Process automation technologies continue to evolve, and with this constant change and enhancement we are moving one step closer to Industry 5.0. Whereas Industry 4.0 is about machine and system interconnectivity, the next industrial revolution will bring humans back into the heart of the equation, with both people and machines collaborating to leverage their combined strengths in exciting new ways.
Hennie Colyn.
Considering the above, retaining and growing process automation skills has become paramount. And like many industries, process automation has multiple generations working together, each playing their part in the value chain. But there’s room for improvement, and technologies like augmented reality (AR) can bridge the gap. “Augmented reality is a powerful technology when leveraged appropriately, its uses are endless,” says direct sales executive, Hennie Colyn.
“AR can be used to provide digital training where tablets scan equipment and display step-by-step instructions, along with biometric thumbprinting and photo-taking. The supporting software is cloud-based and will therefore provide regular updates on new skills required for the newest PLCs.” He notes that like many other industries, process automation is at risk of losing skills if the generation gap is not overcome soon. “We’re finding skills gaps are the result of generational shifts in the types of occupations being pursued.
“To attract new talent, contractors are investing in technology and software to help bridge the gap between the needs of the industry and the talents of the new generation. Similarly, technology like AR can also bring older, seasoned workers up to speed and overcome the disconnect between the various generations,” he explains.
The global, non-profit organisation, Augmented Reality for Enterprise Alliance (AREA) says that AR presents critical, contextual information, real-time insight, and remote expertise to frontline workers at the point of need, directly in the user’s line of sight on industry-leading mobile devices and hands-free headsets. “Augmented work instructions, 3D products, video tutorials, schematics, IoT data, and other digital content appear on top of the work environment, directing frontline workers to do the job efficiently and accurately the first time,” says AREA. Interestingly, AREA also emphasises that with AR, senior technicians can be more accessible to less experienced workers. Using an AR-supporting device, junior technicians can instantly share their view of a machine with a remotely located expert, who will in turn guide them through task, speeding up problem solving.
“Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Augmented Operator Advisor software architecture improves operational efficiency with AR, enabling operators to superimpose current data and virtual objects onto a cabinet, machine, or plant,” explains Colyn. “Importantly, the software combines contextual and local dynamic information for mobile users, enabling them to experience a fusion of the physical, real-life environment with virtual objects,” he concludes.
South Africa’s AI revolution is here – but are we secure?
IT in Manufacturing
South African businesses are sprinting to embrace generative AI, lured by its potential to drive efficiency, productivity and innovation. But here’s the stark reality: without a rock-solid cybersecurity foundation, AI will become a Trojan horse, opening the floodgates to sophisticated cyber threats.
Read more...Duct and plant room air quality (PRAQ) sensors Schneider Electric South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
Schneider Electric South Africa offers a comprehensive range of SpaceLogic duct and plant room air quality sensors. These cutting-edge sensors are designed to enhance building air quality and energy efficiency by combining multiple sensing capabilities into a single unit.
Read more...Black Rock Mining centralises mining operations with AVEVA
IT in Manufacturing
Black Rock Mine Operations replaced and upgraded its existing infrastructure, and installed additional capacity to expand production from 3 to 4,6 million tons in three years. The new system is powered by a suite of AVEVA solutions.
Read more...The sensory reaction of the BMS Schneider Electric South Africa
Sensors & Transducers
Today’s building management systems cannot function properly without sensors. Like our senses, they are an integral part of operations that run silently in the background, almost taken for granted.
Read more...Shaping data resilience strategies with AI and hybrid cloud solutions
IT in Manufacturing
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, organisations are under growing pressure to secure their operations against increasingly sophisticated cyberthreats, including those that leverage AI to enhance the success rate of attacks. In this landscape, it has become essential to ‘fight fire with fire’ – harnessing AI as a means to counter these threats.
Read more...Advancements in wire rope testing
IT in Manufacturing
Being able to get instant, real-time and portable detection of wire rope flaws can make a significant difference for operational teams. There have been a number of significant technological advancements and tools entering the market that help wire rope operators detect and resolve problems faster.
printer friendly version