The industrial automation market is increasing and with good reason. Technological advances make it easier than ever for businesses to automate their production processes.
In this blog post, we will take a look at the top technological trends in industrial automation. Then, keep reading to learn more.
Table of Contents
The Internet of Things
The internet of things (IoT) is one of the most significant technological trends in industrial automation. Simply put, the IoT is a network of devices that are interconnected and can communicate with each other.
This allows businesses to collect data from their production processes and analyze it in real-time. It also allows companies to optimize their production processes and improve efficiency.
Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is another important, fascinating trend in industrial automation. AI can automate tasks, such as quality control or inspection. Furthermore, AI can also make decisions based on data collected from production processes.
Down the line, businesses can use artificial intelligence to improve their decision-making accuracy and reduce the need for human intervention.
Machine Learning
Machine learning is another form of AI becoming increasingly important in industrial automation. Machine learning allows businesses to train machines to learn from data.
This can help companies to automate tasks that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to automate. Machine learning also helps businesses make better decisions by analyzing data collected from the IoT.
Importance of predictive maintenance
Predictive maintenance is a core trend of industrial automation, becoming more and more important. It uses data collected from production processes to predict when equipment will need to be serviced or replaced, most often by utilizing industrial automation software.
This helps businesses avoid unplanned downtime and increases the lifespan of their equipment.
There are several benefits of predictive maintenance:
- It helps businesses save money by avoiding unplanned downtime.
- It extends the life of their equipment.
- Predictive maintenance can help companies to improve efficiency by reducing the need for manual labor.
- It enhances safety by preventing accidents caused by faulty equipment.
Robotics
Robotics technology has come a long way in recent years, and it is now easier than ever for businesses to integrate robotics into their production processes. A properly built and calibrated “robot” can do the work of multiple workers.
Not only does this improve efficiency and reduce costs, but it also minimizes human error, leading to greater precision and accuracy.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
VR technology allows businesses to create virtual environments for training and testing purposes. This can help businesses save time and money by reducing the need for physical prototypes.
Furthermore, there is always a risk involved when dealing with machinery. Making a serious mistake in a virtual environment is consequence-free, especially compared to what happens in real life. VR can help businesses improve safety by allowing employees to train in safe environments.
The core difference between VR and AR is that you are in a virtual world in the former, while the latter simply superimposes digital information in the real world. Similar to VR, AR allows for safer training.
Furthermore, businesses can improve training, letting people train on machines and equipment that might not be readily available.
Photo by possessed Photography on Unsplash
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is another important trend in industrial automation. Cloud computing allows businesses to store and access data remotely. This can help companies save time and money by reducing the need for on-site infrastructure. Additionally, cloud computing can help businesses improve flexibility and scalability.
To (perhaps over)simplify this trend – there will be fewer hoops to jump through and steps to take to get to a piece of information.
Sustainable and environmentally responsible business practices
One of the most important trends in industrial automation is the increasing focus on sustainable and environmentally responsible business practices.
Many businesses are now realizing the importance of sustainability and are trying to reduce their environmental impact. Some of the key areas where companies are making changes include:
- Energy consumption: Businesses are making efforts to reduce energy consumption by using energy-efficient technology and by switching to renewable energy sources.
- Pollution: Businesses are making efforts to reduce pollution by using green technologies and implementing waste management programs.
- Transportation: Businesses are making efforts to reduce transportation emissions by using electric vehicles and implementing transportation management programs.
Big Data
B Big data refers to large data sets that can be difficult to process using traditional methods. Businesses can use big data to improve their production processes by analyzing trends and patterns.
Additionally, big data can help companies make better decisions by providing insights that would otherwise be unavailable.
Additive Manufacturing (3D printing)
Additive manufacturing is another significant trend in industrial automation. Additive manufacturing allows businesses to create parts and products using additive technologies. This can help companies save time and money by reducing the need for traditional manufacturing methods.
In other words – if you need a particular, unique part that can only be found in Japan, for example, you would usually need to wait for weeks.
Having a vital piece of machinery down for weeks at a time can have a disastrous effect on your bottom line. With additive manufacturing, all you have to do is 3D print the thing, and you are correct as rain.
Reshoring
One of the most important trends in industrial automation is the reshoring of manufacturing. Reshoring is the process of moving manufacturing operations back to their home countries.
This can help businesses save money by reducing the need for overseas shipping. Additionally, reshoring can help businesses improve quality by closely controlling the manufacturing process.
It can also have a positive effect on employee morale.
Focus on cyber security
As businesses become increasingly reliant on digital technologies, the risk of cyberattacksincreases.
Companies need to ensure that their cyber security measures are up to date and adequate to protect their data.
Additionally, businesses need to ensure that their employees are aware of the risks of cyber attacks and how to prevent them.
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Conclusion
The technological trends in industrial automation that we have discussed are essential for businesses to consider.
These technologies can help companies improve efficiency, accuracy, and safety in their production processes. Additionally, these technologies can help companies to save time and money.
So whether it’s AR and VR, artificial intelligence, or a focus on cyber security, a business dealing with industrial automation needs to be up to date with technological trends.
Author bio
Rick Seidl is a digital marketing specialist with a bachelor’s degree in Digital Media and Communications, based in Portland, Oregon. He carries a burning passion for digital marketing, social media, small business development, and establishing its presence in a digital world, and is currently quenching his thirst through writing about digital marketing and business strategies for Find Digital Agency.
