9781422270875

1 Chapter

What Do Advanced Manufacturing Technicians Do? What is Advanced Manufacturing Manufacturing consists of a variety of processes that convert raw materials /constituents into a finished product through human or mechanized techniques. The manufacturing sector plays a major role in the US economy, and that of other countries. One out of every 10 workers—more than 15.7 million people—are employed in manufacturing, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Advanced manufacturing seeks to increase efficiency and the quality of products, reduce the risk of human error by automating processes (when possible), increase flexibility and responsiveness to market demands, and meet other goals. To do so, nontraditional manufacturing techniques such as additive manufacturing (including 3-D printing ), computer numerical control machining, laser machining/welding, and nanotechnology, as well as tools are used, such as advanced robotics, artificial intelligence, digital design and prototyping, Big Data, data analytics, virtual and augmented reality, and the Industrial Internet of Things. Advanced manufacturing is also known as Smart Manufacturing, Digital Factory, Smart Factory, and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0).

11