In this article, he shares the key manufacturing innovations and examples of manufacturing excellence he witnessed during the judging experience.
Innovations in manufacturing in 2024
As a judge for the Smart Factory category at The Manufacturer MX Awards 2024 (TMMX), I had the privilege of visiting six leading manufacturing businesses across the UK. This experience was fascinating for me and demonstrated the innovative spirit driving the industry forward.
Over three days, I witnessed first-hand how various technologies are being integrated into manufacturing processes. The factories I visited showcased a commitment to improving productivity and quality through thoughtful adoption of modern tools and practices.
Here are some of the standout innovations that caught my attention:
1. Integration of Operational and Information Technologies
One of the most significant advancements observed was the seamless integration of operational technologies (OT) with information technologies (IT). Factories are now employing touch-screen terminals that streamline data entry and eliminate inefficient manual recording processes. This integration not only saves time but also reduces the likelihood of errors, allowing workers to focus on more value-added tasks.