Sponsored features
The survey, conducted by Professional Engineering and Protolabs, also demonstrated a need for the sector to embrace new technologies.
In this feature, we go beyond these findings and ask ‘What will manufacturing look like in 10 years' time?’ That’s a very interesting and complex question, especially considering the economic and political turmoil we currently find ourselves in as we prepare for life in a new decade.
But there is one thing that is certain. The 4th industrial revolution, commonly described as the Industrial Internet of Things or Industry 4.0, will be firmly entrenched in the way we design, manufacture, repair, service and sell our products.
I prefer to call it digital manufacturing and I’m thrilled Protolabs is at its forefront, continuing to shape its evolution and helping to deliver its positive impact.
Exciting times
The exciting changes we’ve experienced in the last 10 years could potentially be eclipsed by those experienced in the next 10 years. The rapid advancement of information technology has disrupted the business landscape, but over the coming decade we could see even more possibilities opening up.
The three central themes of connectivity, intelligence and flexible automation will have changed the way all of us work and live. I’m confident of this prediction, because that change is already being seen.
Digital solutions and advanced technologies, such as the Industrial Internet of Things, Big Data, cloud computing, advanced robotics, machine learning, augmented and virtual reality and additive manufacturing, are driving transformation. They allow processes and systems across both the value and supply chains to be integrated in a way not considered possible just a few years ago.
Here at Protolabs we have developed data-sharing processes and integrated additive and subtractive processes – traditionally at opposite ends of the manufacturing process – to transform the production model.
Our use of advanced 3D printing, CNC machining and injection moulding technologies to produce custom-designed parts and prototypes in days means we have been able to reduce costs and manufacturing lead times to levels which open up global markets to a huge range of new, pioneering innovators.
Faster, faster
Demand for this will only grow and, by 2030, I can imagine a scenario where parts are made even faster than they are today, in materials we haven’t even tested yet. The desire for more rapid product development, lighter parts and more complex designs will have stretched the imagination of even our most creative designers and engineers.
Want the best engineering stories delivered straight to your inbox? The Professional Engineering newsletter gives you vital updates on the most cutting-edge engineering and exciting new job opportunities. To sign up, click here.
Content published by Professional Engineering does not necessarily represent the views of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.