Smaller companies stand to benefit most from the growth of automation in manufacturing concludes FANUC whose recent week-long Open House event attended by over 1,000 professionals revealed a number of emerging trends that the UK must embrace to deliver growth in 2022.
One of the key discussion points at the event was machine connectivity, or IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things). Manufacturer engagement with the technology is said to be increasing, which can can be attributed to a number of factors including improvements in IIoT that make it is more sophisticated and user-friendly for businesses.
FANUC UK Managing Director Tom Bouchier said: “IIoT has been around for a number of years, and we are now at a stage where the technology is powerful enough to make a real difference to operations, while at the same time being simple enough to use effectively. There is also an element of COVID and its associated challenges highlighting the power of intelligent use of data, in optimising processes and improving overall efficiency.
“It’s all about getting the most out of your factory, whether it is floor space and equipment, or ensuring your workforce is as productive as possible. This means automating labour-intensive, repetitive processes, and getting feedback from your machines to develop efficient, coherent processes. That’s where IIoT has a major role to play.”
The other key topic to emerge from the Open House was the potential opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises(SME’s). FANUC says conversations surrounding the barriers to automation repeatedly revealed that SMEs stood to gain the most from introducing it into their production lines. The compact nature of the latest automation technology, combined with the availability of turnkey systems, is said to open it up to operations of all sizes.
The macro-trend of customisation, whereby manufacturers are increasingly required to be flexible in their output in order to meet demands for bespoke / low-volume production runs, is also said position SMEs at the heart of industry growth, and illustrates the importance of ensuring funding is available for smaller businesses to realise their potential.
Tom added: “UK manufacturing has always been strong in delivering high-quality outputs at scale. This is something that will continue long into the future, and we’ve already touched upon the potential benefits these types of businesses will see through IIoT.
“However, it also became clear over the course of our Open House that there is massive room for growth amongst SMEs. The productivity gains associated with the implementation of automation – whether it’s an entire process or a more piecemeal approach – will significantly boost the outputs of a smaller manufacturing business.”
For more information, please visit: https://www.fanuc.eu/uk/en