The manufacturing industry has undergone a rapid digital transformation in recent years.

Automation trends are at the forefront of the industry, as companies seek more intelligent ways to operate in a competitive business landscape. The global pandemic served to accelerate the rapid adoption of technology in the industrial space as it transformed the way we work and produce and distribute goods.

 

Here’s a look at 10 of the top industrial automation trends at the moment.

 

1. Advanced IIoT

​​The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), also referred to as Industry 4.0, has been a topic of conversion in the manufacturing industry for a long time.

Over the last few years, many technologies including smart sensors, actuators, big data analytics and condition monitoring have become more widespread, allowing industrial settings to take advantage of the real-time data analysis and consequently accelerated decision-making that smart machines facilitate.

The IIoT, in practice, is a network of connected intelligent devices that allow the monitoring, collocation, analysis and exchange of data within an industrial ecosystem. The system consists of connected devices that are capable of sensing, storing and communicating vital information about their operations, analytics applications to generate insights from data, data storage, and the people who operate them.

Together, these edge devices and assets can communicate vital information regarding a machine’s functionality which can be used to inform predictive maintenance procedures and drive more efficient process optimization.

Many of the trends mentioned on this list will fall under the umbrella term of IIoT, but it’s worth mentioning alone as a trend informing the future of industrial automation moving forward. 

 

2. Predictive Maintenance

Predictive maintenance is made possible due to IIoT and advanced technologies such as AI and machine learning. The purpose of predictive maintenance is to help manufacturers avoid unexpected downtime by discerning issues before they arise, allowing them to be dealt with early on. 

Predictive maintenance technology can help extend the lifespan of machinery and help companies to optimise operations by reducing downtime and maintenance costs. McKinsey & Company posits that predictive maintenance programs can reduce costs by 20% and reduce unplanned downtime by 50%.

This is an essential part of the process of machine maintenance, particularly in harsh environments.

 

 

3. Big Data and Reporting

Introducing technologies into industrial settings, and the continued advancement of those technologies and their capabilities inevitably leads to an increased amount of real-time data.

Big data is made up of every input and interaction that takes place during the automated production process, and it can be used to provide pivotal insights into the efficacy of a company’s production output and operations. Armed with these data, analysts can discover machinery flaws, identify loopholes in procedures and assess a machine’s lifecycle.

Big data and reporting mean that businesses can generate a clear picture about what’s happening in their manufacturing process, which is also tied to the wider company, and use this to improve supply chain processes, improve productivity and safety, facilitate better planning and forecasting, and boost profits.

 

4. AI and Machine Learning

AI technologies allow machines and other equipment parts to “think” independently, meaning they can carry out tasks and make decisions without the intervention of a human.

Machine learning takes this a step further and enables industrial machinery to learn and adapt to improve their operations using algorithms.

Although manufacturing facilities can operate fully independently, it’s not always suitable for some industries which is why they need to function in harmony with humans.

These tools have a major impact on industrial automation by allowing manufacturers to make data-driven decisions to improve operations including:

• Inventory management
• Asset tracking
• Forecasting
• Supply chain visibility.

 

5. Sustainability

Sustainability has become a significant concern for companies across industries.

Reducing carbon footprint and improving resource efficiency are concepts which are embedded in the initiatives of manufacturing companies, particularly as consumers have access to more education and awareness regarding the rising costs of energy and materials and their impact on the environment.

Moving forward, sustainability will be woven into the fabric of the production process. As such, IIoT technologies can play a crucial role in reducing energy consumption and enhancing process efficiency to minimise environmental impact.

 

6. Cybersecurity

As industrial settings become increasingly connected, software plays an integral role across systems. As a result, there is a growing concern about the security of cyber environments and the potential for complex systems containing sensitive data to become targets for cybercriminals who can cause significant damage.

Cybercriminals can attack industrial systems by hacking, spear-phishing or ransomware attacks that can allow them to steal business and personal data. Data breaches can lead to significant losses and downtime as systems are patched up and protected further. For this reason, machinery is being built to feature strict security measures. Additionally, businesses are increasing their efforts to ensure employees are trained in best practice security measures.

 

7. Voice-activated Automation

Voice-activated automation improves flexibility in the work process and streamlines industrial manufacturing procedures. Instead of having to type or interact directly with a machine, employees can simply use their voices to give instruction. This can help operations run faster, while also enhancing safety as there is less direct contact with machinery. 

 

8. Mobile Robotics

Another industrial automation trend sweeping the world is mobile robotics. This refers to the use of mobile robots and manipulators to automate repetitive and time-consuming tasks such as part feeding, quality control, cleaning, drilling and so on. By automating these tasks using mobile robotics, companies can save on costs and streamline processes to enhance productivity. When integrated with IIoT systems, mobile robotics can deliver valuable insights through the exchange of information.

 

9. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

ERP technology isn’t new in the manufacturing world, however, it’s gaining traction due to the increasing availability of cloud-based SaaS solutions that make it more accessible to small-medium sized businesses, not just enterprise firms.

These systems allow manufacturers to automate various operations from within a comprehensive system, providing a single touchpoint that can be used to manage entire operations. ERP convenience enables decision-makers to make adjustments and improvements whenever necessary, streamlining processes to enhance the production process.

 

10. Additive Manufacturing 

Additive manufacturing, which in simple terms refers to 3D printing, is becoming a significant trend in the world of industrial automation. Manufacturers can utilise computer-aided design software to build machine parts and customise them to suit the needs of their clients and customers. It’s also an effective method for creating models, prototypes and components. This process enables manufacturers to save significantly on costs and time.

 

Preferred Spares: Providing Industrial Automation Equipment and Electrical Spares 

New trends in automation are constantly emerging. Keep up to date with the latest with Preferred Spares, one of the leading electrical equipment suppliers in the UAE.

 

Visit the Preferred Spares website to discover high-grade industrial automation parts from the world’s leading suppliers.