List of Emerging Tech Terminologies
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A.
Additive Manufacturing – The process of layering raw materials to make objects from 3D model data. As opposed to subtractive manufacturing methods. Additive manufacturing refers to the production of more complex products for a designated end use, as opposed to the term “3D printing” which is widely used for creating prototypes. (See 3D Printing)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) – A machine that can recognise its environment and making decisions based on conditions and surroundings. AI utilises algorithms to display human-like problem solving and usually has a voice driven interface. Its current applications include predicting defects, translating, driving, planning, learning devices, trading, online marketing, facial recognition, and on.
Augmented Reality – The utilisation of a headset to superimpose computer-generated imagery on the wearer’s view of the real world – the result is known as a “composite view”. This is opposed to Virtual Reality where the wearer gets a 100% artificial view.
Autonomous Technology – A class of technology (e.g. car, robot, drone) capable of responding to environmental conditions and working on its own. This technology can be fully autonomous or semi-autonomous.
Automation – Controlling a process by automatic means. Automation may utilise devices, machines or processes to control larger system loops such as industrial heating, power distribution, brewing, and aircraft control. Typically, there is little or no human involvement during the loop cycle.
Algorithm – A computer-based mathematical sequence of rules and instructions that is used to calculate answers. Not to be confused with computer coding. An algorithm may be used in a program which may utilise both code and algorithms.
Assembly to Order (ATO) – A strategy whereby be-spoke products are built at speed for customers. A build-to-order process is required which includes a customer design interface, manufacturing equipment and unassembled basic parts.
B.
Big Data – Involves the collection and storage of massive volumes of raw data for the purposes of mining and analyses.This information is then used to predict patterns and plan future events.
Biotechnology – The area of biology that involves living organisms to develop or create lifesaving or healthcare products. Examples include genetic manipulation of microorganism to create antibiotics.
Blockchain – The use of cryptography to record cryptocurrency transactions. Blockchain is a continuously growing list of public records that is digitised and decentralised. Data is added to a block in blockchain, by linking it to other blocks in chronological order.
C.
Cloud Computing – The on-demand availability of user’s data, computing power, and resources on the internet. Information is physically stored in data centres which are then accessed over the internet. This is opposed to data and memory storage on a PC or local server.
Cloud Robotics – The control of robots via the cloud. This is essentially a communication line between the physical (robot) and the digital (cloud).
Cobots – Known as collaborative robots, these machines interact with workers in the working environment and can learn new tasks i.e. they are adaptive. This is opposed to robots which work autonomously. The emphasis with cobots is labour efficiency and the safety of the worker.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapies – a modern psychological therapy focused on helping a person to change unhealthy habits of feeling, thinking and behaving.
Cyber Attack – The attempt to alter, disable, steal, disable, expose or gain access to a computer or a computer network. A cyber-attack is typically carried out by an outside party or government and is nearly always unauthorised by the asset owner.
D.
Digitalisation – The process of converting information (pictures, sound, text) into a digital format that can be processed by a computer or smart device. Digital information is organised into information called “bits”.
Digital Supply Stream – A web-based business environment necessary for the integration of Industry Four technology and concepts. Organisations require greater connectivity in order to manufacture, produce and schedule supply of products.
Disruptive Innovation – In the context of business, a disruptive innovation creates a new market and a new value within an existing market. Disruptive innovations displace established markets, their companies, the products, and the way of doing that type of business.
Drones – Also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), a drone is a pilotless multi-rotor aircraft that is controlled from the ground and typically powered via lithium batteries. Drones are fitted with a payload and applications include military aircraft, delivery copters, surveying, inspection, and photography.
E.
Emerging Risk – A lack of uncertainty, information and knowledge about the potential impacts and interactions with a given technology or system given the lack of scientific knowledge, studies and experience.
Exponential Growth – The growth of a system in which the amount being added to the system is proportional to the amount already present i.e. the bigger the system is, the greater the increase.
Extended Reality – All real-and-virtual combined environments generated by wearables and computer technology.These human-machine interactions include virtual reality, mixed reality, and augmented reality.
F.
Flexible Manufacturing – a system of technologies and processes that are fully reconfigurable and scalable
Fog Computing – Also known as Fogging, it is a construct that uses edge devices to carry out large amounts of computing, communication and storage at the edge of an enterprises network. This architecture reduces the data transferred to the cloud for processing, analysis, and improving safety.
G.
Gig Economy – Freelance work based on paid tasks via online platforms or “apps”.
H.
Human-Machine-Interface (HMI) – The space where humans and machines interact. Traditionally a HMI can be in the form of a dashboard or hand controls. In Industry Four, HMI centres around new levels of efficiency and safety. Modern applications include wearable glasses to enhance what the wearer is seeing, visualisation of machines in real-time, and remote direction of vehicles working in the field.
I.
