Smart Manufacturing

Abstract

In this chapter, the current state and future trends in smart manufacturing (SM) and its technologies are presented with the perspective of economic growth and evolution of policies and strategies that steer its growth. The long-term effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on manufacturing is investigated. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, a long-lasting effect on manufacturing is foreseen, particularly in the supply chain dependency. To overcome future supply chain disruptions, attention is expected to shift towards incorporating industrial and service robotics, additive manufacturing, and augmented and virtual reality. Additive manufacturing will continue to play an increased role in customized product manufacturing. More demand is expected in the long term of additive manufacturing to counter future supply chain interruption.