Leveraging 5G Networks & EtherNet/IP: Unleashing the Power of TSN, Clustered Networks, and Deterministic Connectivity for Sensor-to-Cloud Architecture

Technical Paper Abstract

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies are developing rapidly, opening new avenues, and revolutionizing the industrial automation landscape. This session explores the synergistic integration of 5G networks with EtherNet/IP, emphasizing the possible advantages of real-time data communication, deterministic networks, and sensor-to-cloud architecture. With 5G integration as the backbone for Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) in industrial applications, this session focuses on converging 3GPP technologies, EtherNet/IP, and high-fidelity communication. The unique characteristics of industrial Ethernet networks, including real & non-real time, with short cycles, demand a communication infrastructure that can cater to diverse requirements. This method allows different clusters to communicate simultaneously, ensuring effective data sharing and reducing bottlenecks by using Layer-2 (L2) Tunneling for integrating automation control systems. By leveraging the power of 5G networks driving TSN, organizations can achieve the necessary balance between ultra-low latency, determinism, and high bandwidth. Such a balance also orchestrates the varying needs of diverse applications running in parallel. This session specifies the prerequisites of the physical layers, network architectures, and other aspects to consider for a functional, safe device. Further, it explores the testbed collaboratively developed by Rockwell Automation, Ericsson, Qualcomm, and Verizon. This collaborative research examines the current state of Industrial Private 5G networks and their compatibility with EtherNet/IP.

This session includes proposed hardware and software architecture and reference design for anyone looking to start their MVP and reference platform for further evaluation and PoC/Pilot setup. The reference design includes two hardware sections, one that runs wireless encapsulation framework and the other that runs the EtherNet/IP CIP applications. Overall, this session describes how integrating 5G networks with EtherNet/IP offers a transformative opportunity for industrial automation. This session illustrates how integration (5G+EtherNet/IP) enables real-time data communication, enhances network performance, and empowers industrial enterprises to thrive in digital transformation.

Paper and presentation from the 2023 ODVA Industry Conference & 22nd Annual Meeting

Jegajith P.T, Utthunga Technologies
Chatrapathi G.V, Utthunga Technologies