Industry 4.0: What Manufacturing Looks Like in the Digital Era

It might sound futuristic, but the Fourth Industrial Revolution--also known as Industry 4.0--has already begun. Following the Industrial Revolution's steam power, electrification in the 1800s, and the Digital Revolution of the late 20th century, Industry 4.0's innovative smart technology is unlocking the next steps in automation. So what does the next major evolution of manufacturing look like? This graphic from ASE Global breaks down the rollout of Industry 4.0, from increased robotization to lights-out manufacturing. Each industrial revolution has built on what came before, incorporating new technologies and knowledge of manufacturing.