NEWS
Integrated – Industry 4.0 is transforming the manufacturing and processing sectors
evaluating critical parameters is paramount and displaying the data in intuitive dashboards enables you to make quick and informed decisions .”
Data analysts at ITS can help companies understand their data , the relationships between the variables and , most importantly , they can provide insights into the impact of the variables on performance . Working collaboratively will ensure that you are collecting and visualising the most valuable data to deliver competitive advantage .
The data captured also contributes to predictive and preventative maintenance schedules by identifying issues before they occur . Using data , you can understand what is happening , but more importantly , it enables you to be proactive and to predict what is going to happen in the future . This prevents potential process issues and , in turn , increases uptime and reduces costs for manufacturing and processing activities .
Digital Twins The benefits a digital twin can offer are being realised throughout all areas of manufacturing processes and facilities . Digital twins are 3D virtual representations of production processes and used to verify process steps , designs , layouts , and equipment operation . By simulating a process in a software environment prior to equipment order , you can understand and assess the impact of design changes , monitor operating conditions and analyse real-time performance . This reduces risk by ensuring that the process will meet current and future production demands . And once the design is complete , the 3D simulation won ’ t go to waste as it can be used as a training aid and to assess future changes and enhancements .
Enhanced Automation In recent years , the life sciences sector has accelerated its adoption of Industry 4.0 , including enhanced automation and advanced technology , to increase agility , speed to market , quality and production efficiency . While the average time for a new drug to be developed is normally 10 years , the UK pharmaceutical sector has demonstrated that it is possible to develop , test and manufacture a new vaccine in less than a year and it ’ s the hard work of scientists , as well as advances in automation and technology , that have made these achievements possible .
Trina explains : “ As a life sciences key account manager at ITS , I am extremely proud of the UK ’ s innovation and performance in the response to the pandemic . I am also delighted that ITS has played an important role in helping companies enhance their automation to escalate vaccine production , resulting in lives being saved worldwide .”
The use of collaborative robots ( cobots ), designed to work alongside people , is making automation easier and more achievable for businesses of all sizes . Cobots are flexible , lightweight and can be used to perform multiple mundane applications without having to change production layouts . You can easily move cobots to new processes and use automation for small batch runs with frequent line changes . By using cobots to perform dull , time-consuming and monotonous jobs , the risk of repetitive
strain injury reduces and you can transfer your operators to perform more attractive , meaningful and valuable tasks .
Autonomous mobile robots ( AMRs ) are being adopted by manufacturers to optimise internal logistics , automate repetitive material transportation , improve safety through the removal of forklift trucks and increase productivity . The flexibility of the AMRs enables you to adapt easily to changing market requirements , new products and different transportation routes .
Cyber Security With threats , attacks and average cybercrime costs increasing year on year , cyber security is a major focus to protect critical OT and IT assets and processes . Identifying vulnerabilities through security detection systems and the ongoing monitoring and management of cyber security threats across global facilities is a priority to protect networks , devices and data which are critical to your organisation .
An Industry 4.0 Journey with ITS Not sure where to start ? By involving ITS early in your journey , our team will work closely with you , listen to your needs , and offer advice through every step of your project . An Industry 4.0 package will be tailored to your needs , from the delivery of requirements-gathering workshops , concept designs , creation of digital twins and optioneering through to the integration of automation solutions and complementary services , ITS will be committed to ensuring your Industry 4.0 project is a success .
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