But 2017 is poised to be a real shake-up year for manufacturers as Industry 4.0 is to ready to take hold. The 4th Industrial Revolution has been forming for a few years, but recent advances in manufacturing technology are making it possible to truly take shape in 2017. Changes in global - and cyber - markets are demanding smarter manufacturing processes defined as Industry 4.0.
Will 2017 be the year of the smart factory?
...The smart factory statement follows months of speculation around Industry 4.0 – the idea of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technology.
Simply, it’s the computerisation of manufacturing, involving systems that communicate with each other, monitor physical processes and make decisions. 2017 could be when the concept of the smart factory becomes a widespread reality, according to YCF – a not-for-profit organisation committed to supporting the manufacturing industry and its supply chain... (read the full story at themanufacturer.com... http://www.themanufacturer.com/articles/will-2017-be-the-year-of-the-smart-factory/)
Challenging market conditions and unprecedented customer demands will force manufacturers to examine what they think they know about their product and their production process. The process holds untapped data that can lead to greater efficiencies and ultimate manufacturing profitability.
It's where machine data and physical mechanics combine for ultimate manufacturing. Shared data from customer experience; product development; manufacturing; and supply chain functions will unite these once-disparate entities into a leaner, more productive factory.
If your goals for 2017 include improved efficiency, increased productivity rates, and greater profitability, you'll need to become more familiar with the concepts of Industry 4.0 and GSG will be here to help.
Learn more about Industry 4.0
in the GSG Interzum space: Hall 9, Stand C-020.