[Barcelona, Spain, February 28, 2023] Huawei showcased its upgraded Factory Network Solution for the manufacturing sector at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2023. The solution uses a next-generation converged architecture, which helps eliminate production data silos and unlock the value of data. This facilitates the rapid development of the industrial Internet.
A typical factory network connects to many types of devices. These networks employ a wide range of industrial protocols which have difficulty interworking with each other. For example, a workshop may have over 50 types of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and over 1000 types of production device interfaces, forming a convoluted network of industrial protocols that lacks openness.
Liu Chao, CEO of Huawei Manufacturing Industry Digitalization Business Unit says, Huawei has launched its next-generation IT-OT converged architecture. The fully open architecture enables the factory network to connect with every production factor. Now, data can be easily acquired and shared, and AI enablement is possible.
Huawei's next-generation converged architecture delivers several key features.
• Multi-purpose network: One physical network carrying multiple services
• Easy deployment in three steps: Plug and play, GUI-based centralized deployment, and software-defined networking
• Multiple convergence technologies: Including the convergence of wired and wireless networks, IP and optical, and IT and OT
The manufacturing sector is turning to flexible processes and smart logistics, requiring more wireless devices. Many newer factory scenarios rely on wireless networks, such as Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR), and handheld mobile terminals for inspection. As such, manufacturers have deployed Wi-Fi networks for smart logistics, indoor positioning, industrial data collection, and machine vision.
Even so, warehouses have many obstacles and interferences. Plus, manufacturing processes require frequent roaming and faster responses. That's why, Huawei has designed a Wi-Fi 6 solution that redefines production and supply processes, helping build fully connected, smart factories.
Conventional production networks are facing many challenges. Workshops have many different types of devices. Also, production lines are long, requiring multiple aggregation switches and cabinets. Network cables are complex and vulnerable to electromagnetic interference, and the bandwidth is limited. What's more, different networks are required for production, office, and security services, leading to higher workloads for Operations and Maintenance (O&M).
Huawei's all-optical factory solution innovates factory network construction. It revolutionizes the architecture and materials for factory networks, and enables simplified O&M by building a 3-in-1 network that integrates production, office, and security. In complex environments like factory workshops, the solution delivers 30% more efficient deployment, 30% lower TCO, and 60% more efficient O&M.
Looking ahead, Huawei's Factory Network Solution will continue delivering improved management experiences for manufacturers, helping the manufacturing sector advance on its digital journey. For more information, please visit: https://e.huawei.com/en/industries/manufacturing/production-and-supply/fully-connected-smart-factory.
