“We are continually faced by great opportunities brilliantly disguised as insoluble problems.”
– Lee Iacocca
1. Come On – Do More
We are asking automation and robotics to do more and more as the technology develops – so why not one more? Well, now there is a growing use case for mounting metrology equipment to robotic arms. Should they replace a traditional CMM? That all depends on the trade-offs – accuracy versus speed and adaptability – a worthwhile conversation when discussing the strategic direction of operations.
2. What To Fix First?
Technology can improve your operations, but real results won’t be achievable without fixing operation processes; while technology can enhance performance, it is not a standalone solution. Success in a digital transformation requires a strong foundation, including clear goals, reliable data, optimized workflows, and trained personnel. Let’s get back to the basics of running a business.
3. The Future of Computing
Should quantum computing be on your technology roadmap? Probably not, but as cloud computing requirements increase, something must change. More and more companies are releasing information on how much energy is required to process current generative AI tasks. This load will only increase in time. As quantum computing becomes more widely available, this may change the landscape and cost models for cloud computing.
4. They Can Open Doors
I like Spot, but I’m still a bit pessimistic about its viability on the factory floor. But I may have to reassess my position: The quadruped AMR – already incredibly flexible and able to be applied to unstructured environments – can now open doors. This may seem like a small thing, but the use case of a machine adapting to its environment is a sound one for large structures that probably won’t change much in the next century.
5. Do Digital Twins Take Smoke Breaks?
Digital twins are becoming more and more valuable in helping to plan the future, specifically in scenario planning, as virtual models can simulate real-world scenarios, assisting campanies to make better strategic decisions. They offer insights by replicating processes, products, or systems digitally, allowing for predictive analysis and improved decision-making without disrupting actual operations. Using digital twins enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and mitigates risks in strategic planning.
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