Industry 5.0 - characteristics and technologies

This article will present the main differences between Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0, discuss the technologies that underpin Industry 5.0, and show the benefits that the new approach can bring to industrial companies.

The basic assumptions of Industry 5.0 are described in the report “Industry 5.0 – Towards a Sustainable, Human-Centric and Resilient European Industry,” which was created after virtual workshops held in 2020. Representatives of European research institutes and funding agencies participated in the meetings, and the discussions focused on the need to better take into account the social and ecological priorities of the European Union in the field of technological innovation, shifting the emphasis from technology to a systemic and integrated approach.

Industry 4.0 vs. Industry 5.0

Industry 5.0 does not replace Industry 4.0 but develops its assumptions. The European Commission notes that the fourth industrial revolution focused mainly on the digitalization of processes and the use of artificial intelligence to increase efficiency, which ultimately led to the omission of the role of employees and sustainable supply chain management. Industry 5.0 puts humans at the center of the production process, where technology supports their actions. The goal is the harmonious cooperation of people and machines, which is different from Industry 4.0, which focused on the cooperation of IT systems and machines.

Industry 4.0 introduced concepts such as automation, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), and real-time data analysis. Thanks to these solutions, industrial companies could increase production efficiency, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. However, the key goal was to optimize processes and minimize the role of humans in production.

Industry 5.0 is the next stage of development, with a more humanistic approach. The most important assumption is close cooperation between humans and robots, as well as a greater emphasis on product personalization, sustainable development, and ethical practices in production processes.

Industry 5.0 Technologies

Industry 5.0 technologies enable harmonious cooperation between humans and machines and create the foundation for more ecological and personalized production processes. This is a combination of technologies developed within Industry 4.0, with an emphasis on two additional pillars: sustainable development and the human aspect. Here are the key technologies related to Industry 5.0:

• Collaborative robots (cobots)

Cobots are robots designed to work directly with humans, supporting them in performing precise and complex tasks. Unlike traditional industrial robots, cobots are safe in the human work environment, which increases the efficiency and flexibility of production processes, allowing them to adapt to individual customer needs.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

Artificial intelligence plays a key role in data analysis and the optimization of production processes in Industry 5.0. AI and ML allow machines to make intelligent decisions based on huge amounts of data, which enables the dynamic adjustment of production to changing conditions and requirements.

• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

AR and VR technologies support employees by enabling more effective training and remote maintenance and repair of machines. AR allows the visualization of production data in real-time, speeding up decision-making and shortening response times to technical problems.

• Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) connects machines and systems into intelligent networks, enabling them to communicate with each other. IoT provides real-time monitoring and optimization of production processes, also supporting energy management and promoting sustainable development.

• Big Data and Real-Time Data Analysis

Thanks to data analysis, Industry 5.0 allows for the prediction of failures, the optimization of production, and the reduction of losses. Big data helps companies better understand their processes and adapt faster to changing market needs.

• Sustainable Technologies

Sustainable development is one of the pillars of Industry 5.0. Increasing emphasis is placed on technologies that reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. Industry 5.0 promotes energy-saving solutions, renewable energy sources, and a circular economy.

Opportunities for Industrial Companies

Industry 5.0 opens up many new opportunities for industrial companies. The cooperation of humans with technology enables the introduction of more innovative solutions and accelerates decision-making. Technologies from the scope of Industry 5.0, such as sustainable energy systems, can attract customers looking for partners who care about the environment. Companies that adopt this approach will benefit not only in terms of image but also operationally, thanks to savings resulting from better resource management and lower energy consumption.

Industry 5.0 represents a future that combines advanced technologies with humans and a sustainable approach to production. Companies that implement these innovations can count on a number of benefits—from product personalization to higher energy efficiency and an improved image in the eyes of customers and business partners.

For companies operating in the area of energy efficiency and zero-emission investments, Industry 5.0 creates significant opportunities to increase competitiveness and adapt to increasingly demanding market standards. The right choice of technology and proper implementation management are key steps that will allow companies to succeed in this new, fifth era of industry.