Application of Intelligent Manufacturing Technology in Industrial Production

Dear Colleagues,

Intelligent manufacturing is currently one of the most remarkable research topics concerning industrial processes. Also known as smart manufacturing or Industry 4.0, it represents the integration of innovative techniques into the manufacturing process to improve efficiency, productivity, and flexibility. Intelligent manufacturing involves the use of technologies such as the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analytics, robotics, cloud computing, additive manufacturing, and automation to create interconnected and automated systems within the manufacturing environment—all protected via cybersecurity. These technologies enable the real-time monitoring and control of production processes, predictive maintenance, customization of products, and optimization of resource utilization. Intelligent manufacturing relies on the concept of cyber–physical systems, where physical production systems are integrated with digital technologies to create smart factories. These factories are equipped with sensors and actuators that collect data from machines and equipment, which is then analyzed to make data-driven decisions and adjustments in real time. This integration enables a more efficient use of resources, reduced downtime, improved quality control, and enhanced agility to respond to changes in demand or production requirements. On the other hand, data analytics and AI algorithms are used to optimize various aspects of the manufacturing process, such as production scheduling, inventory management, and supply chain logistics. Finally, sustainability is crucial in intelligent manufacturing because it optimizes resources, reduces waste and emissions, saves costs, enhances corporate reputation, and protects the environment and human health. Therefore, approaches such as lean manufacturing and circular economy can be considered an inseparable part of intelligent manufacturing.

This Special Issue focuses on applications of the most significant technologies of the fourth industrial revolution in the field of manufacturing processes. Potential topics include, but are not limited to, the following areas:

• Intelligent monitoring, intelligent quality control, and predictive maintenance;
• The metaheuristic optimization of industrial processes and systems;
• Collaborative industrial robotics and human–machine collaboration;
• Intelligent digital twins;
• Industrial cyber–physical systems;
• Sustainable manufacturing and the circular economy of manufacturing processes;
• AI for additive manufacturing;
• Big data analytics for manufacturing;
• Blockchain in manufacturing, including secure supply chains and traceability;
• Cybersecurity for smart manufacturing systems;
• Service-oriented and collaborative manufacturing.

The papers submitted should present novel contributions and innovative applications. Relevant topical reviews can be accepted on exception.

Dr. Ramón Quiza
Dr. José Reinaldo Silva
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Processes is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• intelligent manufacturing
• smart manufacturing
• Industry 4.0
• cyber–physical systems
• AI-based manufacturing systems