Whilst there are many technologies capable of disrupting manufacturing in 2020, this year is about progressing and evolving ideas and concepts into a reality.

The Digital Manufacturing industry is a merry-go-round of digital transformation innovations which promise change and new ways of working, but how many can truly deliver a sustainable platform for manufacturing to progress?

Sure, robotics, autonomous vehicles and other spectacular software will no doubt one day be fully integrated in the manufacturing workflow but, for now at least, here are my five evolving technologies which will take centre stage in 2020!

Cybersecurity

Cyberattacks are increasingly becoming the number one threat to countries. Due to the rise in IoT, our utilities and critical infrastructure are more vulnerable than ever before. For example, preventing drug manufacturing can have devastating effects.

Cybersecurity will undoubtedly continue to evolve over 2020 to tackle the likes of 5G deployment. Due to the regularity of emerging technology, cybersecurity is forced to constantly adapt and develop, forcing businesses to rethink their digital strategies.

Digital Twin

Creating a digital replica of a product has revolutionised the way we collect and analyse data. Not only does it support future designs, but a digital twin transmits a live data feed to improve the way we maintain a product.

Reducing a products downtime predominantly results in improved efficiency and lower maintenance costs, both of which businesses strive to achieve for greater operational excellence. And, with thanks to digital transformation providers, digital twin technology is becoming widely accessible for businesses of all sizes.

High Performance Computing (HPC)

HPC arguably ties together all the technologies mentioned in this blog, providing them a platform to work quickly and without disruption. Whilst historically HPC (or supercomputing) has been expensive and therefore largely inaccessible, 2020 will see adoption rates reach a new high.

The relationship between AI and HPC in 2020 is likely to be solidified as newer technologies require a platform to facilitate the processing requirements to operate.

Cloud Simulation

Cloud simulation is now on the “Slope of Enlightenment” according to The Gartner Hype Cycle which means adoption has increased. Now that simulation in the cloud is present in manufacturing facilities worldwide, this type of software can evolve and improve on an already brilliant platform.

Thanks to HPC, advanced simulation applications can now be utilised much quicker than ever before thanks to the processing capabilities needed to run large simulations combined with leaving data in the cloud.

AI & Machine Learning

“By 2022, IDC says, 60 percent of G2000 businesses will be AI-enabled.” This will be particularly noticeable in the automotive sector during the manufacturing phase where precision engineering is critical.

There’s no doubting the potential of AI and machine learning which is set to be worth $13.2 billion in the next five years. The challenge continues to be accessibility for the start-up and SME market, including costs and maintenance of such technology.

FMC Digital Manufacturing

FMC Digital Manufacturing is a team of individuals who are delivering the key sales, technical and leadership talent for digital transformation companies around the world.   

We have an excellent track record of introducing the most forward-thinking industry 4.0 professionals with companies like the above, who are looking to drive changes and revolutionise the traditional industrial sectors.

If you’re interested in learning more about the opportunities we’re currently working on or would like to find out how FMC can support your recruitment needs in 2020, contact me at sabrina.anthoney@fmctalent.com or call me on +44 (0) 1522 812 441.