We hosted an in-depth workshop on the 23^rd of July to explore how 5G and immersive technology can be used to increase efficiency, reduce machine downtime and decrease risk.

Across the wider North East, there are around 190,000 people working in skilled manufacturing, with over 63,000 working in the advanced manufacturing sector. The advanced manufacturing sector makes up 15% of the large enterprises and 7% of the SMEs in the region.

‍

The Factory of The Future

We were joined by Vodafone with an insightful keynote focused on the future of manufacturing connectivity. They presented a range of use cases, from Digital Worker to Digital Site, illustrating how their vision of the factory of the future relies on reliable, secure connectivity. Vodafone highlighted how companies like Bosch, PTC, and Hitachi, alongside Vodafone, are providing solutions for these use cases, all unified by a Mobile Private Network.

‍

XR Training in Manufacturing

We were also joined by two local North of Tyne companies, Fuzzy Logic and LuminousXR.  

Fuzzy Logic showcased their immersive use cases designed to simulate hazardous or inaccessible environments, enhancing safety and reducing costs for manufacturers.  

Meanwhile, LuminousXR focused on technical demonstrations of collaborative VR training on manufacturing sites, emphasising their virtual platform's ability to guide students, analyse results, and manage customer interactions through integrated analytics.

‍

Collaborative Design Thinking

The second part of the workshop was a collaborative brainstorming session in which attendees discussed challenges, possibilities and blockers for adopting this technology.

Talent Management

There's a growing recognition that missing out on advancements in 5G and immersive technology can result in a loss of competitive edge. To bridge this gap, it's crucial to educate individuals and organisations, building a workforce that is knowledgeable and proficient in emerging technologies. Key discussions focused around:

• Upskilling / reskilling existing staff with this technology.
• Establishing a central 5G hub to serve multiple sectors through workshops.
• Simulating work environments to provide realistic experience with using this technology to boost staff confidence levels.

‍

Network and Hardware Access

Return on investment was a hot topic amongst groups. Many highlighted that there is the issue of purchasing new technology without using it to its fullest potential and that hands-on experience is a must before considering adoption. Manufacturers require:

• Practical demonstrations and hands-on experience.
• Opportunities to test products without significant investment.
• Ecosystems that facilitate affordable access to new technologies.
• A deeper understanding of the benefits and applications of 5G.

‍

Strategy

Attendees from various segments of the manufacturing industry agreed that creating a cohesive innovation plan is essential. This raises the question of who should lead these efforts – public entities, network providers, or industry leaders?  

Manufacturers expressed a desire for a straightforward adoption process with clear, actionable steps. Additionally, there is a strong belief that peer influence is crucial; manufacturers are more likely to heed advice from fellow industry professionals. Many SMEs are not yet considering these advanced technologies as they may be lacking even basic digitalisation or long-term strategy.

To address these challenges, it’s crucial to develop a unifying plan that incorporates national infrastructure and fosters a collaborative approach among all stakeholders. The industrial design community also needs to gain a broader understanding of the overall landscape to drive effective change.

Feedback

The workshop highlighted the benefit and uses of 5G and immersive technology and organisations left with a better understanding of them.

"Highly recommended. A must for anyone considering anything cloud dependent or associated with emerging tech."

- Steve Mitchell, SQCDP

"To understand how 5G can impact your business, I would advise anyone to invest a small amount of time to visit the team at the 5G Immersive labs and get ahead of the curve."

- Julie Martin, Octo Design Ltd

“A great event for connecting with inspiring, innovative minds!”

- Victoria McEwan, Luminous XR

‍

Final Thoughts

Our brand new 5G Immersive Lab will be opening soon in Eldon Square in Newcastle City Centre. If you are looking to digitise or are curious about the potential of 5G and immersive technology, pop into the lab or come along to one of our future workshops. Click here to learn more about upcoming events.

If you have any questions with regards to our 5G Immersive Lab or the capabilities of these technologies, please get in touch with Jenna Ingoe at: jenna.ingoe@sunderlandsoftwarecity.com

‍