Advances in technology constantly change the way manufacturing companies operate. These advances improve productivity and drive efficiencies while also enabling manufacturers to produce high-quality products for their customers.
The advances in technology that have impacted manufacturing can be grouped into four, known as the industrial revolutions. We are currently in the fourth, which is known as Industry 4.0. This infographic explains the four industrial revolutions.
Industrial Revolutions
We are currently in the fourth industrial revolution, known as Industry 4.0. Like the revolutions that went before, technology is the main driver.
First Industrial Revolution
- Steam and water powered machines
- Introduction of mechanical production
- Unskilled labour operating machines replace craftsmen
- Industry overtakes agricultural
Second Industrial Revolution
- Electricity, gas, and oil become the main sources of energy
- Introduction of cars and lorries,
- Introduction of the telephone and telegraph
- Growth of large factories
Third Industrial Revolution
- Known as the digital revolution
- Digital electronics replace analogue electronics
- Introduction of computers and the internet
- Robotic technologies transform manufacturing
Fourth Industrial Revolution – Industry 4.0
- Industry 4.0 – the digitalisation of business
- Driven by advances in cloud computing and automation technologies
- Includes Artificial Intelligence, big data, 3D printing, augmented reality, and more