Nokia and Bosch have jointly developed 5G-based precision positioning technology intended for new Industry 4.0 use cases. The positioning technology tracks mobile and portable devices connected to the 5G network.
Extensive tests under realistic manufacturing conditions have shown an accuracy within 50 cm in 90 percent of a factory footprint where a proof-of-concept is running.
Andreas Mueller, Chief Expert and responsible for the 6G activities at Bosch, said: “Knowing where things are is generally very valuable information in manufacturing. While today usually separate systems are used for connecting and locating devices, this may be done via an integrated private 5G solution in the future. The proof-of-concept conducted jointly with Nokia underpins the leading role of Bosch in exploring new opportunities for our customers and developing the Factory of the Future.”
Peter Vetter, President of Bell Labs Core Research at Nokia, said: “Bosch and Nokia Bell Labs foresee a future where networks do far more than communicate. Soon, 5G will track connected devices more precisely than satellites, in places satellites can’t reach. In the next decade, 6G will be capable of sensing all objects in their coverage areas regardless of whether they contain active radios. We are creating networks that will endow humans with a digital 6th sense.”
