In 1760, society entered a new era with the First Industrial Revolution. From there, the world has changed dramatically, with new possibilities never imagined before. It happened again with the Second Industrial Revolution. It allowed for mass production at the start of the 20th Century.
The next Century introduced even better process optimisation with the Information Age. This period is often referred to as the Third Industrial Revolution. According to the World Economic Forum, new technologies were integrated into manufacturing tools. Companies such as topautomazioni promise to let the world enter a Fourth Revolution of the sort. Here are some of the technologies that could help achieve it.
Current Manufacturing Challenges to Solve
Recent events have proved that the global manufacturing chain can break in a snap. The most eloquent example is the automotive industry. Cars couldn’t be sold for various reasons, including manufacturers’ inability to import microchips. The repercussions are still felt, with vehicle prices dropping in 2024.
In other words, geopolitical issues can still greatly affect production. It can put all cogs to a halt in a matter of days. Supply chain disruption is one of the biggest challenges manufacturers can face. It can result in losing millions of dollars or closing businesses.
The second challenge is recruiting people to work in the factories. Despite automation technologies advancing at light speed, labour is still needed. By 2030, manufacturers will have to find 4 million workers to ensure smooth operations.
Manufacturing implies dangerous work environments. Thus, there’s a third challenge: securing the workplace. There are already countless rules and regulations in place. Yet, the danger is unavoidable due to the current tools workers use. Furthermore, many facilities have outdated technologies. There’s a severe need to include the latest safety technologies.
Potential Solutions to Evolve Manufacturing
Current innovations can solve the challenges presented above. Here are some technologies with the potential to bring manufacturing to a new era.
1. Harnessing the Power of Web3
Companies now have powerful software tools at their disposal. They can use Web3 to ensure the supply chain isn’t broken. Plus, they can use blockchain-based solutions to ensure tracking of the goods all the way. This can help reduce delivery times or loss of items. Furthermore, this could allow to speed up the customs clearance process. It’s usually what makes delivering so challenging.
By using smart contracts, manufacturers can automate more processes and cut intermediaries. This can help make the entire operation more efficient and cost-effective. Blockchain networks offer a public, inalterable ledger. It guarantees transparency for both sides of a transaction.
Since the environment is a central problem, companies now have to respect stricter regulations. Using blockchain, AI, and other Web3 technologies can help with the transition.
There are already examples like Shell working with Accenture and Amex on a blockchain-based chain of custody system. This system makes sustainable aviation fuel more easily accessible. It could be used for other types of energy that speed up climate change and help reduce companies’ reliance on them.
2. Meeting Increasing Needs With AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) has been the talk of the town and for good reasons. What’s accessible to the public with chatbots and video generators is just the tip of the iceberg. There’s the possibility of handling more data than ever.
Data accuracy is critical for better results. So, analytic AI can be trained and used to optimise the production process by treating data relative to the company. This can help reduce waste and get the best production line possible. Thus helping companies save money and produce more with quicker results. It can constantly analyse and update its propositions. The purpose can be to assist with inventory management by anticipating demand patterns.
Generative AI can create new and unique designs. At the moment, it still requires some refinement by an expert. Over time, it could become the best way to make new products. AI can take all the variables into account. From the problem, the object solves faults in other similar products to perfect-produced goods.
3. Improving Cybersecurity
Everything is connected all the time. So, there’s a dire need for increased cybersecurity. It’s a challenge everywhere, especially in manufacturing. The recent CrowdStrike-Microsoft outage is a prime example. Companies can face severe economic consequences if production comes to a halt due to a cyberattack. Not only does it impact production, but it also damages brand image. It’s something no one can afford in such a competitive period.
Whether the company still uses legacy systems or is entirely into the new era of technologies, securing access to sensitive information and critical systems is essential. Several security layers are required. This includes multifactor authentication, regular password generation, and improved firewalls.
More important than technology, preventing cyberattacks also requires awareness. Most of the security breaches come from human mistakes. Clicking a phishing link or downloading virus-ridden files inadvertently is far too common. So, companies must educate their employees with sensitive data access on how to navigate the internet while on the job.
4. Closer Collaboration with Governments
The industrial crisis caused by global events highlights the fragility of globalised supply chains. Geopolitical tensions, climate change, and other significant and unpredictable global events can impact manufacturers. That’s why Francisco Betti, Head of Global Industries at the WEE (World Economic Forum), discusses closer collaboration between companies and governments.
Among the ideas he shares, there’s the need to upscale production, make the job more appealing to new generations and upskill the tasks. In other words, there’s a need to make the next generation of workers more tech-savvy.
It’s Not About Replacing Human Workforce
It’s easy to think that new technologies like AI will replace the workforce. Yet, the opposite is likely to happen. These new technologies are tools. They’re here to help workers perform even better with fewer risks and less stress.
Nonetheless, the industry is shifting. So, tomorrow’s workers will have to be more skilled. Thankfully, specialisation comes with more benefits. As employees acquire more skills they can expect improved salaries, perks and labour.
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