Components of Digital Manufacturing are the applications and uses of computer systems to different aspects of advanced manufacturing such as supply chains, products, and processes. The technology of digital manufacturing links processes and systems across each area of production to create an integrated approach to manufacturing. Digital manufacturing connects physical machines, data, and humans to help change the manufacturing process from mass production and standardization to mass customization.
Today, the digitization of all the production stages of manufacturing drives a fourth industrial revolution, otherwise known as Industry 4.0. Software tools can allow for designers and consumers to create digital versions of their products and digitally transform facilities into smart factories. These products and manufacturing technologies can be tested in virtual reality and in real time and their parts can be globally sourced electronically using a cloud service.
There are many benefits to digital manufacturing systems. It merges complicated manufacturing processes across different departments while eliminating paper processes that can contain errors and repeat information. This increases efficiency using an automated data exchange. Another way efficiency is increased is the overall faster pace of innovation that comes with using digital manufacturing.
Moreover, digital tools and digital manufacturing can save a company money in a variety of ways. It can help avoid the aforementioned errors that are more prevalent in paper processes and any possible issues caused by said errors, as well as possibly lowering the cost of production and maintenance.
Digital manufacturing is becoming more viable because of industry Internet of Things (IIoT) and its further advancements. Examples of IIoT technologies include: 5G, robotics, additive manufacturing, and predicative data. These technologies have helped to support digital manufacturing because IIoT technologies allow for communication and collaboration that is more accurate, detailed, and efficient between different aspects of manufacturing than traditional manufacturing previously allowed.
Digital manufacturing is the future. The way companies and people utilize information is dramatically transforming. Due to global competition, there is pressure on manufacturers to be innovative while accruing additional revenue streams as well as stand out against their competitors.
To learn more about the components of digital manufacturing, attend the Smart Manufacturing Experience.