A conceptual framework-based architecture strategy for implementing industry 4.0 enabling technologies in Indian commercial vehicle manufacturing plant

From the first industrial revolution to the era of Industry 4.0 (I4.0), Indian manufacturing sectors have undergone significant transformations. The global market's competitiveness has surged due to the rising demand for customized consumer goods, prompting industries to adopt advanced manufacturing models to maintain their edge. This paper introduces a novel Conceptual Framework-Based Architecture (CFA) using a real-life case study of an Indian commercial vehicle manufacturing plant. The proposed CFA aims to minimize barriers to implementing I4.0 technologies by developing a standardized architecture customized to the Indian manufacturing context. It addresses existing technological requirements and implementation challenges in three phases, considering existing production systems, current technologies, and system needs. The CFA enhances productivity, and transparency through real-time data monitoring, automated system communication, and responsiveness. It also tackles I4.0 implementation challenges between physical and cyber systems, employee adaptability to new technologies, the absence of global standards, and the need for uniform standards in tools, equipment, systems, and data services. The CFA elements were validated for system readiness in an existing manufacturing plant. This framework serves as a reference tool for industrial strategists, decision-makers, policymakers, and researchers, aiding in the integration and configuration of I4.0 technologies in the Indian manufacturing sector.