Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 is signaling a change in the traditional manufacturing landscape. Also known as the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Industry 4.0 encompasses three technological trends driving this transformation: connectivity, intelligence and flexible automation. Industry 4.0 converges IT (Information Technology) and OT (Operational Technology), to create a cyber-physical environment. This convergence has been made possible thanks to the emergence of digital solutions and advanced technologies, which are often associated with Industry 4.0.

Industry 4.0 and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR)

The classic view of these four industrial revolutions, as Industry 4.0 became increasingly popular, was:

• The first industrial revolution, which REALLY was a revolution, and, among others thanks to invention of steam machines, the usage of water and steam power and all sorts of other machines, would lead to the industrial transformation of society with trains, mechanization of manufacturing and loads of smog.
• The second industrial revolution is typically seen as the period where electricity and new manufacturing ‘inventions’ which it enabled, such as the assembly line, led to the area of mass production and to some extent to automation.
• The third industrial revolution had everything to do with the rise of computers, computer networks (WAN, LAN, MAN,…), the rise of robotics in manufacturing, connectivity and obviously the birth of the Internet, that big game changer in the ways information is handled and shared, and the evolutions to e-anything versions of previously brick and mortar environments only, with far more automation.
• In the fourth industrial revolution we move from ‘just’ the Internet and the client-server model to ubiquitous mobility, the bridging of digital and physical environments (in manufacturing referred to as Cyber Physical Systems), the convergence of IT and OT, and all the previously mentioned technologies (Internet of Things, Big Data, cloud, etc.) with additional accelerators such as advanced robotics and AI/cognitive which enable Industry 4.0 with automation and optimization in entirely new ways that lead to ample opportunities to innovate and truly fully automate and bring the industry to the next level. Some also like to add the injection of technology and connectivity in the human/digital mind and body convergence to Industry 4.0

source: Spectral Engines

Technologies Driving Industry 4.0

• Internet of Things (IoT): The Internet of Things (IoT) is a key component of smart factories. Machines on the factory floor are equipped with sensors that feature an IP address that allows the machines to connect with other web-enabled devices. This connectivity makes it possible for large amounts of valuable data to be collected, analyzed and exchanged.
• Cloud Computing: Cloud computing is a cornerstone of any Industry 4.0 strategy. Full realization of smart manufacturing demands connectivity and integration of engineering, supply chain, production, sales and distribution, and service. Cloud helps make that possible. In addition, the typically large amount of data being stored and analyzed can be processed more efficiently and cost-effectively with cloud. Cloud computing can also reduce startup costs for small- and medium-sized manufacturers who can right-size their needs and scale as their business grows.
• AI and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning allow manufacturing companies to take full advantage of the volume of information generated not just on the factory floor, but across their business units, and even from partners and third-party sources. AI and machine learning can create insights providing visibility, predictability and automation of operations and business processes. For instance: Industrial machines are prone to breaking down during the production process. Using data collected from these assets can help businesses perform predictive maintenance based on machine learning algorithms, resulting in more uptime and higher efficiency.
• Edge Computing: The demands of real-time production operations mean that some data analysis must be done at the “edge”—that is, where the data is created. This minimizes latency time from when data is produced to when a response is required. For instance, the detection of a safety or quality issue may require near-real-time action with the equipment. The time needed to send data to the enterprise cloud and then back to the factory floor may be too lengthy and depends on the reliability of the network. Using edge computing also means that data stays near its source, reducing security risks.
• Cybersecurity: Manufacturing companies have not always considered the importance of cybersecurity. However, the same connectivity of operational equipment in the factory or field (OT) that enables more efficient manufacturing processes also exposes new entry paths for malicious attacks and malware. When undergoing a digital transformation to Industry 4.0, it is essential to consider a cybersecurity approach that encompasses IT and OT equipment.
• Digital Twin: The digital transformation offered by Industry 4.0 has allowed manufacturers to create digital twins that are virtual replicas of processes, production lines, factories and supply chains. A digital twin is created by pulling data from IoT sensors, devices, PLCs and other objects connected to the internet. Manufacturers can use digital twins to help increase productivity, improve workflows and design new products. By simulating a production process, for example, manufacturers can test changes to the process to find ways to minimize downtime or improve capacity.