Manufacturing Embracing 'Shift-Left' for Quality, Efficiency
Manufacturing is adopting a shift-left approach, originally from software engineering, to enhance quality and efficiency. This methodology aims to prevent defects early in the product lifecycle, rather than identifying them later in production.
In this approach, metrology's role evolves from a reactive checkpoint to an active contributor in product and process design. It employs simulations, digital twins, and tolerance analyses to assess manufacturability before tooling is constructed, integrating inspection intent in CAD models.
This shift brings quality inspection, validation testing, and root cause analysis forward into design and process planning phases. Companies establish a continuous feedback loop connecting design directly to the shop floor using model-based definitions, digital twins, in-line sensing, and AI-powered analytics. The benefits include reduced launch timelines, lower scrap and rework costs, consistent quality, and a shift in workforce focus to higher-value tasks. In the context of Smart Manufacturing, 'shift-left' thrives due to the digital thread, connecting design, process planning, production, inspection, and service.
The shift-left approach, initially adopted from software engineering and quality assurance, is now central to Smart Manufacturing. It transforms metrology's role and brings significant benefits, making it an increasingly popular choice among manufacturers.
