Changes in wake of Industry 4.0

The manufacturing industry is a prime step in the process of developing the ultimate commodities, harmonizing the process of trade and providing a positive trajectory to the economy. It is crucial to ensure the efficiency of the top order in this industry to assist other sections of the economy. Due to pertaining restraints, the industry is having a hard time to keep their overall productivity level up to speed with the pace of growth. This is causing hindrance in the process of accomplishing objectives. Smarter solutions are required to be implemented in the regular activities of manufacturing and for developing all kinds of products. As we usher in Industry 4.0, cyber-physical manufacturing systems based on artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) and data computing will be the next big change in the industry.

Establishing machine and product relation

Productivity efficiency has been so far established through comprehensive planning for execution and synchronising the functioning of man and the machine. Eliminating inefficiency, the new cyber-physical systems will aim to develop a synchronised and cognitive relationship between the machines and the products these machines will produce.

Using sensors, actuators and other digital communication systems, a product will be able to communicate with the different sections of machinery in the production line autonomously and instruct about the manner in which it has to be produced.

With the help of AI, the machine and the product will also be able to control each other’s actions, simultaneously. This will ensure faster production while ensuring accuracy.

These systems will also be able to predict potential issues in the process at a prior basis. They will also be able specifically to identify and solve these issues before they cause a delay. This ensures efficiency all the time, through continuous analysis.

Edge computing and faster production

Cyber-physical systems produce and transfer a humongous amount of data, simultaneously and comprehensively. It is processed by computing systems to assist their functioning and scrutinising operations. Using cloud-based computing systems takes a significant amount of time to process data, causing latency and curbing productivity. Hence, a requirement for an edge computing system arises.

An edge computing system means placing another cloud in between the network. It is placed in a location close to where the data is produced, making it more accessible to process or to go through it, if required.

Edge computing systems ensure simultaneous and fast-tracking of data from IoT systems and help in processing it in real-time through faster computation. This eradicates the issue of latency and achieves efficiency in scrutinising and solving hurdles.

This data collection and processing system will assist AI and RPA systems in managing the data they generate in a swifter process. This will ultimately enhance the pace of productivity. This combination of analytics, cognitive computing, and IoT systems will be able to completely change the landscape of the manufacturing sector. It also promises to have the potential to increase global productivity by 25% by the end of 2025.

By Vaibhav Arora, Correspondent, Cybermedia