Technological advancements have revolutionized many industries, including industrial and production engineering. These advancements have transformed jobs in the sector, increasing efficiency, productivity, and safety. It’s not just industrial processes that have been overhauled due to technological advancements, though; every aspect of production engineering has been affected in one way or another.
The prevalence of machine learning, automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT) has lead to an overhaul of traditional production management systems. Mining, transportation, and manufacturing industries have all benefited from streamlined production that improves quality and reduces error frequency. Industrial engineering has led to creating new job opportunities and shaped how production works today.
Let’s look at some of the technological advancements that have transformed industrial and production engineering jobs in recent times.
Advancement 1: Automation
The introduction of automation into production lines has been one of the biggest advancements in industrial engineering. Automation has guaranteed uniform quality products, increased production speed, and reduced employee fatigue. Employment of automation technology has substantially reduced the number of unskilled workers and increased the number of highly skilled professionals for production optimization and maintenance.
Advancement 2: Machine Learning and AI
Machine learning and AI systems allow industries to monitor manufacturing equipment, analyze what’s happening in real-time, and detect issues and potential problems to avoid downtime. Machine learning and AI further allow for customized improvements in production without interruptions by providing performance feedback in real-time without the need for manual data entry.
Advancement 3: Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR)
Virtual and Augmented Reality has enabled engineers to identify design flaws and areas for improvement before production runs, enhance training for employees, reduce errors, and provide safer on-site experience for staff. AR in particular can reduce human error, as AR displays can be used to guide assembly and installation procedures, improving quality and A reduced overall cost.
Lastly, the Internet of Things (IoT) integration in manufacturing processes encourages communication between devices and machinery which have simplified processes in the manufacturing industry. The real-time data presents valuable insights to help managers understand their processes, identify problems quickly and rectify them before production starts. IoT-based machines allow for remote troubleshooting, predictive maintenance, and optimization, which has contributed to reduced downtime costs.
In conclusion, technological advancements have taken industrial and production engineering to the heights that our ancestors never thought possible. With innovations such as Machine learning, Automation, AR/ VR, and IoT giving us the ability to produce uniform products, identify and fix faults in real-time and enhance communication and management systems of industrial process. As we transition into Industry 4.0, the advancements in industrial engineering will keep pushing us further into achieving the unimaginable possibilities in the future.
