// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM
Dark Factory
A highly automated manufacturing plant that can operate with minimal or no human presence, often running 'lights-out'. It relies heavily on robots and automated systems.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
A dark factory is an advanced manufacturing facility characterized by extreme automation, extensive use of robotics, AI, and IoT, enabling lights-out operation with minimal human intervention, primarily for tasks like monitoring, maintenance, and strategic oversight.
BACKGROUND
Lights-out manufacturing or dark factory is the manufacturing methodology of fully automating the production of goods at factories and other industrial facilities, without requiring any human labour presence on-site. Many of these factories are considered to be able to run "with the lights off," but few run exclusively lights-out production. For example, in computer numerical control machining, the presence of human workers is typically required for removing completed parts and setting up tombstones that hold unfinished parts. As the technology necessary for total automation becomes increasingly available, many factories are beginning to use lights-out production between shifts to meet increasing production demand or to save money on labor.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Lights-out factory
- Fully automated factory
- Autonomous factory
USAGE NOTE
Dark factories are ideal for repetitive, high-volume production where human safety or comfort is not a primary factor.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Dark Factory.
A global technology powerhouse known for its industrial automation solutions, digital twin technology, and industrial IoT platforms (MindSphere), which are crucial for designing, simulating, and operating fully autonomous factories.
A global leader in industrial robots, CNC systems, and factory automation. Their robust and reliable robots are essential components for lights-out manufacturing and autonomous production lines.
One of the world's leading suppliers of industrial robots and automation solutions. KUKA's advanced robotics and integrated systems enable high levels of automation required for dark factories.
Provides a comprehensive portfolio of industrial robots, factory automation systems, and digital solutions that facilitate highly automated and autonomous manufacturing processes.
Offers industrial automation and digital transformation solutions, including advanced control systems, manufacturing execution systems (MES), and analytics platforms essential for dark factory operations.
Develops a wide range of industrial automation products, including robots, PLCs, HMIs, and software, all contributing to the realization of smart, highly automated, and lights-out factories.
A specialist in drive and control technologies, providing solutions for factory automation, including robotics, motion control, and Industry 4.0 connectivity, which are vital for dark factory concepts.
Offers industrial automation and control technologies, energy management solutions, and EcoStruxure platform, supporting smart manufacturing and autonomous operations crucial for dark factories.