Mobile Manipulators in Industry 4.0: A Review of Developments for Industrial Applications

In the realm of Industry 4.0, diverse technologies such as AI, Cyber-Physical Systems, IoT, and advanced sensors converge to shape smarter future factories. Mobile manipulators (MMs) are pivotal, fostering flexibility, adaptability, collaboration in industrial processes. On one hand, MMs offer a remarkable level processes, facilitating swift production line changes efficiency enhancements. other their integration into real manufacturing environments requires meticulous considerations, safety, human–robot interaction, cybersecurity. This article delves MMs’ essential role achieving 4.0’s automation adaptability by integrating mobility with manipulation capabilities. The study reviews applications systems. most observed logistics (49%) (33%). As 4.0 advances, paper emphasizes updating aligning smart factory concept networks real-time analysis them, especially for an enhanced interaction. Another objective is categorizing considerations utilization 4.0-aligned manufacturing. review methodically covers wide range evaluates existing solutions. It shows more comprehensive approach understanding than previous works. Key focus areas encompass perception, data analysis, connectivity, virtualization, By bringing together different aspects, this research integrated view challenges paradigm provides insights aspects often overlooked. A detailed synthetic knowledge was performed, path were provided part contributions paper. also appraises initiatives these domains, along succinct technology readiness analysis. To sum up, highlights pivotal encompassing influence on automation, efficiency.