Advanced manufacturing
'Advanced manufacturing' is a very broad term that refers to a range of modern techniques and practices involving the latest developments in technology.
It includes all aspects of the manufacturing process from design through to production and is commonly described as including (amongst many others) advanced forms of:
- Materials.
- Computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM).
- Offsite manufacturing.
- Prefabrication and preassembly.
- Automation, robotics and other intelligent production systems.
- High precision technologies: Laser processing, electrical machining and mechanical machining.
- Modelling techniques such as building information modelling and finite element modelling.
- 3D printing (additive manufacturing).
- Sustainable and green technologies and processes.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- 3D printing.
- Advanced construction technology.
- Advanced manufacturing technology.
- Agile.
- Block planning.
- Building technology.
- Construction innovation.
- Construction Innovation Hub.
- Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA).
- Dynamic conditions for project success.
- Lean construction.
- Line of balance (LOB).
- Modern methods of construction.
- Offsite manufacturing.
- Off-site manufacturing.
- Off site, on track.
- Platform approach to design for manufacture and assembly.
- Understanding agile in project management.
Featured articles and news
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.
The first line of defence against rain, wind and snow.
Building Safety recap January, 2026
What we missed at the end of last year, and at the start of this...
National Apprenticeship Week 2026, 9-15 Feb
Shining a light on the positive impacts for businesses, their apprentices and the wider economy alike.
Applications and benefits of acoustic flooring
From commercial to retail.
From solid to sprung and ribbed to raised.
Strengthening industry collaboration in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Institute of Construction and The Chartered Institute of Building sign Memorandum of Understanding.
A detailed description from the experts at Cornish Lime.
IHBC planning for growth with corporate plan development
Grow with the Institute by volunteering and CP25 consultation.
Connecting ambition and action for designers and specifiers.
Electrical skills gap deepens as apprenticeship starts fall despite surging demand says ECA.
Built environment bodies deepen joint action on EDI
B.E.Inclusive initiative agree next phase of joint equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) action plan.
Recognising culture as key to sustainable economic growth
Creative UK Provocation paper: Culture as Growth Infrastructure.
Futurebuild and UK Construction Week London Unite
Creating the UK’s Built Environment Super Event and over 25 other key partnerships.
Welsh and Scottish 2026 elections
Manifestos for the built environment for upcoming same May day elections.
Advancing BIM education with a competency framework
“We don’t need people who can just draw in 3D. We need people who can think in data.”
Comments
"Advanced manufacturing" refers to the use of cutting-edge technologies, processes, and techniques to improve the manufacturing industry's efficiency, productivity, and product quality. It encompasses various innovations that have revolutionized how products are designed, produced, and distributed. Here are some key aspects of advanced manufacturing:
1. **Automation and Robotics**: Advanced manufacturing often involves the integration of automation and robotics to perform tasks that were traditionally done by human workers. This can lead to increased production speed, reduced errors, and improved workplace safety.
2. **Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)**: Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, allows for the creation of complex parts and prototypes by adding material layer by layer. It enables rapid prototyping, customization, and reduced material waste.
3. **Digital Twin Technology**: Digital twins are virtual representations of physical products or processes. They allow manufacturers to simulate and optimize the entire product lifecycle, from design and production to maintenance and performance analysis.
4. **Advanced Materials**: The development and use of advanced materials, such as composites, nanomaterials, and smart materials, can result in products with enhanced properties, such as strength, durability, and conductivity.
5. **Internet of Things (IoT)**: IoT involves connecting physical devices and equipment to the internet, enabling real-time data collection, monitoring, and analysis. In manufacturing, IoT can lead to predictive maintenance, better supply chain management, and improved operational efficiency.
6. **Artificial Intelligence (AI)**: AI technologies, including machine learning and predictive analytics, can help manufacturers make data-driven decisions, optimize processes, and identify patterns that might be difficult for humans to detect.
7. **Advanced Data Analytics**: Advanced manufacturing relies on data analytics to extract valuable insights from large datasets. This can lead to improved quality control, better demand forecasting, and optimized production processes.
8. **Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement**: These principles focus on eliminating waste, improving efficiency, and constantly seeking ways to enhance processes. Technologies like AI and data analytics play a role in identifying areas for improvement.
9. **Sustainability and Circular Economy**: Advanced manufacturing techniques often incorporate sustainable practices, such as recycling and using environmentally friendly materials, to reduce the environmental impact of production.
10. **Collaborative Manufacturing**: Collaboration between humans and robots or between different manufacturers is becoming more common. This can involve co-robots working alongside human workers or different companies collaborating to create complex products.
11. **Flexible Manufacturing Systems**: Modern manufacturing systems are designed to be adaptable to changes in demand, enabling quick adjustments to production lines and product variations.
12. **Supply Chain Digitalization**: Digital tools can help optimize supply chain management, ensuring that raw materials and components are sourced efficiently and delivered on time.
Advanced manufacturing is transforming industries across the board, from aerospace and automotive to electronics and consumer goods. Its adoption can lead to improved product quality, reduced costs, increased innovation, and enhanced competitiveness on a global scale.