When it comes to the development and production of electronics, quality is key. If you don’t have the best materials, specifications, and designs, your product won’t turn on. If you can’t produce your electronics in a fast, consistently high-quality way, you won’t be able to keep up with competition. It’s a very fine balance to keep.
So, what do you do in order to succeed? Look at what’s new, what’s changing, and what’s innovative. Adapt alongside innovation and look for solutions that can help you maintain quality, increase output, and stay compliant. Predict what’s next and implement before your competitors catch on.
We did some research on how the world of electronics automation is developing, and the following is what we learned about what to expect over the next five years.
Things will become more connected – and that’s a good thing!
One of the biggest changes to expect in the future of electronics automation and manufacturing is an increase in how connected all things are. The principle of this connectivity is frequently referred to as the Internet of Things (IoT). With electronics automation, this could appear as automation systems that are controlled or powered through wi-fi, accessed through tablets or mobile devices.
More robotics, and more human-robot collaboration
Robots are the future of all automation, electronics included. That’s because robots can’t get tired or distracted like human workers can. While robotics lack the imagination of human workers, they’re going to see increased use in both simple and complex electronics manufacturing assembly lines. Smart companies will seek out custom solutions that use both robotics and human workers to the individual strength of each, increasing your businesses’ overall performance.
Artificial intelligence’s role in automation will increase
Artificial intelligence is already a part of your day-to-day life. You experience it via your smartphone, your smartwatch, your tablet, your computer. Artificial intelligences not only know how to complete tasks, they can make choices based on the tasks they complete. This sort of adaptability will be potentially huge in the future of manufacturing. There are plenty of applications for artificial intelligence in electronics automation, too. Stock monitoring that knows to order new parts as they’re needed. Predictive-maintenance programs, visual inspection access, and self-adapting manufacturing processes are all things to be looking for.
Agile project management will set successful businesses apart
Being cutting edge starts with the best products and processes, but ongoing success depends on how those products and processes are managed. Most companies are working with the same toolbox of robotic equipment, vision systems, conveyors, and control systems. For companies to succeed in the future, they’re going to need to seek out automation solutions that go beyond those basics and offer adaptable project management that grows alongside trends outlined in this post as well as others to come in the future.
Staying competitive in an industry as dynamic as electronics manufacturing isn’t easy. The best way to keep an edge is changing with the industry, staying adaptable and listening to innovations like the ones listed in this post. Companies like Summit Engineered Automation understand that, which is why we offer top-to-bottom electronics automation and manufacturing solutions. Get in touch with us today if you’d like to learn more about the services we provide.