Software-defined Factory: Paradigm Shift in Manufacturing Towards Industry 5.0

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel manufacturing paradigm, Software-Defined Factory (SDF), which redefines manufacturing based onhardware-software integration. SDF can decouple product, process, and factory functions from conventional hardware constraints.Utilizing advanced technologies such as modular digital twins, generative AI, robotics, digital manufacturing, high-speed wirelessnetworks, hybrid cloud computing, and robust data security, SDF can achieve rapid production reconfiguration, real-time operationaladjustments, and comprehensive plant management. Integration of technologies into a unified manufacturing platform can enhanceresource utilization, reduce downtime, and improve decision-making throughout the manufacturing lifecycle, making it a moreadaptable manufacturing system that meets dynamic market demands. With the new definition of a factory, this paper aims to proposea comprehensive SDF architecture by introducing key technologies and their usages inside a software-defined manufacturing scenarioand guide a smooth transition toward Industry 5.0.