Manufacturing Technology
Article | May 25, 2022
The manufacturing industry is known for its agility in adopting new technologies to revolutionize processes. In a way, many industries can learn to replicate the speed with which manufacturing undergoes transformation. The use of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) in manufacturing is yet another frontier the industry is surpassing as it transitions to Industry 5.0.
While VR is a fully digital environment that can be accessed through a VR headset, whereas AR overlays the real-world with digital information that is experienced through a smartphone or a display-based device like a heads-up display (HUD).
For a long time, manufacturing has been marred by skill gaps, talent shortages, and a high employee attrition rate. But there’s hope, AR/VR is creating ground-breaking ways to optimize factory operations.
The Journey of AR/VR Applications: From Gaming to Manufacturing
Gaming was the first industry to use AR/VR. Multiple industries are now recognizing its value and innovating ways to implement AR/VR applications into critical areas of operations. In healthcare, AR/VR applications are used to simulate a controlled, high-risk medical environment in order to train medical professionals.
Right at the Assembly Line, Minus the Risks
Similarly, the manufacturing industry is discovering multiple areas of application for industrial AR/VR, from the warehouse to the training centers. When it comes to training employees, AR is making waves. In a setting where employees have to often manage complex tasks and multi-functional operations, AR applications are enabling manufacturers to simulate hands-on training without the risk of accidents. In addition, it can bypass any wastage of raw materials or avoid expensive mistakes.
From the inspection perspective, 3D imaging can be used to build a digital VR twin of a wiring box. In the instance of a failure, the VR twin allows even an untrained worker to cross check the correct configuration and troubleshoot the problem.
Companies Spearheading the Use of Industrial AR/VR
With so many compelling AR/VR applications in training, several companies are using the technology in exciting and innovative ways. Industrial software solutions provider Honeywell has multiple trailblazing training methods. One of them is a VR training simulator used to train new technicians in high-risk, failure scenarios. The method doubled the skill retention compared to other training methods. The new training method has also enabled Honeywell to engage young workers better, simultaneously ensuring better employee retention.
Guided Accuracy with AR/VR
LightGuide is another AR/VR firm that is at the forefront of using cutting edge applications on the factory floor. The organization used digital traceability and live data to revolutionize over 1000 processes for leading manufacturers across the world. They use AR/VR for inspection and assembly of automotive headliners. The technique projects diagrams of harnesses, glue paths, and tape placements onto headliner blanks. The process also uses 3D sensors to confirm placement.
The Long and the Short of It
The manufacturing industry is forging ahead with the best in AR/VR technologies. The challenge of making it affordable for all types and sizes of manufacturing process is the next plan of action. There is much to be achieved with the two technologies, the most important of which is cost-effectiveness, speed and quality. AR/VR technologies are set to be at the helm of many processes, regardless of the volume and scale, AR/VR integration would help solve real world problems within manufacturing and talent management.
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Article | July 23, 2020
Robots now come in many sizes, and in configurations of two to seven axes. They can do simple or complicated work, even surgery, and are easier to integrate than ever into any manufacturing or processing environments, including food zones, clean rooms and warehouses. But what’s most important is to know which type of robot articulated, cartesian, SCARA, delta or cobot fits your needs from both capability and cost standpoints.
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Industrial 4.0
Article | June 19, 2023
Explore the industry 4.0 companies and delve into the digitalized world for smart infrastructure and smart city infrastructure. Here is a curated list of leading 15 companies providing such solutions.
Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing represent the integration of advanced technologies and data-driven approaches to transform traditional manufacturing processes into highly efficient, flexible, and interconnected systems. It builds upon the foundation of automation and computerization established in previous industrial revolutions and takes it to a new level by leveraging emerging technologies such as the IoT, AI, big data analytics, cloud computing, and robotics. These approaches also enable manufacturers to adapt quickly to changing market demands, customize products at scale, and unlock new business models. However, adopting Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing requires careful planning, investment in technology infrastructure, and a shift in organizational culture. It represents a significant transformation for traditional manufacturing industries, offering tremendous opportunities for growth, competitiveness, and sustainability in the digital age. The industry 4.0 companies list is curated below providing solutions for industry leaders.
1. Sight Machine
Sight Machine is a leading data platform, offering a comprehensive solution enabling manufacturers to harness their plant data effectively. Its platform serves as a central hub for operations and analysis, empowering manufacturers to make informed decisions swiftly and effectively, ultimately improving their production performance. What sets Sight Machine apart from other platforms is its ability to provide the contextual information to infer the state of machines accurately. Through seamless integration of various data sources and elements, it maintains real-time tracking of states for individual tags as well as the overall machine. This comprehensive approach enables manufacturers to have a deeper understanding of their machinery's health, performance, and efficiency, thus facilitating proactive maintenance, optimizing production, and minimizing downtime.
