The Future of Industrial Automation: 6 Key Trends and Technologies
The future of industrial automation is already underway, and it’s changing the nature of manufacturing operations and facility upgrades. No matter if you’re planning a major equipment installation or building a new line, automation is becoming an essential part of the equation you shouldn’t ignore.
Forward-thinking manufacturers are working with industrial contracting companies that understand how to integrate automation into each phase of a project – from design and pre-planning to construction and long-term efficiency. Here are five automation trends to keep an eye on.
1. Smart Sensors and IIoT
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) connects machines and sensors to a centralized network, helping manufacturers monitor everything from equipment performance to energy usage in real time. Smart sensors embedded into machines and systems collect data on temperature, vibration, flow and energy usage.
This translates to receiving warning alerts before machines fail, smarter energy use and improved quality control. IIoT data can be used to help guide predictive maintenance, reduce downtime and optimize processes – all of which can be integrated during a facility upgrade or new build with the help of a savvy industrial contracting partner.
2. Robotics
Robotic automation has evolved beyond traditional assembly lines. Today, collaborative robots (called “cobots”) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are not replacing workers, but working alongside them to reduce staff exposure to hazardous environments while keeping production moving smoothly.
An industrial contracting partner that understands robotics can help you incorporate solutions like automated welding, robotic palletizing or material transport systems to improve throughput and workplace safety.
3. Controls Automation
If robots are the “hands” and sensors are the “eyes,” then controls automation is the “brain” that ties it all together.
Modern control systems, including PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), RFID tracking and HMI dashboards, orchestrate your equipment’s behavior in real-time. Whether you’re operating a stamping press, conveyor system or hydroforming unit, automation logic ensures everything runs precisely and in sync.
An experienced industrial contracting company can design, build and program these systems to not only work with your existing setup but also scale with your future growth.
4. BIM and Digital Twin Planning Tools
Advanced planning tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital twins let manufacturers visualize their facilities in detail before any concrete is poured or equipment is installed.
These technologies allow you and your industrial contracting team to identify potential layout conflicts, improve spatial planning and simulate workflows in advance of the project. With digital twins, you can even monitor real-time conditions after construction is complete. The result? Smarter, smoother projects and fewer surprises.
5. Automation for Sustainability
Sustainability is not just a trend. It’s an essential foundation of any modern industrial facility. And even better, it can dramatically improve your bottom line. Automation is playing a major role in helping manufacturers reduce waste, save energy and meet environmental goals.
Industrial contracting services can now integrate smart systems that monitor HVAC usage, optimize lighting and regulate compressed air systems to avoid waste. Modular construction methods also reduce material use and allow for faster, cleaner installations. “Green” automation can help deliver ROI while meeting environmental standards.
6. AI and Predictive Analytics
You didn’t think we’d write an article about the future of industrial automation without including AI, did you? Unsurprisingly, artificial intelligence (AI) is playing a role manufacturing environments. In particular, AI provides predictive analytics that can help you schedule maintenance before a breakdown happens, optimize production schedules and even identify which systems should be upgraded first.
When your industrial contracting company understands how to pair AI-driven insights with physical system design, you gain a powerful competitive edge. It’s about using your facility’s data to get ahead of problems, not just react to them.
Incorporating Automation Into Your Facility
Working with an industrial contracting company that understands automation – from design to execution – is key. With fully in-house teams and expertise in automation for mechanical, electrical, fabrication, rigging and controls, Lee Contracting delivers fully integrated industrial contracting services designed for modern manufacturing that keep you well-positioned for the future.
