Emergence of Software in the Manufacturing Landscape
As technology has advanced over the years, the manufacturing industry has identified ways to apply this technology to improve operational workflows and business management. As our society increasingly depends on technology, manufacturing companies have adopted software solutions that give them a competitive advantage over those who are slow to utilize new technologies.
Evolution from Traditional to Digital Manufacturing
Digital transformation in the manufacturing industry can range from using a software solution for inventory management to going all in and transitioning into a smart manufacturing company. Smart factories use advanced technology to manage each step of the manufacturing process, from shop floor to supply chain management.
In traditional manufacturing, these processes would be managed manually, increasing the risk of human error. Advanced technology is being used to revolutionize manufacturing, allowing companies to reduce waste, lower costs, and automate routine tasks.
Role of Different Software in Streamlining Manufacturing Processes
Digital technologies and software solutions can be applied throughout the entire manufacturing process, from the supply chain to equipment management.
Supply chain management software can be used to manage orders, schedule fleet transportation, and access real-time visibility into order statuses. Supply chain planning is streamlined, with all critical factors being managed out of a centralized location.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) can be used in manufacturing to perform predictive maintenance. Industrial equipment is now typically equipped with IIoT sensors that monitor the equipment’s health and machine data. With this machine monitoring technology, manufacturers can use predictive analytics to identify potential breakdowns in the equipment and schedule maintenance before it breaks down.
Key Software Technologies Disrupting the Manufacturing Industry
Countless industries are experiencing a digital disruption as technologies continue to advance. While some manufacturing trends come and go, many software solutions have proven to have a lasting impact. Let’s take a look at some of the disruptive technologies taking the manufacturing industry by storm.
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and its Significance
IIoT technology’s impact on the manufacturing sector cannot be overstated. IIoT connects industrial assets to devices, allowing a manufacturing business to view and manage the assets from a single software solution. Some of IIoT’s impact can be seen in shop floor operations, supply chains, and remote operations.
IIoT is used to perform preventive and predictive maintenance, smart packaging, remote production control, and support digital twin technology.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
Some of the ways manufacturing companies can use AI are through quality control, preventive maintenance, and production planning.
Image processing technology can support quality control efforts by identifying defective products or missing parts faster and more accurately than the human eye during visual inspections, reducing human error, and producing a high-quality final product.
With the use of machine learning algorithms, manufacturers can get ahead of equipment breakdowns. By training an ML model with historical data on equipment breakdowns and maintenance schedules, manufacturers can predict when maintenance needs to be performed. This allows companies to get ahead of any issues, reducing catastrophic failures and downtime.
AI can be used to improve production planning efforts by looking at historical production data and current production lines. AI can streamline the production planning process by predicting production outputs, potential roadblocks, and resource allocation.
Role of Cloud Computing in Advancing Manufacturing Operations
Cloud-based software brings most companies more long-term benefits than its traditional on-premises counterpart. Cloud-based solutions can give users real-time visibility into the manufacturing process, even when off-premises. This benefits manufacturers with multiple locations as they can confidently manage operations without being at the facilities in person.
Cloud computing can also support lean production efforts by improving operational efficiency, reducing materials waste, and supporting innovative initiatives. Since cloud-based solutions provide users with real-time data and insights, companies can make informed decisions based on data analytics.
Software’s Role in Automotive Manufacturing Disruption
Automotive manufacturing has been transformed by advanced technologies and innovative software solutions. Some solutions that are becoming essential to the automotive manufacturing process include vehicle navigation, vehicle design, and autonomous ADA software.
Vehicle navigation software is integrated into the manufacturing processes with the purpose of moving autonomous vehicles throughout the shop floor. This software improves quality control while reducing errors, as automated processes reduce the risk of human error.
Vehicle design software provides an advanced way to conceptualize and develop automotive designs. This software has improved companies’ ability to create, modify, and view prototypes with previously unreachable precision and efficiency.
Autonomous Advanced Driver Assistance (ADA) systems have revolutionized vehicle safety and performance. By leveraging AI, IIoT sensors, and machine learning algorithms, this software allows vehicles to navigate autonomously and appropriately respond to their surroundings.
Work With Geneca Today
Software and advanced technologies will continue to evolve and impact the manufacturing industry. If you want to get ahead of the curve and transform your manufacturing operations, reach out to Geneca today! We are ready to help you achieve your business goals with a custom software solution that meets your unique needs.