There are many emerging trends shaping the future of modern manufacturing. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, many manufacturers were looking to shift their business from product-centric to consumer-centric organizations. Notably, the Coronavirus pandemic put pressure on manufacturers to make their operations more resilient. In the face of these challenges, many companies turned to innovative new technologies and advanced materials to improve their processes in the face of supply chain disruptions or reduced employee numbers.
As a manufacturing manager, you need to know the biggest trends shaping the industry this year. This way, you can keep up with the ever-changing market and increased disruption.
Read on to discover emerging trends shaping the future of manufacturing in the modern age.
IoT Connected Operations
First, many manufacturing companies are using the Internet of Things (IoT) to connect and monitor their operations. According to recent data, over 80% of manufacturers have already adopted IoT solutions. Notably, IoT connectedness gives manufacturers valuable data. This allows them to change, optimize, and improve their processes. In addition, they can use this data to improve health and safety. For example, many companies in the oil and gas industry use IoT sensors to monitor gas leakages through the pipe network. By addressing safety issues in potentially hazardous environments, IoT devices can significantly reduce injuries and health risks. Definitely, the rapid expansion IoT connected operations is a major manufacturing trend to watch out for this year.
3D Printing
Next, 3D printing technology is another major manufacturing trend to look out for in the industry. Many manufacturers depend on 3D printing to support their prototyping initiatives. Notably, it is a cost-effective way for product designers to test and troubleshoot their new products. In addition, 3D printing has transformed many tooling processes. With 3D printing technology, manufacturers can create molds, jigs, and fixtures onsite in just a few days. In the past, businesses had to depend on tooling organizations in headquarters overseas. Often, this rendered the process highly expensive and time-consuming. Certainly, 3D printing is one of the most important trends that is modernizing business marketing, manufacturing, and operations.
Foam Injection Molding
In addition, many manufacturers are using foam injection molding to create their products. By partnering with a foam molding company, you can obtain end-to-end product development services with the top materials on the market. For example, top foam molding companies utilize a wide variety of Polyolefin resins to manufacture any type of custom foam molding. Top foam injection manufacturers in North America utilize materials free of phthalates, heavy metals, and latex. Notably, this makes engineered products safe, soft, and easy to clean. Plus, many products art chemical-resistant and 100% waterproof. If your business is manufacturing a new product, consider partnering with top foam injection molding companies for quality results.
Predictive Maintenance (PdM)
Moreover, predictive maintenance is another top manufacturing shaping the industry now. PdM techniques help determine the condition on in-service manufacturing equipment. With the rise of smart machines, internal sensors can inspect and alert workers when machines need maintenance. Often, these devices can catch mechanical failures before they happen. Notably, this can extend the life of factory equipment and create a safer work environment. Additionally, predictive smart machines can also save significant amounts of money. According to recent data, companies can spend over $250,000 for every hour machines are down. Naturally, many manufacturers are implementing predictive maintenance technology to access real-time alerts and responses. In short, predictive maintenance is one of the biggest manufacturing and product packing and label industry trends to follow this year.
Augmented Reality
Furthermore, augmented reality is another trend shifting manufacturing. For example, many companies are investing in AR tools to utilize animated 3D renderings. With highly accurate proportions, AR software can show the operator how to repair and maintain machinery through step-by-step visual aides. Notably, this is reducing the need for paper manuals, significantly saving time throughout operations processes. Indeed, operators can search for solutions much more quickly through AR digital interfaces. Additionally, AR devices such as head-mounted displays and smartphone tablets can often recognize equipment and understand how it works. This can speed up processes even more. Undoubtedly, augmented reality is a major manufacturing industry trend for its ability to save time throughout operations processes.
Manufacturing Mastery In The Modern Era
There are several emerging trends shaping the future of manufacturing in the new age. First, many companies are adopting IoT connected operations to leverage monitoring in their organization. Next, manufacturers are also shifting to 3D printing for tooling and prototyping. In addition, foam injection molding is one of the largest manufacturing trends, especially for companies creating new products. Moreover, companies are also utilizing predictive maintenance technology to access real-time equipment alerts. Furthermore, AR is another major trend dominating the industry.
Consider these emerging trends shaping the future of manufacturing in the coming years. It could be the difference between your manufacturer business surviving or thriving in the new economy.
