Smart Factory/IIoT - June 2021

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Factories are getting "smarter" and more automated by the day, thanks to advances in AI, connectivity, controls, and sensors. In this compendium of recent articles from the editors of Tech Briefs and Sensor Technology magazines, see how the future of manufacturing is taking hold today and transforming entire industries.

Topics:
3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing AR/AI Artificial Intelligence Augmented/Virtual Reality Cameras Connectivity Data Acquisition Data Acquisition Displays/Monitors/HMIs Hardware Imaging Industrial Controls & Automation Industry 4.0 Input Devices Inspection Equipment Internet of Things Machine Vision Machinery Manufacturing & Prototyping Measuring Instruments Monitoring Predictive Models and Predictive Analytics Sensors Software Test & Measurement Wireless Technologies

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Overview

The Smart Factory/IIoT Special Report, published in June 2021, explores the transformative impact of Industry 4.0 technologies on manufacturing processes. It emphasizes the integration of advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, and cloud computing to enhance operational efficiency, quality management, and overall productivity in industrial settings.

Key Highlights:

  1. Modern HMI Software: The report discusses the role of Human-Machine Interface (HMI) software in propelling Industry 4.0. Unified HMI systems enable seamless connectivity across various devices, including control-room computers, smartphones, and tablets. This software allows manufacturers to visualize data, automate workflows, and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), ultimately improving machine performance and profitability.

  2. Proactive Quality Management: The report highlights the shift from reactive to proactive quality management through the use of wireless IoT sensor networks. These networks capture critical data points—such as pressure, temperature, and humidity—along the production line, allowing for real-time monitoring and immediate alerts when off-spec conditions arise. This proactive approach reduces quality variability and enhances traceability, leading to improved production efficiency.

  3. Cost-Effective Sensor Technologies: The report also examines the emergence of cost-effective printed sensors for IoT and Industrial IoT (IIoT) applications. These sensors facilitate the collection of data from various sources, enabling manufacturers to analyze machine health and optimize maintenance schedules, thereby reducing downtime and operational costs.

  4. Traceability in IIoT-Enabled Manufacturing: Traceability is identified as a crucial foundation for IIoT-enabled manufacturing systems. The ability to track and trace components throughout the production process enhances quality control and compliance, ultimately leading to better product outcomes and customer satisfaction.

  5. Cloud Platforms and Automation: The report discusses the advantages of cloud platforms in providing scalability and performance for manufacturing operations. By moving automation technologies to the cloud, companies can leverage advanced analytics and machine learning to optimize processes and improve decision-making.

  6. Challenges and Future Outlook: While the report acknowledges the potential of IIoT, it also addresses the challenges associated with its implementation, such as complexity, cost, and the need for reliable communication networks. It predicts significant growth in the number of active IIoT devices, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right connectivity solutions to support scalable and manageable networks.

In conclusion, the Smart Factory/IIoT Special Report serves as a comprehensive guide for manufacturers looking to embrace the digital transformation of their operations. By leveraging modern technologies, companies can enhance their production capabilities, improve quality management, and ultimately drive profitability in an increasingly competitive landscape. The insights provided in this report are essential for understanding the future of manufacturing and the critical role of technology in shaping it.