impact on sustainable wellbeing across various industries.

5G: A platform for safe, sustainable innovation
Worker safety – redefined
Leveraging 5G technology for public safety
Security advantages included
Match 5G with powerful Hybrid IT
Finding the right 5G partner is crucial

5G: A platform for safe, sustainable innovation

Automating heavy machinery is just one example of what 5G can offer. The widespread adoption of 5G technology brings with it a range of use cases that can revolutionize an enormous variety of sectors. Among these, the robust connectivity of 5G enables a network of cameras and drones to be utilized for surveillance and public safety, enhancing citizen protection. In manufacturing and supply chain management, 5G streamlines processes and improves efficiency through autonomous operations.

Fujitsu implemented a Private 5G network at its Oyama plant in Japan, using AI and IoT for smart manufacturing. The 5G network streamlines field operations, automates position measurement and route control for guided vehicles, and transmits images for real-time AI analysis.

Remote access and maintenance that reduces the need for on-site personnel, therefore minimizing safety risks, is a big benefit for other industries like mines and oil refineries. While, in healthcare, 5G supports telemedicine and remote surgery, improving patient care and expanding access to valuable expertise.

And the impacts of 5G on education, training, retail, and direct-to-consumer businesses are also considerable. Organizations in these areas can leverage consumer data to gain insights, enabling targeted marketing and personalized experiences. Furthermore, combining 5G with blockchain ensures transparency in product provenance and ethical sourcing.

Worker safety – redefined

5G technology is pivotal in enhancing worker safety. Key applications like augmented maintenance, robotic manufacturing, and advanced digital simulation significantly increase security and risk reduction.

Augmented maintenance ensures comprehensive and correct maintenance work, mitigating safety risks from machines in need of repair. Advanced digital simulations facilitate safe worker-machine interactions, minimizing accidents. Robotic manufacturing employs robots for hazardous tasks, protecting human workers.

Reducing direct worker-machinery interaction safeguards employees from potential dangers. Equipping frontline workers with technology and connectivity access is crucial, as it ensures real-time information for safety and resource optimization.

The technology makes modifying equipment and processes easier, less costly, and safer, while promoting manufacturer agility. Wireless connectivity in manufacturing equipment accelerates the transition of production lines for new items, as time-consuming wiring efforts are no longer necessary and no compromises on real-time communications with low latency and high throughput need to be made.

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, a Swedish forestry authority implemented remote forest machinery operations through a Private 5G network. The network enabled real-time connectivity and low latency, supporting decision-making and large data processing, and allowing remote steering of large, complex machines and vehicles. The network outperformed Wi-Fi in reach and performance, and remote control through cameras connected to screens or Oculus glasses worked well. The cameras provided real-time environmental information, and real-time machine steering allowed immediate reactions.

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Leveraging 5G technology for public safety

5G will help to enhance public safety, empowering authorities to create safer environments. Key use cases include drone technology for wildfire detection, video surveillance for crisis response, and automated traffic management for route optimization.

Connected cities enable local authorities to harness surveillance operations, identifying risks and establishing triggers for rapid response. Removing barriers and siloes between public services and ensuring robust, reliable access promotes interconnectivity, effective communication, and data sharing.

In transportation, 5G-connected cameras provide drivers with a comprehensive, 360-degree view, surpassing traditional visibility. Integrating 5G technology into public safety measures has far-reaching benefits, enabling efficient resource allocation and faster response times. By leveraging 5G's capabilities, authorities can make substantial strides in safeguarding citizens and fostering safer communities.

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Security advantages included

5G technology offers numerous security benefits compared to traditional Wi-Fi networks. One of the key advantages is that 5G allows only registered devices to access the network, ensuring a higher level of security. The utilization of SIM cards enables traffic and endpoint control in a more reliable manner, adding an extra layer of protection.

The development of 5G technology incorporates a "security by design" mindset, as it was designed with an entirely different purpose than earlier cellular systems. Consequently, all traffic on a 5G network is encrypted, and the network itself is built to be extremely secure and resilient. It is crucial to protect everything that resides on and interacts with the network to maintain the highest level of security.

In addition to these security features, 5G networks offer enhanced reliability and persistence, with secure access controls and a service level agreement (SLA) of 99.999% uptime. This high degree of reliability can help address risks, such as widely publicized attacks on public infrastructure and health services, by providing a more secure communication platform.

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Match 5G with powerful Hybrid IT

Combining Hybrid IT and 5G multiplies the benefits of the two technologies. The massive amounts of data transported in real-time by 5G technology in various use cases necessitate a robust IT foundation for effective management and analysis. Fujitsu Uvance Hybrid IT infrastructure, which combines local Edge Computing services with cloud-based solutions, enabling the efficient collection and availability of data for AI and other applications. Depending on specific project requirements, processing can be conducted either on the cloud or at the edge, offering flexibility and adaptability.

Our Hybrid IT foundation allows the network to host microservices and facilitate agile deployment, empowering organizations to innovate new services and continually improve over time. This approach breaks down siloes between organizations and divisions, enabling data aggregation and providing valuable insights for smarter decision-making. By embracing Hybrid IT infrastructure, businesses can capitalize on the wealth of data that 5G technology can provide to make more informed, strategic choices.

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Finding the right 5G partner is crucial

Effective 5G implementation makes all the difference, Fujitsu’s 5G services are designed to help organizations make the most of 5G by supporting new and changed business approaches and processes, and yielding improved worker and societal outcomes. Our approach involves co-creating with customers to identify opportunities for deploying the technology as Private 5G and Edge Computing Services, and integrating it with other technologies for maximum impact. Each solution is tailored to the customer's unique environment, requirements, and objectives.

With the Fujitsu Uvance approach, we enable people and organizations to make positive contributions to solving crucial societal issues. This entails embedding solutions into the organization, providing necessary training, and facilitating upskilling to ensure a smooth transition and long-term success. Organizations can effectively integrate 5G technology into their operations, fostering better worker safety, increased efficiency, and positive societal outcomes with Fujitsu.

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Learn why digital infrastructure is key to a connected society

Hybrid IT

Fujitsu introduced a key focus area called ‘Hybrid IT’ as a part of its business brand, Fujitsu Uvance.
We will realize a connected society that connects people, data, and things in the world safely, solves social problems, and creates new value.

Mats Plahn

Global Head of Business Development and Innovation, 5G and Edge, Uvance

Mats is Global Head of Business Development and Innovation in the field of 5G and Edge at Fujitsu Uvance. He is the founder of several companies in the telecom sector and has held senior positions in companies such as Philips, SAAB, Sigma, Trio and as a senior management consultant within strategy and business development. Prior to Fujitsu, Mats worked as senior advisor at TeliaCompany within mobile services and enterprise business. He graduated from the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm with a Masters in Electrical Engineering and Mobile Communication.