The proposed chapter explores how soft computing has developed to provide human-centric solutions, highlighting the difficulties it has encountered and outlining important directions for future research that will be necessary to advance the field. The need for human-centric approaches is becoming more and more apparent in today's society across a number of industries, such as healthcare, banking, education, and transportation. Because soft computing techniques are adept at handling the imprecise, uncertain, and partial information typical of human decision-making processes, they are particularly positioned to address this demand. This approach not only enhances the user experience, but also fosters a more harmonious relationship between technology and society, opening the door for breakthroughs such as tailored medical care, flexible learning environments, and compassionate service robots. Soft computing's ability to provide human-centered solutions and successfully navigate the obstacles of implementation will determine its lasting relevance and influence in social applications.
TopIntroduction
In the eighteenth century, there was a major shift brought about by the industrial revolution 1.0, as products were created using newly invented methods and procedures that were permitted to be generated by machines (Adel, 2022). It originated in England around 1760 and, by the end of the eighteenth century, had made its way to the United States. Industry 1.0, which had an impact on several sectors like glass, mining, textiles, and agriculture, signaled the transition from a manual economy to one driven by machines (Adel, 2022). Next, from 1871 to 1914, there was a change to the industrial sector known as Industry 2.0, which made it easier for the flow of people and creative ideas to come together more quickly. The economic boom of this revolution is driving up corporate productivity and, as machines take the place of human labor in factories, is driving up unemployment.
Known as the “digital revolution,” Industry 3.0 had its start in the 1970s, when computers and memory-programmable controls were automated. This phase's main focus is on the mass production of computational logic and chips with integrated circuits; associated methodologies include digital phones, PCs, and the internet (Longo et al., 2020; Pathak et al., 2021).
Industry 4.0 unites digital assets with sophisticated technologies including cloud computing, IoT, robotics, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence. Adopting 4.0 has made firms more flexible and equipped to make data driven judgments (He et al., 2017). The next phase of technology, called Industry 5.0, is geared at creating intelligent and productive machines.
Industry 5.0 heralds a new era in manufacturing, characterized by a harmonious convergence of cutting-edge technology and human ingenuity. Expanding on the digital 4.0 industry's base, this latest industrial revolution places a heightened emphasis on the pivotal role of human workers alongside advanced automation and robotics. The industry 5.0 revolution is defined by the collaboration of humans and machines, which enhances the efficiency of industrial production. Human labor and universal robotics are helping the manufacturing sector become more productive (Leone et al., 2020).
One of the defining features of Industry 5.0 is its commitment to ethical AI integration. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly prevalent in manufacturing, concerns about job displacement, privacy, and algorithmic bias have gained prominence. In order to allay these worries, Industry 5.0 prioritizes the responsible, open, and ethical development and deployment of AI systems. By ensuring that AI technologies are aligned with human values and ethical principles, the goal of Industry 5.0 is to construct trust and confidence in the use of AI in manufacturing.
Moreover, industry 5.0 lays a big focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. With the world facing immediate problems including resource depletion and climate change, the requirement for sustainable practices in manufacturing has never been greater. Industry 5.0 embraces technologies and processes that minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and promote circular economy principles. From green manufacturing techniques to the adoption of renewable energy sources, Industry 5.0 strives to make more environmentally friendly and persistent industrial ecosystem.
Furthermore to its focus on human-machine collaboration and ethical AI integration, industry 5.0 also prioritizes inclusivity and diversity in the workforce. By fostering an inclusive culture that values diversity of thought, background, and experience, Industry 5.0 aims to create opportunities for all individuals to participate and thrive in the manufacturing sector. From gender equality initiatives to programs that support underrepresented groups, Industry 5.0 is committed to building a more equitable and inclusive future for the industry.