Industry 4.0 technology has paved the way for improved assembly processes. Now, operators can complete tasks faster, easier, and more precisely than ever before. Your smart factory is working in your favor to ensure your production is error-proofed and streamlined.
However, your manufacturing facility faces potential cyber-attacks through smart connected tools and production software. Hackers use various ways to disrupt your assembly and potentially put your operators at risk. In this article, we will discuss the various ways hackers can put your operators at risk of severe injury.
Handheld tools
If hackers gain access to smart tools on your line, they can unsuspectingly change program settings which could lead to costly or devastating results. Operators could lose control of the tool, resulting in injury or damaged parts, potentially affecting profitability.
Fixtured tools
Handheld tools aren’t the only tools in your facility that are at risk of cyber threats. Your fixtured tools are equally at risk. Similarly to the issues faced with handheld tools, fixtured tools may result in a damaged tool or product as well as an injured operator, all of which negatively affect your operator experience, productivity, and bottom line.
Another issue faced with fixtured tools is that the fixture itself may break off and fall over. This poses a new and more dangerous situation where your operators could also be injured by the fixture.
Robotics
Possibly the most dangerous of the three categories if compromised is your robotic equipment. While your robots may be able to complete tasks without an operator, they can still pose a risk to the health and safety of those around them if the specifications are manipulated. When this happens, the robot may move in ways it wasn’t originally programmed, and objects near it may be knocked over, both of which put your operators and products in danger.
To sum it up
Manufacturing good quality products is becoming easier as facilities become increasingly digital. However, a new threat can affect your operators, production quality, and productivity. To promote great operator ergonomics and to protect your equipment and products, it is essential to check the torque specifications of your tools and robotics.
But all is not lost. Innovative solutions are being created every day. Despite this looming threat, technology is being designed to combat it, keeping your operators safe. At Atlas Copco, we prioritized the health and safety of all who use our products, and continuously improving the cyber security of our solutions is one of how we keep that promise. Contact your local Atlas Copco RSM today to learn more.
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