What is it? Automated storage systems, such as vertical lift or carousel-based solutions can automatically store and retrieve items. They optimise floor space and streamline inventory handling using intelligent software. Why would we need it? If you handle high...
What is it? Industrial robot cells can be used to lift, manoeuvre and assemble parts, automating the manufacturing process almost entirely without human help on the factory floor. Industrial robot cells may also have a ‘collaborative mode’ with reduced speeds and...
What is it? Collaborative Robots (or “co-bots”) are designed to work alongside humans in a shared workspace, carrying out precise or repetitive tasks in support of manual work. Why would we need it? Co-bots are extremely flexible and easy to programme, and can be used...
What is it? Stores Automation enables quicker, more precise organisation, collection and packing of items in your warehouse, through a combination of sophisticated software, robotics and conveyor belts. Why would we need it? In the rush to transform some of the more...
What is it? Smart tooling involves embedding tools such as industrial screwdrivers, drills or wrenches with chips that enable them to collect critical data and communicate with software. Why would we need it? Smart tooling is a critical piece of the puzzle that helps...
What is it? Operator Guidance systems support your team with clear, real-time instructions during complex manufacturing processes, overlaying and projecting key information onto their workspace as they go about their task. Why would we need it? Some jobs simply must...
What is it? A Digital Twin is a virtual simulation of the workstations, cells, processes or production lines throughout your factory, based on real production data gathered by the other smart manufacturing tools in your arsenal. Why would we need it? Digital Twin...
What is it? An energy analysis system provides you with a detailed overview of how energy is consumed throughout a system, facility, or even individual process. Which tools keep consuming power whilst idle, or run more efficiently at lower volumes? Why would we need...
What is it? Productivity Monitoring tools enable you to set volume and efficiency benchmarks for different stages across your manufacturing process, then gauge the performance of your team against those targets with a series of bespoke analytics dashboards. Why would...
What is it? A Manufacturing Execution System (MES for short) tracks and monitors your manufacturing process from raw materials to finished goods, collecting valuable data to inform where your business could be doing things more efficiently. Why would we need it? MES...
What is it? Collecting data from machinery is relatively straightforward, but all the other parts of your manufacturing process are much harder to capture and quantify. Manual production data is anything that needs to be recorded from a manual process; whether it’s...
What is it? Cloud Computing is the catch-all phrase for any computing services that are managed off-site and accessed on demand, such as servers, storage, databases and software that aren’t physically held at your facility. Why would we need it? Managing most of your...
What is it? Cyber Security encompasses the technology, services, controls and practices that protect you against any vulnerabilities that might arise from having your data and devices connected via the cloud. Why would we need it? Strong cyber security is critical for...
What is it? The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of physical devices that can transfer data to one another without human intervention. IoT devices are not limited to computers or machinery and can include anything with a sensor, such as a machine tool or flow...