Abstract
Since the early industrial revolution in the 18th century, companies made every effort for improved productivity. Industry 4.0 which emerged in the early 21st century is based on cyber-physical systems, artificial intelligence, and the internet of things. For South Africa to be competitive in the international market there is an increasing need to adopt the latest emerging technologies. The journey for improved productivity in the South African construction and fabrication industries begins with the use of the latest welding and production technologies integrated within a quality management system. A high level of industry 4.0 implementation results in improved productivity and competitiveness. The research intends to analyze the current impact of industry 4.0 on the South African fabrication and construction industry. The understanding is that a higher level of industry 4.0 results in improved productivity and competitiveness. The study explores artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), Industrial IoT (IIoT), Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), Cloud Computing, and the Smart Factory Environment. Literature reveals that the key factors affecting industry 4.0 are the implementation of the smart factory environment, management commitment to advance with industry 4.0 technology, human resource development aligning skills to the latest technologies, and research and development. The approach of this study is the use of a comprehensive survey process which includes a questionnaire and observation to obtain data from a selected sample of companies. The data collected on current fabrication methods, equipment, commitment, research and development, and training was analyzed using statistical methods. The data is tabulated and shown in the form of pie charts, and bar graphs. The primary findings from the research show that industry 4.0 has a moderate impact on the South African construction and fabrication industry. Further, the study reveals that a lack of commitment to advance with the latest technology has a negative impact on productivity and efficiency and makes the South African industry less competitive in the international market. To stay competitive, the industry needs to move away from traditional methods, develop the skills needed to implement the latest technologies, strengthen research and development in new methods, and invest resources for that. This research proposes a method for the progressive implementation of industry 4.0 technologies in light of its positive impact on the industry.
M.Tech. (Mechanical Engineering)