2. MachineMetrics
MachineMetrics is a pioneering Industrial IoT platform, an industry 4.0 company specifically designed for the manufacturing sector, revolutionizing how analytics are transformed into actionable insights. It serves as a cutting-edge industrial IoT platform that empowers manufacturers to unlock the full potential of their machines. Through its comprehensive features, including universal machine connectivity, cloud data infrastructure, and optimized communication workflows, it enables to digitize the manufacturing processes, drive profitability, and remain globally competitive. This adaptability allows to leverage MachineMetrics across various use cases, driving increased profitability with their machines. It helps manufacturers in enhancing machine performance, increasing productivity, and securing a stronger foothold in the market.
3. Falkonry
Falkonry, one of the Industry 4.0 companies offers a powerful AI solution that empowers plant operators to make intelligent operational decisions by identifying and responding to events that harm operations. Its AI platform equips plant operators with the tools to make informed decisions by detecting and responding to operational events. By leveraging AI and analyzing process data, Falkonry drives production uptime, quality, and yield improvements. The scalability and compatibility of products make them well-suited for deployment across the enterprise and integration with popular IIoT platforms. In the automotive industry, Its AI Suite offers a cost-effective solution for managing complex assembly lines, allowing engineering teams to uncover valuable insights and address anomalous behaviors promptly, thus improving manufacturing flexibility and cost control.
4. Ubisense
Ubisense is a leading provider of transformative solutions that convert physical spaces into smart spaces, delivering significant quality, cost, and productivity benefits for manufacturers. Its SmartSpace platform creates a real-time digital twin of the manufacturing process, enabling comprehensive situational awareness and empowering individuals and business systems to make informed decisions. With a robust global presence and a track record of successful factory digitization implementations, Ubisense helps organizations achieve remarkable improvements in quality, manufacturing cost reduction, and productivity. Its location sensing technology and seamless integration with manufacturing systems enable manufacturers to optimize assembly processes, enhance quality, and drive operational efficiency.
5. Cogiscan
As the foremost provider of Track, Trace, and Control solutions in the electronics manufacturing industry, the Cogiscan is pivotal in empowering manufacturers to enhance productivity, exercise effective equipment control, and manage production in real-time. Their innovative solutions deliver tangible benefits and provide a solid competitive edge to customers and partners in the industry. Their company culture emphasizes respect, trust, well-being, and impact, fostering collaboration and utilizing individual strengths. The integration of their solutions allows for centralized real-time data capture and analysis, enabling manufacturers to make informed decisions, troubleshoot effectively, and adapt the solution quickly. Cogiscan's Factory Intelligence application enhances decision-making and efficiency while streamlining communication across the shop floor.
6. Aegis Software Corporation
Aegis Software is a renowned manufacturing optimization, management, and analysis software provider. Its comprehensive systems are designed to streamline and enhance manufacturing, leveraging CAD designs and providing real-time control on the factory floor. The software of this industry 4.0 company, gathers data, manages quality processes, and offers in-depth traceability and analysis. With a specific focus on the electronics assembly industry, Aegis Software serves both OEM and EMS providers. Their FactoryLogix solution harnesses the power of IIoT and delivers Industry 4.0 benefits through a range of applications. The solution can be deployed rapidly, enabling manufacturers to begin digitization without extensive customization.
7. Augury
The Augury is a leading provider of comprehensive insights into machine health, process health, and operational efficiency for manufacturers and various industry sectors. Its solutions drive substantial improvements in machine performance, plant efficiency, and overall operational outcomes. By delivering real-time visibility and prescriptive insights, they enable maintenance and reliability teams to optimize their production lines and tackle the challenges of unplanned downtime and high MRO costs with confidence and success. It specializes in Machine Health and Process Health solutions that use powerful AI algorithms to prevent production downtime, improve process efficiency, increase yield, and reduce waste and emissions. It helps customers streamline operations and meet production targets by identifying inefficiencies and core causes, offering 3–10-fold returns on investment.
8. Dozuki
Dozuki, one of the Industry 4.0 companies, is a leading Connected Worker solutions provider that empowers organizations to enhance production operations and achieve operational excellence. Its comprehensive solution includes approval workflows, automatic re-training, digital forms, dashboards, and integrations, enabling streamlined communication, compliance, training efficiency, and standardized processes. By connecting frontline workers with the knowledge they need, Dozuki drives significant performance improvements, with customers reporting reductions in training time and document creation and improved communication. Focusing on capturing expert knowledge and providing digital access to standards, Dozuki helps businesses upgrade frontline performance and achieve tangible results.
