Recent trends and advances in machine learning challenges and applications for industry 4.0

Abstract

This editorial summarizes and analyzes 17 articles selected for a special issue on machine learning advances for Industry 4.0 applications. The diverse articles cover fault detection, deep learning optimisation, IoT networking, vehicle control, recommendation systems and domain knowledge integration. Key methods represented include neural networks, deep learning, reinforcement learning and explainable AI. Real‐world industrial case studies showcase machine learning's versatility in enabling intelligent automation, control, and decision‐making across manufacturing, healthcare, transportation and other sectors. While highlighting theoretical innovations, the contributions also demonstrate machine learning's transformative potential for intelligent, connected, self‐optimising next generation production systems. This editorial concisely overviews the latest trends represented in this special issue.