An X-as-a-Service (XaaS) Reference Model for Smart Manufacturing Systems

Abstract

Aligned with the service-oriented paradigm, this chapter introduces three X-as-a-service (XaaS) systems designed to elucidate the view mappings between decision agents in crowdsourced manufacturing. The chapter explores the key issues surrounding the development and implementation of a reference model for Industry 4.0-enabled XaaS systems. Focusing on three core components – manufacturing as a service, logistics as a service, and information as a service – the chapter delves into the multifaceted dynamics of open innovation, platform facilitation, and manufacturer collaboration within the XaaS framework. Through an analysis of collaborative workflows, decision support mechanisms, and value distribution strategies, the chapter highlights the intricate relationships among open innovators, platform brokers, and manufacturing agents in orchestrating the manufacturing crowdsourcing processes. The chapter presents a comprehensive examination of operational challenges, strategic imperatives, and future directions for leveraging XaaS systems in the context of crowdsourced manufacturing.