A major shift from skilled to unskilled workers was one of the many changes caused by the Industrial Revolution, when the switch to machines contributed to decline in the social and economic status of artisans, whose skills were dismembered into discrete actions by factory-line workers. We consider what may be an analogous computing technology: the recent introduction of AI-generated art software. AI art generators such as Dall-E and Midjourney can create fully rendered images based solely on a user's prompt, just at the click of a button. Some artists fear if the cheaper price and conveyor-belt speed that comes with AI-produced images is seen as an improvement to the current system, it may permanently change the way society values/views art and artists. In this article, we consider the implications that AI art generation introduces through a post-industrial revolution historical lens. We then reflect on the analogous issues that appear to arise as a result of the AI art revolution, and we conclude that the problems raised mirror those of industrialization, giving a vital glimpse into what may lie ahead.

The Industry 4.0 era of manufacturing depends so heavily on data-driven precision that artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasing role in harnessing that data to enhance the performance of machines -- including injection molders. AI in manufacturing encompasses an array of technologies that allow machines to perform with intelligence that emulates that of humans. Machine learning and natural language processing help machines approximate the human capacity to learn, make judgments, and solve problems. Data-enhanced efficiency keeps processes moving faster and more cost-effectively. "AI is becoming increasingly important in mechanical engineering, not least because of the need to automate injection molding processes efficiently and flexibly despite ever smaller batch sizes and shorter product life cycles," said Werner Faulhaber, Director of Research and Development at Arburg.

The smart factory of the future will require continuous integration of order information, machines, molds, and logistic peripherals using standardized and transparent information technology. Functional assemblies such as robotic systems are linked with the machine's central control system by means of a real-time Ethernet connection and are automatically identified by this as soon as they are plugged in. According to Industry 4.0, every component of every machine in a "smart factory" can communicate with host-computer devices (such as Arburg's ALS) in order to create a transparent production. Cleanroom production at Plastikos Plastikos Inc. in Erie, Pa., which is implementing elements of Industry 4.0. At Vorwerk in Germany, complete movement of parts is managed via a six-axis-robot integrated with the machine controller (Arburg's Selogica control).