The famous quote "Adapt or die" applies to businesses like Kodak and Blockbuster, which missed out on opportunities by not embracing new technologies. This concept also applies to industries like manufacturing and logistics today.

AI is revolutionizing quality control in manufacturing, driving us into Industry 4.0 and beyond. Manufacturers can streamline processes, boost efficiency, and deliver top-notch products globally. Embracing AI isn't just advantageous; it's essential for thriving in today's economy. Businesses must invest in AI to empower their workforce and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape.

Businesses aiming for growth must find skilled labor and have enough revenue to scale operations. Proactive strategies help companies meet challenges and avoid negative outcomes that impact the bottom line.

We review the “state of the market” and discuss some established technologies that are maturing to provide value to more end users, as well as some “cutting-edge” technologies that may bear watching.

Even with accessible technology developed to support their growth, the sad truth is that only a few manufacturers have fully explored the power of automation. The majority are still figuring out the best way to get started.

Following the automation of manufacturing processes in industry, the fourth industrial revolution is addressing digital connectivity and communication between manufacturing, but also quality assurance systems, i.e., NDT or NDE systems.

One of the segments likely to face the greatest challenges in 2022 are automotive plastics manufacturers who will continue to face shortages of the raw materials, composites and resins required for both interior and exterior vehicle parts. 

In roundness measurement – measuring the roundness of a part to confirm that it does not deviate from the known specifications on the blueprint – complexity has increased as parts become more complicated with tighter tolerances.

Robots are being added in locations that add value so companies can use human employees in higher value areas and tasks still beyond the scope of machines.

Manufacturers and brand owners are under tremendous pressure to ensure premium end-to-end product quality, especially as consumers increasingly demand perfection. And a great deal of that product quality pressure still falls on human visual inspection.