Four cutting-edge technologies that are revolutionising industry

IoT provides opportunities to place connected sensors into an industrial environment that can sense everything from temperatures to the location of equipment to the tiniest of vibrations. When brought together, the data produced by sensors provides essential insights that lead to improved safety, reduced environmental impact, increased efficiency and more. With effective analysis, manufacturers can drive continual improvement, while also carrying out real-time monitoring.

For example, a sensor might spot irregular vibrations in a specific piece of equipment that can then be replaced quickly within an hour, before it causes damage that will be far more disruptive and costly to repair.

Using AI to analyse huge amounts of structured and unstructured data that comes from sensors and other inputs can also unlock value for manufacturers. Detecting patterns and trends that would otherwise remain hidden, can reveal the need for real-time action, as well as suggest longer-term improvements. Machine learning can also help optimise certain tasks in areas such as inventory and demand management, keeping production aligned with supply chain conditions.

A range of 4.0 technologies including AI, 5G and high-speed mobile data networks are combining to power a new generation of intelligent robots that deliver new possibilities. This even includes human-machine collaboration where robots can effectively be shown how to carry out a task and then perform it. While this has a whiff of science fiction about it, these robots are having a real-world impact. They replicate some tasks more consistently, accurately and rapidly than human counterparts.

Another area of evolution is the development of autonomous mobile robots (AMR). Up to now, automatic guided vehicles (AGVs) have performed logistic and transport tasks around the factory, but they can’t make complex decisions and need markings or an operator to guide them. AMRs are more advanced as they can use AI and data from sensors in order to move more safely around the factory with less intervention. Additionally, they can also be controlled remotely when required.

The underlying connectivity of 5G and high computational power is also enabling more co-ordination between machines themselves, for example alerting each other of issues in real-time to support more efficient automation. Connectivity is also enabling collaborative robots or “cobots” that can react to changes in the environment, ensuring safer interaction between machine and human, as well as optimising processes to raise productivity.

Drones are another example of autonomous robots that are having a striking impact in factories. They can support surveillance tasks, for example supporting security around the factory perimeter within minimal human intervention.

When drones are used in the right way and in conjunction with AI, 5G and high-speed data transmission, they prove to be highly valuable. Not only do they drive overall efficiency, but also support health and safety by performing dangerous tasks that previously had to be carried out by humans.

Going forwards, drones are likely to play an even bigger role, for example in transporting and distributing goods, both within the industrial environment but even outside to warehouses and even customers.