Listen to this articleAn automated speed is a manufacturing facility using advanced automation technologies for increasing the speed and efficiency of production processes. The factories are designed for producing high volumes of goods with minimal human intervention, utilizing advanced robotics, machine learning, and other technologies to streamline the production process and increase output.
An example of an automated speed factory is Adidas’ “ Speedfactory”, designed for producing athletic shoes at a much faster rate than traditional manufacturing facilities. Automated cutting, stitching, and bonding technologies, as well as 3D printing and laser engraving, are utilized by the Speedfactory for producing custom shoes at a faster pace.
The concept got the potential significantly to reduce production costs and increase production speed. However, the concerns that impact the employment and need for human workers may be reduced in highly automated facilities.
An automated speed factory and a smart factory are comparable in that they both make use of cutting-edge technology to boost output and production efficiency. The two ideas do, however, have some distinctions.
A smart factory, sometimes referred to as Industry 4.0, is a fully digitalized and interconnected manufacturing facility that makes use of the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other technologies to enhance every aspect of the production process, from design through distribution. A smart factory aims to provide a fully integrated and intelligent production environment where devices, systems, and people all operate in harmony.
A smart factory often responds more quickly to changes in demand or production demands than an automated speed factory does. The production process may be monitored and optimized in real time in a smart factory because equipment and systems can interact with one another and with people. This implies that a smart factory can easily adjust to changes in demand or production needs, which is essential in today’s quick-paced and constantly-evolving industry.
Both ideas attempt to increase production efficiency, but a smart factory often goes beyond automation to create a more integrated and intelligent industrial environment. In contrast, an automated speed factory could place more emphasis on improving particular stages of the production process, including manufacturing speed or cost cutting.
Source: Wired, SmartFactory