Synchronization Requirements of converged wired and wireless Time-Sensitive Networks

Abstract

Following the trend of Industry 4.0, future factory automation will introduce an increasing number of mobile applications to enable the desired highly flexible production. Novel challenges arise for the underlying communication system. This includes the coexistence of real-time and non-real-time communication while supporting mobility. A promising solution is the integration of Time- Sensitive Networking (TSN) and the fifth generation cellular network technology (5G). A key aspect of real-time communication is the establishment of a common sense of time for the aspired fast and precise applications. This work covers industrial use cases of novel TSN/5G networks. An overview on related industrial use cases is given followed by a detailed description of selected uses cases and their communication requirements. This work concludes with a feasibility assessment of the selected use cases, with a strong focus on the synchronization. Possible benefits of novel TSN/5G networks are shown and current shortcomings are discussed.