Abstract

The rapid evolution of manufacturing technologies under the Industry 4.0 paradigm has driven the need for efficient data management and real-time decision-making. The client-server architecture is Central to this transformation, enabling seamless communication, data sharing, and process automation across smart manufacturing environments. This literature review explores the pivotal role of client-server architecture and key communication protocols in enabling Smart Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 initiatives. The study examines the fundamental components of client-server architecture, including clients, servers, and communication protocols, and their interactions in industrial settings. It focuses on three primary protocols, MQTT, HTTP, and OPC UA, analyzing their mechanisms, benefits, and applications in smart manufacturing environments.
The research highlights how MQTT’s lightweight, publish-subscribe model facilitates efficient real-time data exchange in IoT-heavy industrial networks. HTTP’s widespread adoption and versatility in handling diverse data types are discussed, emphasizing its role in web-based dashboards and cloud integration. The review also delves into OPC UA’s platform-independent nature and advanced features, which promote interoperability and future-proofing of manufacturing systems.
This review synthesizes current knowledge of these technologies and underscores their collective importance in addressing critical requirements of smart manufacturing, including scalability, security, real-time capabilities, and cross-system compatibility. The findings suggest that integrating these communication protocols and architectures is crucial for realizing the full potential of Industry 4.0, paving the way for more agile, efficient, and data-driven production ecosystems.