The digital transformation of the industrial fabric is fundamental for the success and evolution of this sector, encouraging the improvement of existing processes, transforming the factory into a dematerialized space at various levels. The physical structure of the factory will not change, but all the equipment of the various production lines will be mobile, adapting and reconfiguring according to the final product wanted at each moment. The parts themselves will have embedded the specifications for their correct handling and integration, allowing individual customization to become a reality without additional costs.
On the one hand, private 5G networks are positioned as a multi-domain integration technology, capable of responding to these challenges, being essential for the evolution of the factory of the future. It will be joined by solutions for human-centric production focusing on the redistribution of productive tasks and the development of human-machine iteration systems, in a context of highly qualified workers controlling highly complex automated systems. On the other hand, Industry 4.0 defines the idea that companies should have the ability to create value through the use of technologies that promote increased efficiency, productivity, intelligence and innovation, supported by autonomous networks throughout their value chain, interconnecting machines, people and processes.
It is in this context that the AUGMANITY – Augmented Humanity project emerges in July 2020, a project funded by the P2020 programme, with the participation of Altice Labs and other partners. It is a mobilizing project based on three main pillars/challenges, namely:
1. The improvement of the efficiency of industrial processes, as well as corresponding emission reduction;
2. The development and adaptation of productive processes according to the characteristics of the active population;
3. The preparation of human resources for a new industrial reality (Industry 4.0).
Altice Labs is specifically involved in the technological area of IoT (Internet Of Things) and 5G connectivity, which will materialize with the implementation of a 5G network in indoor and outdoor environments and the development of a 5G gateway, for the integration of the protocols used by machines on the factory floor.