Supply Chain Special Focus October/November 2024 www.pwemag.co.uk Plant & Works Engineering | 41 comes as many plants rely on reactive, run-to-fail maintenance processes, meaning that they only perform repairs after equipment has broken. While GenAI is currently in the spotlight, AI has long been employed for predictive analytics to enhance maintenance strategies. With the integration of connected machinery and sensors (IoT), continuous data collection from equipment allows machine learning algorithms to analyse patterns and predict potential failures. This shift from reactive to predictive maintenance means that companies can proactively address issues, performing repairs or replacements before breakdowns occur, theoretically effectively avoiding unplanned downtime altogether. For example, in the automotive industry, industrial sensors on robots monitor their performance and general wear. The system then detects when an arm is likely to fail, thus triggering a repair order before the issue disrupts production. This, coupled with the integration of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), provides an added layer of data with real time tracking of inventory across facilities too. When inventory levels fall below a specific threshold, the system automatically generates replenishment orders to prevent production halts due to part shortages. The potential impact of Supply Chain 4.0 is clear to see. In fact, another report from McKinsey & Company, specifically in automotive and assembly, demonstrate that manufacturers can see a reduction of 75% in lost sales, up to 30% fewer transport and warehousing costs and a decrease of up to 80% in administration costs — all while cutting inventories up to 75%. The future It goes without saying that AI is expected to be at the forefront, enabling fully autonomous operations, enhancing demand forecasting, procurement, logistics and warehouse management. Plus, self-driving vehicles and delivery drones may optimise delivery routes and reduce transportation times too, further improving efficiency. Blockchain technology could also enhance transparency by providing real time, tamper proof tracking of goods to improve visibility and accountability across the supply chain. Wherever you are in your Supply Chain 4.0 journey, partnering with a reliable parts supplier is essential when mitigating the risk of unplanned downtime. Automation partners like Foxmere ensure components, such as sensors, are readily available and that maintenance processes are optimised. For further information please visit: https://foxmere.com/en
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