Automation is not a new term in the manufacturing realm. Smart technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics have begun to revolutionize industries as experts realize the enormous potential these innovations have to offer. Implementing digital technologies to transform factory operations has become imperative for every organization be it automotive or the high tech manufacturing enterprises. It is predicted that factories of the future will be built around a fully intelligent and connected system which will be beyond traditional automation. Driven by the constant stream of data from business, operations, and production applications, these smart systems derive the ability to learn and adapt to the new and changing demands of the industry.
In supply chains, the strategic deployment of technologies such as the internet of things (IoT) will improve asset utilization, customer service, capital deployment, reduction of wastes and sustainability in organizations. Real-time communication between the machines, factories, logistics, and supplies providers through smart connectivity provides better visibility on the end-to-end supply chain processes. With IoT, organizations can address compliance, regulatory and quality reporting requirements along with tracking shipped products for warranty, returns, and predictive maintenance support. The recently emerging 3D printers which are getting cheaper, faster and more accurate with a greater ability to work with a broad range of materials are increasingly being used to make the final products and not just prototypes, reducing the manufacturing costs.
Using a mix of technology, data science algorithms, and analytical tools, organizations are shaping the market demands and aligning with customer requirements. The current trend of big data and other technological advancements are providing a way to integrate the information from sales, marketing, customer actions, product reviews, competition, and supply status in real-time, making demand-driven supply chains a reality. AI will also play a key role in helping manufacturers predict demand patterns and allocate resources more accurately.
Cognitive technologies such as augmented reality and virtual reality are bridging the skills gap and transforming the way the evolving workforce is being trained for improved performances. As a new wave of factory automation is underway, robots are entering the industrial environments and increasing value adds for the manufacturers. These robots are cheaper, mobile, flexible and are transforming the factory’s workflow by working alongside human beings. By placing these automated, intelligent applications or robots in the hands of enterprise workers who have access to unlimited connectivity, manufacturers obtain a collaborative workforce that can boost efficiency levels and initiate effective decision making.
To sum it all, it is essential for manufacturers to step up the automation game in their factories to remain competitive and meet the demands for manufactured goods from established and emerging markets. The latest edition of Manufacturing Technology Insights magazine features some of the best technology solution providers in the manufacturing landscape put together by our distinguished panel of CIOs, CEOs, VCs, and analysts and our editorial board. This list will give you an outlook on the solutions and capabilities that they have to offer.
We present to you, “Top 10 Smart Factory Solution Providers-2019.”
