Digital Manufacturing – A Rapidly Evolving Field
Virtual Twins and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) are rapidly evolving with new trends. According to Gartner, some of the top digital transformation trends in manufacturing in the following years include artificial intelligence (AI) for greater efficiency, robotized CNC machining to accelerate the manufacturing process, the digital twin to bridge the gap between data and actionable insights, and augmented reality for faster and more efficient maintenance services.
Manufacturing industries today face severe talent and labor crises as well as struggle with knowledge capturing and skill development for key personnel. In addition, advanced CNC machining is critical for agility and flexibility in manufacturing to meet customer demands. While these are challenges to some, they also present tremendous opportunities for companies to create value for their customers.
Here are the 5 main CNC machining trends we have observed:
- New product development edges towards more axes for greater cost-savings and more advanced software that can handle more complex geometries.
The concept of new product development has been trending towards incorporating more axes, which allows for a greater level of complexity in the designs that can be achieved. Additionally, the use of advanced software has become increasingly prevalent, providing manufacturers with even more tools to create intricate geometries and save on costs. By adopting these techniques, companies can stay ahead in the competitive market while improving their bottom lines.
- Continued focus to drive faster production to market, reduced machining time and increased machining tool lifespan.
In order to achieve faster production and increased tool lifespan, companies may explore various options such as improving their machining processes, using advanced technologies such as automated tool changers, and implementing predictive maintenance strategies. Additionally, the use of high-performance cutting tools and materials may also help to reduce machining time and improve the overall efficiency of production.
Companies may also invest in employee training and development programs to ensure that their workforce is up-to-date on the latest machining techniques and technologies. This can help to improve the overall performance and effectiveness of the manufacturing process, while also fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
Ultimately, by focusing on faster production and increased tool lifespan, companies can remain competitive in today’s fast-paced manufacturing environment, while also reducing costs and improving overall efficiency.
- Wider adoption of integrated technologies which removes silos and speeds up the manufacturing processes
Using different programs to execute different phases of the manufacturing processes has been necessary in the past. More companies especially in discrete manufacturing are moving towards integrated technologies where design, manufacturing, and iterations all happen seamlessly in one environment.
This practice creates a drastic increase of synergies across departments – and allows for fast implementation of changes. Designs or customer service levels that were unimaginable in the past are now made a reality.
- Cloud-based machining software solutions are becoming increasingly popular for numerous benefits such as increased productivity, improved accessibility, and boosted data safety and security.
As the demand for faster turnaround times and reduced costs increases, manufacturers are turning to cloud-based machining software solutions to improve their overall efficiencies. One major benefit of cloud-based solutions is the ability to access machining software from anywhere, at any time. This means that machining jobs can be initiated, managed, and monitored from anywhere, which helps to increase productivity and reduce downtime. It also allows for better team collaboration. Overall, cloud-based machining software solutions offer numerous benefits that make them an attractive solution for manufacturers looking to improve their efficiencies and competitiveness in an increasingly demanding market.
- New software capabilities emerge to address new challenges such as talent crunch and labor crisis. For example, machining software needs to help retain complex machining knowledge.
The manufacturing industry faces a serious talent crunch and labor crisis. A growing number of companies are adopting new machining software capabilities that can help retain complex machining knowledge. For instance, the software can be designed to learn from expert machinists and replicate their techniques and strategies. This can help address the shortage of skilled workers and ensure that the knowledge and expertise of experienced machinists is preserved and distributed.
Machining programs can also optimize the use of resources and materials, reducing waste and maximizing productivity. This can help companies improve their efficiency and profitability, while also creating a more sustainable manufacturing process.
How does your company plan to respond to these trends to your competitive advantage? It can be a daunting task to navigate the new waters. Learn more how you can capitalize on these trends (instead of fall behind). Read “Unlock the Full Potential of CNC Machining.”
For additional information, listen to our DELMIA podcast on How to Excel Seamlessly in a Wide Range of Machining Operations.
DELMIA Senior Offer Marketing and Business Development Manager