Collaborative robotAdvanced manufacturing technologies offer new solutions for manufacturers who wish to enhance their existing operations or build capacity to take advantage of growth opportunities. Nonetheless, it can be challenging to design and implement a new technology project if you lack information about what’s available or have limited in-house technical expertise. 

These services and tools can help you explore your technology options or navigate the deployment journey more effectively.

What is Industry 4.0?

“Industry 4.0” describes the trend toward integrating advanced technologies into manufacturing production facilities to enhance both operations and the products themselves.  Some manufacturers are implementing “smart factories” with advanced sensors, software, and automation throughout their facilities. However, small and medium manufacturers can also benefit from targeted technology implementations to address specific needs. Some of the leading trends in Industry 4.0 include:

  • Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) – Interconnected devices that collect and share data
  • Predictive Maintenance – Using sensor data to detect failures or needed repairs
  • Robotics – Automated technologies that facilitate repetitive or physically demanding tasks
  • Immersive Technology and Digital Twins – Virtual reality and related technologies for simulation, modeling, and scenario testing
  • Additive Manufacturing – 3D printing processes that allow new ways to build models and products
  • Artificial Intelligence – AI, especially machine learning tools, can be useful for improving quality, yield, performance, and throughput

Types of Services

Collaborative robot picks up blocks during demonstration

  • Technology Demonstrations. Considering automating some of your processes? MMEC can conduct or facilitate demonstrations of various types of technology, including a collaborative robot (“cobot”), in your facility or at a nearby location so you and your employees can see its capabilities and visualize potential applications.
  • Equipment/Vendor Identification and Analysis – Sourcing tools and support to help you identify and analyze relevant equipment options.
  • Return on Investment Analysis – MMEC can generate ROI data to help you compare equipment options or make a Go/No Go decision on a project.
  • Automation Assessments – Assessment of existing processes and potential automation solutions.
  • Engineering Support– MMEC’s Automation Engineer offers technical assistance for the design and implementation of new technology projects, and for troubleshooting, updating, or integrating existing systems.

New! MMEC's Mobile Demonstration Unit Hits the Road

MMEC staff with mobile technology vanMMEC has rolled out a mobile demonstration unit to bring manufacturing technology demonstrations to you! We offer interactive demonstrations and expert guidance to Montana manufacturers to showcase some of the technology available to boost your manufacturing. With this service, we have demonstrations of additive manufacturing, collaborative robotics and autonomous mobile robotics, CNC machining, and additional technologies that can assist your manufacturing process. To plan a time to see these demonstrations, contact your local MMEC business advisor.

Related Pages

Additional services related to automation are available on the following pages:

Outcomes and Benefits

Learn about technology options that might benefit your organization based on your specific industry, processes, products and operating environment. Make well-informed decisions about when and how to invest in new or updated automation equipment or other advanced technology solutions. Get expert assistance with implementation and integration to help you get up and running quickly.

Success Stories

MMEC Partners with Plastics Manufacturer to Launch Automation Projects

Bob the ‘cobot’ visits Montana State University high-tech fair

News and Resources

  • Automation 101: How to Plan for Successful Implementation. This NIST report introduces potential applications and benefits of automation for small manufacturers, as well as planning steps for successful implementation. It also provides examples of how state MEP Centers have offered technical expertise and support for technology implementations. Find the guide on the MMEC Reports webpage.
  • Artificial Intelligence: Key Considerations and Effective Implementation Strategies. This NIST report provides an overview of AI tools that can boost efficiency in multiple sectors of manufacturing. It also reviews factors that manufacturers should consider and plan for prior to implementation. Find the guide on the MMEC Reports webpage.  
  • Manufacturers' Guide to Industry 4.0 Technologies. NIST prepared this introductory primer specifically for Small and Medium Manufacturers (SMMs), to learn about technologies that have helped other SMMs. Find the guide on the MMEC Reports webpage.
  • MT Department of Commerce Grants and Loans. In 2023, the Montana Department of Commerce launched an Automation Loan program and a Cybersecurity grant program to assist MT businesses with automation implementation. Check the Montana Grants Application Portal for current funding availability.

 

Contact Us!

Want some personal guidance on which services are the best fit for your business? Reach out to one of our Business Advisors to get started.