Summary

Prior to this chapter, we have focused on real-world applications and how things get made in real life. However, there is so much more to automation than just machines, lines, factories, and manufacturing. In this chapter, we moved on to exploring aspects of automation, machines, and factories that are not usually discussed. These are essential aspects, especially in today’s connected world, but do not get a lot of focus.

Moreover, we considered how much automation is the right amount of automation. There are also doubts over whether automation is essential. Will automation lead to people losing jobs? These are questions that need to be answered. However, autonomous factories at the moment are still far off. Human intervention and logic are needed for machines and lines to function efficiently.

This is a decision that must be taken on a local basis, depending on the situation. However, what is clear is that completely automating the process has drawbacks. More...