The evolution of automation, artificial intelligence, 3D printing, augmented and virtual reality, and other disruptive technologies has driven the realm of manufacturing to the next level. Unlike conventional manufacturing processes, modern factories are increasingly relying on these advanced, digital technologies to garner more productivity. However, it is just the beginning of transformation as advances in technologies continue evolving on a daily basis. Despite this, the sector has still to do more.
Here are some trends that are prone to redefine the manufacturing of tomorrow.
Machine-to-Machine Communication
As the world has already approached the fourth industrial revolution, it has become evident that machines will communicate with each other. This effort carries out great promise in assisting manufacturers to connect, automate and advance manufacturing processes. Earlier, the communication between machines was closed and point-to-point for physical objects to stimulate production and save valuable time for more valuable tasks. However, with technological progression, this has changed and now connects machines, devices, and objects, enabling them to share information and perform actions without human intervention.
Robotic Automation Comes to the Fore
Just like other technologies such as AR and VR, additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, robotic automation has also proved its ability into a wide area of manufacturing. From welding and assembly to shipping, handling raw materials and product packing, robots have the ability to perform a different number of tasks. While there are still some significant concerns regarding ‘robots replace jobs’, the use of automation technology is rapidly increasing in the areas that are perilous for humans. Robots are widely used in high production, high volume environments and can also be used in growing business ecosystem.
Demand of Skilled Workforce
With advancing and leveraging cutting-edge technologies at factory floors, managing effectively and driving more outcomes require the in-demand skilled workforce. The advanced manufacturing skills do not take place in the abstract. It needs to consider a set of goals, most importantly, the formation and preservation of a well trained, flexible, and provoked workforce. The manufacturing workforce needs Industry 4.0 skills that power more value for the business as well as to better work with robots and computers. They also must have the problem-solving capability that will show their value and solve problems for their organizations.
More Focus on Smart Factories
With the advent of the internet of things (IoT) and other digital technologies, manufacturing processes become more connected. Already, these have made the convergence of the digital and physical worlds more possible. Manufacturers now easily operate supply chain services as IoT has significantly transformed supply chain operations to an interconnected, open system of supply operations. This has led the manufacturing companies to make an effective move towards becoming smarter and pave opportunities to make smart factories. In addition to robotics and automation technologies, the use of cloud computing and smart sensors can help make manufacturing processes smarter, and IoT in such an environment allows companies to get the right information at the right time in order to make effective decisions.
