5 Digital Transformation Trends in the Factory for 2019
An article by Mark Gallant of PTC explores 5 Digital Transformation Trends in the Factory for 2019 including IIoT and Augmented Reality to bridge the skills gap. In manufacturing, there is an ever-present objective to get things done faster, cheaper, safer, while still meeting quality.
While that primary objective doesn’t change much year to year, how manufacturers are achieving this goal is evolving at a rapid pace. In 2019, industrial factories are leveraging an array of technology that’s emerging to support industrial manufacturers in their quest for digital transformation.
Digital transformation is the encompassing term for the implementation of these new technologies, systems, processes, and talent, and it’s enabling factories to innovate ahead of competitors and meet increasing customer demands.
The author goes on to explore five digital transformation trends PTC sees taking hold in the factory – and taking off – in 2019. These are only included in summary detail here but the full original article can be accessed on the PTC website.
- Use of IIoT and Augmented Reality to Bridge the Skills Gap
- Upskilling of Existing Workforce
- Implementation of Solutions that Create Flexibility & Agility
- Enablement of Real-Time Data and Insight
- Deep Dive into Asset Utilization
Section 1 includes the following details:
Augmented reality remote assistance: Workers can troubleshoot and receive real-time guidance from off-site experts to reduce asset downtime or potential errors.
Contextualized Digital Work Instructions: Workers use role/task-based 3D, augmented reality and/or mixed reality for more effective step-by-step to improve efficiency and product quality while bridging both IT & OT.
Digital shift handovers: Factories can improve safety and drive operational efficiency by capturing key data points and insights necessary for a smooth shift transition.
Real-time workforce performance monitoring: With IIoT-connected devices and software, manufacturers are beginning to harness real-time information that can be used to optimize workflows and processes, as well as make proactive business decisions.