Those who seek solutions and alternatives for the productivity of their factory in times of crisis find benefits in new technologies, covering needs such as high production demand, labor shortages, delivery periods, etc.
Machine tools make it possible to produce interchangeable components at low cost for use in anything
For the years to come it is expected that advances related to the concept of automation such as hardware and software research will allow the machine tool industry to experience developments in the following areas.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): The use of AI to program machines will grow, especially in large-scale industrial settings. In the case of machine tools, AI can be used to track the programs used by the machine to cut bits, ensuring that they do not deviate from requirements. For example, software was recently created that can diagnose ball screw wear, which was previously done manually.
Enhancements in CNC software: Advances in computer-aided manufacturing software, which is used in CNC machining, allow for much greater precision in manufacturing. Machinists can also use digital twinning, which is the method of simulating a physical entity or process in the digital universe, using CAM technology. Digital models of the manufacturing process can be run until a component is physically assembled. This saves costs by avoiding the use of products and man-hours that should have been used to develop the production process.
Smart Grid and Function Inclusion: Advances in network infrastructure have made connecting smart devices and building local networks easier than ever.
SPE, which can transmit power and data at the same time, is suitable for connecting smart sensors and network devices to the most powerful computers that power industrial networks. As a consequence, SPE is a logical choice for developing smart grids in factory and warehouse environments where current generation WiFi might not be suitable.
WiFi is also becoming more capable. The IEEE is now designing new WiFi protocols that will use 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz wireless frequencies, improving power and coverage beyond what existing networks are capable of.
Automated and IoT-ready machines: If the industry embraces more new technology, we may see the development of more robots equipped for robotics and the industrial Internet of things. As technology advances, smart machine tools and robotics will undoubtedly perform a higher percentage of jobs in industrial settings. If more Internet-connected devices proliferate in the manufacturing plant, cybersecurity will become a bigger problem.
A market report by MarketsandMarkets pegs industry growth at $ 87.4 billion by 2027. The use of AI-guided machine tools and advanced software would make automation easier and more efficient.