Manufacturing technology is a term that can refer to a number of modern methods of science, production, and engineering that assist in industrial production and various manufacturing processes.
There are many modern manufacturing technologies, most of them specifically relevant to ‘Industry 4.0’, the name given to the fourth industrial revolution, associated with automation, data exchange, digital technology, artificial intelligence and machine learning, and the ‘Internet of Things’. Therefore, a lot of the manufacturing technologies innovating production and industry are also relevant to this fourth wave of technological advancement.
Smart Factories
Smart factories are environments that are highly digitised for manufacturing to take place more efficiently through connected systems. Through innovative manufacturing technology, machines and systems can, through automation and self-optimisation, learn and adapt to situations with increased productivity. Facilities in France, Ireland, China, and the Czech Republic were named the most productive and powerful smart factories in the world by the World Economic Forum in 2019. Able to produce goods on a large scale, smart factories are useful not just for manufacturing jobs but also for processes like planning, supply chain logistics, and product development.
Cyber-Physical Systems
Cyber-physical systems are those which integrate computer, networking, and physical processes, in which embedded computing technologies control and monitor processes in real time. The combination of cyber and physical industries is crucial to this manufacturing technology; the computer system monitors the process and identifies areas where change is required, and the physical system reacts accordingly. Cyber-physical systems are often considered one of the main advancements of Industry 4.0.
Additive Manufacturing
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a computer controlled process in which three-dimensional objects can be created by materials deposited in layers. Using computer aided design (CAD) or 3D object scanners, components, parts, or any other object can be made without the use of machining or any other techniques, and therefore less surplus material.
Big Data
Today data is collected constantly in systems, sensors, and commonplace electronic items like mobile devices, and the amount of data to be stored is growing every day. ‘Big data’, a collection of global data from various sources, can be a useful component in manufacturing technology. Industry is in the process of developing methods to interpret and analyse data to use in production. These potential productive uses include risk management, manufacturing products to a customer’s specific tastes or order, improving quality, tracking production, and logistics, amongst others.
Augmented Reality
Augmented reality (AR) technology displays digital content in the real world, allowing visualisation of products or superimposing data or plans onto physical components and machinery. In manufacturing, AR could be used to overlay text, statistics, such as showing the running temperate of a piece of equipment without touching it, or virtual health and safety training without requiring an individual to involve themselves in something potentially harmful. Augmented reality glasses are predicted to reach around 19.1 million units by 2021, and when combined with virtual reality devices, could hit 59.2 million units.
Numerical Control
Machining tools or items used in manufacture, such as 3D printers, can be regulated and controlled remotely using CNC – computer numerical control. A CNC machine processes a piece of material to key specifications, following a coded programmed instruction and without the need for a manual operator. Modern CNC systems, through high tech computer programming, allows the design and manufacture of a mechanical part to be highly automated. Processes like laser cutting and additive manufacturing rely on numerical control to efficiently and remotely create products.
FAQs
(10) The term “manufacturing technology” means techniques and processes designed to improve manufacturing quality, productivity, and practices, including quality control, shop floor management, inventory management, and worker training, as well as manufacturing equipment and software.
What is the manufacturing short answer? ›
Manufacturing is defined as the creation of new products, either from raw materials or components. Examples of manufacturing include automotive companies, bakeries, shoemakers and tailors, as they all create products, rather than providing services.
What is an example of manufacturing technology? ›
Numerical Control. Machining tools or items used in manufacture, such as 3D printers, can be regulated and controlled remotely using CNC – computer numerical control. A CNC machine processes a piece of material to key specifications, following a coded programmed instruction and without the need for a manual operator.
What do manufacturing technologies do? ›
As a general definition, manufacturing technology describes the application of tools and processes — developed through scientific, industrial and engineering advances — to improve the efficiency, quality and productivity of operations.
What is manufacturing in own words? ›
Manufacturing is the process of turning raw materials or parts into finished goods through the use of tools, human labor, machinery, and chemical processing. Most products were handmade using human labor and basic tools before the Industrial Revolution.
What is the role of manufacturing technology? ›
Improves Quality Control. Manufacturing technology reduces costs and improves quality. Automation can optimize schedules to minimize defects and inefficiencies, leading to better-quality products. Manufacturing technology expedites production, allowing more batches to be made in less time with consistent results.
What is manufacturing in one sentence? ›
A manufacturing company converts raw materials into finished goods. Manufacturing is the business of making things in factories.
What is manufacturing in one word? ›
Manufacturing means "making" or "building," but it's most often used to refer to an automated process of putting something together from parts. For example, your uncle might work in automobile manufacturing — in other words, at a car factory.
What are 3 main types of manufacturing? ›
Three key types of manufacturing are make to stock (MTS), make to order (MTO) and make to assemble (MTA). Manufacturing systems are tailored to different product volumes and customer requirements, from systems for custom small-batch products to fully automated, high-volume factories.
What is the subject of manufacturing technology? ›
Candidates opting for the B. Tech in Manufacturing Technology have wide applications in various fields like casting, metal cutting, tool design, metrology, machine tools, quality control, and mechatronics. Those who have 10+2 with PCM are eligible to apply for B Tech in Manufacturing Technology.
Reduce costs: Technology can operate with better efficiency, less waste, and fewer workers, creating long-term cost savings. Decrease production time: Manufacturing technology expedites the production process, so more batches can be made more quickly.
What is production technology? ›
Production technology is defined as the technology utilized to manufacture a product. As a result, it is viewed as a system for scheduling products production and controlling stocks in order to reduce costs. Businesses in the manufacturing industry use it to discover production constraints.
Why do we need manufacturing technology? ›
These technologies range from automation and robotics to big data and the Internet of Things (IoT), all of which can profoundly impact the manufacturing industry. By implementing these cutting-edge tools, businesses can reduce costs, enhance product quality, and keep up with evolving consumer demands.
What are the benefits of technology in manufacturing? ›
Advantages of investing in manufacturing technologies
These technologies can: increase the efficiency of your business systems. streamline your relationships with suppliers and customers. increase the speed, flexibility and efficiency of the production process.
What is the future of manufacturing technology? ›
Many emerging tools have the potential to revolutionize the manufacturing industry changing both how products are produced and how manufacturing companies operate. Advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and predictive analytics are already helping manufacturers create high-quality products quickly.
What does a manufacturing technician do? ›
They inspect and test finished products for flaws. If flaws or failures arise, they notify the appropriate staff and help determine the cause of the problem. Manufacturing Technicians also help improve manufacturing processes and schedules to meet customer requirements.
What is manufacturing technology how IT is classified? ›
Manufacturing processes can be classified into various types based on the methods used, such as casting, forging, machining, welding, and assembly, among others. The choice of manufacturing process depends on various factors, including the nature of the product, required tolerances, production volume, and cost.
