The paper presents possible approaches for reducing the volume of data generated by simulation optimisation performed with a digital twin created in accordance with the Industry 4.0 concept. The methodology is validated using an application developed for controlling the execution of parallel simulation experiments (using client–server architecture) with the digital twin. The paper describes various pseudo-gradient, stochastic, and metaheuristic methods used for finding the global optimum without performing a complete pruning of the search space. The remote simulation optimisers reduce the volume of generated data by hashing the data. The data are sent to a remote database of simulation experiments for the digital twin for use by other simulation optimisers.

The paper focuses on the use of augmented reality (AR) by industrial engineers, especially for determining the necessary competencies required for its use. Industrial engineers are not inherently programmers. Nevertheless, augmented reality is a modern trend in their field, especially in relation to the concept of Industry 4.0 and industry in general, where it has a higher potential than virtual reality. In the first part of this paper, we placed augmented reality and the competencies required for its use in the context of industrial engineering. Subsequently, we described our own methods of implementing an augmented reality industrial metadata visualization system, namely Help Lightning Fieldbit and Unity 3D, using the Vuforia extension. We chose the metadata used in the methods with regard to their environmental potential. In this part of the paper, we also described the chosen and applied testing methodology using a questionnaire survey. Subsequently, we described the results from the questionnaire surveys of both these approaches of implementing augmented reality methods. Finally, we evaluated the results and compared them with each other and with results from other authors. As the results show, the most important competencies for creating the described AR environments are analytical competencies. We draw conclusions from the collected data regarding the necessary competencies for the creation of AR scenes using these methods and their deployment in industry, including an outline for further research.

This study presents a quasi-static optimization framework for the pressure-based control of a multi-segment soft continuum manipulator. The proposed method circumvents traditional curvature and length-based modeling by directly identifying the quasi-static input–output relationship between actuator pressures and the 6-DoF end-effector pose. Experimental data were collected using a high-frequency electromagnetic tracking system under monotonic pressurization to minimize hysteresis effects. Transfer functions were identified for each coordinate–actuator pair using the System Identification Toolbox in MATLAB, and optimal actuator pressures were computed analytically by solving a constrained quadratic program via a manual active-set method. The resulting control strategy achieved sub-millimeter positioning error while minimizing the number of actuators engaged. The approach is computationally efficient, sensor-minimal, and fully implementable in open-loop settings. Despite certain limitations due to sensor nonlinearity and actuator hysteresis, the method provides a robust foundation for feedforward control and the real-time deployment of soft robots in quasi-static tasks.

The paper deals with an example of an approach to cost analysis and cost management using different types of tools. The approach and possibilities of using the Tecnomatix Plant Simulation tool, the visTABLE layout planning and design tool, and the classic ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system HELIOS iNuvio are described. It is shown that nowadays, at least in the case of cost planning and management, it is necessary to use the synergies of the available software tools. The scope and possibilities of these tools are constantly expanding. Nevertheless, in view of the Industry 4.0 concept, they cannot be considered as stand-alone tools. With the need for comprehensive information in such a complex issue as planning and cost management, the synergies of these tools need to be exploited.

This paper proposes a procedure for implementing a robotic system in a plasma cutting workplace. The goal is to create an efficient and safe process for integrating a robot into the existing workspace, with an emphasis on increasing productivity and minimising the risk of human factors. The paper includes an analysis of the requirements for the robotic system, including compatibility with the plasma cutting equipment. The proposed procedure involves an analysis of the current state of the workplace, followed by recommended implementation steps. The procedure includes a comparison of the current state of the workplace with the proposed state and the establishment of criteria for evaluation, which are subsequently used in the techno-economic evaluation. The paper also presents an industrial case study to validate the proposed procedure.