Industry 5.0, building upon the foundation of Industry 4.0, emphasizes the collaborative coexistence of humans and machines, shaping a more interconnected, intelligent, and sustainable industrial future. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) emerge as versatile tools revolutionizing various industrial sectors, from agriculture and automotive to smart city infrastructure. As industries undergo a transformative shift towards intelligent, connected, and automated processes, the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and UAV technologies presents unprecedented opportunities for efficiency, precision, and innovation. The proposed chapter aims to explore the synergistic integration of AI and UAVs, commonly known as drones, in the context of Industry 5.0.
TopIntroduction
The course of human advancement has been significantly influenced by the progression of industrial paradigms. The initial phase, Industry 1.0, witnessed the mechanization of labor powered by water and steam. Subsequently, Industry 2.0 heralded the era of mass production, propelled by the advent of electric power. The onset of Industry 3.0 marked the digital age, characterized by the seamless integration of computers and automation. This evolution unfolded further into the realm of cyber–physical systems, defining the landscape of Industry 4.0. The initiation of Industry 4.0 marked a significant leap in manufacturing and industrial processes, driven by the integration of automation and digital technologies. Now, standing on the cusp of a new era, Industry 5.0 is emerging as a paradigm that continues the trajectory set by its predecessor but also emphasizes the critical role of collaboration between humans and machines. The industrial landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, marked by the emergence of Industry 5.0. The core principles of Industry 5.0 revolve around creating a harmonious synergy between human capabilities and technological advancements. It envisions a harmonious coexistence where advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics, empower human capabilities rather than replace them. This paradigm shift signifies a more holistic and inclusive approach to industrial development, focusing on the convergence of physical and digital systems for unprecedented efficiency and innovation (Suresh, Natarajan, et al., 2024). Moreover, it converges to create intelligent systems capable of adaptive responses in dynamic industrial settings (Sudhagar et al., 2024; Suresh, Kumar, et al., 2024; Suresh, Ramesh, et al., 2024). A detailed examination of the technological foundations reveals the interconnected web of AI, IoT, and robotics that forms the backbone of Industry 5.0 (Priya et al., 2023) (Wu et al., 2020) (Jeyabharathi et al., 2022).
Smart manufacturing, at the forefront of technological innovation, encompasses a spectrum of advanced processes and cutting-edge technologies that revolutionize traditional manufacturing paradigms. In this era of industrial transformation, the integration of IoT, robotics, and sophisticated data analytics has given rise to a new era of intelligent and interconnected manufacturing ecosystems. Technologies such as CNC machining, advanced welding (Suresh et al., 2022, 2023; Suresh S et al., 2022), and 3D printing play pivotal roles in this landscape, pushing the boundaries of precision and customization. CNC machining, driven by computer-controlled systems, ensures unparalleled accuracy and repeatability in the production of intricate components. Advanced welding techniques (Suresh et al., 2019), augmented by automation and robotics, contribute to the creation of robust and flawlessly welded structures, critical in industries demanding high structural integrity. Additionally, 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, empowers manufacturers to create complex geometries with unprecedented speed and customization, opening up new avenues for product design and prototyping.