Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 refers to the intelligent networking of machines and processes for industry with the help of information and communication technology. There are many ways companies use intelligent networking.

Flexible manufacturing: In the manufacture of a product, many companies are involved in a step-by-step process to develop a product. When networking digitally, these steps can be better coordinated and machine load better planned.

Transformable factory: Future production lines can be built in modules and quickly modified for new lines of business. Productivity and efficiency will be increased; individualized products will become available in small quantities at affordable prices.

Customer-oriented solutions: Consumers and manufacturers will move closer together.

Optimized logistics: Algorithms can calculate ideal delivery routes, machines can report independently when they need new material – intelligent network ensures optimum flow of goods.

Use of data: Data on the production process and the condition of a product will be combined and analyzed. Data analysis provides guidance on how to make a product more efficient. More importantly, it is the foundation of entirely new business models and services. For example, elevator manufacturers can offer their customers "predictive maintenance": elevators equipped with sensors that constantly send data about their condition. Product wear will be detected and corrected before it causes elevator system failure.

Resource efficient circular economy: The entire life cycle of a product can be considered with data support. The design phase will already be able to determine which materials can be recycled.