Did you know that the global industrial automation market is set to reach 265 billion USD by 2025? Electronics manufacturing automation, in particular, is projected to lead transformation trends — automation is both changing the landscape of electronics production and pushing the boundaries of what is possible and profitable.
With electronics automation undeniably on the rise, it’s imperative to understand why so many companies have chosen to invest in automated machinery and consider if such an investment may be the right move for your company. This article will give you an overview of the state of electronics automation in 2022 and what that means for electronics manufacturers worldwide.
How Has Electronics Automation Advanced in Recent Years?
Electronics automation has advanced rapidly over the last decade. In addition to the invention and adoption of brand-new technologies, existing technologies are constantly being refined and improved to be more cost-effective.
For example, nanomanufacturing is now able to manufacture material on a molecular level. This futuristic technology is expected to lead to higher efficiency batteries, transistors, semiconductors, and solar cells.
Further developments in electronics automation have led to the utilization of industrial robots fitted with more sophisticated measurement, sensing, and process control transmitters for delicate work and improved data tracking abilities. There are also more and more 24-hour manufacturing machines, which can perform repeatable actions without a need for breaks.
Aside from refinements, new types of automation have become increasingly practical in recent years. Perhaps most notably, the rise of 3D printing. Previously 3D printers were too large and too slow to be useful, but newer machines have made giant leaps forward and are creating novel supply chain and retail opportunities.
What is Electronics Automation in Manufacturing Used For?
Automating electronics manufacturing means increased flexibility, higher efficiency, lower costs, better safety practices, and higher outputs for manufacturers. Due to the increased miniaturization of electronics, we are also reaching a point where humans simply cannot construct and test components with the speed and precision necessary for mass production. Automation is the only way to stay competitive in 2022.
A common concern when considering industrial automation is that human workers will be “replaced” by machines. While sometimes this is the case, it’s far more likely that dangerous, monotonous, or repetitive work will be offloaded onto automated robots. This will free up your employees to focus on safer and more business-forward aspects of your company, such as strategy and sales planning.
When considering investing in automation for your company, pinpoint your production goals, and establish exactly how automation will help you accomplish them. Increasingly, companies like Summit Engineered Automation have experts available to build customized automated electronics manufacturing technology — even when your needs are extremely specific.
Learn more about Summit’s electronics automation services, or reach out to us for a consultation today, to explore how automation in the electronics manufacturing industry can revolutionize your production process.