Digital manufacturing is not a new concept but is continuing to evolve.
From robotics, additive manufacturing and augmented reality to big data, simulation and cybersecurity, technologies can be found in manufacturing facilities across the country. The use of these technologies among small and medium-sized manufacturers (can vary. Some Rhode Island manufacturers have already implemented digital manufacturing, while others plan to implement. And there are still some manufacturers in our state and across the country that don’t yet see the value of adding digital manufacturing technology to their factory floor.
A McKinsey Digital study, “Industry 4.0: How to Navigate Digitization of the Manufacturing Sector,” estimated the potential ROI of digital manufacturing implementation. Benefits projected included:
- Resource / process productivity increase of 3% to 5%
- Machine downtime reduction of 30% to 50%
- Inventory carrying costs reduction of 20% to 50%
- Reduction in maintenance costs of 10% to 40%
There can be both benefits and challenges for a manufacturer that relies on the digital thread to link their machines, suppliers, shippers, distributers and end users. Challenges may include deciding on what platform to choose, the amount of initial investment required or the lack of coordination among departments and divisions.
Polaris MEP is part of the NIST MEP National NetworkTM (MEPNN) which has proven success in helping manufacturers overcome these challenges and achieve the benefits of digital manufacturing. This new infographic from MEPNN provides an overview of the technologies transforming manufacturing companies across the country, and the support provided by MEP centers like ours.
View the infographic below to learn more or download the PDF. Then, call us (401-270-8896) to discuss your plans for implementing digital manufacturing technologies in your Rhode Island manufacturing facility.
