DREAM-5G: When machines think in a networked way – yet must remain secure

However, increasing connectivity raises a crucial question: How can machine fleets be networked quickly and flexibly without compromising safety and reliability?

This is precisely where the research project DREAM-5G—Decentralized Resilient Real-time Analysis in Mechanical Engineering using 5G—comes in.

The rationale behind the research

For modern manufacturing companies, simply connecting machines is no longer enough. Data must be transmitted reliably and analyzed—ideally in real time. At the same time, systems must be protected against disruptions and cyberattacks.

This becomes particularly relevant with the emergence of new business models such as Equipment-as-a-Service (EaaS). In this model, machines are not merely sold but offered as an ongoing service. Manufacturers need the ability to monitor, maintain, and service their equipment remotely. This requires a communication infrastructure that is fast, scalable, resilient, and secure.

5G offers immense potential in this regard. DREAM-5G investigates how this potential can be harnessed in actual mechanical engineering applications while ensuring that security is considered from the very start.

5G meets AI and predictive maintenance

The project involves developing a scalable 5G connection for machine fleets. Simultaneously, machine and sensor data are used to identify potential maintenance needs at an early stage through AI-driven predictive maintenance.

The goal: to detect problems before they lead to downtime, make maintenance easier to plan, and present relevant information clearly via dashboards.

A key component is "security by design." Security and resilience mechanisms are not added as an afterthought; instead, they are incorporated from the outset and tested against potential disruption and attack scenarios.

Bridging the gap between research and practice

To achieve this, DREAM-5G brings together industry and the research community. The CIDAN Machinery Group contributes expertise in machine integration and service processes. Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) is developing and validating the 5G and edge communication solution. At the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences (USTP), the ISF is responsible for security and resilience testing, while the ICMT works on operational data analysis and user-centric visualization.

The shared goal is to create a technological foundation that enables machines to be integrated into digital service chains securely, intelligently, and scalably in the future.