Industry 4.0
Industry 4.0 is part of the fourth industrial revolution and is currently in progress. It is closely related to the Internet of Things (IoT).
The internet of things is a system of interrelated devices that can pass data to one another without requiring human interaction. This can include anything from a light switch, fridge, coffee maker or car.
Principles
- Connectivity - Allowing machines, sensors, machines and people to communicate and connect with one another.
- Transparency of Data - The ability of information systems to reflect what is happening in the real world from the data being sent from sensors.
- Technical Assistance - Showing data in an easy to understand way, being able to resolve issues based on information received and performing physical tasks that are better done by machines due to them being unsafe, tiring or unpleasant for people.
- Decentralised Decisions - Cyber systems are as autonomous as possible and able to make informed decisions in most case. There will still be some choices that will need to be made by people, but fewer than before.
Previous Industrial Revolutions
- The original industrial revolution was brought about by the increased use of machines, water power and steam.
- Mass production, assembly lines and the introduction of electricity marked the second industrial revolution.
- The third industrial revolution started with the increasing usage of computers and automation and does overlap with the fourth industrial revolution.