Industry 4.0 technology enables machine to machine connectivity digitally on production floor. Digital communication between machine and equipment helps to understand process clearly. Engineers and management can take accurate decision according to the data. And this is the thing about industrial automation, it increases production efficiency, better decision making, enhanced efficiency, better resource planning, ease in management and ultimately satisfaction of the manufacturer.
The improvement in manufacturing by implementing digital methods results in business growth. Manufacturers should keep improving their processes by delivering best quality in market that too quickly. To gain competitive advantage manufacturer needs to be fast in supplying their product otherwise the end user has enormous options to make decision. And for that, quick and accurate production is important.
Industry 4.0 technology give rise to smart factories
Industry 4.0 is not only about technology it is more than just automation in manufacturing. Accurate real time data and reports are generated automatically which will lead to accurate decision making. Each responsible person would be aware of the know-how of his factory floor though he/she is anywhere in the world. There can be minimum errors in production. Minimum downtime results in long working hours. And this will help to complete production quickly. These all are important aspects for manufacturers. Thus, implementing Industry 4.0 can bring about noticeable advantages and can transform the way the factory used to operate.
AI is the heart of industry 4.0
Digital Transformation of manufacturing plant require Artificial Intelligent (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) technology to increase overall performance of process in manufacturing plant. Machine breakdown during the production process is a big issue for any manufacturer. It is also known as unplanned downtime in manufacturing plants. This results in huge financial as well as customer loss.
AI and ML help to predict near to accurate machine and equipment conditions which can help to analyze the situation according to huge real time data tracking. Engineers can resolve the problem before it arises. Parts in machine can replace on time so that major accident can be prevented during production process. Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) enable the networking between machine which helps in improving production efficiency in plant.
Adding skills to workforce as an advantage
One common complaint of most of the manufacturers can be eliminated by upgrading old machines or adding automation solutions. Repetitive tasks in traditional manufacturing by human workforce can be exhausting and demotivating. Training them for operating technology and bringing in new talent who can manage AI-systems and upgrade existing workforce to work with technology can create a new ecosystem along with others.
Challenges in Digital Transformation
Resistance to change
This is a major challenge for manufacturers. Comfortable working zones of the workforce fear for changes in organization. But if company seeks growth and is aiming for competitive advantage change is must.
Lack of in-house expertise about digital transformation
Today everyone is becoming adaptive with technology. So, this is the right time for digital transformation in manufacturing. With minimum training and consultancy, it can be easily achieved. The existing workforce having basic knowledge can guide the company in the right way to adopt it.
Cost concern
It is understandable if company run in losses, then company will not adopt digital transformation. But most of the manufacturers see cost behind this even if they are in profit making stage. The benefits behind this are mostly overlooked by manufacturers.
Security concern
When manufacturer go for digital transformation in company, data is stored on cloud computing system. It concerns them and they develop the fear of data breach.
Digital Transformation in manufacturing industry will be increasing in coming days. Because it results in tremendous benefits and advantages more than challenges. If not yet, be prepared and initialize the transformation from this moment and take a step towards Industry 4.0.
