There are several emerging technologies that look set to enable manufacturers in developed markets to remain competitive:
- Additive manufacturing is on the cusp of being able to demonstrate its applicability for scale deployment.
- Generative design promises to reduce wastage, speed design processes, and revolutionize material usage.
- Virtualization, visualization, and digital twins are set to reduce machine downtime and machine commissioning time as well as improve the efficiency of all aspects of part and product manufacturing, from start to end.
- Cobots and autonomous material handling robots are set to enable a more efficient and zero touch environment that, not only optimizes the shop floor but also extends beyond the line to both ends of the process in the warehouse and eventually into the logistics supply chain.
- AI (Artificial Intelligence), sensorization, connectivity, and IoT (Internet of Things) will be key to optimizing productivity. However, they are currently being held back by conservative attitudes toward data management and connecting machines. This will change as the market pressure mounts.
Download this whitepaper, “The Next American Industrial Revolution: Key Takeaways from IMTS 2018 and Hannover Messe USA – 4 Brief Reads for Visionaries,” that ABI Research discovered firsthand during the IMTS (International Manufacturing Trade Show) and Hannover Messe USA conferences.
