In an era of rapid technological development, the question of the direction in which industrial automation is heading is not only relevant, but strategic. For this reason, we decided to ask specialists, engineers, managers and enthusiasts of modern industrial solutions what they think will have the greatest impact on the future of automation in the next five years.
Spis treści
Here is how the votes were distributed in the survey:
AI and ML integration - 54%
Development of IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) - 21%
Predictive diagnostics - 21%
Energy efficiency - 4%
1. AI and ML - the heart of future automation
It is no surprise that more than half of the respondents identified ‘the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning’ as a key trend. Industry is becoming increasingly complex and dynamic, and traditional automation algorithms often prove insufficient in the face of changing production conditions.
AI and ML enable:
- predicting failures before they occur,
- real-time process optimisation,
- automatic adjustment of production parameters without human intervention,
- creation of intelligent quality management systems.
Artificial intelligence is becoming not only a support, but also the brain of modern industrial installations. Thanks to it, systems not only perform programmed tasks, but also learn and adapt.
2. IIoT – the infrastructure of the future
In second place was ‘IIoT development’, i.e. the industrial Internet of Things, which received 21% of the votes. IIoT is the foundation on which other modern technologies are based. Without the right infrastructure for data collection, transmission and analysis, AI has no ‘fuel’.
IIoT enables:
- remote monitoring of devices and installations,
- precise collection of operational data,
- increased production flexibility,
- better integration of the entire value chain – from raw materials to the finished product.
In the coming years, the development of this technology may accelerate even further, especially in the context of the spread of 5G networks and the growing number of smart sensors.
3. Predictive diagnostics – more than just maintenance
21% of respondents also indicated ‘predictive diagnostics’ as an important factor influencing the future of automation. This is further proof that data and its skilful use are becoming the ‘currency’ of modern industry.
Predictive systems are not only a way to avoid costly downtime – they are a tool for planning, optimisation and increased safety. Thanks to predictive analytics, companies can, among other things:
- prevent failures long before they occur,
- optimise maintenance schedules,
- minimise the wear and tear of parts and consumables,
- better manage human and production resources.
4. Energy efficiency – important, but not (yet) a priority
Surprisingly low score (only 4%) was achieved by ‘energy efficiency’. In times of rising energy costs and climate pressure, one would expect this topic to rank higher. However, this may be due to the fact that many companies treat it as a side effect of other activities, such as process optimisation or AI system implementation.
Despite the low score, it is worth remembering that energy efficiency will become increasingly important – not only for cost reasons, but also for regulatory and image reasons.
The survey clearly showed that the future of automation is a ‘smart’ future. Industry 4.0 is evolving towards solutions that not only perform tasks, but also make decisions, anticipate problems and adapt to changing conditions.
Will AI dominate the industry? Or will the synergy of all these areas prove to be the key to success?
