The 9 Pillars of Industry 4.0

The Industrial Revolution, which began in the 18th century and continues to this day, contributed to the significant development of humanity. It consists of four different stages. The beginning of industrial change dates back to the late 18th century. Its second phase came at the turn of the 20th century. The third began a dozen years later, as late as the 1970s and 1980s. The fourth continues to this day, and its progression is worthy of consideration. It results in many changes and benefits.

What is Revolution 4.0?

It is crucial to define it briefly at the outset. The revolution known as “Industry 4.0” aims to transform more than just manufacturing in the broadest sense. Systems, machines, and IT technology integration mechanisms are particularly crucial in this situation. It also involves some technological, social, and industrial changes as a result of the digitalization of certain industries, like those in the manufacturing sector.

Exploiting the new human position in the industry and developing more effective working methods are key components of the fourth industrial revolution. People can then experience a remarkable qualitative leap in their lives as a result. They can take advantage of its exceptional artificial intelligence, renewable energy sources, mobile device capabilities, and high-speed internet.

The primary nine technological pillars of the fourth industrial revolution are what drive its rapid development. They are blurring the line between the physical and digital worlds more and more. This gives autonomous and intelligent systems a lot more room. Many cutting-edge technologies are currently being used by a variety of businesses and supply chains. However, it won’t be until all of the aforementioned technologies are combined that we fully realise the potential of the Industry 4.0 era.

The 9 Pillars of Industrial Revolution 4.0

1. Big Data

Big Data and analytics powered by artificial intelligence are one of the pillars of the Industry 4.0 technological concept. Data sets are now gathered from a variety of sources, including IoT devices, factory equipment, CRM, ERP, and CMMS systems, to name a few. Real-time analysis using AI and machine learning is fed with all pertinent data. These outcomes lead to better decision-making and automation procedures throughout the supply chain (such as corporate purchasing, supply chain planning, and logistics management).

2. Integration of information systems

Vertical and horizontal integration is a key component of the fourth industrial revolution. Through these, the entire production is intricately connected to a wide range of business operations, including development and research, quality control, marketing, and sales.

3. Data in the cloud

Another cornerstone of the industrial revolution is cloud computing. It is a significant and becoming more and more essential medium today. It makes it possible for digital transformation to happen smoothly. It makes it possible to create the most complex technologies (such as the internet, artificial intelligence, and machine learning). Utilising the cloud for effective coordination and communication grants businesses the freedom to innovate meaningfully. It is noteworthy that this type of data is the primary and most significant force behind the industrial revolution.

4. Simulations and augmented reality

Another cornerstone of the industrial revolution is cloud computing. It is a significant and becoming more and more essential medium today. It makes it possible for digital transformation to happen smoothly. It makes it possible to create the most complex technologies (such as the internet, artificial intelligence, and machine learning). Utilising the cloud for effective coordination and communication grants businesses the freedom to innovate meaningfully. It is noteworthy that this type of data is the primary and most significant force behind the industrial revolution.

5. Internet of Things (IoT)

Technology advancements have made it possible for businesses to fully monitor their inventory and products in real time. They can quickly and effectively affect changes in product design. They can manage supply chains with ease and gather the necessary data regarding what product preferences customers have.

6. Incremental manufacturing

A crucial building block for the advancement of the fourth industrial revolution is 3D printing. Companies can store their products and parts in virtual warehouses in the form of files that can be printed at a specific location and time thanks to the required spatial printing technology. This lowers the cost of transportation compared to before.

7. Autonomous robots

Robots can now complete precise and difficult tasks that were previously beyond their capabilities thanks to the development of artificial intelligence, cutting-edge software and vision systems, as well as sensors. They may make use of previously gathered and examined environmental data.

8. Simulations

Their “digital twin” is also receiving an increasing amount of attention. By using data from an IoT sensor, it is possible to create a virtual simulation of a real product, machine, system, or process. The operator using it can locate the cause of the machine part failure thanks to the “digital twin.” Additionally, it enables him to identify potential issues in the future, which enables him to influence the machine to function better and more effectively.

9. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is still a crucial component of the fourth industrial revolution. Numerous businesses have the potential to automate procedures that can prevent any threat through prevention and agile response thanks to the introduction of technology and architecture that are primarily based on the zero-trust model (blockchain) and machine learning. As a result, businesses can drastically lower the possibility of significant data breaches and the ensuing network production delays.

Summary

As a final thought on the thriving era of Industry 4.0, it is important to emphasise the tangible advantages it brings to businesses, enabling production improvements to be implemented very smoothly and effectively.

1. By making a series of decisions based on information acquired in advance, businesses can take greater care with the planned timeliness of their deliveries and, through the industrial revolution, significantly increase automation and productivity.
2. Regardless of the current state of the economy and the market, flexibility and resilience are also very significant benefits for businesses. A prior foundation of extremely accurate and advanced planning enables businesses to accurately shape the supply chain.
3. The ability to quickly seize opportunities and test new business models is another intriguing advantage for businesses. Due to this, businesses can integrate their supply chains and cut costs (sea, land and air). The 4.0 revolution has also enabled businesses to significantly increase the efficiency of their market operations.
4. Green and sustainable solutions that don’t compromise on profits are equally important in today’s climate change era. Businesses can reduce costs and boost efficiency thanks to the growing and evolving digitalization.