Differentiators in contactor and relay large manufacturers

[xielit]

Hello everyone,
I'm researching the contactors and thermal and electronic overload relays. In particular, I'm trying to understand:
* The differences in the products provided by the large players (ABB, Schneider Electric, Siemens, Mitsubishi Electric)
* The future trends in terms of technological innovation
* Brand perception of the large players (e.g., ABB is good/bad because or xyz, and so on)
I wasn't able to find much online other than companies align to each other and tend to produce:
* Compact frames to save space in cabinets
* Universal coil to support both DC and AC
* Wide range voltage support in coils
* Modular hardware
* Smart wiring connections

While for relays:
* Current measurement and output of data
* Remote monitoring features
* IoT connectivity features
* Smart wiring connections

Does any of you know:
1. What is likely to happen technology-wise in the next few years that could be innovative for the market?
2. What are the differentiators of the products provided by the large manufacturers?
3. How are the large manufacturers perceived and how are Japanese players perceived in the western market in terms of contactors and relays?

Of course, I already looked at manufacturers' websites but could not understand this kind of information.

Thanks in advance for those of you who will read.

 

[waross]

It's called experience.
You will learn by watching.
You will make a few equipment choices that you regret.
I have seen some normally good companies come out with some disasters.
Some industries tend to favour some manufacturers.

Just live and learn.

--------------------
Ohm's law
Not just a good idea;
It's the LAW!