In the rapidly evolving landscape of manufacturing, a groundbreaking review published in the *Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing* (translated from Russian as *Журнал по производству и обработке материалов*) is shedding light on how smart manufacturing systems (SMSs) are revolutionizing the industry. Led by Anastasiia Rozhok from the Department of Political and International Sciences at the University of Genoa, the research synthesizes over 250 studies to highlight the transformative potential of these intelligent, data-driven ecosystems.
At the heart of this evolution are cyber-physical systems, digital twins, and artificial intelligence, which are enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and resilience in manufacturing. Rozhok’s review delves into four key domains: manufacturing technologies, systems management, sustainable production, and human-robot collaboration. The findings are particularly compelling for the energy sector, where efficiency and sustainability are paramount.
In process optimization, the integration of hybrid machine learning and genetic algorithms has shown remarkable results. “We’ve seen reductions in surface roughness in machining by up to 35% and energy use in additive manufacturing decreased by 20–30%,” Rozhok explains. These advancements not only improve product quality but also significantly cut energy consumption, a critical factor for energy-intensive industries.
Systems management has also seen substantial improvements. Digital twins and reinforcement learning are enabling adaptive scheduling and predictive maintenance, which increase operational flexibility and reduce industrial downtime. “This adaptability is crucial for maintaining continuous production and minimizing energy waste,” Rozhok notes.
Sustainability is another area where smart manufacturing systems are making a significant impact. Additive manufacturing, for instance, can cut energy consumption by up to threefold compared to subtractive routes. Additionally, aluminium recycling and hot-forming processes are lowering life-cycle impacts, making manufacturing processes more environmentally friendly. The integration of ISO 14001, ISO 50001, and ISO 14040 standards supports consistent environmental and energy performance assessment across sectors, ensuring that sustainability goals are met.
The review also highlights emerging paradigms such as explainable AI and human-centric design, which strengthen safety, transparency, and resilience in manufacturing processes. These developments are paving the way for more intelligent, adaptive, and sustainable manufacturing systems.
As the manufacturing industry continues to evolve, the insights from Rozhok’s research offer a roadmap for future innovation. By embracing these advanced technologies and practices, companies can achieve greater efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and enhance sustainability. The journey towards smarter manufacturing is not just about technological advancements; it’s about creating a more resilient and sustainable future for all.
For those interested in the technical details, the full review is available in the *Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing*, providing a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in smart manufacturing systems.