Industry Four – The current period and trend of automation and digitalisation in industrial technologies. Also known as Industry 4.0 it includes Cyber-Physical Systems, the Internet of Things, and Cloud Computing.
Innovation – Refers to new ideas, new thinking, and new ways of doing things. It may take the form of a new device, system or method and offers better solutions to existing ways.
Intelligent – In the context of computers, it is the intelligence demonstrated by machines and technology. As opposed to human’s natural intelligence. Also known as Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Internet of Things (IOT) – A simple or complex network of interconnected devices which use software, sensors and network connectivity to collected, report and exchange data. IOT systems can collect data such as temperatures, movement, speed, shock, and pressure etc. and feed back to a monitoring system for action. Wearables and smart devices are examples of smart devices currently in use.
Interoperability – A computer’s or software’s ability to two-way communicate with other machines and computers.
K.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) – Used to measure performance of people, process and systems a KPI is a quantifiable measurement. This information is used to compare across various business management personnel, business units, facilities, branches etc.
L.
Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) – a technology that utilises a radar-like sensor system and laser light to detect and interpret the surrounding environment.
Lights Out Environment – a fully automated factory that requires no human presence. Raw materials enter and manufactured products exit without human involvement.
Linked Sensors – See Internet of Things (IOT)
Lithium Ion Battery – High energy batteries which are light and rechargeable. Commonly used in mobile devices, aerospace, and electric vehicles.
M.
M2M (Machine-to-Machine) – a broad label used to describe technology that allows networked devices to interact, exchange information, and execute actions without human intervention.
Mixed Reality – a blend of the digital and physical world via the use of virtual reality.
Moores Law – a rule that the world’s computing power doubles every 2 years, meaning computer advancement, like general human advancement, grows exponentially.
N.
Nanotechnology – Nanoscience and nanotechnology is the study and application of materials at an atomic, molecular and supramolecular scale. Nanotech is utilised in fields such as biology, physics, chemistry, materials science, and engineering.
O.
Open Data – A school of thought where information and data is freely available to all for sharing, reuse, republishing etc. without restriction from copyright laws, patent laws and other control mechanisms. Open data may be used by government or private agencies to bring social, ecological, or economic benefits.
P.
Platform – Pertains to a computing environment which is created to allow other applications, processes, and technologies to be developed on. For example, Mac and PC are (separate) personal computing platforms which are designed to run specific machine language code. To work applications must be written in that platform’s binary-coded machine language.
3D Printing – The automated process of layering (layer upon layer) of raw materials to make objects from 3D model data. As opposed to subtractive manufacturing methods. 3D printing is primarily used to create prototypes.
Predictive Analytics – the identification of patterns in data models. These are used to predict future behaviours and events such as asset failure, election trends, and consumer habits.
Predictive Maintenance – Refers to the cost-saving approach of carrying out preventative maintenance, before service equipment underperforms or breaks down. By forecasting the condition and end-life of equipment, maintenance work is only carried out when warranted.
Q.
Quantum Computing – Computers that use the principles of quantum physics to explain the nature and patterns of energy and matter on an atomic and subatomic level. As opposed to classic computing.
R.
Revolution (Technological) – A period where a technology or group of technologies replace another technology in a relatively short period of time.
Right-To-Work Policy – a law that allows an employee to work without having to be a member of a worker’s union. This allows manufacturers to relocate operations across the globe.
Robotics – An interdisciplinary branch of engineering and science concerned with creating robots. Robotics is considered a branch of artificial intelligence.
S.
SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)- A centralised control system which monitors and controls large systems such as traffic, power plants, pipelines, and power transmission networks. Most actions are automated.
Singularity (technological) – Known as the singularity, it is a hypothetical point in the future where technological advancement irreversibly surpasses human ability and control.
Smart Factory – Still in its infancy, a smart factory is a highly digitized, connected, and robotized production facility that relies on smart manufacturing technologies.
Smart Manufacturing (SM) – A manufacturing environment that utilises interconnected technology to monitor the production process. The objective of SM is to strive for automation and data feedback to improve adaptability, rapid design change, and overall performance.
T.
Teleworking – Remote working via phones, computers and teleconferencing. Teleworking allows the employee to work from home, client locations, the field, hotels, airports etc. during business hours.
U.
Uber – A platform business allowing users to share vehicle rides
V.
Value-Added – The efficiencies and savings that disruptive and modern technological processes are expected to bring.
Virtual Reality (VR) – A simulated 3D environment generated by a computer. The user can interact with the artificial environment in a seemingly real way using electronic equipment such as VR headsets and gloves. Applications include video gaming, education, and training.
W.
Wearable Technology – Commonly known as “wearables” these are sensor devices that collect healthcare information on the user. These devices measure things such as physical activity and vital signs. Examples include fitness trackers, wristbands, and snoring devices. Devices can also be incorporated into clothing and jewellery such as rings.
Well-Being – A wholistic term used to describe the physical and mental wellness of the individual. Typically, in a labour context.