9. AWTG Ltd
AWTG, one of the Industry 4.0 companies, and a leading end-to-end engineering services and technology solutions provider that caters to companies operating in Telecommunications, Smart City infrastructure, Smart Health, Industry 4.0, New Media, the Internet, and other digital technology-driven markets. Its comprehensive technology solutions encompass digital transformation, rapid prototyping, artificial intelligence, internet of everything, immersive technologies, and software. Through its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and leveraging its extensive skills and expertise, AWTG has built a stellar reputation and consistently delivers superior results and return-on-investment for its clients.
10. iBase-t
iBASEt is a trusted provider of solutions that simplify complex manufacturing processes. Its paperless, digitally integrated solutions replace disparate applications, enabling seamless collaboration and establishing a digital thread across enterprise systems. The iBASEt Digital Operations Suite offers a range of model-based manufacturing applications that ensure high visibility, consistent practices, continuous improvement, and compliance with industry standards. By extending the product life cycle and driving operational excellence, it empowers organizations to achieve greater efficiency, quality, and compliance across their manufacturing operations. Their strong partnerships with industry leaders underscore their expertise and track record in delivering tangible value to customers.
11. Manufacturing Enterprise Solutions Association (MESA) International
MESA International is a global not-for-profit community focused on improving business results and production operations through the effective use of information technology and best management practices. Its diverse membership and knowledgebase cover various manufacturing environments, and they are dedicated to enabling real-time visibility in production processes. By connecting this visibility to business outcomes and offering educational programs and events, MESA helps manufacturers understand what is possible, adopt best practices, make informed technology investment decisions, and enhance technology deployment for improved operational performance.
12. Inductive Automation
Inductive Automation is a leading provider of industrial software solutions that enable organizations to overcome technological and economic barriers to innovation. By merging IT with SCADA technologies, Inductive Automation developed Ignition software, the industry's first universal industrial application platform. Ignition is a powerful integrated development environment with everything needed to create virtually any kind of industrial application – SCADA, IIoT, MES and beyond – all in one platform. It empowers industrial organizations to develop various applications all within a single platform.
13. Vecna Robotics
Vecna Robotics specializes in delivering cutting-edge solutions in Automated Material Handling, Hybrid Fulfillment, and Workflow Optimization. Its portfolio includes self-driving vehicles powered by the innovative Autonomy Stack, a learning system that enables efficient and intelligent operation. With a strong focus on distribution, e-commerce, warehousing, and manufacturing sectors, Vecna Robotics provides value-driven solutions to its customers. It offers advanced automation solutions beyond conventional approaches, empowering businesses to leverage the combined potential of humans and robots, meet market demands effectively, and achieve higher levels of productivity and innovation. In addition, it significantly emphasizes maximizing the capabilities of both humans and robots.
14. Avanceon
Avanceon, operating under the VINCI Energies brand Actemium, is a leading systems integrator specializing in automation and information solutions for the manufacturing and utility industries. With a strong focus on digital transformation, it offers consulting, education, and 24/7 support to help customers translate their needs, implement solutions, and ensure success. With over 30 years of experience, Avanceon leverages technologies like IoT, predictive analytics, and cloud computing to drive Industry 4.0 solutions, enabling manufacturers to gain efficiency and a competitive edge. Through implementing manufacturing execution systems (MES), Avanceon addresses the challenge of visibility on the factory floor, optimizing scheduling, inventory control, traceability, and more.
15. UnaBiz
UnaBiz is a prominent global Massive IoT service provider specializing in solution design, manufacturing, connectivity, and data platform services across various network communication technologies for infrastructure of smart city and smart infrastructure in industry 4.0. It leverages Sigfox 0G, LoRa, LTE-M, NB-IoT, and satellite technologies to drive sustainable business growth. As the owner of Sigfox 0G technology, it connects millions of sensors for its 1500 B2B customers worldwide on the global 0G Network, commercialized by numerous national operators across 70+ countries. The company delivers solutions for Utilities, supply chain & logistics, security, and facilities & building management sectors. By integrating people with IoT technology, it strives to create a significant impact on a massive scale, empowering individuals and organizations worldwide to live smarter, simpler, and more sustainable lives.
Final Thoughts
The era of Industry 4.0 has ushered in an age of remarkable transformation, with companies pushing the boundaries of what was once deemed possible. Through their relentless commitment to innovation, these leading organizations have harnessed the power of advanced technologies to revolutionize infrastructure. These companies will continue to shape the future of Industry 4.0, unlocking new levels of efficiency, sustainability, and economic growth in smart city infrastructure. Their relentless pursuit of excellence paves the way for a world that is more interconnected, intelligent, and resilient than ever before.
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