Smart manufacturing is automation + intelligence
Smart manufacturing is a broad term used to describe manufacturing that utilizes computer-integrated manufacturing or internet-connected machines. Smart manufacturing applies the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) to analyze data streaming off an entire factory’s worth of machines, or even across multiple facilities. For example, if a machine is slowing down production, the data will flag it and artificial intelligence systems will work to resolve the issue.
Advantages
Smart manufacturing offers a number of benefits, including improved efficiency, increased productivity and long-term cost savings. In a smart factory, productivity is continuously enhanced. If a machine is slowing down production, for example, the data will highlight it, and the artificial intelligence systems will work to resolve the issue. These extremely adaptable systems enable greater flexibility for businesses to operate. In terms of efficiency, one of the main savings comes from the reduction in production downtime. Modern machines are often equipped with remote sensors and diagnostics to measure and alert operators hence problems can be detected early.
Disadvantages
A big downside to smart manufacturing is the initial cost of implementation. As such, many small to midsize companies won’t be able to afford the considerable expense of the technology. These organizations will have to plan for the future even if they can’t implement smart manufacturing immediately. Smart technology is also very complex, which means that poorly designed systems could cut into profits or produce losses.
The goal of smart manufacturing is to optimize the manufacturing process using a technology-driven approach that utilizes IIoT to monitor the production process. With smart manufacturing, organizations are able to identify opportunities for automating operations and use data analytics to improve manufacturing performance. To ensure that you’re implementing smart manufacturing the right way, talk to us at Nixma.
