Technology trends continue to shape global manufacturing in 2015 as the economy continues to grow. Manufacturers have changed the way supply chains work as they move away from huge warehouses full of stored materials. Companies have opted to create supply systems that integrate several aspects into a seamless, more efficient method of making products.
The major global manufacturing push is called "Industry 4.0." This concept involves technology trends focused on digitization and computerization. Instead of manual labor performed by employees, machines have become more accurate, more precise and detail-oriented enough to take on delicate and heavy-duty tasks. Smart devices sense, monitor and adapt processes to the needs of the moment. Instead of dedicated automatons that perform only one task, robots have become more versatile so they can work on more than one production line.
Automation of more processes increases accuracy and improves quality of products within the global manufacturing industry. As raw materials get turned into finished products, machines relay how much material gets used. These figures normally go to an inventory database that informs employees when more materials can be ordered. Digital processes may replace the physical aspect of supply chains, a task that humans once did. Machines, if programmed properly, could become better supply chain managers than top executives with decades of experience.
Contemporary manufacturing relies on steady, uninterrupted supply chains. As more companies digitize the ordering process, production lines become more efficient with regard to staffing, machine maintenance and logistics concerns. Greater efficiency means better revenue streams and increased profits. Hassle-free supply chains free up staff to work on other projects.
When sensors on robots relay information to repair and maintenance technicians, humans can see when preventive maintenance should occur. Improved maintenance schedules help make global manufacturing more efficient by keeping machines from breaking down later. Machines do not need time off for sick days, family leave or vacation. More and more employees must know how to run machines as well as how to assemble finished products.
Mobile devices continue to spur innovations in global manufacturing. Interconnectivity allows workers to spot deficiencies, watch for slowdowns and predict what products must be made next. Cloud computing, wireless sensors and wireless transmitters all lend to an increase of mobile devices within manufacturers that integrate monitoring of manufacturing across the entire factory. Instead of control panels on machines, workers can control automated processes from tablet computers thanks to mobility-based manufacturing software. Communication becomes a more integral part of manufacturing thanks to computers, devices and machines that can relay information in real time.
Global manufacturing looks to become more responsive and accurate due to improved technological breakthroughs that integrate all aspects of manufacturing from ordering and sales to production and shipping. As technology takes over, human lives improve when higher-quality products arrive faster with less overall costs to consumers.
Photo courtesy of trailersoftheeastcoast at Flickr.com
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