CORVALLIS, Ore. – Engineers at Oregon State University developed a new approach toward sustainable manufacturing. One that begins on the factory floor. Consequently a result of encompassing manufacturing issues. Finally also including economic, environmental, and social impacts.
As I’ve written before:
First of all the report called The Energy Savings Potential of Smart Manufacturing. It’s bringing energy efficiency to all. It’s showing businesses leaders, utility program administrators and energy managers. All to make U.S. manufacturing more energy efficient, productive and competitive.
Therefore they are continuing their examination of the supply chain. Finally. they identify the components of smart manufacturing and define terms. Thereby connecting them with the potential to manage and save energy. All in a new and innovative way.
Its integrating devices, and systems networks to be predictive and produce new energy savings. Now do this for manufacturing equipment, systems, processes, and facilities. The MOST POLLUTING SPOTS IN THE GLOBE!
These analytical capabilities have the potential to simplify work. As well as automate the evaluation, measurement, and validation of energy savings. Therefore an important development for utility energy efficiency programs. These data gathering and analysis capabilities create new opportunities. All for firms realize value from utility demand response and energy efficiency programs.
However, before smart manufacturing will transform the industrial sector. Because costs must come down requiring the adoption of common communication. Furthermore network protocols and standards. It also requires improved data security. As well as appropriately trained workers. Because workers who know how to develop and use smart manufacturing tools. Fortunately and most noteworthy industry and government are coming together. All in efforts to consequently address details and develop new frameworks. Finally, it will enable easier and broader adoption of smart manufacturing.
The findings were published in the Journal of Cleaner Production
It reflects therefore part of society’s growing demands for sustainable manufacturing systems. One thereby protecting both people and the environment. That’s while allowing companies to be economically viable and make a profit. Most importantly on products correctly!
The researchers demonstrate the approach with the production of steel knives. Because the general concepts are used for virtually any system or product.
With every decision most interestingly the method considers sustainable manufacturing techniques. That’s as well as speed of the operations, environmental impacts, materials, energy used and wastes. Decisions are based on compliance with laws and regulations. As well as the effects of different approaches on worker safety and satisfaction.
Most interestingly, social components are often left out. That’s because they were some of the most difficult aspects to scientifically quantify and measure. But health, safety and happiness that start on the workshop floor can ripple through the entire community and society. All consequently too important to be pushed aside.
This approach incorporates previous concepts of sustainability. Concepts that have been found to have proven value. That’s consequently the life cycle assessment of systems. One therefore considering the totality of energy used. In addition the environmental impacts and other issues.
Most interestingly, OSU researchers developed approaches with Sheldon Manufacturing, Inc. They are located in Cornelius, Oregon.
Sheldon Manufacturing INC is a designer and manufacturer of laboratory equipment. In conclusion, this work is supported by Benchmade Knife Co. In addition, Sheldon Manufacturing and the Oregon Metals Initiative.
These demands are a special challenge to small and medium sized companies. Finally and most importantly at many levels of manufacturing.
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