Over the past few decades, new technologies have altered the way companies operate. The digitalization and automation of systems have changed the game. And Engineering companies have faced new challenges, with market changes and evolving technology.
Of course, new technologies are becoming increasingly embedded in a wide range of technical fields. And as time goes on, they also become more cost-effective.
These are the emerging technologies that shape the future of engineering and must be integrated into industrial applications to ensure productivity.
3D Scanners
A 3D scan is a digital copy of an object that shows it in three dimensions. It can be used for reverse engineering, quality control, forensics, and medical fields.
3D scanners are becoming increasingly crucial in engineering, and different kinds of 3D scanners have been invented for various tasks.
Here are some of the different types of 3D scanning technologies:
- Photogrammetry uses several photographs of an item from different perspectives. Later, sophisticated software processes these photos. This study generates a 3D model-ready point cloud. Drones and aerial photogrammetry also employ this technology.
- Structured-light 3D scanning is another way. Structured light patterns are projected onto objects and a camera tracks their reflections and distortions. Later, the software creates a 3D model by following light deformations. This method provides fine data for quality control scans.
- A laser can also be used to scan in 3D. There are two ways to do this: by timing the flight or triangulation. Laser scanners are very flexible and can measure distances and examine objects. They can be held in your hand and moved around so you can scan faster.
Trevilla has used 3D Scanning for many different applications. Our Reverse Engineers use various 3D Scanners to collect highly precise data.
Additive Manufacturing
Additive manufacturing makes it possible to make working parts. It’s even been used in space, though at first it was only used to print 3D plastic pieces.
In additive manufacturing, data from CAD programs or 3D object scanners are used to control machines that add layers of material to make complex shapes. Material is added throughout the production process of an additively manufactured product.
Because of additive manufacturing, the way Design Engineers think has dramatically changed in many fields. Designers can quickly go from sketches of ideas to working prototypes, which significantly cuts development time.
Two kinds of additive manufacturing for polymers are stereolithography and fused deposition modeling. On the other hand, metals can also be melted with selective laser melting and electron beam melting. With metal printing, you can use a wide range of metals. These metals include titanium cobalt-chrome and aluminum alloys, among others.
With additive manufacturing much more complicated shapes can be made. So designers can now make a component that used to be made as a parts assembly. This means that there will be a significant drop in weight. It can make quick prototypes and custom parts for niche markets like healthcare.
As an extension of additive manufacturing, 3D scanning can be used for reverse engineering.
Aerial Drones
Drones are now a part of every aspect of our lives. In many places, they are used for both entertainment and business services, as well as engineering.
Infrastructure, farming, mining, construction, and security are all areas where aerial drones are beneficial. Engineers have gotten a lot of helpful information from drones in the air because they can carry different kinds of equipment.
Maintaining infrastructure in the air is one of their increasing uses. Drones can quickly check things like wind turbines, bridges, and industrial complexes. They are more cost-effective and much safer than sending someone to these dangerous inspection areas.
Because they can carry so many different kinds of gear they will always be helpful. They are great tools for inspecting cities from above, mapping, and making models of urban areas. They are faster, much cheaper, and getting more and more automated.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
AI technology is one of the world’s most advanced (and useful!) types of science and technology. It is used increasingly in engineering, especially manufacturing and production, and everyday life.
AI and machine learning are used to find problems, check quality, make workplaces safer, and do other tasks. AI is also getting more common in things like home appliances.
AI can also work with CAD programs and 3D scanners to collect information. It can also be used with 3D printing.
Engineers can build structures that are lighter than ever before with the help of tools like organic latticing. Design engineers can use generative design to try out ideas that have never been considered. Engineers can also let AI help them improve their design with topology optimization through FEA analysis programs.
Clean Energy
In the clean energy sector, many new technologies are coming out. Systems like wind solar and hydro energy systems keep getting better. In every part of the world, people need energy, especially electricity.
In the field of renewable energy, there are also new technologies that can be used along with existing types of renewable energy:
- Marine Energy
- Enhanced Geothermal
- Concentrated Solar
- Artificial Photosynthesis
- Cellulosic Ethanol
Many new technologies use clean energy, evident in automotive industries with electric cars and planes. Improvements in the clean energy sector directly affect progress in other areas of technology.
Since we need clean energy sources it is also the engineers’ job to make systems that are much more efficient and clean.
Conclusion
Technology is changing at a rate that has never been seen before. And as new technologies are used in more and more fields, there is a growing need for skilled workers.
The CAD CAM and FEA software we use today was developed in the last few decades. And now, cutting-edge technology like 3D scanners, 3D printers, and artificial intelligence are helping the engineering field continue to grow.
Engineers have a lot of new tools at their disposal that can help them make better products and systems. Furthermore, when all of these technologies are used together the advantages to businesses grow exponentially.
Businesses may need the tools to use these technologies, such as the proper hardware and employees who know how to use them. However, engineering and consulting firms like Trevilla Engineering can help companies benefit from the described technologies.