How can manufacturers make the critical transition from data to action? How do they effectively navigate the overabundance of data to pick out what’s meaningful? How do they use these insights to drive overall productivity and efficiency in an automotive context?

The answer to these questions involves deploying a three-tiered IIoT approach that provides automotive OEMs and suppliers with a comprehensive digital roadmap for their operations.

To improve its manufacturing and supply chain operations data, Johnson Controls implemented LeanDNA, a cloud-based platform that connects the company’s numerous ERP systems. Like many companies with distributed locations and processes, Johnson Controls data was scattered and difficult to find and understand. LeanDNA provides the company with a comprehensive, organized view of cross-site analytics. 

Every industrial revolution has eliminated old jobs and created new ones. In many cases, manufacturers weren’t aware that these new jobs were even necessary. To succeed in this age of Industry 4.0, manufacturers will need to do more than just develop a workforce capable of dealing with upcoming technologies, they will need to foster a workplace culture of problem-solving and continuous improvement.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, commercial airplanes and business jets contribute 10 percent of transportation-related carbon emissions in the U.S., and account for three percent of the nation’s total greenhouse gas (GHG) production.

Automated assembly and advanced manufacturing are industry hot topic themes we delve into on our podcast, ASSEMBLY Audible. On a recent ASSEMBLY Audible episode, we connected with celebrated engineer and digital content creator Jousef Murad to discuss where AI fits in the current scope and future of manufacturing.

In today’s manufacturing environment, which is characterized by change and unpredictable demand, the traditional assembly line is no longer convenient. New, flexible assembly systems are needed to deal with high production variety.

Magna International Inc. is one of the world’s largest auto parts companies, supplying OEMs in 28 countries and four continents.

Based in New Britain, CT, Polamer Precision manufactures complex engine and airframe components for military and commercial aircraft engines. 

Initiated in 2004, the Assembly Plant of the Year award showcases world-class production facilities in America and the people, products, and processes that make them successful. 

Companies achieve manufacturing excellence when people have the tools they need to produce high-quality work. On the shop floor, this comes about through the marriage of workers and machinery and the refining of processes through constant care and iteration.