Technical translation isn’t all about translating the manuals for machines and technology (although we do love a good manual!). Often, our work also deals with reports and press releases about trends in the technology sector and cutting-edge developments – and it’s always exciting to learn about these and do more research into them as we’re translating.
Here are six of the trends and developments we’ve seen crop up frequently in our translations over the years – not all of them are new, but they’re all fascinating subjects.
1. Industry 4.0 (and now 5.0)
The next stage in the industrial revolution, incorporating digital aspects such as automation and connectivity into conventional engineering and technology. Industry 5.0 looks beyond the human/machine model and incorporates sustainable, human-centric approaches designed to make jobs and industries more stable.
2. Digital twins
A digital twin is a virtual representation of a product, system or other piece of technology that exists in the real world. It mimics the behaviour of the real thing so that testing and simulation can be carried out at relatively low risk.
3. Reshoring
A company’s decision to move manufacturing processes to domestic locations rather than having machines and technology made overseas and shipped. Lately, it has often been driven by the effects of Covid, which showed how vulnerable long supply chains can be.
4. Additive manufacturing
Also known as 3D printing, this process builds products using a digital model, layer by layer. This means the material is deposited, or added, in the process of creating the object – as opposed to conventional manufacturing, where material is often taken away from the raw source to create the final object.
5. Hybrid manufacturing
A combination of additive manufacturing and traditional machining methods, such as CNC machining. It often allows parts to be made with greater precision and customised technology options.
6. Product-as-a-service
A model in which customers pay regularly (as a subscription, for example) to access a product and its benefits, rather than paying once and owning the product outright. Vehicles and construction machinery are examples of applications for this model.
We’re always delighted to help with technical documentation on subjects like these, whether they’re industry reports, data sheets or even a good old manual. Drop us a line on info@lktranslations.co.uk – or connect with us on LinkedIn and DM us there – if you’ve got something we can help you with!
