Enabling Next-Generation Industrial Networks with Industrial PON

Traditional industrial networks primarily focus on onsite device operation and worker safety. They do not engage in the ongoing digital transformation with remote control machinery and big data processing. The next-generation of industrial networks is expected to offer high-speed connectivity, intelligent management, and flexible architecture to adapt to technology advances and business competitions. Data from the environment, machinery, and offices should be collected and analyzed to support automated procedures related to an industry. In this article, a network architecture based on the passive optical network (PON) technology, the so-called industrial PON, is proposed to enable the next-generation industrial networks. It manages the network resource via a three-layer structure. Recent industrial PON implementations deployed by a Tier 1 operator are investigated in detail to evaluate the solution feasibility and network performance. Results demonstrate that the industrial PON can connect various business assets, provide data exchange to automate industrial processes, and manage the business to improve production efficiency.