Definition, advantages and possible risks
To begin with, we would like to define and explain the two central terms of today’s article – digitalization and automation. We then shed light on the differences, benefits and potential risks and challenges of digitalization and automation in manufacturing.
What is meant by digitization?
Digitization refers to the process of converting analogue information, data and processes into digital form so that they can be used and processed more efficiently with the help of modern information and communication technologies. This includes the networking of machines, plants and systems, the collection and processing of data (e.g. by sensors), the use of cloud technologies, artificial intelligence and much more.
What is automation?
Automation, on the other hand, is a more specific term and describes the use of technologies, machines and robots that replace or supplement human labor in various processes – especially in the manufacturing industry. This primarily involves the automated execution of production steps, such as the handling of workpieces, the assembly of components or the control of systems and production processes.
The aim of both digitalization and automation is to increase efficiency and productivity, reduce costs, improve product quality and ultimately gain a competitive edge over rivals on the market. Automation is an important part of the digitalization of the manufacturing industry, but it is not its only goal.
Difference between digitalization and automation in manufacturing
The difference lies in the basic concepts, objectives and implementation strategies of both technologies. While digitalization involves the conversion of analogue processes and information into digital formats and the use of digital technologies to improve productivity, efficiency and quality of production, automation focuses on reducing manual work and introducing intelligent machines to perform tasks with high precision and speed. Automation is therefore an aspect of digitalization, but not synonymous with it.
Advantages of digitization
One of the main features of digitalization is the ability to collect and evaluate large amounts of data, which helps to make better decisions, identify inefficient processes and develop improvement measures. This in turn can have a positive effect on product quality, customer satisfaction and ultimately the economic success of the company.
Digitalization brings numerous benefits for the manufacturing industry, which can have an impact on both increasing efficiency and reducing costs. By networking machines and systems, using smart sensors and monitoring manufacturing processes in real time, companies of all sizes can optimize their production processes, reduce energy consumption and minimize material requirements. Another advantage of digitalization in the manufacturing sector is that it makes production more flexible. By using digital technologies and software solutions, companies can adapt their production lines more quickly and easily to changing market requirements and product variations. For example, batch sizes can be designed more flexibly or individualized products can be integrated more easily into the production process.
Digitalization also enables closer collaboration between different departments, such as product development, production, logistics and service. This leads to more effective and seamless communication along the entire value chain. It can also help to promote the level of innovation within the company and develop new business models, as digital technologies open up new opportunities.
Advantages of automation
Automation has brought great benefits to the manufacturing industry, contributing to an increase in production output and efficiency in many ways. One of the most obvious advantages of automated production is the increased production speed. By using robotics and automated machines, production steps can be carried out faster and more precisely, thereby increasing production capacity and throughput. In addition, automation enables better planning and control of production processes as well as optimized use of resources. This enables you as a company to reduce your production costs and increase the profitability of your investments.
Automation also contributes to improved product quality, as it enables greater precision and consistency in the production of components. Errors that can occur during manual production are minimized and the reject rate is reduced. Another important advantage of automation is flexibility. By using robots and automatic handling systems, production systems can be quickly adapted to changing production requirements, which is particularly advantageous when manufacturing small batches or customized products.
Automation can help to make the working environment safer and more pleasant for employees on the shop floor. By having robots and automation systems take over monotonous, physically demanding or dangerous tasks, employees can be relieved of these burdens and concentrate on more challenging and creative tasks.
Technologiesthat are used to automate the production steps
(robotics, handling, assembly, etc.)
In order to provide a deeper insight into the technologies used to automate the production steps, we will focus in particular on robotics, handling and assembly. Robots have become an integral part of modern industry. They are used in numerous automated production steps and perform a wide range of tasks. For example, industrial robots are used for assembly, welding, painting or packaging tasks, where they not only increase efficiency but also improve employee safety by taking over dangerous or repetitive tasks. Intelligent robot arms are used, which are versatile thanks to their flexibility and precision and can be easily adapted to different production scenarios.
Another important aspect of automation is handling. This involves the efficient design of material flows and logistics processes within the production facility. The technologies used range from conveyor systems, such as belt or roller conveyors, to driverless transport systems (AGVs) and autonomously navigating mobile robots (AMRs) through to fully automated high-bay warehouses. These systems are often networked with each other and are controlled by intelligent software to ensure a smooth material flow and optimum coordination of the individual production steps.
Another element is assembly, i.e. the assembly of the individual components into a finished product. Nowadays, modern assembly lines are often equipped with collaborative robots, so-called cobots.
Potential risks and challenges of automation
Despite the numerous benefits that automation brings to the manufacturing industry, there are also some risks and challenges that companies need to consider when introducing automated production steps.
The safety of employees who are in direct contact with automated machines and robots is essential. Cooperation between man and machine requires effective protection for employees in order to avoid possible accidents or injuries. Therefore, companies need to invest in safety systems and training for their staff to ensure a safe working environment.
Another risk is the danger of cyber attacks, as automated systems and installations are usually connected to each other via digital networks. The manufacturing industry is increasingly dependent on digital infrastructure, which makes it vulnerable to hacker attacks and data theft. It is important that companies proactively invest in protecting their data and systems and carry out regular security updates to close potential vulnerabilities.
Automation can also lead to job losses, particularly in activities that can be performed more efficiently and cost-effectively by robots and machines. The challenge for companies here is to qualify their employees for new, technology-based areas of responsibility and to redefine their role within the production process. A future-oriented personnel strategy should include the retraining and further training of employees in the areas of robotics, handling and assembly.
Summary and conclusion
In summary, digitalization and automation are two closely linked concepts, but they affect different aspects of the manufacturing industry.
While digitalization encompasses the networking of systems, processes and data to optimise the entire value chain, automation refers to the execution of automated production steps using robotics, handling and assembly to increase the efficiency, quality and cost-effectiveness of production processes.
Both approaches offer considerable advantages, such as cost savings, improved process reliability, higher product quality and the ability to respond to customers’ individual needs. However, when implementing automation solutions, it is important to adequately consider possible risks and challenges, such as the loss of jobs, data protection and security requirements or investment costs, and to plan ahead.
In conclusion, it can be said that the combination of digitalization and automation in the manufacturing industry is a significant step towards Industry 4.0 and that companies that adapt to these developments at an early stage and use innovative technologies will have a decisive competitive advantage in the future.