// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
Cloud Manufacturing
A manufacturing model where resources, services, and data are managed and accessed over the internet, allowing for flexible and scalable production. It enables on-demand access to manufacturing capabilities.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
Cloud Manufacturing is a service-oriented paradigm that leverages cloud computing infrastructure to provide on-demand access to manufacturing resources (e.g., software, hardware, data, services) over the internet, enabling flexible, scalable, and collaborative production processes.
BACKGROUND
Smart manufacturing is a broad category of manufacturing that employs computer-integrated manufacturing, high levels of adaptability and rapid design changes, digital information technology, and more flexible technical workforce training. Other goals sometimes include fast changes in production levels based on demand, optimization of the supply chain, efficient production and recyclability. In this concept, a smart factory has interoperable systems, multi-scale dynamic modelling and simulation, intelligent automation, strong cyber security, and networked sensors.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Manufacturing as a Service (MaaS)
- cloud-based production
- distributed manufacturing
- virtual manufacturing
USAGE NOTE
Enables smaller companies to access advanced manufacturing capabilities and facilitates global collaboration, but data security is a key concern.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Cloud Manufacturing.
Siemens offers MindSphere, an open IoT operating system, and a comprehensive portfolio for digital manufacturing, enabling cloud-based monitoring, analysis, and optimization of production processes.
SAP provides a suite of cloud-based manufacturing solutions, including SAP Digital Manufacturing Cloud, which integrates production processes, logistics, and business planning in the cloud for greater agility and efficiency.
With its Predix platform, GE Digital focuses on industrial IoT applications, enabling companies to connect machines, collect data, and leverage cloud analytics for predictive maintenance and operational optimization in manufacturing.
PTC offers ThingWorx, an industrial IoT platform that enables manufacturers to connect products, operations, and systems, leveraging cloud capabilities for real-time data analysis, remote monitoring, and augmented reality applications in the factory.
Through products like Fusion 360, Autodesk provides cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE software that integrates design, engineering, and manufacturing workflows, facilitating collaborative and distributed manufacturing processes.
Through Azure IoT and other cloud services, Microsoft provides a robust platform for manufacturers to build cloud-connected factories, manage industrial data, and deploy AI/ML solutions at scale, supporting digital transformation.
AWS offers a wide range of cloud services, including AWS IoT and specialized manufacturing solutions, that support manufacturers in connecting devices, processing data, and building cloud-native applications for smart factories and supply chain optimization.
With the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, Dassault Systèmes offers a cloud-based environment that connects design, engineering, simulation, and manufacturing processes, enabling virtual twin experiences and collaborative product development.
Through its IBM Maximo Application Suite and other IoT and AI offerings, IBM helps manufacturers optimize asset performance, streamline operations, and implement cloud-based solutions for predictive maintenance, quality control, and supply chain management.