Demystifying operator 4.0 through an integrative framework
Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management
ISSN: 1741-038X
Article publication date: 17 May 2024
Abstract
Purpose
Despite increased interest in the Operator 4.0 concept, there has been scarce attention on practice-oriented frameworks that can assist firms in reaping the potential benefits of technologies within the I4.0 framework. The purpose of this paper is to provide an integrative framework on how to engage Operator 4.0 effectively.
Design/methodology/approach
Following meta-synthesis logic and integrative conceptual analysis, this study synthesizes and integrates experimental case studies on Operator 4.0 solutions. The analysis is conducted on 24 cases retrieved from peer-reviewed articles.
Findings
The analysis revealed several factors that determine the type and extent of benefits that can be realized within a human-cyber-physical system. However, enhancing these capabilities is not straightforward, as several factors can inhibit the realization of these capabilities. Firstly, the benefits vary depending on the type of Operator 4.0. Secondly, the interoperability of the introduced I4.0 solution with the existing systems is crucial. Thirdly, the adaptability of the solution to serve multiple purposes is crucial, as it tends to increase technology acceptance.
Research limitations/implications
The studies reviewed in this research were based on experimental cases, with limited implementation of the solutions they proposed. As such, their implications when implemented on a larger scale are tentative.
Originality/value
The present study has synthesized existing experimental cases and developed an integrative framework to guide the implementation of Operator 4.0. By gathering primary insights from these experiments, we have clarified when and how Operator 4.0 and the required interactions can lead to successful implementation.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to acknowledge the contribution of the two anonymous reviewers for their valuable comments and to the editor of chief for his time during the whole process. Additionally, we would like to acknowledge that the two first authors have contributed equally to all the phases of the study development, from study conception and design, to writing original- and revised drafts.
Citation
Nujen, B.B., Mwesiumo, D., Alfnes, E. and Tomasgard, T. (2024), "Demystifying operator 4.0 through an integrative framework", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/JMTM-01-2023-0013
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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