One of the earliest beneficiaries of Industry 4.0 manufacturing techniques has unveiled a detailed guide to adoption that avoids a negative impact on current production.
However, the Bosch Rexroth authored report A practical roadmap for the implementation of Industry 4.0 argues that Industry 4.0 is an evolution not a revolution and includes practical suggestions for a three step approach, supporting the steady implementation of connected manufacturing technologies, bolting sensors and hardware to existing production infrastructure.
The report also outlines how Industry 4.0 can be scaled to meet the demands of SME manufacturers and adapted to meet specific business demands such as improved productivity, increased quality and consistency or scaling up production.
Andrew Minturn, Business Development and Strategic Product Manager for Bosch Rexroth, who helped author the report, said: “Industry 4.0 isn’t going to be a sudden change – it’s gradual but it is happening now. The ultimate step will be the complete evolution of the supply chain, from the subcontractor to the end user. Everyone will need to get involved.“
For any manufacturing business the key step will be to implement those changes that will give them the biggest benefit here and now. The good news is that this doesn‘t mean large scale capital investment through the wholesale replacement of legacy equipment. As is shown in this latest report even a 19th century treadle lathe can be upgraded for use in the 21st century using Industry 4.0 technologies and techniques.
