The Future of Automation Equipment Manufacturing

Automation equipment manufacturing is evolving at a rapid pace. From the introduction of automation in factories to the automation of new processes, automation has changed the way manufacturers do business. It's changing not only how they integrate equipment into their operations but also how companies think about design and manufacturing overall.

Custom automation equipment not only allows producers to more easily meet the demands of their customers but also helps them reduce costs while increasing productivity and efficiency across their operations. 

The industry is constantly moving forward, and automation equipment manufacturers are playing a key role as they are in a unique position to create the kinds of solutions that will define tomorrow's factories.

But what does the future look like? What kinds of automation equipment manufacturing trends can we expect to see? And how will automation in factories evolve over the next few years?

Here are a few predictions based on what we're seeing today:

• INCREASE IN NUMBER OF FULLY AUTOMATED MANUFACTURING FACILITIES

It is clear that robotic automation will play a huge role in factory production lines over the next few years—with more and more factories heading toward complete automation. And with the rapid advancement of AI, automation will not only become more prevalent but also more dependable.

Advancements in automation equipment manufacturing will also help drive this automation trend forward as new solutions make integrating automation into factory production lines easier than ever. This trend is fuelled not only by new technologies becoming available but also by enhanced public awareness of automation and the advantages it offers.

• INCREASED ACCESSIBILITY TO ROBOT INTEGRATION FOR SMALLER COMPANIES

Robot integration is helping companies of all sizes expand their capabilities—enabling them to do more with less, while also making it easier for smaller players to compete in a tough market.

Automation equipment will become increasingly accessible, affordable, and easier to integrate for smaller players—helping them save money and increase productivity across multiple processes. This will also create a real competitive advantage for these businesses as they're able to meet demand while taking on larger competitors at lower costs.

• A RISE IN CUSTOM AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS AND PROTOTYPES

Custom automation equipment is helping producers stay ahead of the curve as it allows businesses of all sizes to stay competitive.

Custom design builds allow businesses to overcome difficulties and delays caused by the long lead times associated with traditional manufacturing, as well as helping them reduce costs without compromising quality or flexibility. While it has traditionally been the preserve of larger companies, custom automation solutions will become more and more affordable for smaller businesses.

Over the next few years, we can expect to see an increasing number of custom automation solutions and automation prototypes as the industry continues to mature and establish itself.

Automation equipment manufacturers are continually finding new ways to innovate, crafting automation solutions that will change the industry, resulting in custom automation solutions that are both high-tech and cost-effective.

• NEW JOB AND ADAPTED ROLES

Although many articles and news stories talk about automation as an impending threat to workers, automation also creates new opportunities for businesses and employees. While many human-focused jobs will phase out as automation takes root in manufacturing facilities, new roles will emerge for humans who can program and maintain automated machines. 

Manufacturers will need to adjust and adapt job titles as automation technologies change, and the workforce will be required to embrace and harness automation as it becomes an integral part of factory operations. Manufacturers will have to invest in their workforce so those workers can develop the skill sets necessary to work effectively alongside automation equipment and robots.

What is certain is that factory automation will continue to evolve as new technology becomes available and advanced robotics are developed, helping businesses across all industries become more efficient and productive.

• IMPROVED PRODUCTION SPEEDS 

The introduction of automation equipment has already seen massive reductions in production times on assembly lines and factory floors.

As automation continues its move up the exponential curve of technological progress, we will see increases in production speed. It is expected that automation will allow for unrivaled levels of production efficiency.

• SMARTER AND MORE AUTONOMOUS EQUIPMENT

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are used by automation equipment manufacturers to build autonomy into the production process. The combination of AI/ML technology with robotics opens up a whole new world for manufacturing businesses, allowing them to set goals and targets, as well as receive alerts when something goes wrong or needs attention in production.

Automation equipment will take data from the factory floor to make smart decisions that will streamline operations in real-time.

The future of automation equipment manufacturing is here, and it looks bright. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a variety of benefits that come with this advancing technology, including: 

• Higher efficiency rates on production lines

• Lower labor costs per unit produced

• Increased accuracy in product quality control 

All of this without compromising safety or work satisfaction for employees.