Various industries are undergoing an innovative paradigm shift as Industry 4.0 takes hold. With this comes a rapid transformation in how we design, approach, and manage our business operations. It isn’t about replacing the ingenuity of human input, but enhancing and amplifying it. At its core, what powers 4.0 is the intelligent integration of operations and information technology. It’s the beginning of an interesting ecosystem driven by a network of interconnected pillars. These pillars play crucial roles in creating a smarter and more efficient industry.
Let’s dive into the foundational elements of Industry 4.0 to understand how they’re shaping the future of business. First, what precisely is Industry 4.0?
What is Industry 4.0?
The journey of manufacturing began with water-powered machines in Industry 1.0, and each subsequent industrial revolution was fueled by advancements in technology and communication. The expected Industry 4.0 sees intelligent machines or software in consistent communication via the internet. The main Industry 4.0 definition is outlined by machines communicating with each other, enabling data-driven decision-making processes. It’s about using the latest innovations, from artificial intelligence, data analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to completely transform aspects of a business.
As new trends march forward, six key pillars emerge. These pillars define the very essence of this intelligent revolution, and act as the building blocks for a smarter and more interconnected future. Let’s learn what is paving the way for unprecedented levels of automation, data-driven decision-making, and overall industrial optimization.
1. Additive Manufacturing
Commonly known as 3D printing, additive manufacturing (AM) builds products layer-by-layer. It’s considered one of the essential Industry 4.0 technologies as it enables “conversations” between the design software and the machines to produce new innovations.
This allows for real-time processing, product evaluation, and even on-the-fly adjustments to ensure successful printing. While AM automates many steps in product assembly, human skill in 3D printing is still crucial. Operating and maintaining these machines still requires skilled and talented operators and technicians to be successful.
2. Augmented Reality
The digital landscape overlaid in the real world – that’s what Augmented Reality (AR) is all about. This is done often with AR goggles or even through everyday tech like a smartphone’s camera, and it’s making waves in industries like retail. IKEA launched the IKEA Place phone app which allows customers to visualize different furniture through their camera, like a filter. This reduces the need for consumers to visit physical stores.
AR can also provide remote assistance for home products through manuals on phones or tablets. Customers can use interactive AR assembly instructions or even a projection of the product coming together step-by-step. AR isn’t widespread in commercial use, so there’s something to be said about the competitive edge that this should bring to early adopters.
3. Internet of Things
Imagine items connected and communicating through a network. This is the Internet of Things, a key player in Industry 4.0, where different things have internet connectivity features added. Popular examples of IoT range from smart homes to wearable technology that monitors heart rate or distance walked, to beloved pets microchipped to track their location.
4. Cloud Computing
Cloud-based solutions and applications aren’t strangers to modern businesses. However, Industry 4.0 sees cloud computing as the foundation of this new revolution. It provides on-demand access to IT resources, like storage and computing power, over the internet. This solid foundation acts as the fuel that drives Industry 4.0. It provides ease of scalability, affordability of AI and IoT, the power to analyze large amounts of data, and the connectivity that 4.0 demands.
5. Information Systems Integration
In Industry 4.0, businesses throw away departmental silos. Information systems integration is key to an interconnected business – like a nervous system seamlessly linking previously isolated systems across departments.
Imagine customer service accessing real-time inventory data, or human resources collaborating with IT on secure employee management applications. All of this is done through the cloud over the internet. By breaking down barriers, information system integrations fuel Industry 4.0’s collaborative spirit, driving efficiency and innovation across an entire organization.
6. Cybersecurity
While all the things Industry 4.0 continues to bring are exciting, they necessitate a strong cybersecurity approach. The popularity of interconnected devices creates an expanded attack surface for cyberthreats. Cybersecurity poses a large issue to tackle for businesses looking to make their name in Industry 4.0. To ensure customer data safety within your network, enhanced security solutions are crucial. Despite its exciting potential, prioritize robust precautions before fully embracing Industry 4.0.
What is Industry 4.0? An Invitation to Explore New IT Possibilities!
Feeling overwhelmed by the leap to Industry 4.0? You’re not alone. The infrastructure, planning, and specialized skills required to maintain the above innovation are a lot. But what if you could tap into a dedicated Industry 4.0 team, ready to propel your business forward?
An offshore IT team offers a cost-effective solution with the expertise to navigate the complexities of Industry 4.0. Gain full control of a passionate team focused on driving your Industry 4.0 transformation, all while maintaining scalability and affordability. Let’s chart your course to the fourth industrial revolution together, contact HGS OSS today.
Citations
Ayoubi, Ayda. “IKEA Launches Augmented Reality Application.” Architect, 21 Sept. 2017, www.architectmagazine.com/technology/ikea-launches-augmented-reality-application.
HGS Offshore Staffing Solutions. “Cybersecurity Threats to Look out for This 2024.” HGS OSS, 1 Apr. 2024, hgsoss.com/newsroom/cybersecurity-threats-to-look-out-for-this-2024/.
HGS Offshore Staffing Solutions. “Offshore It Functions: Staying Competitive in the Digital World.” HGS OSS, 3 Jan. 2024, hgsoss.com/newsroom/offshore-it-functions-staying-competitive-in-the-digital-world/#:~:text=IT%20is%20a%20vital%20function%20that%20you%20should%20prioritise%20on%20day%20one.%20There%20are%20too%20many%20risks%20to%20take%20and%20opportunities%20to%20miss%20when%20businesses%20do%20not%20leverage%20proper%20IT%20functions.
NIQ. “Augmented Retail: The New Consumer Reality.” NIQ, 12 Dec. 2019, nielseniq.com/global/en/insights/analysis/2019/augmented-retail-the-new-consumer-reality-2/.
Thomas, Mike. “30 Internet of Things Examples You Should Know.” Built In, 19 Mar. 2024, builtin.com/articles/iot-examples.
Udell, Jon. “3D Printing and Human Skill.” Jon Udell, 12 July 2011, blog.jonudell.net/2011/07/11/3d-printing-and-human-skill/.
