What is Automation: A Journey Through The Past and Present

Today, automation is more advanced and pervasive than ever. It plays a central role in shaping our modern world and offers opportunities for continued development in various aspects of our lives. So, what exactly is automation?

Automation refers to the use of technology and machinery to perform tasks or processes with minimal human intervention. Without a doubt, it has been a fundamental aspect of human progress since ancient times. 

“Automation is the key to unlocking human potential.” – Elon Musk

Automation History 101

Ingenious inventions and technological advancements mark the history of automation that has profoundly transformed industries and societies. The story began when ancient civilizations used simple machines to automate labor-intensive tasks…

However, it was during the Industrial Revolution in the late 18th century that automation truly gained momentum. Basically, the advent of mechanized production processes laid the foundation for the modern automated world we live in today. Let’s get into it!

Ancient Times

• 270 BC: Greek engineer Ctesibius invented the water clock, an early form of automation for measuring time.
• 1st Century AD: In ancient Roman architecture, automated doors were invented. They intelligently used water and counterweights to power them back then.
• 100 AD: The hero of Alexandria creates the Aeolipile, a device that transforms steam into rotary motion. It is an early precursor to automation. 

Industrial Revolution (1760 to 1840)

• 1768: Developed by Richard Arkwright, the Water Frame was a water-powered spinning frame that could produce a continuous supply of yarn.
• 1769: Invented by James Watt, the steam engine was a key invention that powered various industrial machines during the Industrial Revolution.
• 1793: Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin, automating the process of separating cotton fibers from seeds, greatly increasing cotton production and making it a profitable crop.
• 1801: Joseph Marie Jacquard developed the Jacquard loom, using punched cards to automate textile weaving.

Early 20th Century

• 1913: Henry Ford introduced the assembly line, revolutionizing manufacturing by automating the production of automobiles. This made them more affordable and accessible.

Mid-20th Century

• 1952: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines could be programmed to precisely control the movement of tools, improving accuracy and efficiency. This allowed for the automation of machining processes in industries such as aerospace and manufacturing.
• 1954: The first industrial robots, Unimate, were developed by George Devol and Joseph Engelberger. Workers used it for tasks like material handling and welding in industrial settings.

Late 20th Century

• 1970s: Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are introduced, simplifying automation control in manufacturing and industry.
• 1980s: The robotics industry sees significant growth, with robots used in various industries like automotive, electronics, and healthcare.
• 1990s: The Internet of Things (IoT) starts to emerge, connecting devices and systems for automation and remote control.

21st Century

2000s – Present: 

• Self-driving cars and autonomous vehicles.
• Consumer drones are equipped with cameras and GPS technology.
• Surgical robots like the da Vinci Surgical System enable minimally invasive procedures with high precision.
• 3D printing technology.

2010s – Present: 

• Home automation systems, such as smart thermostats, lights, and security systems.
• AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant.
• Drone delivery systems to automate package delivery to customers’ doorsteps.
• Manufacturing automated warehouses.
• Automation of trading algorithms, fraud detection, and risk assessment in the Finance sector.
• The automation of renewable energy systems like solar and wind farms.
• Automation in various shopping industries, for example, the sneakers industry via Robots that are called Sneaker bots. Learn more about what they are here!

What are the 6 types of Automation?

Fixed Automation

Fixed automation refers to using special-purpose equipment to automate a fixed sequence of processing or assembly operations. In this example, the application is usually simple and will involve a process or assembly that is dictated by programmed commands.

Programmable Automation

Programmable automation uses machines or systems that can be reprogrammed or reconfigured to perform different tasks or operations. This type of automation offers greater flexibility compared to fixed automation and is commonly used in manufacturing and assembly processes.

Flexible Automation

Flexible automation systems can handle a variety of products or tasks with minimal setup or reprogramming. These systems are adaptable and can accommodate changes in product design or production requirements.

Integrated Automation

It is when we use advanced technology and systems to streamline and optimize various processes within an organization or industrial setting. In detail, it involves the integration of different automation technologies and systems into a cohesive and interconnected framework. The purpose is to improve efficiency, reduce manual labor, enhance decision-making, and increase overall productivity.

Process Automation

It focuses on automating and optimizing specific business processes. In detail, this can include workflow automation, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and supply chain management software to streamline operations and improve efficiency.

Robotic Process Automation

RPA is a technology that uses software robots or bots to automate repetitive, rule-based tasks typically performed by humans. RPA bots interact with digital systems and applications, mimicking human actions to complete tasks such as data entry, data extraction, and data validation.

What are some key characteristics of Automation?

1. Repetition: First, it is well-suited for repetitive tasks that can be standardized, as machines can perform these tasks consistently without getting tired or making mistakes.
2. Efficiency: Second, automated systems often perform tasks faster and more efficiently than humans, leading to increased productivity and reduced operational costs.
3. Accuracy: Also, it can eliminate human errors, ensuring a high degree of precision and reliability in tasks.
4. Consistency: Not to mention that automated processes can maintain consistent quality and output, which is important in industries like manufacturing and quality control.
5. Cost savings: Over time, automation can lead to cost savings through reduced labor costs, increased production efficiency, and decreased error rates.
6. Safety: Finally, Automation can protect human workers from potential harm in hazardous or physically demanding environments.

Automation and The Integration of Artificial Intelligence

Finally, with its history, artificial intelligence is now the backbone of automation. Not only does it enable machines to make complex decisions and adapt to changing circumstances, but it can also offer significant benefits when done thoughtfully and responsibly.

However, as technology advances, there will be ongoing discussions about the ethical use of AI, and its impact on privacy. Moreover, it raises important societal considerations and concerns about job displacement.

Don’t get us started on the debate of how AI is just itching to turn against us… Despite the strict ethical guidelines or global efforts to govern AI responsibly, clearly, we should all be terrified of our toasters plotting world domination.

As always, stay tuned for more!