Machine Intelligence and Autonomous Robotic Technologies in the Corporate Context of SMEs: Deep Learning and Virtual Simulation Algorithms, Cyber-Physical Production Networks, and Industry 4.0-Based Manufacturing Systems

This study examines Industry 4.0-based technologies, focusing on the barriers to their implementation in European small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The purpose of this research was to determine the most significant obstacles that prevent SMEs from implementing smart manufacturing, as well as to identify the most important components of such an operationalization and to evaluate whether only large businesses have access to technological opportunities given the financial complexities of such an adoption. The study is premised on the notion that, in the setting of cyber-physical production systems, the gap between massive corporations and SMEs may result in significant disadvantages for the latter, leading to their market exclusion by the former. The research aim was achieved by secondary data analysis, where previously gathered data were assessed and analyzed. The need to investigate this topic originates from the fact that SMEs require more research than large corporations, which are typically the focus of mainstream debates. The findings validated Industry 4.0′s critical role in smart process planning provided by deep learning and virtual simulation algorithms, especially for industrial production. The research also discussed the connection options for SMEs as a means of enhancing business efficiency through machine intelligence and autonomous robotic technologies. The interaction between Industry 4.0 and the economic management of organizations is viewed in this study as a possible source of significant added value.