How Industry 4.0 Turned A Boon For Defense Manufacturing

Aerospace and Defense Review | Wednesday, April 20, 2022

Industry 4.0 is a combination of cutting-edge technologies such as digitization, big data, analytics, Internet of Things (IoT), additive manufacturing (AM), automation, simulation, and Augmented Reality (AR).

Fremont, CA: Industry 4.0 plays a significant role in accelerating defense manufacturing processes. It improves the quality of the product and offers necessary ruggedization from harsh temperature or weather conditions. The defense industry is set to benefit greatly with the use of groundbreaking technologies in the manufacturing of autonomous systems, robotics and a host of other solutions for land, sea, air and space environments. 

Let's check how industry 4.0 turned a boon for the defense industry.

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 Additive Manufacturing (AM)

AM employs 3D printing, allowing for decentralized production while significantly improving output. The following are the key components of AM:

• Prototyping

• Mass Production

Augmented Reality(AR)

AR aids in perceiving information displayed within the soldier's visual field, reducing the need for training and support.

Key advantages of augmented reality in defense:

• Expert assistance from afar

• Display of information

• Analysis of quality

Big Data and Analytics

Big Data and analytics aid in evaluating and analyzing data from various sources, allowing for effective real-time decision-making and optimization. Data can also be used to:

• Analytics, both descriptive and predictive

• Monitoring in real-time

• Using AI to reduce reliance on humans

Simulation

There are three types of simulation in the defense industry: live, virtual, and constructive. Simulations can range from testing to a completely computer-generated representation of how a system will react to different inputs.

Key applications include:

• Digital twins

• Design based on simulation

• Simulation-based manufacturing

 

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