Industry 4.0 is a hot topic that is transforming the way factories operate. It is the fourth industrial revolution, which is characterized by the use of advanced automation and digitization technologies in industrial processes.
Internet of Things, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and robotics, among other things, enable the creation of a highly connected and intelligent production environment. The result is an increase in efficiency, productivity and product quality.
Want to know more about the key technologies that are part of this revolution? So, continue reading below. Enjoy!
What are the key technologies of Industry 4.0?
Industry 4.0 is characterized by the use of advanced automation, digitization and connectivity technologies. This serves to increase efficiency and productivity in manufacturing and production operations.
Some of the key technologies used in Industry 4.0 are:
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Big Data
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
- Advanced Robotics
- 3D Printing
- Blockchain
- Cloud Computing
- 5G Connectivity
- Cybersecurity
- Simulation Systems
- Edge Computing
- Additive Manufacturing
- Big Data Analytics
It is important to emphasize that despite being a concept already implemented by some companies around the planet, not all industries will use the technologies mentioned above.
Since this depends on the type of operation, a company is unlikely to make use of all the aforementioned tools. In addition, most companies are still in a slow transition process, adopting technologies gradually in order to evolve their processes.
That said, let’s explore each topic to get a better understanding of some of the key technologies in Industry 4.0.
1. Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things refers to connecting devices and sensors to the Internet in order to collect and share data in real time. In Industry 4.0, IoT is used to gather information about machines, equipment, products and production processes, enabling better monitoring, control and decision-making.
Read also: What is the Internet of Things? Get to know the main advantages, examples and applications
2. Big Data
Big Data is a very popular concept and, in practice, involves the collection, processing and analysis of large amounts of data in order to obtain valuable information.
In Industry 4.0, big data analytics is used to analyze the data collected by IoT and other systems in order to identify trends, patterns, and insights that can help improve efficiency, productivity, and business outcomes.
3. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Artificial Intelligence, a very popular topic in recent years, refers to the ability of machines to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence.
As an example, we have the recognition of voice, image and natural language processing, up to the creation of content and code. In Industry 4.0, AI is used in order to automate processes, optimize operations, and improve product quality.
4. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality are technologies that allow digital information to be integrated into the physical environment or create an immersive virtual environment.
In Industry 4.0, AR and VR are used for employee training, process simulation and remote maintenance. See the sample video (in Portuguese), below, in order to better understand the topic:
5. Advanced Robotics
Advanced robotics involves the use of robots in order to automate production processes, improving the efficiency and quality of products.
This is arguably one of the main technologies of Industry 4.0 nowadays, and makes it possible to perform complex tasks, such as assembling customized products, as well as dangerous tasks, such as welding and cutting.
6. 3D Printing
3D printing is also a much talked about technology in recent years, and allows users to create three-dimensional objects from a digital model. In Industry 4.0, it is used in order to create custom prototypes, tools and parts, reducing production time and cost.
7. Blockchain
Blockchain is a technology that enables the creation of secure and immutable digital records. It is true that this technology is still very young in the industry, but on the other hand, it has immense potential for Industry 4.0.
Regarding its usage, blockchains can ensure the security and integrity of data, as well as help to track products and components throughout the modern supply chain, which is quite complex.
8. Cloud Computing
Cloud computing enables storage and access to data and applications over the internet, eliminating the need for on-premises infrastructure and increasing the flexibility and scalability of production, among other benefits.
In Industry 4.0, cloud computing is used to store and process large amounts of data, enabling advanced analytics and real-time information sharing.
9. 5G connectivity
5G technology is the next generation of mobile connectivity, providing faster speeds and lower latency than 4G. Although it is a reality in some countries, we still consider it as next generation, because it is currently in the process of being adopted by nations around the planet.
In Industry 4.0, 5G is used in order to connect devices and equipment in real time, enabling faster and more reliable communication between machines and people, which can be essential to increase results and the competitiveness of a business.
10. Simulation Systems
Simulation is a technology that allows you to create a virtual model of a process or system in order to test and optimize it before it is implemented in real life.
In Industry 4.0, simulation systems are used to test new production processes, train employees, and improve the efficiency and quality of products before they go to market.
11. Edge Computing
In general, edge computing is a technology that allows you to process data and run applications in the location where it is being collected, instead of sending everything to a remote server.
In Industry 4.0, edge computing is used in order to reduce latency and network traffic, enabling faster and more reliable responses from control systems.
12. Big Data Analytics
Big Data Analytics is a technology that allows users to analyze large volumes of data in order to extract valuable insights and make informed decisions. We discuss more about the topic in this article: “What is Data Analytics and how is it used by companies?”, so be sure to check it out.
In practice, Big Data Analytics is used in order to monitor equipment performance, identify failure patterns, and optimize production processes, reducing costs and increasing efficiency.
As we can see, the main technologies of Industry 4.0 are essential tools in order to improve production processes, and increase the agility, safety and productivity of operations as a whole.
Even though it is still in its infancy in many companies, the need to adopt these tools is immense—thanks to the benefits they bring. We are yet to see how this development plays out.
Did you like this content? Then, also read this article if you want to improve your knowledge about Industry 4.0: Unified namespace: concept, architecture and benefits for Industry 4.0
Until next time!
