As technology continues to evolve and advance, so too has the manufacturing industry as they find innovative ways to utilize it. Smart factories in particular have been on the rise as Industry 4.0 thrives. Manufacturing has been using robotics and automation for years, but smart factories are the next step in this development.
What is a Smart Factory?
A smart factory is a manufacturing facility that uses an interconnected network of systems and machinery to collect and share data in real time. The factory learns as it goes, optimizing itself. It also uses the data it collects to proactively address issues, improve manufacturing processes and respond to new demands as they come.
What Makes a Factory Smart?
While most factories nowadays have some level of robotics or automatons, smart factories have more advanced criteria. A smart factory uses fully integrated systems and machines, utilizing AI, machine learning, the Internet of Things, and advanced robotics combine the benefits of digital and physical technology. Smart factories are the real-world manifestation of the broader concept of smart manufacturing.
Examples of Technology Used In Smart Factories
Sensors
The sensors on the smart factory’s devices and machines are what collects the data and monitors processes in manufacturing. These sensors can track and monitor temperature, time, and other variables more closely and consistently than manually. If there’s a problem, these sensors allow the devices to either self-correct or alert staff to fix it. These sensors can be linked to a network to provide joined-up monitoring across several machines.
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing stores and processes data collected from the sensors. This allows large amounts of data to be uploaded, assessed, and stored in real-time, which helps provide feedback and aids in decision-making.
VR and Augmented Reality
People might think of virtual reality and augmented reality as something for video games, but it can actually be utilized in smart factories. They can be used to organize products and equipment, training simulations, and more.
How are Smart Factories Beneficial?
Smart factories are extremely beneficial to the manufacturing industry. For starters, all of the data that’s been gathered and consolidated during the production process can help machine operators, line supervisors, engineers, company executives, and others make better decisions.
Another benefit is safety. Smart factories will still need manual workers, but certain jobs that might have been difficult or hazardous can be done more safely. And, because data is constantly being collected in real-time, if there’s an issue, staff can be immediately alerted to fix the problem, preventing potential accidents or injuries.
Perhaps the biggest benefit is that smart factories are versatile and can adapt to the post-pandemic manufacturing industry. According to Forbes, “For too long supply chain management and the procurement process has relied on sending out numerous requests for quotation (RFQs), spreadsheets to manage those responses, long haul business travel to audit suppliers, late night conference calls and long distance program and quality management. COVID-19 has shone a spotlight on these outdated supply chain management techniques and found them wanting.”
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