Global Industrial Transformation Across Centuries

Industries, whether you work in them or not, play an important role in everyone's lives. It is affecting everyone and everything surrounding it. Currently, the industry is in its fourth stage in anticipation of industry 5.0. This transition period from 4.0 to 5.0 is challenging to the industries and the market relying on them. India is ambitious to lead industry 4.0 with its “DESI” formula.

Now let’s dive into the history of industry and know how it has transformed since its beginning.

Industry 1.0 - Steam Power

Industry 1.0 starts in 1750, after the invention of the steam device by Thomas Newcomen. With steam and water power, industries started to advance, especially the textile industry. The development of industries excelled with the first weaving loom. Glass and mining industries started to use steam devices to advance their operations.

The steam-powered machines allowed industries to produce eight times more products than before. It made production more efficient and cost-effective. Industries started to expand with these newfound steam-powered machines.

Industry 2.0 - Assembly Line

Industry 2.0 starts in 1850 after the invention of electricity by Benjad Michael Faraday. Industries revolutionized with devices getting introduced that operate on electricity, such as motors. Industry 2.0 introduced the assembly line and thus increased production speed.

Industry 2.0 introduced streamlined production techniques with the invention of assembly lines. It implemented new techniques and ensured an increase in the quality of production. Electricity revolutionized the industrial world with its presence by taking over steam-powered machines. The machines operating on electricity were more efficient and had better production.

Industry 3.0 - Computational Processing

Industry 3.0 starts after the development of computers in the 19th century. Charles Babbage developed the first programmable mechanical computer. It automated production with programmable devices, thus increasing the quality and production. It introduced the programable logic controller (PLC) to industries. It laid the foundation for the currently operating industries across the globe.

The development of computers has pushed the limits of automation in industries. Industry 3.0 advanced with renewable energy and global connectivity.

The introduction of computational devices allowed industries to manage production effectively with computers. Computers allowed production to reach new heights with better quality and increased quantity.

Industry 4.0 - Networking & Artificial Intelligence

We are currently in the fourth development stage of the industry. It integrated technologies such as artificial intelligence, IoT, virtual reality, data analytics, etc.

Industry 4.0 devices improve technology introduced by industry 3.0. Smart factories operate by consuming less energy and resources. The introduction of Industry 4.0 completely digitized the world. It has the potential to predict failures, and control other devices. It ensures continuous manufacturing processes without any human interference.

Following are some of the technologies implemented in Industry 4.0:

·       Robotics

Robots are programmable electronic devices that automatically perform tasks. It manages the quality and efficiency of production. We are in the fourth industrial revolution. Robots handle complex machinery processes making it easier for the employees. The use of robots is increasing in the industrial sector. Industries such as healthcare, automobiles, food, and electronics have benefited from robotics.

·       Internet Of Things

The Internet of Things connects all devices to the internet. It sets up direct communication between the devices. It transfers data through the internet without any human intermediaries. It has brought internet connectivity, data processing, and analytics to the physical world. IoT has helped people work smarter and gain control over their tasks. The data from the machines are analyzed to predict issues and warn the operator. Research suggests there will be 27 billion active IoT connections by 2025.

·       3D printing

3D printing is the method of creating a three-dimensional object from a digital model. It uses plastics, ceramics, and resin to produce different objects. Printing methods, such as additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, and formative manufacturing are common. It uses printing materials, such as thermoplastics and thermoset polymers. Metals, composites, and ceramics are also used depending on the 3D printing.

·       Cloud computing

Cloud computing allows the storage of large amounts of data on servers. It improves speed and efficiency. It is a cost-effective and scalable service utilized by industries for their production. Cloud computing is categorized into SaaS (software as a service), IaaS (infrastructure as a service), PaaS (platform as a service), Private cloud, and Hybrid cloud. It enables consumers to gain new capabilities without special hardware or software. The cloud resources are scalable for the users based on their requirements.

·       Artificial Intelligence

AI is a field of programming. It builds devices that are capable of learning and making decisions like humans. It uses strategies, such as analytics, statistics, linguistics, neuroscience, etc.

AI predicts and implements the best possible outcome for production in the industry. It can be divided into two types, such as weak AI and Strong AI. Weak AI is trained for performing specific tasks and has robust applications. E.g.: Siri, Alexa, autonomous vehicles, etc. Strong AI is self-aware with the ability of the human brain. It solves problems and plans for the future. 

What can we expect from Industry 5.0?

The rate of technological advancement is rising. The number of smart devices introduced to the market is high. It is affecting the industry to increase production. Virtual reality, automation, and Web3 are the tipping point of Industry 5.0, and much more is yet to come. Indec 4.0 is focused on innovating new technologies and pushing the boundaries. We are working towards new production strategies and techniques.

Wrap up

The industrial revolution occurring cannot be predicted or planned. New technologies and strategies are being implemented to improve the quality of production. Will the industrial revolution stop after Industry 5.0? No, it won’t. Progress is a continuous path where industries and humans collaborate. This challenges and upgrade both.