the first trial of Central Node
ZeroSWARM project is a major initiative aimed at developing innovative technologies for the manufacturing industry. As part of this project, Center Connected Industry [CCI], ITC of RWTH Aachen University, and SICK Sensor Intelligence are collaborating on the first trial of the Central Node, which focuses on creating safe and autonomous transport of goods using 5G technology.
The trial is a significant milestone in the development of autonomous systems in manufacturing, and it is being conducted by companies that are well-known for their expertise in developing cutting-edge solutions for the industry. The aim of this trial is to provide reliable and transparent data that can be used to guide AGV planning and coordination, improve localization accuracy, and create a digital twin for safety.
Currently, AGV safety is limited by fixed paths or local sensors, which restrict speed and autonomy. Lack of coordination among AGVs and other moving objects also limits efficiency. With 5G technology, it is possible to provide reliable and transparent data that can be used to guide AGV planning and coordination, improve localization accuracy, and create a digital twin for safety.
The trial partners are working on establishing a private 5G network at the test site to enhance the planned autonomous platforms by broadcasting the results. This involves setting up a radio unit and a network core, as well as selecting mobile 5G components to integrate into the AGV for the trial. The trial also involves the development of algorithms for environment perception, which will enable AGVs to anticipate driving and acting.
To enhance coordination among AGVs and other moving objects, a centralized controller that can orchestrate different distributed coordinators will be developed. The collected data will be used for statistical analysis to study AGVs’ efficiency and activity.
In conclusion, the ZeroSWARM project’s first trial of the Central Node is a significant step forward in the development of autonomous systems in manufacturing. The trial partners’ expertise in developing cutting-edge solutions for the industry will play a crucial role in the successful deployment of safe and autonomous transport of goods on factory shop floors using 5G technology.
