What are the manufacturing trends of the future?
Here at Brunel University of London, we take our role in the manufacturing industry seriously. We’re proud of the research that our academics have taken part in as well as our partnerships with some of the leading manufacturing companies of the last few decades. To see some of these industry partnerships, visit this page here.
Our experts have recently been involved in projects such as developing sustainable bioplastic films for agricultural use, decontamination of urban soils, challenges in the lifecycle of offshore installations, and more projects that address the leading-edge topics of the manufacturing industry. Some of our most notable partners include Jaguar Land Rover, the National Aerospace Technology Programme, the European Commission, Caterpillar Inc., and many more.
You can also browse the catalog of recent and current research projects that some of our faculty and students have been involved in here.
As we look toward the future of manufacturing, let’s dive into some of the top manufacturing trends in the industry.
What is manufacturing?
Throughout history, people have developed various ways to take raw materials and create goods on a large scale through the use of tools, human labor, machinery, and chemical processing. As technology evolves, so does the way we produce goods and the ways in which manufacturing companies operate.
What are emerging trends in manufacturing?
#1: The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)
What is IIot? The Industrial Internet of Things allows interconnected devices to collect data and share it with one another. These devices are used in manufacturing and industrial settings to enhance the manufacturing process. Some of the devices can be cameras, sensors, applications, and other networking equipment.
#2: 5G and edge computing
For technology in manufacturing to connect the IIoT, we’ve seen an increase in the use of fifth generation of mobile data network technology also known as 5G. Smart machines and sensors are considered edge computing and manufacturers can create a private 5G network on-site to enable rapid data speeds. This aids in securing data and reduces the need for cables and other bulky equipment.
#3: Advanced automation and robotics
One of the most prevalent manufacturing industry trends is the use of automation and robotics. Machines are increasingly able to perform certain tasks that were previously done by humans. The use of automation and robots allows for higher productivity, greater accuracy, and lower costs.
#4: Sustainable manufacturing practices
In recent years, there has been an increased focus on sustainability within manufacturing. While sustainability can mean a variety of things, for manufacturing this is mainly about pursuing carbon-neutral practices. Manufacturing can contribute to environmental and health effects like water, air, and noise pollution. According to Our World in Data, energy use accounts for 24% of global greenhouse gas emissions with an additional 5% from industrial sources. Ultimately, reducing energy and water usage in facilities can lead to healthier populations, environments, and even significant cost savings.
#5: Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR)
Since the global COVID-19 pandemic, Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality have become more prevalent in the manufacturing sector. These processes enable remote monitoring, servicing and equipment operation. This allows the operator of these machines to do so without needing to actually be at the factory.
#6: Cyber security
The downside to companies adopting IIoT technologies is that they are opening themselves up to cyber security vulnerabilities. Cyber security in manufacturing has become a growing segment of the industry as the need increases for companies to protect their network and operations.
#7: Predictive maintenance
If you’re a prospective manufacturing employee, you’ve probably come across this term. But what is predictive maintenance? As we’ve already stated, sensors and artificial intelligence are now a major aspect of manufacture technology, and these largely contribute to detecting failure patterns in machinery and components. Instead of fixing a problem that has already arisen, these technologies are used to figure out the most likely scenario for machinery failure. This allows companies to take preventative action and efficiently maintain equipment.
Still have questions about manufacturing? Here are some of our most commonly asked questions:
For better or worse, automation is revolutionising the manufacturing industry by replacing the need for humans to work in specific areas of a factory. The “new normal” has contributed to business agility, worker safety, and connectivity in the IIoT, solving manufacturing problems, as well as creating unprecedented opportunities for manufacturing.
Additive manufacturing, which is another term for 3D printing, has become a hot topic in the manufacturing industry over the past decade. It is becoming more cost-effective, efficient, and scalable, which allows manufactureres to increasingly be able to make products using these methods. In addition to these benefits, it can help innovation by allowing quick prototyping and personalisation.
The major sustainable practice is carbon-neutralisation. Some companies are focusing on decarbonising their products, while some are looking to utilise carbon (taking it from the air) to create their products in place of water or other heavily-used raw material. Additionally, manufacturers are attempting to create processes which heavily decrease the use of fossil fuels and the creation of vast amounts of waste.
Cyber security is needed to protect companies from a number of ransomware attacks which can shut down factory processes, share patented products, or more. Certain companies who focus on cybersecurity are beginning to offer services and products for manufacturers to protect their networks.
It can be a challenge for manufacturing facilities to adopt smart factories. Older equipment is being phased out for newer machines with onboard sensors and monitoring tools. These newer machines can be more efficient in the long run with predictive maintenance and learning through the IIoT. While it can be expensive and laborous to replace old technology with the new, the implementation of smart technology will ultimately help companies keep up with competitors who have already implemented these various trends.
To learn more about Brunel’s online Advanced Manufacturing Systems MSc, be sure to check out our Advanced Manufacturing Systems MSc online page to find out how you can earn your postgraduate degree from the convenience of any location within a flexible timetable.
Our online academics have recently put together a webinar detailing these programmes, which you can watch here: Benefits of Brunel’s Master’s in Engineering Management and Advanced Manufacturing Systems. You can also find out more information about the advantages of studying online with Brunel by visiting: What is Online Learning | Brunel University of London.
If you have any questions about online learning or the application process, feel free to contact our educational advisors for more information at (+44) 203 535 1404, or email us at study@online.brunel.ac.uk.