Digital manufacturing uses computer systems to combine data from different manufacturing processes. Digital manufacturing uses digital technologies like 3D modeling, simulations, and analytics to improve production and supply chains. The goal is to be more flexible in responding to market conditions and save money. Digital manufacturing IT solutions can be used to design products, create smart factories, and optimize the supply chain.
As with most American industries, we see a digital transformation in manufacturing. This is a significant shift because manufacturing is about making tangible products. Adopting new technologies interventions in production methods is not as tangible as digital. Digitalization is a leap of faith; however, as consumer expectations and habits change, so do production methods.
Each of these companies started with a paper process and an operational vision. Manufacturing hubs are changing the face and future of manufacturing by moving from traditional operations to technology-driven automation. Industry 4.0 is the name of this dramatic shift to digitization.
Top Reasons to Transform Your Business with Digital Manufacturing Solutions
Most businesses know they need to start their journey towards digital manufacturing solutions. However, many don’t understand why. What are the benefits of embracing digital manufacturing for your business? As you begin your journey, this blog will provide insight into the top benefits of digital production.
Higher Productivity Using Digital Manufacturing Solutions
Industrial IoT (and AI) can be used to digitalize manufacturing processes and allow them to track the performance of both humans and machines. Multiple connected devices collect data that enables operators to spot any problems in machine performance and efficiency in real-time. These data can be used to help prevent costly maintenance and increase productivity.
Operators can quickly record and transmit critical data about the move, simplifying complicated processes. This increases productivity on the floor for both employees and equipment.
Data Integration
Making the right decisions and taking real-time action with siloed data can be challenging. Data integration is a way to achieve this. Advanced digital transformation solutions that combine the latest technologies, such as AI, ML, and enterprise software, can provide an interactive, centralized dashboard for making quick and insightful decisions.
Data analytics solutions at Industry 4.0 level can help manufacturers increase productivity and performance and improve decision-making to achieve a high ROI.
Optimizes the Value Chain
It can be challenging to improve the value chain. Through its emphasis on data and integration, digital manufacturing can help in analysis throughout the chain. Digital manufacturing also allows for experimentation through digital means, so there is less risk of financial and physical harm.
Digital manufacturing software can be used by companies to create virtual factory floor layouts and to simulate production processes. This is possible by optimizing factory design. Before the factory is built, technicians can identify potential bottlenecks and downtime causes. This makes it possible to ensure that the factory runs smoothly once operational. Digital representations allow technicians to test different production methods without spending money on infrastructure and retooling.
Reduction in Cost
Digital transformation solutions allow you to capture real-time data from IoT devices. Then they can be analyzed using AI and ML-powered devices. Digital transformation makes it easy to monitor and manage critical manufacturing processes.
Automation has allowed manufacturers to reduce the number of laborers needed to produce less critical products. This results in lower costs and higher productivity. Remote monitoring solutions are also available to enable manufacturers to manage their inventory in real-time.
Improve Demand Planning Accuracy with Digital Manufacturing Solutions
Not only is the recent COVID-19 pandemic affecting product demand, but it also causes order cancellations and spikes in different degrees. Seasonal trends, customer buying behavior, unpredicted weather events, and innovative products are all factors that can impact demand patterns.
Many manufacturing companies have used outdated demand patterns in their forecasting processes. Manufacturers must access real-time consumer and customer behavior to see changing patterns and adjust production to meet customer expectations.
Boost Asset Utilization
Unplanned machine downtime can be a drain on production lines. You can immediately feel the downstream effects on asset usage and potential impacts on customer orders. In the long-term, downtime can have a negative effect on equipment lifespan and lower return on assets. Shop floor maintenance is planned for most manufacturers regardless of whether necessary. Maintenance is only required when the machine stops working or breaks down.
Imagine if you could collect the right information only to perform maintenance when necessary. This is possible with digital capabilities. They can collect data about the machine, including speed, temperature, vibration, and other factors, to provide a real-time and accurate view of its performance and health. The information can be used to schedule maintenance and prevent downtime.
Challenges with Integrating Digital Manufacturing Solutions in Manufacturing Sector
While digitalization has many benefits for manufacturing, it also presents some challenges.
Employee Reluctance
While digitalization can empower employees, others may resist change. Businesses face the most significant dangers from human errors, such as quality, safety, and cybersecurity. Implementing new digital technology often requires the use of new processes and the retraining of equipment.
Outdated Systems
Technology is evolving faster than traditional industrial equipment, which can last less than ten years. Adapting technology infrastructures that are older to digital manufacturing environments is more challenging.
Lack of Relevant Knowledge
The greatest challenge with evolving technology is the inability to securely and safely implement advanced manufacturing technology. As a result, companies will often need external guidance.
2022 Digital Manufacturing Solutions Industry Trends Lookout
Looking ahead to 2022, we see that the COVID-19 pandemic continues its impact on manufacturing. Some 2021 trends will remain relevant, but new challenges and opportunities exist. The 2022 manufacturing IT solutions trends will respond to many of the challenges faced by the industry in recent years, including worker safety, business agility, and adapting to a new normal.
Technology, connectivity, and automation advancements are poised to solve more problems and offer new opportunities.
Talent Shortage Affecting the Manufacturing Industry
Manufacturers are experiencing a shortage of talent, just like many other industries. The manufacturing industry invests heavily in advanced technology, artificial intelligence, and industrial marketing automation solutions. However, there is still a strong demand for skilled workers, particularly as some segments continue to grow. Many workers have left or retired, while others are still waiting to be hired. It is still challenging to find, train, and retain new talent.
Adoption of Mobile Solutions
Mobile Connected Worker apps are an easy way to connect with younger workers. More than 96% have smartphones. These solutions are less likely to cause friction because younger workers are more familiar with smartphones and expect to use them in the workplace. The right tools can also increase engagement and allow for the capture of critical data as well as best practices from highly skilled workers. Leaders can quickly identify trends and patterns on the factory floor and take action by allowing companies to access data.
Predictive Maintenance
Predictive maintenance has been a topic of conversation for some time. 2022 manufacturing trends will make this a more popular feature. Unplanned machine downtime can reduce financial losses by as much as 50%. Hence business will integrate predictive maintenance on a larger base.
Modern industrial equipment provides continuous, real-time condition monitoring. This allows for the measurement and reporting of operational parameters. This data can schedule maintenance in advance, and condition monitoring can alert you if there is unusual activity.
Production Process Automation and Augmentation
Another trend that manufacturers are adopting is automation and augmentation in their production processes.
Process automation, including the adoption of smart tools, IoT sensors, and other technologies; results in a more flexible workforce and therefore increased labor resiliency. To perform complex tasks, internal staff can use more sophisticated manufacturing tools.
Worker augmentation, the use of technology to augment a job or create efficiency, is likewise beneficial. It allows workers to concentrate their efforts on work that has a higher value.
Rise of Digital Manufacturing Solutions in the Manufacturing Industry: The Key Takeaway
It’s hard to predict the future of the manufacturing sector as technologies continue to evolve. Despite all the benefits of digitization, manufacturers can make small adjustments to speed up their digital journey.
You only need the right strategy to transform your business digitally. A well-planned roadmap can establish a strong digital transformation network in your workplace. To achieve these goals effectively, you can seek a trusted and reliable provider of digital transformation solutions. You can rely on your digital transformation partner’s expertise and track record to make your digital transformation journey smooth.
