Latency Evaluation in 5G Industrial Networks

The fifth generation (5G) of mobile networks has the potential to revolutionise industries and fulfil the strict requirements of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). In this thesis, a simulator has been implemented to address the problem of enabling Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communications (URLLC) in a 5G industrial network. Multiple devices transmit data both in uplink and downlink, using the resources assigned by a Grant-Based Scheduler. The network's performance is evaluated in terms of latency, round-trip time and reliability to show the impact of different radio and traffic-related parameters. The research also investigates the advantages of using multiple gNodeB (gNBs) to improve the reliability of the system while ensuring the latency requirements are met. New solutions for improving the efficiency of an IIoT system are highlighted while providing insights into the challenges and limitations of using 5G networks in industrial applications.