Smart sensors within manufacturing networks contribute to which Industry level?

Smart sensors play a crucial role in the realm of Industry 4.0, which is characterized by the integration of digital technologies into manufacturing processes. This era emphasizes the use of advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, artificial intelligence, and, notably, smart sensors. These sensors collect real-time data from the manufacturing environment, allowing for improved monitoring, analytics, and automation.

In Industry 4.0, smart sensors enable machines to communicate with each other and with centralized control systems, facilitating greater efficiencies, predictive maintenance, and enhanced decision-making through data-driven insights. This level of connectivity and intelligence marks a significant advancement from Industry 3.0, which primarily focused on automation and the use of robotics without the same level of real-time, interconnected data management.

Industry 5.0, on the other hand, aims to merge human creativity and advanced technologies, such as AI and robotics, further enhancing collaboration but does not specifically lay emphasis on smart sensors in the same manner. Thus, the direct link between smart sensors and enhanced manufacturing capabilities squarely places them in the Industry 4.0 category.