Manufacturing businesses need to be able to keep track of their inventory, production and operations at all times, in real time. In order to do this, manufacturers will need AR solutions that can help them manage their inventory and track the progress of orders—and that means integrating various business software systems and hardware into one cohesive, user-friendly system. Here are some ways manufacturers can leverage augmented reality to improve efficiency in manufacturing processes: https://nsflow.com/industries/augmented-reality-in-manufacturing-industry
AR for manufacturing asset tracking
One of the essential tasks of any manufacturing line is asset tracking. This includes tracking inventory, assets and equipment on the plant floor. Using AR, manufacturers can map out the entire production line with real-time tracking of assets and designs. This allows for real-time visibility of asset locations, as well as map-based tracking of assets such as design drawings and templates. With this, manufacturers can ensure that assets are not left unattended, preventing errors and damages. AR also lets engineers, who previously would have to manually draw and edit designs, view their designs in real time, allowing them to make any changes without taking their hands off the keyboard. AR asset tracking can be integrated into a number of existing business systems, allowing manufacturers to transfer data between systems. For instance, asset tracking can be implemented in order management systems like SAP, or in supply chain management systems like DCS.
AR for product assembly and inventory management
As production lines and assembly lines advance, so too do the challenges of managing manufacturing resources. The same can be said for inventory: how to keep track of what’s available in the warehouse and what’s in demand. AR can help manufacturers manage both of these challenges. AR can be used for inventory tracking with AR-built visualization tools, letting customers know exactly where inventory is located in the warehouse and on the production line. This could be in real time, or triggered by changes in production. Additionally, AR lets customers track the progression of orders from design to assembly, providing a live, visual representation of the manufacturing process. With AR and a manufacturers’ in-house developed data integration solution, manufacturers can integrate data from existing software systems, like ERP and CRM, and hardware systems, including the company’s inventory management system. AR can be used to visualize data from these systems, providing real-time visibility of inventory levels and production progress. By integrating inventory tracking with asset tracking, manufacturers can track the progress of individual parts, giving employees visibility and control over their work schedules.
Smart assisted manufacturing
Manufacturers have a large number of machines, from various types of equipment to complex robotics. Managing these resources is critical to production efficiency. However, the sheer volume of data from all of these systems can be daunting, and it can be difficult to connect these data sources to create a cohesive picture. AR, with its ability for humans and machines to communicate and share information, can help manufacturers to solve this challenge by providing real-time visualizations of information from all systems. In addition, AR can be used to create smart machine automation. Machine automation is key to keeping manufacturing lines running at optimal efficiency. With the help of machine learning and AI, manufacturers can automate machine decision-making, like scheduling, so that human workers don’t have to engage in resource-based decision-making. This allows for each piece of equipment to focus on its job, while generating a smaller amount of noise while doing so. It also reduces machine downtime, improving overall production efficiency.
VR for simulation and training
VR has become a key tool for training and simulation, providing simulated environments for organizations to conduct risk assessments, design strategy, and build training programs. However, VR has limitations when it comes to manufacturing. Often, manufacturers will use off-the-shelf VR equipment for training, but these solutions are often expensive and don’t integrate with other hardware and software systems. AR, on the other hand, can be used for simulation, training and simulation. AR can be used to create visualizations of data from one system, like a CAD model. This allows for a common language between humans and machines, helping to reduce errors and create smoother operations. VR can also be used in operational simulations, like optimizing production schedules to better meet demand. VR can be used to create visualizations of a variety of scenarios, allowing manufacturers to see how their businesses may be affected by specific events or changes in the market.
AI-powered analysis and reporting
Data continues to grow at an exponential rate, and analytics are crucial to managing the influx of data and finding insights that can be used to make informed decisions. However, many manufacturers struggle to integrate analytics into their workflow, especially when integrating analytics with different software systems and hardware. In order to solve this challenge, manufacturers will need an AI-powered solution that can be used to integrate analytics from various sources. AI can be used to help manufacturers analyze data from various sources, like machine data, sensor data and data from external systems. By analyzing this data, manufacturers can gain insights into how their operations are being affected by these factors, helping to identify and remedy issues before they become serious problems. AI can also be used to help track the progress of orders and designs, providing a real-time visual representation of the manufacturing process.
Bottom line
To manage the growing complexity of manufacturing, manufacturers will need an integrated software solution that can be used to integrate different systems, data and software. They will also need an augmented reality solution that can help them manage assets, track product design and production, and keep track of inventory —all in real time.
