Feasibility study - future connectivity, networks and spectrum for industrial radio systems
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan - Avdelningen för kommunikationssystem (COS) |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 240 000 |
| Project duration | November 2020 - March 2021 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | The strategic innovation programme Electronic Components and Systems: |
| Call | Electronic Components and Systems: Feasability Studies 2020 |
Important results from the project
In this project, we have identified a number of uncertainties and challenges regarding local 5G networks for the industry. These uncertainties are judged to be so great that it is currently necessary to produce additional data to define a major project on industrial radio control. Åkerströms and other manufacturers of industrial radio control need to make long-term preparations in order to migrate from point-to-point communication to the use of cellular networks. In addition, one should also wait for decisions regarding the allocation of local frequencies for the industry.
Expected long term effects
Non-public networks (NPN) is a global phenomenon with great support and interest from existing ecosystems in industry and telecom. The frequency space that is relevant for the planned local conditions in 3.72-3.80 GHz is defined for TDD and needs to be synchronized with the operators´ networks and also use the same distribution of traffic between up and downlink as these networks. It is currently unclear whether it will be possible to satisfy all needs in the area of industrial radio control and non-public networks via only TDD licenses in 3.5 GHz or higher frequency bands.
Approach and implementation
During the project period, we have obtained, taken into account and included results from ongoing and recently published research regarding industrial radio networks. Reported state of the art and challenges can thus be considered to be "up to date". The project has enabled a large number of meetings and interviews with different types of actors, through this we have received confirmation of the relevance and value of the problems we have addressed. PTS has found it rewarding with the concrete input from Åkerströms and Boliden, raising issues that are of great importance to PTS.