Evaluation of SMEs In Eskisehir within the context of industry 4.0

Abstract

It isimportant for businesses to keep up with the Industry 4.0 and to adapt theirmanufacturing systems to new technologies so that they can maintain theircompetitive edge in global markets. However, since these components aredeveloping so fast, it is crucial for companies to be aware of Industry 4.0 formaking on time transition to new technologies. Within the scope of the study,research evaluates the awareness of Industry 4.0, the Industry 4.0 applicationsand the Industry 4.0 perspective of SMEs in the manufacturing sector inEskisehir. The components ofIndustry 4.0 are defined as robots, simulation, software integration, internetof things, cyber security, cloud systems, additive manufacturing, enrichedreality, big data analysis, artificial intelligence, smart production and cyberphysical systems. In the first part of the survey awareness of Industry 4.0, inthe second part, Industry 4.0 components applied by the companies, in the lastpart, their perspective of Industry 4.0 are measured. While the awareness of SMEs in the manufacturing sector inEskisehir is enhanced, Industry 4.0 technologies being used are inadequate.SMEs plan to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies in medium and long term. In thistransition process, investment cost is the biggest problem for SMEs. Also, SMEsdon’t have adequate information about Industry 4.0. During cyber security,cloud systems and simulation components have higher rates; internet of things,cyber physical systems, enriched reality and artificial intelligence have lowerrates. SMEs needs collaborations inorder to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies. Also medium and long term Industry4.0 strategies should be developed.