What are your thoughts on these trends? Let us know your thoughts on the current trends in the manufacturing industry!

Trends within the manufacturing industry are constantly evolving, here are a few examples of these trends:

· The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT): Industrial Internet of Things is interconnected devices, sensors and instruments used within manufacturing and industrial settings to collect data. This data is then used to enhance the manufacturing and industrial processes. IIoT devices are highly beneficial as they enable predictive maintenance, this technique is designed to determine the condition of equipment allowing an estimate when maintenance will be required.

· Supply Chain Disruptions: The disruptions that have occurred within the supply chain have led to shortages of goods, price inflation, factory closures and negative effects on economic well-being.

What is causing the supply chain disruptions? There have been shifts in demand, labour shortages and factory closures which emerged during the pandemic. The sectors affected include automotives, metals and mining, semiconductors, chemicals, and technology.

· Digital Twins: A digital twin is a dynamic virtual copy of a process, asset, environment, or system that is identical to its real counterpart. This allows for processes to be replicated so performance predictions can be made possible to prevent issues.

How does the digital twin drive value for the manufacturing industry? Digital Twins are a highly effective tool as they optimize manufacturing processes without wasting resources and time. The added value they provide for manufacturers in a variety of sectors are predicting quality in real time and allows for sustainability goals to be met as they eliminate the emissions from regular testing.

· Robotics: There has been an increase in the use of robotics within the manufacturing industry to enhance the work done by humans. For example, robotic exoskeletons that are used on production lines to lift heavier parts without compromising staff safety. Robots are used in the manufacturing industries due to the added value they provide, increase production, safety and achieving greater efficiencies.

What is the future of robotics in manufacturing? Having a high volume of robots used in the manufacturing will increase efficiency as they will perform tasks at a faster pace. Not all robots are being used to replace staff members but to assist them complete work more safely and efficiently.