Make your factory smart for higher profitability
Overview
The smart factory is the factory of the future. It is one where processes are automated, interconnected, and continually reacting towards improving production. In simple terms, it is ‘intelligent manufacturing.’
We have found that there are five essential things that separate a smart factory from traditional ones.
Five Key Features of a Smart Factory
1. Connectivity
In traditional industries, different processes remain discrete despite being automated. In an automotive manufacturing plant, for example, bodywork and painting processes may be automated but separate.
A smart factory will have the two processes linked in real-time to enable collaboration and feedback.
Smart factories rely on what is called a cyber-physical network. This is the link that unites all the people, machines, tools, computers, and equipment that make up the chain.
2. Centralized Data Collection and Processing
This is where the Industrial Internet of Things model comes to life. Through sensors placed at all points in the factory and a comprehensive employee reporting system, data is collected and aggregated at a central point.
Managers can use big data processing technology to obtain a bird’s eye view of the efficiency, failures, and successes of the company as a whole.
Find out the 6 key benefits of adopting industry 4.0 solutions.
3. Machine Learning Technology
Smart systems would need to work in a ‘lights off’ environment. That means there is no supervision and a full shift or more can go on without human intervention. In such a case, machine learning technology is used to respond to anomalies and respond automatically.
Such a factory will also be proactive. It will predict problems before they arise and take measures to prevent damage, loss, or danger. It will restock and replenish supplies as necessary, schedule maintenance, and work towards maximum efficiency. This will ensure the plant runs at the optimum operational efficiency. Find out way to ensure maximum operational efficiency.
4. Agility
Agility means the ability to be flexible and adaptable. Customer demands in the 21st century are continually changing. People now want more customized products as opposed to off-the-shelf ones. A smart factory can adapt existing technology and resources towards meeting changing needs within an acceptable time frame.
Even in traditionally stable industries like agriculture, industries have to start adapting or risk being overtaken. From manufacturing to frontline tasks like customer service, you need to adapt and respond fast or risk losing relevance.
5. Optimization
Optimization is the ultimate goal of any smart factories. It is all about minimizing production costs while maximizing production volume and quantity.
Case in point, the use of resources such as electricity can be tailored towards making use of lower tariffs during off-peak hours. Find out how companies are using big data technology to optimize their energy consumption.
It can also apply to the reduction of waste at all points of the production process.
Closing remarks
Labh Group recognizes that smart factories lead the way to the future. Our teams of highly experienced technical consultants can help you to usher in this new age of efficiency and productivity.
Learn more about what we can do for you to help make your factory smart and get you ready in time for the phase of Industry 4.0.
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About Labh Group
Labh Group is a leading engineering, technology, consulting and manufacturing conglomerate, working closely with diversified industries spanning across food processing, agriculture, plastics, chemicals, healthcare, packaging and other industries and business sectors offering complete turn-key solutions including advanced engineering, Industry 4.0 solutions, expert technical and management consultancy and Digital Transformation. From the most demanding to the most distant customers across the globe, we empower them for rewriting their future with our depths of knowledge, unique ideas, technical expertise, creative solutions and enduring results, all at the most optimal costs, right at their doorsteps!
