As manufacturing evolves, the demand for agile, resilient production cycles is increasing. A recent survey of 200 global manufacturing decision-makers revealed that the most pressing challenges in 2024 include maintaining productivity amidst a skilled labor shortage. In addition, growing consumer demand for a diverse range of goods is forcing manufacturers to enhance efficiency and agility.
To overcome these challenges, manufacturers are increasingly adopting advanced automation solutions. A connected ecosystem not only enhances automation but also accelerates the assembly and installation of industrial enclosures. By improving visibility, transparency, and flexibility, a connected ecosystem is essential for faster deployment and better scalability.
With the ongoing diversification of manufacturing, companies often require custom industrial enclosure solutions that meet specific challenges. For example, facilities are retrofitting for warehouse automation, which often involves space constraints and unique layout issues. This drives the need for precise, custom enclosure modifications.
A connected ecosystem facilitates more accurate modifications. High-quality milling, cutting, and drilling allow for seamless integration of panels without the need for specialized tooling. Additionally, increased end-to-end visibility and digital schematics provide a 360° view of the enclosure, making troubleshooting easier during assembly and installation.
At Rittal, our Rittal Automation Systems (RAS) suite offers powerful enclosure modification, panel processing, and wiring machines. These tools are designed to improve precision and speed while being compatible with advanced design software platforms. For example, the Perforex Milling Terminal MT S reliably machines mounting plates, doors, roof plates, and other enclosure parts. It also integrates with Eplan software to digitize the panel modification process through 3D modeling, data sharing, and digital twins.
As manufacturers face fluctuating production demands and space constraints, the ability to scale their automation infrastructure becomes critical. A connected ecosystem not only simplifies design for engineers but also supports assemblers and installers in quickly adapting to these changes.
For example, reconfiguring mounting panels to accommodate additional wires or cables is a common task when scaling production. A connected ecosystem provides real-time updates to schematics, enabling assemblers to adjust quickly based on space and availability of parts. This level of flexibility is vital for maintaining agile production workflows.
Rittal’s wire processing machines, in conjunction with Eplan’s wire processing software, reduce the manual tasks associated with wiring panels. By automating wire cutting, processing, and labeling, these tools reduce downtime and improve accuracy. On a larger scale, the fully automated Wire Terminal WT C processes wires from bulk, offering flexibility, reliability, and a digitally supported workflow. This helps manufacturers streamline production even further.
As the demand for flexible production grows, so does the need to reduce downtime and maximize productivity. In the face of skilled labor shortages, automation solutions are critical for maintaining productivity in assembly and installation. A connected ecosystem ensures that manufacturers can respond to changes quickly, whether it’s scaling up production or adjusting configurations to meet space constraints.
Automation solutions like Rittal’s RAS and Wire Terminal WT C offer significant benefits to manufacturers, including increased efficiency, precision, and scalability. By reducing manual intervention and providing real-time updates, these systems ensure that manufacturers can meet fluctuating demands and continue to operate with minimal disruption.
In conclusion, adopting a connected ecosystem in industrial enclosure assembly and installation empowers manufacturers to stay agile, increase speed to market, and enhance flexibility in their production processes. With integrated automation solutions, manufacturers can maximize uptime, improve precision, and prepare for the future of manufacturing.