Industry 4.0 has ushered in a plethora of developments, including fabrication portability. For instance, 3D printing and advanced human interfaces have transformed how manufacturing is done, thus reshaping and transforming the manufacturing sector.
Portability in manufacturing concerns the transferability of manufacturing processes and operations from one physical location to another. For instance, a fabric manufacturing company may want to diversify its operations. This diversification may demand the relocation of machinery and materials, purchasing new assets, and outsourcing efforts.
With Industry 4.0, the centralization of data, and access to advanced systems and software allows manufacturers to achieve portability. With advanced systems enshrined in developments like IIOT; information can be shared, robust collaborations fostered, and operational processes achieved. This leads to easier portability for manufacturers to multiply their production processes and productivity regardless of location.
In the global manufacturing sector, problems related to the seasonal volume are commonplace. Volumes can fluctuate based on time and weather. If not managed, this inconsistency can lead to wastage and clutter, thus increasing the costs associated with waste handling and disposal.
So, how does manufacturing portability impact predictability? Below we look at ways predictability is achieved in the global manufacturing sector:
- Thinking scientifically
Manufacturing portability applies scientific principles to structure and streamline workflows. To achieve portability and predictability, machines use computer numerical control CNC, to eliminate redundancy and repetition. Predictable processes in CNC machines are achieved in the following ways:
- Clearly defined tooling processes and strategies
- Consistent programming practices
- Sound machine maintenance
- An advanced understanding of machine operations
- Scientific thinking
Portability impacts predictability because it uses mathematical principles and proven statistical concepts to draw predictable, data-driven insights.
- Learning feeds and speeds
A big part of achieving a stable process is understanding feeds and speeds. With machine intelligence and machine learning, manufacturers can learn feed rates, depth of cut, and cutting speed. Most information is in inches and bits, but if you prefer conversion charts and metrics, you can access it in any mathematical formulae. Machine portability impacts predictability because it learns feeds and speeds, thus predicting demand, supply, and changing consumer preferences. So, a crucial part of predictability is understanding the speeds and feeds of machine components.
- Using data to drive down costs
Manufacturers use tested-and-proven technology suites to drive cost reductions. Technology suites pull together vast amounts of data into a single repository, making it available to teams, departments, and units. This reduces operational costs, fosters collaborations, and improves service and productivity across the board. Data also allows manufacturers and customers to collaborate on running "what-if" incidences and scenarios. So, manufacturing portability uses data that helps manufacturers study networks and achieve predictability.
Achieving Portability and Predictability in Modern-Day Industry 4.0
Manufacturing portability is a highly sought aspect in Industry 4.0. Manufacturing portability achieves production efficiency, bolsters productivity, and impacts the bottom line. Well-known strategies for achieving fabrication portability include: using advanced systems and software, analytic tools, big data, and cloud software.
So, how are organizations achieving portability and predictability in the modern global manufacturing industry or Industry 4.0?
- Cloud computing
Cloud manufacturing is turning out to be a new way of working in a digitally collaborative environment. The operational technology OT sector and IT industry are integrating to become Industry 4.0, democratizing access to cutting-edge hardware and software. The advantages of incorporating cloud manufacturing in modern-day manufacturing include: lower costs, scalability, automatic updates, and achieve portability.
- Artificial intelligence
Implementing AI-powered manufacturing capabilities streamlines operational processes, allowing manufacturing plants to build smart operations that reduce overheads and costs. AI-powered manufacturing systems use human intelligence and combine it with predictive analysis to forecast demand and supply and promote efficient pricing. 61% of manufacturing leaders say that increased productivity is the single greatest benefit of AI adoption, and 95% agree that AI could make their organizations run efficiently.
- Big data analytics
The explosion of mobile devices combined with increased internet coverage has contributed to big data. The interconnected nature of wireless devices facilitates data transmission, making up the big data. With big data, manufacturers can segment and dissect their operations and know which parts of any process go first. Knowing which parts are faster and easier to produce helps companies know where to focus their efforts, perhaps even concentrating on a few products for maximum productivity and efficiency.
CSIFLEX – Automate Manufacturing Portability and Predictability
CSIFLEX designs and manages a suite of applications that provide immense capabilities to manufacturers. With CSIFLEX, you optimize advanced human-machine interfaces, thus reshaping your manufacturing activities, operations, and undertakings. For instance, CSI/INSIGHT, a tool designed and owned by CSIFLEX, is helping manufacturers zero in on the root cause of issues by systematically analyzing manufacturing data. Another tool, CSI/CONNECT, is helping manufacturers eliminate silos by providing faster and more direct communication, improving collaborations, and powering productivity. With trusted providers like CSIFLEX, manufacturers are achieving great agility, scalability, portability, and predictability.
Contact CSIFLEX for Industry 4.0 manufacturing solutions.