Blueprints to Bytes: The Evolution and Future of Digital Engineering in Modern Facilities Design

Abstract

 This paper offers a systematic literature review on the tools used in Smart Manufacturing Systems (SMS) and the barriers to their integration, focusing on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). It examines the technologies SMEs adopt for Smart Manufacturing and the challenges they face in implementation. The paper highlights three main contributions: an overview of current literature on Smart Manufacturing and integration challenges, a discussion of the tools used, and identification of emerging research themes. Core digital engineering (DE) technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Digital Twins, and the Internet of Things (IoT), are explored for their applications in manufacturing. The review identifies key barriers to adoption, including technical issues like data quality, system interoperability, and security, along with organizational challenges such as knowledge gaps, lack of readiness assessments, and insufficient standards. The role of DE in facility design is also discussed, highlighting how tools like Digital Twins and AI improve efficiency and security in industrial settings. The review concludes with recommendations for future research, particularly in understanding the economic benefits of smart manufacturing and integrating these technologies with traditional manufacturing practices. This paper provides valuable insights into Smart Manufacturing  and Digital Engineering, with a focus on the challenges SMEs face and potential future research directions.