The manufacturing sector is undergoing a huge transformation in the last few years, compared to the past decade, thanks to the implementation of disruptive technologies. Manufacturers are leveraging disruptive technologies to improve their business processes and operations, and in turn, drive growth. An IoT Analytics report (2018) states, “The market for Industry 4.0 products and services is expected to grow to $310B by 2023. “.
Cloud computing, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and 3D Printing are the three key drivers of disruptive manufacturing. They help replace existing approaches and processes with highly connected workflows that enable production lines to become more efficient. They enable manufacturers to connect devices on the shop floor and collect data for supply chain tools and analytics.
Let’s take a closer look at how each of them is contributing to increased productivity and growth.
1. Cloud Computing
Outdated manufacturing computing systems will not be able to keep up with the growing digitization needs of the business. They are not scalable and cannot contribute to the necessary increase in operational efficiency. This is where cloud computing plays a key role in manufacturing. By offering a network of remotely placed servers, that contribute to processing, data storage, and computing, the cloud enables data to be accessed from anywhere, at any time, effortlessly. The primary use of the cloud is that it helps streamline key areas of the manufacturing business while improving collaboration in real-time.
Cloud computing enables manufacturing processes to seamlessly connect with a customer or supplier’s ecosystem, as well. The high connectivity enables tighter links across production systems and caters to a better system and end-product integration.
2. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)
The IIoT is one of the most influential disruptive technologies to change the way manufacturers operate. IIoT enables them to achieve higher levels of productivity by connecting multiple production lines and machines to facilitate seamless interactions. It helps manufacturers collect huge amounts of data that can be leveraged for a wide range of activities, from real-time visibility to sensing equipment failure to predicting customer behavior. It uses sensors, controls, and automated equipment that facilitate system interaction from remote locations, without any human intervention. IIoT data is also accessible on all devices, including mobile apps.
3. 3D Printing
Additive manufacturing, as it’s often called, enables the creation of 3D images of products using raw materials and a digital design as a base, within a few hours. It offers a number of advantages when compared to traditional manufacturing. In a bottom-up method, each part is created layer by layer, according to the design changes made by individual customers. It enables the design-test process by assessing the viability of the product when created using different design aspects. Therefore, it helps drive down costs and eliminate waste, to a large extent.
To stay Industry 4.0 competitive, it is imperative for manufacturers to leverage the above disruptive technologies to improve efficiencies and accelerate productivity. This in turn builds organizational capabilities and leads to high customer satisfaction. Do you want to harness the power of disruptive technologies to improve your manufacturing efficiency? With over 21+ years of experience in delivering transformative solutions, InApp can help you make the transition effortlessly. To learn how to leverage our services for your business growth, contact us now.
