How Manufacturing Is Getting SmarterHow Manufacturing Is Getting Smarter

With companies tasked with shorter time-to-market cycles, what strategies must they take to get products designed and built faster without sacrificing quality? Much of the answer lies in pursuing manufacturing strategies that take advantage of automation and data, according to panel at MD&M West Tuesday titled, “The Smart Manufacturing Imperative: Trends, Technologies, and Triumphs.”

The use of robotics and generative AI are two key enablers that are helping companies meet stringent time-to-market needs panelists suggested. But the key is a well-honed strategy that defines goals and tackles them in a measured fashion.

”You need to start with what problem you are trying to solve, and define with business objectives,” said Alvin Joseph, Chief Information Officer at Orara Packaging Solutions. “You also need a good systems foundation, and have the right team with the right mix of people. You also need to rely on a partner that can help overcome limitations.”

Donna Yasay, Senior Leader, Solutions Architecture, Automotive and Manufacturing Industry at Amazon Web Services, added, “You encourage teams to test solutions in a controlled environment. Proof of concept and trial programs are needed to minimize risk.”

Scott Marsic, Group Product Manager of Robotics at Epson America, said, “Our engineering team does feasibility studies. The key is to focus on what one is trying to achieve and start small.”

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Marsic acknowledged that in trying to adapt automation, users are rightfully concerned about resolving challenges but can lose sight of the positive business impact. “Many people don’t account for the incremental or exponential upside with automation.”

Panelists agreed that generative AI is already having a positive impact with many companies, whether it be in product design or operations.

“No doubt there will be horizontal capability,” said Jay Maslekar, Principal Advisor, Head of Strategy and BD, US Automotive and Manufacturing at Amazon Web Services. “Operator manuals are now in digital form and operators can now ask questions and get answers quickly. Generative AI is here to scale across an enterprise.”

Generative AI is also making an impact in engineering design by helping companies run more design iterations. “Engineering teams are getting pushed to introduce new products faster and quicker, and generative AI can help provide many design options,” said Maslekar.