Beta Days Ahead

Siemens announces partnership for expanded 5G manufacturing

Betacom and Siemens have announced the launch of a new private 5G network platform.

This platform is designed for "secure enterprise connectivity and Industry 4.0 applications," and operates behind a Siemens firewall. It offers features like CBRS spectrum deployment, advanced security, and compliance with NIST framework.

The solution targets industries like manufacturing, logistics, and defense, with applications including autonomous vehicles, robotic systems, and asset tracking.

MxD (which stands for Manufacturing x Digital) is a Chicago-based hub that works in partnership with the Department of Defense in an effort to "convene the industrial base to solve critical manufacturing challenges by accelerating digital adoption, empowering a skilled workforce, and modernizing supply chains," per the company's website. MxD is also the National Center for Cybersecurity in Manufacturing as designated by the Department of Defense.

Siemens also expanded its Run MyRobot platform to allow cost-effective part handling and articulation functions of a KUKA robot directly on the control of the machine tool. At this year's AUTOMATE show in Detroit, Siemens presented an automation solution for the busy, multi-tasking job shop, as it demonstrated a digital twin of the software and programming of its popular SINUMERIK 828 CNC, working in tandem with a KUKA robot, to simplify the operation and programming in part handling for the operator. Meanwhile, KUKA Robotics Corporation demonstrated the same control and its robot working in tandem on a SYIL vertical milling machine.