AI And Automation In Manufacturing Manufacturing is an area ripe for automation. Machines and software have been automating manufacturing processes for centuries and it is no different as software providers move development into the realm of cloud technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Ryan Pearcy, SB Digital Associate Partner shares his expertise by identifying trends in manufacturing automation and how AI is penetrating this space.
The importance of Automation Automation in manufacturing is the use of software and machines to perform specific tasks without the need for human intervention. Traditionally this would be frequent, repetitive or dangerous tasks but has moved into the realms of predictive and subjective areas, allowing humans to review, rather than do. All of this is to increase efficiency, quality, safety and provide greater insights for decision making. The squeeze on labour markets following covid and politically triggered supply chain disruptions has driven up the need for automation with the International Federation of Robotics noting a 30% year on year growth rate in the use of machines, be that physical or virtual, to streamline processes. The demand is there, but what can be delivered.
Types of Machine Automation There are multiple ways to automate
Software Automation As well as the use of software for machines, cloud technology has advanced the development of back-office functions to streamline manufacturing processes further. This can range from a connected finance system to automate processing of transactions, to inventory management, delivery and forecasting. Interconnected finance systems have been the norm for larger enterprises through the use of ERPs. These systems connect various elements of the business operations together into a single system where data can be shared but are expensive and therefore prohibitive for smaller businesses who have had to resort to manually transferring information from one place to another. The advent of cloud systems with secure API connections enables the creation of a “Modern ERP” which is tailored to the specific needs of the business but at a price point that is manageable. This plug and play style also enable businesses to grow and evolve without the pain of completely changing how a business operates. Data can be collected and shared through the systems removing manual data entry and enabling team members to be approvers and reviewers rather than processors.
manufacturing processes, each using a different blend of software and hardware. Examples of these include: Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) – CIM is where the process is automated by machines. Robotic production lines are an example of this where prototypes, build, quality control, storage, data and distribution are automated. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) – Devices connect sensors to triggers and use AI to automate actions and decision making based on pre-set parameters. These are effective feedback loops to improve precision and quality, but can also be used to trigger the start and stop of processes. Hard Automation – This would be considered simpler automation where machines are programmed for a particular task. F lexible Automation – This builds on hard automation but allows for refinements to systems and processes via computer controls but with human intervention.
4 | SCRUTTON BLAND | MANUFACTURING A N D ENGINEERING
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