Here are the top 10 industrial automation trends for 2023.
Improved industrial automation increases production efficiency, reduces costs, and streamlines procedures. For this reason, manufacturers use industrial automation. Startups further accelerate this process by offering ready-to-use, ready-to-integrate and scalable automation solutions. This article outlines the top 10 industrial automation trends for 2023. These include wearables, blockchain, advanced robotics, and artificial intelligence (AI). Read on to see how they can impact your business.
1. Artificial Intelligence: AI enables robots to learn, adapt and make decisions independently. Help manufacturers spot trends and anomalies in their assets, optimize yields and reduce downtime. AI-embedded industrial robots and drones are more accurate and help with tasks such as material handling, maintenance and inspection. The result is less need for human intervention and less chance of accidents. This allows AI to increase the efficiency of maintenance procedures and extend the life of equipment. To create these solutions, startups use machine learning (ML), deep learning, and computer vision.
2.IoT: All industrial machines and equipment need to be connected to collect and evaluate real-time data for industrial automation. This is made possible by IioT, enabling industry organizations to optimize production, reduce downtime, and enhance safety. Production managers can also monitor shop floor settings and conditions. In addition, IIoT-powered systems can alert staff members and operators to potential hazards, track staff member locations and health, and provide more effective emergency response. To bring data processing closer to the source, start-ups are also focusing on edge IoT and artificial intelligence of things (AIoT).
3. Modern robotics: In dangerous situations, robots can help reduce employee accidents and address labor shortages. Cobots, or collaborative robots, work with people and adapt to their environment. This allows you to perform a variety of tasks such as assembly, packaging, and equipment maintenance. These robots reduce labor costs and improve production line efficiency. In addition, start-ups are developing mobile robots that can navigate unstructured areas and robotic arms with improved dexterity and precision. As a result, such end-of-arm tools (EOATs) automate welding, picking, placement, and 3D printing operations. Self-healing robots are also less expensive to maintain.
4. Edge Computing: The need for real-time data processing and low-latency connectivity in industrial environments drives edge computing. Cloud-based solutions facilitate enterprise remote data access while reducing IT overhead. For industrial automation, therefore, factories combine edge and cloud computing. For example, cloud computing enables data analysis, storage, and access, while edge computing provides real-time monitoring and equipment control. Startups can help by providing platforms and devices that integrate into current equipment to enable edge and cloud computing, reducing the need for in-house product development.
5.VR and AR: Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) improve employee productivity and security. For example, VR helps train personnel by mimicking real-life situations, allowing them to train in a safe and regulated environment. In addition, immersive technology enables real-time information exchange, increasing employee productivity and reducing the rate of human error. Startups are developing AR software to support maintenance of industrial equipment and leveraging immersive reality technology to provide digital twins of factories and assets. Immersive technology can therefore help automate processes, increase worker security, increase productivity, and reduce downtime.
6. The demand for precise, accurate and complex part geometries requires expensive gears and slows down the production process. Additive manufacturing automates part creation and shortens product development and prototyping lead times. Additionally, 3D printing allows producers to design unique products and components. Minimize tooling costs and material waste. Therefore, start-ups are using cutting-edge 3D printing technologies and materials to improve printing speed and accuracy.
7. Digitization of industry requires automation of manufacturing workflows, which increases the risk of cyberattacks. This causes downtime, loss of personal information, and financial damage. Corporate cybersecurity becomes critical to protect production operations. These technologies protect industrial control systems (ICS) from unwanted access. In addition, cybersecurity solutions protect costly and reputation-damaging intellectual property (IP) and deter data breaches. AI-based cyber threat detection and comprehensive security options for IIoT systems are further options. Startups are also developing operational technology (OT) device security software solutions that are integrated into current systems.
8. 5G is embedded in the production floor, providing real-time communication and data processing with faster data rates, lower latency and more capacity. This is essential for industrial automation as it makes M2M communication more reliable. The result is a more productive and efficient workflow for making things. In addition, 5G will enable equipment management and remote monitoring. In addition, 5G will enable the integration of data-intensive technologies such as IIoT, AR, VR, and AI, enabling more efficient production systems. Entrepreneurs are developing hardware and software to implement his 5G networks and his 5G-powered devices in industrial environments.
9. Blockchain provides secure data exchange and decentralized communication between devices, people and organizations. The startup also offers smart contracts for tracking and authenticating goods along the supply chain, controlling and monitoring decentralized equipment, and managing the supply chain. This improves data access and sharing while automating stakeholder coordination and collaboration. Blockchain thus builds a transparent, secure and self-governing industrial ecosystem.
10. Industrial wearables collect worker-specific data and provide workers with real-time production insights. Thanks to smart glasses and gloves, they have direct access to information and instructions within their field of view (FOV). Hands-free workflow helps you get the job done faster and more accurately. Additionally, thanks to the data provided by wearables, organizations can identify inefficiencies and improve manufacturing procedures. Industrial automation start-ups are developing various wearable technologies. Examples include exoskeletons that help employees lift large objects and smart gear that monitors employee vital signs and work status.
