Industry 4.0 vs. 5.0: synthesis and evolution of the connected industry

Abstract

This paper reviews the concept of Industry 4.0, a production paradigm that is becoming increasingly important in the manufacturing industry. Its main objective is to clarify this concept and establish the existing relations with the recently coined Industry 5.0. Initially, Industry 4.0 arose as a result of various governmental policies. Its materialization is understood through the integration of its enabling technologies, aimed at improving productivity and flexibility in industrial processes. This paper emphasizes the importance of understanding Industry 4.0 through the synergies generated between its technologies. In contrast to the efficiency focus of Industry 4.0, the Industry 5.0 paradigm emerged in 2021 as a European proposal aimed at creating a people-centered, resilient, and sustainable industry. It reflects on the enduring technologies from the 4.0 approach and those incorporated specifically to achieve renewed social and environmental goals. The paper concludes by differentiating between the two paradigms based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).