Industry 4.0 / Industry 5.0

What does Industry 4.0 stand for?

In connection with development projects, but also due to requests for funding for customer projects, we were confronted quite early on with the need to include Industry 4.0 (5.0) in our considerations. First of all, we had to untangle many myths in order to recognise and understand how we can achieve so-called Industry 4.0 or 5.0 standards with our products and, even more importantly, what benefits should these standards bring to whom in connection with our products?

In order to answer these questions ourselves, we have first looked at the topic and the definition in detail.

Definition of Industry 4.0: Industry 4.0 refers to the fourth industrial revolution, which is characterised by the digitalisation and networking of production processes. This concept encompasses the integration of modern technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), big data, cloud computing and cyber-physical systems into industrial production.

The main features of Industry 4.0 are:

Networking: Machines, systems and products are connected to each other via the internet, enabling a continuous exchange of data.
Automation: Many processes are automated through the use of intelligent machines and robots, which increases efficiency and productivity.
Data analysis: The collected data is analysed to identify patterns, make predictions and optimise decisions.
Flexibility: Production systems can be quickly adapted to changing requirements, enabling individualised production.
Smart factories: In a smart factory, people and machines work closely together to optimise production and use resources efficiently.

Note: Industry 4.0 aims to increase the competitiveness of companies, reduce production costs and improve product quality, while at the same time increasing responsiveness to market changes.

What does Industry 5.0 stand for?

Industry 5.0 is a concept that describes the next stage of development of the industrial revolution, going beyond the automation and digitalisation introduced in Industry 4.0.

Note: While Industry 4.0 focuses strongly on the networking of machines and the use of data analyses, Industry 5.0 places the emphasis on collaboration between humans and machines.

A central feature of Industry 5.0 is the return of humans to the production process, with technology serving as a supporting tool. The aim is to increase efficiency and productivity while taking into account the needs and abilities of people. This can be done through the use of artificial intelligence, robotics and other advanced technologies that enable workers to take on more creative and value-adding tasks.

Additionally, Industry 5.0 also emphasises sustainability and social responsibility by encouraging companies to incorporate environmentally friendly practices and improve the quality of life for employees. Overall, Industry 5.0 aims to create a harmonious and sustainable production environment that takes into account both technological and human aspects.

With regard to the complete product range at Müller, we make the following specific contribution to the fulfilment of Industry 4.0 and 5.0 standards:

Electrical communication interfaces with the machine tools that are precisely tailored to the needs of our customers
Compliance with machine guidelines regarding environmental safety and operation
Additional, partly optional possibilities for automation and communication improvement, as follows:

Automatic, self-cleaning filters (consumption-free)
Maximum energy-efficient systems thanks to the intelligent use of components such as control pumps and frequency converters (eco+)
Flow monitor with alarm function on machine (85% standard in all our systems)
Ethernet connection in all our control units with CPU - all these systems can be maintained remotely via a PC connection
Filter consumption and contamination alarms via sensors and signalling to the machine tool (e.g. preventive maintenance or scheduled filter changeover for double-switching filters)
Pump wear alarms via sensors and signalling to the machine tool (e.g. preventive maintenance)
Chip conveyor belt monitoring via frequency converter for preventive maintenance and better belt control by the operator