Integrating Design processes and Intelligent systems within supply chain digitalization, Two case studies in Made in Italy manufacturing.

Abstract: The concept of "Made in Italy" refers to the production of goods in Italy, characterized by a strong association with quality, craftsmanship, and Italian design. In recent years, digitalization has played a crucial role in the evolution of this sector, becoming essential for maintaining international competitiveness and influencing various aspects, as highlighted in the Confindustria Report ‘Digitalization and Innovation in the Italian Manufacturing Sector’ and the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre’s study ‘The impact of digital transformation on Italian manufacturing SMEs’. The integration of intelligent systems into design and manufacturing processes is revolutionizing the industry, promoting greater efficiency, flexibility, and product customization. The National Industry 4.0 Plan, promoted by the Ministry of Economic Development, aims to transform the Italian manufacturing sector through digitalization along four main lines: i) Innovative investments, ii) Skills, iii) Enabling infrastructures, iv) Public support. The plan seeks to enhance the competitiveness of Italian companies in international markets and create an innovation ecosystem. The adoption of technologies such as Industry 4.0, the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, Big Data Analytics and integration with additive manufacturing systems has enabled Italian companies to improve product efficiency, quality, and sustainability, while also allowing continuous monitoring and real-time adaptation of production (Goretti et al., 2020; Galli, 2021; Terenzi & Benelli, 2021; Bianchi, 2022; Lombardi & Rinaldi, 2023; Terenzi & Goretti, 2024). Furthermore, the use of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and cyber-physical systems facilitates advanced automation and optimization of design and production processes, reducing time and costs.Simultaneously, the integration of digital archives with manufacturing taxonomies is crucial for organizing and analyzing information in the industrial sector. Digital archives enable the cataloging and management of vast amounts of data related to production processes, materials, and finished products, facilitating traceability and the management of corporate knowledge (Smith & Johnson, 2021; Brown, 2022; Keller, 2023; Wang & Gao, 2022; Zhang & Tao, 2023).The case studies presented demonstrate how these transformations disruptively impact creative processes and design thinking methodologies, bridging the gap between design expertise and production processes. The research introduces a first case study that integrates digital modeling and robotic processes in high-craftsmanship furniture production. A second case study documents the design of a parametric sustainable packaging system through the exploitation of constrained generative AI and product digitization tools. We can thus assert that the digital transition requires significant investments and continuous training of human capital, both in production and in design processes. The research, through the presented case studies, aims to define emerging processes and skills required by Italian high-craftsmanship production districts, which can be developed trans-disciplinarily between historical manufacturing and design knowledge and advanced technologies. By highlighting challenges and opportunities, it is possible to underscore that, while there are positive signs in the adoption of digital technologies, many companies, particularly SMEs, struggle to keep pace with these changes. The main barriers include a lack of digital skills and high investment costs.

Keywords: Made in Italy, Digitalization, Advanced Manufacturing, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005880

Cite this paper:

​