Molex
Industrial revolutions have changed the way we work, think and do most everything. Today, with the help of electronics, smart computing and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), Industry 4.0 is enabling new efficiencies and higher levels of performance on the factory floor. TTI supplies the components that drive all applications needed for computer-controlled manufacturing and material movement. 3D printing and rapid prototyping are leading to CNC machine driven robotic assembly. The integration of sensors and process controllers into the most elemental industrial applications is pushing production and performance to new levels. Tighter tolerances, better monitoring and quicker production are creating a revolution in industry that hasn’t been seen in 100 years.
As more factories adopt IIoT functionality, which allows them to monitor, track and control operations remotely via Internet connection, they also are gathering massive amounts of critical data that could revolutionize the way they do business, if utilized correctly. IIoT is a key component of the Industry 4.0 approach, which analyzes that collected data and uses it to power artificial intelligence, machine learning and factory automation. This combination of operational data and smart computing can truly bring a facility into the future, where processes are optimized by data analysis, maintenance is programmed to perform before problems occur, and operations are fully automated.
To move toward a fully connected and automated factory, machines need to be equipped with connectors, wiring systems, sensors and related components that are robust, scalable, and have the ability to send and receive data without fail. These smart components are best paired with reliable network interfaces, simulation software and programmable logic controllers that can manage large amounts of data, enabling machine learning capabilities.
Robotics have long been part of the industry. The applications for state-of-the-art industrial robots are constantly expanding. From automotive and aircraft construction to medical and pharmaceutical industry, logistics and metal or plastic processing. The latest genration of industrial robots can handle ever more complex tasks in a whole range of different environments. With the rise of IIoT, cobots have conversely risen in popularity. Cobots are collaborative robots, designed to work in synergy with humans. In contrast to traditional robots, cobots work hand-in-hand and engage with people. To perform such tasks, cobots take and process large amount of raw data from numerous sensors. This data needs to be transmitted, integrated, processed and interpreted accurately and in virtually real-time to keep cobots working effectively.
Machine tools are an inherent part of processes within the manufacturing industry, particularly those reliant on interchangeable components. Machine tool equipment solutions, one of the dominating topics of the market, offer increased efficiency, hybridization of machines, increased intelligence of machine peripherals and projection of machining progress and/or predictive maintenance.
Automated solutions are standard in almost all industrial sectors. Automotive, packaging and textile industries are just some of the areas where automated production, controlled by servo technology, are boosting productivity and cost-efficiency. A key element of this solution is the interaction of servo motors and servo drives.
Motion control is a sub-field of automation, where a machine's position is controlled using hydraulic devices, linear actuators or electrical servo motors.
TTI is working with key suppliers like Amphenol, Molex, TE Connectivity and Smiths Interconnect to provide solutions for motion-driven applications, where we see a further growing demand, as these services also go hand-in-hand with the accelerating market of collaborative robotic applications.
The automation of material handling applications has a huge impact on both the factory floor and business development. Reason being: it will lead to a reduction in labor required to transport goods, all while making logistics management easier and more cost-effective. As with related applications, the communication between machines and warehouse management systems enables efficient operations, while gathering valuable data that drives distribution operations. Automated material handling can be updated in real time if there is a change in a task sheet while tracking goods throughout the supply chain. This will allow for reducing loss and providing logistical insights.
The importance of material handling equipment is growing exponentially among industries such as aerospace, agriculture, automotive, etc., as managing the manufacturing plant or warehouse has become an essential operation. Material handling equipment is required in warehouse or manufacturing plants for quick movement of goods or products, locating stock, preparing orders and localizing stock. Additionally, material handling equipment allows for optimum utilization of equipment and meets the demand for flexibility in warehouse operations, customer satisfaction, supply chain transparency and vision-guided robotics. With proper material handling equipment, companies can ultimately expect to reduce excessive downtime in the warehouse, while increasing automation and technology advancements, further driving progress in the market.