The white paper "Trends in Remote Services & Monitoring," published by PMMI in January 2024, provides an in-depth analysis of the evolving landscape of remote services in the packaging and processing industry. Drawing insights from 144 end-user companies and 36 Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in the USA, the report highlights the increasing adoption of remote technologies and the factors influencing this shift to this technology.
Adoption of Remote Services
End-users are progressively integrating various remote services into their operations, including:
Virtual Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs): Utilizing video conferencing and streaming, equipment suppliers conduct hybrid FATs, combining remote streaming with a minimal on-site presence to ensure machinery meets specifications.
Remote Support: When internal teams encounter challenges, they seek assistance from equipment suppliers through phone calls, video conferencing, or augmented reality, enabling detailed remote technical support.
Remote Commissioning: Employing video conferencing, end-user plants perform commissioning with remote guidance from equipment suppliers, sometimes using a hybrid model with limited on-site representation.
Remote Training: Equipment suppliers provide training to end-user technicians and operators remotely, eliminating the need for on-site visits.
Remote Monitoring: Leveraging IoT technology and cloud computing, both end-users and equipment suppliers monitor machine performance, status, and behavior from a distance.
Predictive Maintenance: An advanced monitoring approach that assesses machines or components to predict potential failures, allowing for proactive maintenance.
What are the Drivers of Investment in remote Technology:
Here are the key factors that are propelling the investment in remote services and monitoring:
Operational Efficiency: Remote services reduce downtime and enhance productivity by enabling swift issue resolution without the delays associated with on-site visits.
Cost Reduction: Minimizing the need for travel and on-site interventions leads to significant cost savings for both end-users and equipment suppliers.
Access to Expertise: Remote services provide immediate access to specialized knowledge, ensuring that complex issues are addressed promptly.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Remote monitoring and predictive maintenance offer valuable data insights, facilitating informed decisions and strategic planning.
What are the Barriers to Adoption of remote Technologies.
Despite the advantages, certain challenges hinder the widespread adoption of remote services:
Security Concerns: Allowing remote access to plant operations raises cybersecurity issues, necessitating robust measures to protect sensitive data.
Technological Limitations: Some facilities may lack the necessary infrastructure or face compatibility issues with existing systems.
Resistance to Change: Cultural resistance and a preference for traditional methods can impede the acceptance of remote services.
Addressing Skills Gaps
Remote services play a crucial role in mitigating skills shortages by:
Providing Remote Expertise: Enabling access to specialized knowledge without the need for on-site presence.
Facilitating Training: Offering remote training programs to upskill existing staff efficiently.
Future Outlook
The white paper suggests a continued shift towards remote services, with a hybrid approach combining remote and in-person interactions becoming the norm. This evolution is expected to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and improve access to expertise across the industry.
In conclusion, the "Trends in Remote Services & Monitoring" white paper underscores the transformative impact of remote technologies in the packaging and processing sector. By embracing these trends, companies can navigate the challenges of modern manufacturing and position themselves for sustained success.
