Smart Machines & Factories

It seems a long time ago now since various malware attacks on the operational layer changed the security landscape and highlighted vulnerabilities in the de-facto automation architecture. However, as we move along the road towards Smart Manufacturing with a view to improving efficiency, productivity and reliability of supply using the principles of Industry 4.0 and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), the subject of cyber-security is becoming arguably even more important. Chris Evans, marketing & operations group manager at Mitsubishi Electric

Graham Smith, head of marketing at Microsoft recruitment partner Curo Talent, explains the role of automation in IT security and how it could address the skills shortage.

3D printing was first used in rapid prototyping, but today is increasingly used in additive processes that enable volume production of plastic and metal parts. It is also used to manufacture parts that are too complex for traditional injection moulding. The trend is towards modular and scalable manufacturing solutions tailored to a particular application. Smart Machines & Factories provides an overview of the processes and trends.

Leveraging the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) to connect digital systems is a crucial step for increasing manufacturing productivity, efficiency and quality. Jonathan Wilkins, director at industrial automation parts supplier EU Automation, explains what UK manufacturers can learn from countries leading the way.

Smart Machines & Factories takes a look at robotics and AI and the autonomous future of industry.

Industry 4.0, the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) or the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) - regardless of the phrase used to describe digitalisation in manufacturing, there’s no denying that a shift has already taken place. But, is the age of industrial buzzwords coming to a grinding halt? Smart Machines & Factories spoke to Stefan Reuther, chief sales officer at COPA-DATA, who gives his three predictions for industrial automation in 2019.

Bella designed the Fun Noisy Rubbish Bin as her entry into the Primary Engineer Leaders’ Awards 2017, a competition that’s been running for three years and encourages thousands of young minds to get active and come up with world-changing ideas. The competition culminates in an awards ceremony held in collaboration with Universities and engineers who give their time to grade the entries.

The recent winner of a Gold Edition cobot (collaborative robot) from Universal Robots, Chesham-based B-Loony Ltd, says the new addition will join six existing UR3 cobots on site*, all of which are being used to increase productivity in previously laborious manual tasks and help the company gain vital market share. Smart Machines & Factories reports.

John Browett, general manager of the CC-Link Partner Association (CLPA) Europe, looks at some of the challenges inherent in digital transformation and how to address them.

Andy Penfold, director of offering management at ADLINK Technology, describes how digital experimentation with the Internet of Things (IoT) leads to innovation and looks at potential solutions for creating a clearer path to innovative IoT.

By Martin Walder, VP Industry at Schneider Electric

Developing the UK’s IT infrastructure across manufacturing sectors is essential. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) for industrial applications, brings a need for IT specialists to implement such technology, and train the manufacturing workforce on how to use it. Smart Machines & Factories reports.

George Walker, managing director of industrial control and automation provider Novotek UK and Ireland, explains the core benefits of edge computing.