Integration of Robotics and IoT in Production Technology: A Comprehensive Literature Review of Trends, Challenges, and Future Directions

Abstract

The integration of robotics and the Internet of Things (IoT) is fundamentally transforming traditional manufacturing systems into smart, connected, and autonomous production environments. This convergence, driven by the principles of Industry 4.0, has enabled the development of cyber-physical production systems (CPPS) that offer real-time data exchange, predictive analytics, adaptive control, and improved decision-making capabilities. This literature review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of IoT-enabled robotics in production technology, highlighting key advancements, application domains, and implementation strategies across various industries. The review discusses how IoT enhances robotic systems by enabling remote monitoring, sensor-based feedback loops, and integration with cloud and edge computing platforms. Application areas such as automated assembly, logistics, quality control, and predictive maintenance are explored to demonstrate the wide-ranging benefits of this technological synergy. Despite significant progress, the study identifies several critical research gaps, including a lack of standardised integration frameworks, limited focus on edge AI for real-time control, andbinsufficient attention to cybersecurity and system scalability. Furthermore, challenges related to the retrofitting of legacy systems, implementation, and sustainability remain underexplored. The paper emphasises the need for interdisciplinary research to address these issues. It proposes future research directions that include the development of interoperable architectures, secure communication protocols, and intelligent control systems. This review aims to serve as a valuable reference for researchers, engineers, and industry practitioners working toward the realisation of intelligent, resilient, and sustainable manufacturing ecosystems powered by robotics and IoT technologies.