INDUSTRY 4.0: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN PRODUCTION ENGINEERING

Abstract

This article explores the challenges and opportunities presented by the integration of Industry 4.0 into production engineering and extends the discussion to Society 5.0. Through a qualitative literature review, it analyzes the effects of innovations such as the Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and Additive Manufacturing on production and logistics operations. The results show that, although digital transformation offers ways to improve performance, its implementation is hindered by critical challenges: high implementation costs, technological inequality, a shortage of skilled labor, and the need to harmonize automation with socio-environmental sustainability. The success of Industry 4.0 depends not only on technologies but also on an organization's ability to foster a cultural and educational shift that respects the human element. Furthermore, the article highlights that strategic planning—focused on scalable implementation and the well-being of society as a whole—will be essential to expanding access to Industry 4.0 technologies.