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Dark Factory: Difference between revisions
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A [[Dark Factory]], also known as a [[Lights- | {{stub}} | ||
{{see also|artificial intelligence terms}} | |||
A [[Dark Factory]], also known as a [[Lights-out Factory]], is a fully [[automated manufacturing]] or logistics facility that operates with minimal or no human intervention. The term "dark" refers to the ability of these factories to function without lighting, as their robotic and [[Artificial Intelligence]]-driven "workers" do not require illumination to perform tasks. Emerging as a pinnacle of [[Industry 4.0]], dark factories leverage advanced [[Robotics]], [[Artificial Intelligence|AI]], the [[Industrial Internet of Things]] (IIoT), and other cutting-edge technologies to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency, precision, and scalability. While promising transformative benefits, they also raise significant economic, ethical, and technical challenges. | |||
==Overview== | ==Overview== | ||
[[Dark Factory|Dark factories]] represent the evolution of industrial automation, where raw materials enter and finished products exit with little to no human oversight. Unlike traditional factories reliant on human labor, these facilities use autonomous systems to manage production. The absence of human workers eliminates needs like lighting or heating, enabling 24/7 operation in near-total darkness, often punctuated only by robotic welding sparks or sensor glow. Rooted in science fiction—such as Philip K. Dick’s 1955 story ''Autofac'' | [[Dark Factory|Dark factories]] represent the evolution of industrial automation, where raw materials enter and finished products exit with little to no human oversight. Unlike traditional factories reliant on human labor, these facilities use autonomous systems to manage production. The absence of human workers eliminates needs like lighting or heating, enabling 24/7 operation in near-total darkness, often punctuated only by robotic welding sparks or sensor glow. Rooted in science fiction—such as Philip K. Dick’s 1955 story ''Autofac''. They are now a reality, driven by [[AI]], [[Robotics]], and [[5G]] connectivity. | ||
==History and Development== | ==History and Development== | ||
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==Technology== | ==Technology== | ||
[[Dark Factory|Dark factories]] rely on advanced technologies for autonomy: | [[Dark Factory|Dark factories]] rely on advanced technologies for autonomy: | ||
#'''[[Robotics]] and [[Automation]]''': Industrial robots handle tasks like assembly and welding, while [[Autonomous Mobile Robots]] (AMRs) navigate without fixed paths.<ref name="scio">“Dark Factory: The Completely Automated Factory of the Future.” SCIO Automation, February 13, 2025.</ref> | |||
#'''[[Artificial Intelligence]] and [[Machine Learning]]''': [[AI]] systems monitor production in real-time, optimizing performance and detecting defects instantly. | |||
#'''[[Industrial Internet of Things]]''': Networked sensors enable predictive maintenance and process optimization. | |||
#'''[[5G]] Connectivity''': High-speed networks ensure seamless machine communication. | |||
#'''[[Manufacturing Operations Management]] (MOM) Software''': Tools like [[Siemens]]’ Opcenter orchestrate production remotely.<ref name="siemens">“Lights-Out Factory.” Siemens Software.</ref> | |||
#'''[[Digital Twin]]''': Virtual replicas simulate and monitor factory operations. | |||
Some systems, like optical sensors, may require minimal light, making "dark" partly metaphorical.<ref name="capgemini"/> | Some systems, like optical sensors, may require minimal light, making "dark" partly metaphorical.<ref name="capgemini"/> | ||
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<ref name="page1">Derived from Page 1’s “Key Characteristics” section.</ref> | <ref name="page1">Derived from Page 1’s “Key Characteristics” section.</ref> | ||
</references> | </references> | ||
[[Category:Terms]] [[Category:Artificial intelligence terms]] | |||