What to Know About Smart Factories

Like any industry today, manufacturing has changed to become more techno-savvy. The purpose of this is to improve production rates and quality assurance. This new type of manufacturing, often called smart manufacturing, utilizes internet-based systems to manage large data processes and quick changes. For more information, read below on what to know about smart factories and how they’re changing the manufacturing industry today.

What Is a Smart Factory?

A smart factory refers to the utilization of modern technologies and innovations in the realm of smart manufacturing. It employs computer-based systems to adapt and change designs rapidly, process digital information, and optimize the supply chain. This leads to more efficient production and a flexible workforce. Unlike previous automated techniques, smart manufacturing uses intelligent automation and interoperable network systems to increase data storage and manage supply chains. This can handle large data sets easier and react to orders or changes faster.

The Current Impact on Manufacturing

Given its reliance on new technologies, smart factories have changed manufacturing significantly. Smart manufacturing relies on what’s called the industrial internet of things (IIoT). This refers to the interconnected sensors, instruments, and machines networked via a computer’s industrial applications. This is to increase integration and data storage through cloud software and computational metrics to track workflow. The interconnectivity allows for more efficient data processing to enhance the flow of production. Additionally, the various benefits of industrial robots has tremendously improved production rates and speeds. Many robots work with humans to evaluate sensory input and solve problems. They are flexible and can reconfigure to handle different problems when needed.

More so, industrial robots ensure a safer work environment. This is because less error on the manufacturing floor mean less accidents. Also, robots can handle different high-risk applications that too dangerous for humans, such as high temperatures, exposure to certain materials, or other occupational hazards that humans cannot handle.

Industries That Use Smart Factories

With this, it’s interesting to see which industries use smart manufacturing in their daily operations. Two main industries that do this are the automotive industry and the energy industry. The use of robots in these factories mean 24-hour production times, more accurate inspection findings, and more detailed assessments. These devices also help these industries take a greener approach in their daily operations. Specifically, IIoT devices integrated with sensing systems can optimize energy consumption while balancing power generation and usage. Robots are especially useful in the automotive industry where IIoT devices process data to effectively manage and customize vehicles, as the robots conduct the heavy repetitive tasks.