Artificial Intelligence as a Process Optimization Driver under Industry 4.0 Framework and the Role of IIoT, a Bibliometric Analysis

Abstract

Connected products generate data that are being seen as a key source of competitive advantage, and the management and processing of that data are generating new challenges in the industrial environment. This paper proposes a conceptual framework and preliminary findings to go deeper into a bibliometric analysis around the idea of artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) as a tool for the optimization of processes within the Industry 4.0 model. Methodologically, a technological mapping was carried out through an exercise on Scopus indexed database, the results of which were analyzed using bibliometric indicators. The bibliometric study is completed with a screening of relevant papers searching for linking among the industrial Internet of Thing (IIoT) or Internet of Thing (IoT), IA/ML and process optimization. Finally, this paper gives information about the state-of-the-art AI/ML applied to the optimization of industrial processes and presents a novel Canadian startup that has a business model that aims to make AI/ML easy to use in the industrial world towards a lean processes strategy.