As technology continues to flourish and develop, leading to more and significantly more complex advancements being made across a range of different industries, it is important that companies select the best application for them. It was only until recently that it was possible for companies to have a strong in-depth understanding of all the technologies used in their specific manufacturing processes. However, with new technology being released into the market constantly, offering cost and time savings, it is vital that companies find a way to keep up.

Trying to stay on top of the latest advancements will be like swimming uphill a large number of manufacturers, and a full time job in itself. The main issue if having the comprehensive knowledge base to know what is reasonable for use in each specific manufacturing facility and what is best to improve cost, performance and usability. New technology has been produced that can save manufacturers money and enhance profits, but it is important that companies invest in solutions that will allow them to find the best technological development for them.

Vision systems, another development in technology, allows manufacturers to implement accurate and dependable inspections of a range of different operation systems. These vision systems are often better than a human at this job, with the removal of decision making with a simple good/bad, true/false, component that engineers can set the tolerances for. The system follows a set of preprogrammed instructions precisely and consistently in order to help in a range of processes such as plant management information. These vision systems are affordable and easy to put to use, making it a valuable advancement to incorporate where required.

For automation manufacturing, PLCs are known for being a technological solution. However, the more cost effective intelligent relay could be just as useful. This sector on manufacturing could also benefit from more powerful PLCs, which can carry out data crunching as well as control. This means that the more powerful PLCs are better suited to the Industry 4.0.