The fifth industrial revolution is focused on connecting people and machines. Collaboration between humans and smart systems continues to advance the manufacturing industry.
As a result, manufacturers must continue to welcome ongoing change to remain competitive. Leveraging the newest technologies is needed to maintain or increase market share.
Pay attention to these 2023 manufacturing trends to maintain your company’s competitive edge.
Internet of Things Is More Widespread
The internet of things (IoT) continues to increase adaptability and innovation in the manufacturing industry. Manufacturers use interconnected devices and internet infrastructure to make informed decisions. The real-time data helps increase efficiency, elevate safety, improve products, and reduce costs.
IoT technology has remote monitoring and predictive maintenance capabilities. This helps plan work orders. Field service technicians gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue. Then, they find solutions before going to the job site. This increases efficiency while minimizing physical contact with others.
Predictive Maintenance Increases Efficiency
Manufacturers use the IoT and predictive analytics to collect data and monitor equipment performance. They also use predictive maintenance to minimize unplanned outages and increase machinery life. These actions save manufacturers significant amounts of both time and money.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Provide Touchless Service
The pandemic prevented technicians from visiting manufacturing job sites to install or repair equipment. As a result, many sent customers virtual reality- (VR) and augmented reality- (AR) enabled devices to provide remote assistance. The technicians used the devices to walk customers through basic troubleshooting and repairs.
Because of these experiences, customers became more open to touchless service options. This minimizes physical contact with others while opening new lines of business for the service providers.
3D Printing Enhances Production
Product designers use 3D printing for prototyping. They test and troubleshoot new products in a significantly cost-effective way.
Rather than manufacturing and warehousing the items, product designers create the items on demand. This significantly reduces the time, money, and space needed to make and store the items.
Manufacturers use 3D printing for tooling as well. This means they do not wait months for overseas companies to develop the molds, jigs, and fixtures to mass produce heavy equipment.
Instead, manufacturers can complete tooling onsite within days. This is especially important for the automotive and aerospace manufacturing industries.
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