The shortage in vehicle stock is just one of many long-term effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on consumer markets. Thanks largely to global microprocessor shortages, manufacturers have struggled to meet demand and reach pre-pandemic production levels. Other factors such as inflation, labor shortages, and increased demand for all-electric vehicles have also contributed shortages in this field. To maintain their business, modern auto makers must find creative solutions to meet manufacturing disruptions head-on.
The shortcomings of the just-in-time model of materials handling and manufacturing that was once so popular have been highlighted by recent disruptions. With priority given to production over inventory, situations like the current shortage of semiconductors were almost inevitable. Labor issues are also a major hurdle in almost every field. In the past, manufacturers have been slow to adopt automation for fear of alienating workers whose jobs could be threatened by machines. With workers now scarce, automation is finally free to fill the labor void.
Automation in assembly lines or materials handling applications can adapt to suit the needs of the moment more readily than traditional human-operated lines. Automated conveyors can run at speeds greater than what a human could process, or pause automatically when not in use to save energy. Trailers can be loaded and unloaded without any human assistance. Whatever the application, automation means the efficiency to have product in the right place at the right time.
Efficiency and adaptability are more important than ever in an industry as rapidly changing as auto manufacturing. Shortages aside, another big shift in the industry is already underway thanks to increased demand for electric vehicles. This shift will necessitate new manufacturing practices and equipment, as well as an even greater need for semiconductors. To face these challenges, efficient automation will be more important than ever.
The added efficiency afforded by automation allows for greater accumulation of inventory. Keeping future demand in mind while trying to eat into current deficits will be important to the future of manufacturing. Moving toward a model of keeping more product on hand will also be crucial to facing any other unforeseen challenges that the future may hold. For whatever is to come, a custom solution from UMD Automated Systems will help keep your operation on track. Contact us today to get started.