Advanced Manufacturing

Technologies delivering value

Here are some examples of how advanced technologies are being applied in the Advanced Manufacturing sector…

Wireless sensors, smart meters, online databases and Internet of Things (IoT)

Monitoring systems/processes and shutting down idle machines ➔ Improving water/energy efficiency and maximising resource and equipment usage

Controlling temperature in factories ➔ Supporting staff comfort, reducing energy use

Digitally tracking hazardous waste ➔ Reducing waste and environmental impacts

Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning and image recognition

Nanotechnology and materials science

Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR & VR)

3D and laser printing

Blockchain technology

Below are a few examples of how organisations in this sector are using sustainability strategies and technologies.

Acoustic sensor technologies for wildlife research

Elexon develop sensor technologies that help conserve native fauna
High precision intelligent manufacturing facility improves quality and reduces waste
Moving to ISO14001 Environmental Management System (EMS)
Based in Moreton Bay

Partnership to recycle and remanufacture phones

Collaboration between Fairphone (who manufacture phones) and Teqcycle (who recycle them) to make the supply chain more resilient and ethical
Products are modular, designed for long use, repair and remanufacture
Online system for phone returns
The organisations don’t use minerals from conflict zones
Recycling saves energy/materials and repairing phones creates jobs
Based in Europe (Netherlands)

Nanowire technology for efficient, sustainable electronics

AlignedBio produce nanowire sensors and biotechnologies that can radically improve electronic devices and DNA sequencing for healthcare
Developed an innovative nanotech method that increases accuracy and saves energy and materials
Based in Europe (Sweden)

Remanufacturing & recycling to save resources and add value

Caterpillar manufacture heavy vehicles. Machines are designed for disassembly, so they can later be re-manufactured and re-sold via Cat Reman
Core parts are re-sold after re-manufacture to strict standards, or rebuilt with ‘as new’ warranty and discount
A central management system manages returns globally, with two-way logistics/transport capabilities
Customers are offered regular check-ups and digital performance remote monitoring to identify issues proactively
Whole of lifecycle approach – Six Sigma process control, lean manufacturing, enterprise-wide process for orders, delivery and returns
Caterpillar recycles over 68 million kg of end-of-life iron annually, saving money, resources and carbon emissions
Cat Reman are researching robotics to automate the re-manufacture process
Based in USA