10 Future Trends in Manufacturing and Manufacturing | So Good News

As manufacturers moved from manual labor through machine-dependent assembly lines to the highly automated factories we see today, the industry evolved.

Often referred to as “Industry 4.0,” several trends are combining to transform manufacturing. Let’s look at seven key themes driving Industry 4.0. Manufacturers moved from manual labor through machine-based assembly lines to the highly automated factories we see today.

1. Industrial IoT (IIoT)

Have you heard of the Internet of Things? Now the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is where networked devices collect data to improve manufacturing processes.

2. Sensors are a classic example of IIoT devices.

Sensor data from production equipment can help manufacturers evaluate many factors. Starting with machine performance; improved maintenance; It starts with reducing downtime and even predicting machine failure. So this is another significant industry trend.

5G and edge computing; Fifth-generation mobile data networks (5G) will allow manufacturers to quickly connect IIoT devices. Within them, data collection and processing (edge ​​computing) is applied. Manufacturers can build a dedicated 5G network for ultra-fast communication speeds and data security.

3. Predictive maintenance

Predictive maintenance uses sensor data and artificial intelligence (AI) to detect failure paths in equipment and components. The idea is that by knowing the likelihood of a machine or component breaking down, manufacturers can better maintain their equipment. And it’s not just about shiny new gear.

Siemens says it uses similar sensors in older motors and gearboxes. As a result, this gear can analyze sensor data to diagnose problems and repair equipment before it breaks down. It demonstrates how manufacturers can use preventive maintenance on older machines.

4th Trend – Digital Twins

A digital twin simulates a physical process or object in manufacturing; A digital twin can simulate the dimensions of a new product. Therefore, It produces a digital replica of industrial equipment to test its performance under various conditions.

A digital twin can even view and simulate a supply chain. By 2022, up to 70% of manufacturers may employ digital twins. They will be used for simulation and evaluation. It thus illustrates how disruptive the development of digital twinning can be.

Boeing has improved the quality of parts by 40% using digital twins. A decade ago, Boeing’s former CEO Dennis Muilenburg claimed that digital twins were the most important driver of manufacturing efficiency improvements.

5. Extended Reality and the Metaverse

Technologies such as augmented and virtual reality will become more prevalent in manufacturing. improving product design and production planning; Human talent recruitment and training in assembly lines will be improved.

Therefore, As the producers expand the metaverse; The manufacturer will have additional trend possibilities.

6. Dark factories

Computers can now perform tasks that were previously only performed by humans thanks to AI. So it makes sense to produce more devices.

Manufacturing automation can increase productivity (machines don’t get bored); Accuracy and cost savings. Therefore, We may increasingly see fully automated or dark factories where production occurs without direct human contact.

7. Cobots and robots

Robots are an important contributor to automation. However, Automakers have not designed all robots to replace human labor. Automation designers have created many robots to help people. for example, Robotic skeletons help workers move larger parts safely.

We also have intelligent and collaborative robots (cobots) designed to operate alongside humans.

Robots and cobots save factories money. Nissan uses Universal Robots’ robotic arms in its Japanese car manufacturing plants to maintain production times (mainly due to labor shortages). But Nissan used robots for tasks like installing engine bays.

8th Trend – 3D Printing.

Manufacturers will be able to build more things using 3D printing processes that use less resources and waste than traditional manufacturing methods. Therefore, Some people think that 3D printing will usher in a new era of customization because it eliminates the need for economies of scale. In addition, Rapid prototyping with 3D printing can inspire creativity.

In addition, Airbus has been a manufacturing pioneer for nearly 15 years using 3D printing.

The company uses 3D printing to produce local tooling like jigs and fixtures on demand.

9. Web3 and Blockchain

With the trend of Web3 and distributed computing technologies such as blockchains and non-fungible tokens; Manufacturers can better monitor their supply chains and even automate many transactions. Therefore, Automation system designers will offer many future items using NFT digital certificates.

10. More innovative More sustainable products

The rise of smart connected IoT devices is redefining what designers create. And what they do. Everything from vacuum cleaners to now toilets have “smart” versions, and the drive for intelligent appliances shows no signs of stopping.

So manufacturers will have to find new ways to provide consumers with the clever things they want. In addition, People can reuse and recycle. reusable and will choose more eco-friendly items.

Hopefully the throwaway spirit of the past will come to an end. So manufacturers will need to take this into consideration as well. Remember, all that glitters is not glittering.

Image Credit: Moose Photos; Pexels; Thank you!

Deanna Ritchie

Process editor in ReadWrite

Deanna is the managing editor at ReadWrite. She previously worked as Chief Editor for Startup Grind and has 20+ years of experience in content management and content development.