Technology Streamlining the Manufacturing Process

Kevin Hill,
Online Marketing Manager,
Quality Scales Unlimited

Digital technologies can be implemented in every organization and reap many benefits. The manufacturing industry is no different. Using the right software and tools like weighing scalesor inventory management system, you can successfully increase productivity and profitability

Technology Streamlining the Manufacturing Process

Manufacturing processes can benefit immensely by using the right kind of technologies. Not only do they make the processes easier but also much more efficient and streamlined. Here are 5 such technologies that can prove advantageous in any manufacturing unit.

1. The Internet of Things

Internet of Things is a large network of computing devices such as machines, sensors, and related devices. All this equipment collects, sends and receives data from each other without requiring any kind of human intervention.

IoT can be used to automatically weigh inventory when connected to industrial weighing scales, track inventory or notify the users about maintenance requirements. It helps in reducing downtime costs and manufacturing waste.

You can deploy a real-time location system through RFID tags and attach it to nearly every material in the inventory. This makes tracking quite effortless.

2. Cloud Computing

Cloud computing can prove to be one of the most useful technologies in the manufacturing industry. Cloud can manage, store and data quickly with multiple users very easily.

You don’t have to worry about security as cloud computing offers protection from viruses. Moreover, as compared to traditional servers, cloud experiences fewer outages.

For instance, a grocery store can use Big Data and analytics in the cloud to study the impact of weather and other factors on store sales. They can use the data to determine which category would do well and which won’t. This allows them to make smarter business decisions about inventory, pricing, and promotions.

3. Robots and Automation

Robots and Automation are enabling machines to perform more efficiently. Together, they produce more products and ensure a smooth flow of manufacturing processes in a facility. They help in optimizing the facility of the layout and help in running cost-effective operations. Automation can increase the overall efficiency of the manufacturing facility.

For instance, Adidas embraced robotic manufacturing to increase production speed and cut down shipping time. It brought down the cost of goods, thus making the shoes accessible to more customers.

4. Big Data

You can use Big Data to make informed business decisions. By analyzing critical data, manufacturers can reduce waste in their processes and improve product quality. You can also leverage big data to improve manufacturing practices.

BMW uses big data to detect different vulnerabilities in its new car prototypes. They collect data from sensors on tested prototypes to spot weaknesses and error patterns. By gathering this data before actual production, BMW reduced recalls, warranty costs and achieved higher quality.

5. 3D Printing

If you require prototypes in your facility, making it from molds will be time-consuming and expensive. 3D printing can get the job done in less time and much more precision. You can use 3D printing for making manufacturing parts of any size, in any quantity.

When you have the right technologies on your side, you can gain a competitive edge in the market.

The medical world is using 3D printing to make affordable prosthetics. They can print even the most minute details with extreme precision with the help of 3D printing.