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5G Network Ramps Up Remote Control Technology Adapted from Information by Volvo Construction Equipment Sweden’s first 5G network for industrial use has been launched through the efforts of Telia, Ericsson, and Volvo Construction Equipment (CE). These companies have worked together before to deploy technology to improve the safety and effi- ciency of mining. As mentioned in the March 2019 issue of WWDR , Volvo CE will be one of the first in the world to use 5G technology to test remote- controlled machines and autonomous solutions at their facility in Eskilstuna, Sweden. This could lead to new applications within the industry. “With extremely short response times, high capacity, and a high level of accessibility to the mobile network, commercial and standardized 5G technology can be used for applications such as remote control of heavy machinery in real time. This opens up new opportunities for greater effi- ciency, cutting costs, and reducing risk in haz- ardous environments. 5G enables us to create a safer, more efficient, and sustainable society. In cooperation with Telia and Volvo CE, we are now putting theory into practice in Eskilstuna. The 5G technology is ready for the world to switch on,” said Magnus Frodigh, head of research for Ericsson. The network will be used to continue the development of remote-controlled construction machinery and fully automated solutions. It will also be used to increase understanding of how connected machines can improve the industry as a whole. “Automation has several levels, and having 5G is an important technical support to enable us to drive development in this area. These trials in Eskilstuna will include the remote control of a conven- tional wheel loader but also fur- ther tests of the HX2 concept load carrier,” explained Melker Jernberg, president Volvo CE. The lag time with current remote-cont rol technology makes it difficult to control at high speeds or with high preci- sion. Bringing 5G online will make fully-automated systems safer and easier to use. “We can see that the indus- try’s interest in 5G is considerable. Automation of the entire flow will mean new ways of working, and greater gains from efficiency. But to connect business-critical machines and vehicles requires a solution that is able to handle the massive amounts of data with guaranteed connection. That is what 5G can give us. And we are proud to lead the 5G development in Sweden together with our partners,” stat- ed Anders Olsson, CEO of Telia Sweden. Although the testing is being done locally in Eskilstuna, the applications will be implemented globally. According to Melker, connected machines and autonomous solutions are the future. They provide more efficient production, logistics, greater flexibility, and a safer workplace. “By minimizing the potential safety risks and downtime associated with sectors such as mining, we can get closer to our goal of zero emissions, zero accidents, and zero unplanned stops. It will be exciting to see how far 5G can take us on that journey,” he concluded. New & Used Bits, HDD Bits & Tools, Drag Bits & Wings, Bolt-On Drag Bits, Reverse Circulation Tools, Hole Openers, Claw Bits, Stabilizers, Subs, Custom Tooling & Welding, Hammer Bits, Drill Collars, Pipe Wipers, and Drill Pipe. Office: (661) 834-4348 Rod Henderson / Eran Henderson 661-201-6259 • 661-330-0790 sales@bitcobits.com www.bitcoinc.us Open the Doorway to all the Event Photos during To see all the photos from this event, go to www.worldwidedrillingresource.com or click here. Feel free to download at will and print the photo(s) of your choice. Compliments of WorldWide Drilling Resource ® . Photos are copyrighted and released for personal use only - no commercial use permitted. 30 MAY 2019 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® C&G