In an article titled “The Internet of Things to Come” in Aerospace Manufacturing, author Mike Richardson stated, “The fourth industrial revolution is coming – long live the revolution!” As manufacturing production activity continues to grow, it is safe to say that Industry 4.0 has actually arrived. Here’s more information about this:
Here’s a look at factors contributing to this forthcoming industrial revolution:
Access to Information
Big data now provides manufacturers with unprecedented amounts of information, specifically via the Internet. This information includes customer insights that drive all product development decisions. The customer is now in control as manufacturers aim to increase quality, productivity, and traceability.
The Connected Factory and Smart Devices
Mobile smart devices allow plant managers to control production on the shop floor from a mobile device, located anywhere in the world. In addition, machine-to-machine communication is becoming more prevalent as factory control systems are decentralized.
From ECN:
The vision of Industry 4.0 is for “cyber-physical production systems” in which sensor-laden “smart products” tell machines how they should be processed. Processes would now govern themselves in a decentralized, modular system. Smart embedded devices start working together wirelessly either directly or via either the Internet ‘cloud’ – the Internet of Things (IoT) – to once again revolutionize production.
Advanced Technology and Automation
Many manufacturing processes are becoming automated to ensure maximum efficiency while reducing costs. Automation robots communicate in real time, complete more work at a fraction of the cost of manual labor, and improve workplace safety by completing the most dangerous tasks.
Reshoring
As overseas costs rise and technology stateside improves, manufacturing jobs are being “reshored” and coming back to the United States. Bringing production back stateside is improving product quality and resulting in greater innovation that was previously limited due to distance.
Are you curious about how the Fourth Industrial Revolution can affect your company? Contact Fishman Corporation for more information.