This article explains the smart manufacturing concept through definitions commonly used in industry. Older but still relevant article by Dr. Ananth Seshan.
The common notion about smart manufacturing is that it involves the application of digital technologies, such as the Internet of Things, wireless networking, artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, augmented reality, cloud computing, etc. While this may not be factually incorrect, smart manufacturing is not just about implementing digital technologies. The technologies are simply enablers. This article explains the smart manufacturing concept through definitions commonly used in industry.
The article covers these topics:
- Definition of smart manufacturing
- What is intelligence?
- Real-time orchestration
- Synchronization of physical and digital processes
- Integration of the entire value chain
The combination of all of the above, enabled by smart technologies such as the Internet, WiFi, bluetooth, AI, augmented reality, simulation, big data, etc., allows continuous optimization of manufacturing performance (such as maximizing productivity and quality while minimizing costs), improvement in the return on assets, and thus a better competitive advantage and increased market share. Good read!
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