Architecture of Industry 4.0 Smart Manufacturing Systems Based on Mobile and Collaborative Robotics

Abstract

Research and development of advanced technologies underpinning the implementation of Industry 4.0 are driving the transformation of traditional manufacturing systems into flexible production systems whose high level of integration and intelligence is based on digital technologies. Mobile and collaborative robotics, supported by artificial intelligence, are becoming central elements of intelligent manufacturing processes through their implementation, complementing other Industry 4.0 technologies. This paper provides a clear and comprehensive overview of the architecture of Industry 4.0 smart manufacturing systems based on the integration of autonomous mobile robots and collaborative robots, with particular emphasis on system hierarchy, data flows, and interoperability with existing industrial information systems. Patent trends over the past decade in robotics and artificial intelligence are analyzed, along with trends in the implementation of mobile and collaborative robots in manufacturing processes. The role of robotic systems in process monitoring, decision-support, and adaptive production control is examined, including their integration with IoT platforms, manufacturing execution systems, and AI-based analytical modules. The paper also discusses the technical and organizational challenges associated with implementing such architectures, as well as their potential benefits in terms of flexibility, scalability, and resilience of manufacturing systems. The proposed architectural approach provides a foundation for the further development of smart manufacturing environments and offers guidelines for the industrial application of mobile and collaborative robotics in accordance with Industry 4.0 principles.