Introduction to Celona 5G LAN and Neutral Host Solutions in Manufacturing

Manufacturing automation has been propelled to new heights by the power of private wireless networks, offering unparalleled connectivity and operational efficiency. At the forefront of this transformation is Celona’s innovative 5G LAN solution, seamlessly integrated with Neutral Host capabilities, which transformed the operations of Del Conca USA, a premier manufacturer of fine Italian porcelain tiles. By addressing critical connectivity challenges, Celona replaced the legacy Wi-Fi system with a robust, scalable, and high-performance private wireless infrastructure tailored to Del Conca’s unique needs. This comprehensive approach combined the advantages of a private 5G LAN with enhanced public cellular coverage, setting a new benchmark for industrial automation.

Addressing Wi-Fi Challenges in Manufacturing with Celona 5G LAN

Del Conca USA’s 30-acre facility in Loudon, Tennessee, represents a complex manufacturing environment characterized by intensive automation and real-time processes. The plant faced persistent issues with its legacy Wi-Fi network, leading to operational inefficiencies that required immediate resolution:

• Signal Interference and Coverage Limitations: Wi-Fi signals were obstructed by dense ceramic tile pallets and the factory’s numerous metal structures. Coverage gaps, particularly in outdoor areas, caused connectivity issues for mobile equipment like forklifts and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs). This resulted in significant delays and reduced operational efficiency.
• Network Stability and Mobility Challenges: AGVs and forklifts experienced frequent connectivity disruptions due to mobility challenges and poor hand-offs between Wi-Fi access points. These interruptions led to stalled operations, impacting material handling and causing costly production delays.
• Inadequate Public Cellular Coverage: Employees had limited access to reliable cellular coverage indoors, hampering communication and reducing overall productivity.

Celona’s Integrated 5G LAN and Neutral Host Capabilities for Manufacturing

To address these challenges, Celona deployed its powerful 5G LAN solution, incorporating both private wireless connectivity and Neutral Host capabilities. This combined approach delivered exceptional reliability, mobility, and coverage across the entire facility.

Private Wireless Network Deployment

• Celona deployed eight indoor AP 12 access points and four outdoor AP 11 access points, ensuring consistent and pervasive coverage throughout Del Conca’s premises. Celona Edge OS handled advanced traffic management, while the Celona Orchestrator facilitated cloud-based network administration, providing centralized control over policies, resource allocation, and SIM management.
• By utilizing the Citizen’s Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) spectrum, Celona ensured robust, secure, and interference-resistant connectivity, outperforming the legacy Wi-Fi system.

Neutral Host Capabilities for Seamless Public and Private Connectivity

• Celona’s Neutral Host solution enabled seamless integration of public cellular networks by allowing Del Conca to partner with T-Mobile. Through Celona’s Multi-Operator Exchange Network (MOXN), employees could maintain uninterrupted cellular connectivity indoors and outdoors, enhancing productivity and collaboration.
• The solution provided a seamless transition between private and public networks, allowing mobile devices to connect automatically without manual intervention

Integration for AGVs and Forklifts

• AGVs were retrofitted with cellular gateways, enabling continuous network access to operational systems. Forklift tablets were modified with SIM translators and cellular modules, replacing Wi-Fi dependencies with reliable cellular connectivity for real-time communication and operational instructions.

Real-World Benefits of Celona’s Integrated 5G LAN and Neutral Host Solution

The deployment of Celona’s 5G LAN and Neutral Host solutions delivered substantial benefits to Del Conca USA, transforming their operations with measurable improvements:

• Enhanced Coverage and Stability: Celona’s solution doubled the coverage of the previous Wi-Fi network with fewer access points, reducing both capital and operational costs. This ensured consistent connectivity throughout the facility, even in hard-to-reach areas.
• Increased Operational Efficiency and Reduced Downtime: The continuous, reliable connectivity provided by Celona’s 5G LAN allowed AGVs and forklifts to operate without disruptions, significantly enhancing material handling speed and accuracy. Production delays were minimized, improving overall efficiency and reducing costs.
• Seamless Public and Private Network Integration: Through Celona’s Neutral Host capabilities, employees experienced uninterrupted cellular communication, boosting productivity and enabling efficient coordination across the facility.
• Scalable, Future-Ready Infrastructure: Celona’s infrastructure supports a range of applications, including video monitoring, push-to-talk communication, and remote facility management. This flexibility enables Del Conca to adapt and expand its operations as needed.

Key Advantages of Celona’s 5G LAN and Neutral Host Capabilities

Celona’s innovative solutions provided a unique and highly effective approach to connectivity challenges faced by Del Conca USA:

• Simplified and Scalable Deployment: Unlike traditional Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS), Celona’s Neutral Host solution utilizes existing LAN infrastructure, enabling rapid and cost-effective deployment without the need for dedicated coaxial or fiber installations.
• Seamless Public and Private Network Integration: Celona’s patented MOXN technology allows easy integration with public carrier services, enhancing flexibility and providing superior user experiences across both private enterprise and public cellular networks.
• Comprehensive Network Management: The Celona Orchestrator offers intuitive network management capabilities, empowering Del Conca’s IT team to oversee network policies, SIM management, and granular QoS settings with ease.

Proven ROI and Impact on Industry

Celona’s deployment at Del Conca USA demonstrated a compelling return on investment, with reduced operational costs, enhanced productivity, and a robust, scalable network infrastructure that supports advanced manufacturing automation. By providing seamless integration of private and public network access, Celona redefined the possibilities for enterprise connectivity and automation.

Pioneering the Future of Manufacturing Connectivity

Celona’s integrated 5G LAN and Neutral Host solutions have set a new standard for connectivity in industrial settings, showcasing their transformative potential at Del Conca USA. By addressing the limitations of legacy Wi-Fi and seamlessly integrating private wireless and public cellular connectivity, Celona empowered Del Conca to achieve unparalleled operational excellence and industry innovation. As a leader in private 5G solutions, Celona continues to drive the evolution of enterprise networks, paving the way for the future of manufacturing automation and connectivity.