Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

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Technological Forecasting & Social Change

journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/techfore

Transforming industry: Investigating 4.0 technologies for sustainable

product evolution in china through a novel fuzzy three-way
decision-making process
Wenqi Duan a, Adnan Khurshid b, *, Khalid Khan c, Adrian Cantemir Calin d
a
School of Business, Taizhou University, Taizhou, Zhejiang, China
b
School of Economics and Management, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
c
School of Finance, Qilu University of Technology, Jinan, Shandong, China
d
Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Institute for Economic Forecasting, Bucharest, Romania

A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T

Keywords: This study aims to contribute to expanding international academic interest in enhancing the business, ecological,
Automotive circular economy and social aspects of Industry 4.0. Specifically, the objectives of this study are twofold: (1) to assess the suitability
Fuzzy Ortho-triplet interval-valued approach of Industry 4.0 technologies for the triple bottom lines at the product level, and (2) to evaluate these technologies
Techno-sustainability assessment
based on product sustainability criteria. Therefore, this study develops a novel Fuzzy Ortho-triplet interval-
Sustainable manufacturing 4.0
Industry 4.0
valued approach for securitizing technologies. To conduct a comprehensive evaluation, this study examines the
perspectives of professional technologists holding significant positions as internal and external stakeholders in
addressing technological matters within various organizations. The survey results revealed the extent to which
nine key technologies could contribute to sustainability at the product level. The results showed that augmented
VR has significant potential for advancing social sustainability at the manufacturing level. Similarly, big data
analysis exhibits promising results for environmentally and economically sustainable practices at the product
level. Policymakers interested in knowing about technologies and how they can be used to make sustainable
products would benefit from this kind of assessment, which is essential for sustainable development.

1. Introduction enhanced energy efficiency, ecological friendliness, and societal re­

sponsibility. This is accomplished by using sustainable processes and
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in investigation systems that cause the least harm to the ecosystem, save natural re­
efforts aimed at enhancing the economic, ecological, and social benefits sources and energy, are safe for people, and generate revenue (Khan
of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) by integrating relevant techniques and intelligent et al., 2022). This means that there will always be a need to develop SM
methods with the sustainable production framework (Duan et al., 2022). compartments because of factors such as the depletion of non-renewable
This framework addresses sustainability challenges across three inter­ resources, stricter ecological and safety rules at work, and a growing
related domains: products, procedures, and structures. A 6R paradigm desire for sustainable goods (Khurshid et al., 2024; Lee et al., 2021).
grounded in invention (reduce, recycle, recuperate, redesign, remake, China is experiencing a significant transformation in its efforts to
and reuse) enables a closed-loop flow of materials across the lifespan of a achieve industrial progress, shifting from being a dominant
product (Gholami et al., 2021). Stock and Seliger (2016) conducted an manufacturing force to proactively implementing cutting-edge I4.0
early examination of sustainable manufacturing in I4.0 and find that development (Zhang et al., 2021). Concurrently, there is increasing
technologies connected to I4.0 offer a massive opportunity for the pro­ awareness of the pressing necessity to promote sustainable growth and
motion of sustainable practices. tackle ecological obstacles (Khan and Khurshid, 2022). This study aims
Within the framework of the circular economics paradigm, the sus­ to investigate the progression of China’s implementation of cutting-edge
tainable production process, called circular manufacturing (Enyoghasi I4.0 technologies and its effect on the promotion of sustainable
and Badurdeen, 2023), entails the production of goods characterized by manufacturing. By analyzing China’s endeavors to incorporate

* Corresponding author.
E-mail address: [email protected] (A. Khurshid).

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2023.123125
Received 9 November 2023; Received in revised form 13 December 2023; Accepted 15 December 2023
Available online 22 December 2023
0040-1625/© 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-
nc-nd/4.0/).
W. Duan et al. Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

contemporary technologies while prioritizing sustainability, valuable generated by sensors, machines, and other devices that are part of the
perspectives can be obtained regarding the nation’s path toward an industrial environment. Vague data are often characterized by uncer­
ecofriendly and productive industrial terrain (Han and Chen, 2021). tainty, ambiguity, and inconsistency, making them challenging to pro­
Investigating China’s development strategy toward I4.0 innovations and cess and analyze using traditional data analysis techniques. However,
sustainable manufacturing can shed light on the prospects, obstacles, with the development of new methods, such as fuzzy logic, neural net­
and potential ramifications for local and international markets. works, and machine learning, it is possible to extract valuable insights
This study focused on developing sustainability at the product level from vague data and improve the efficiency and productivity of indus­
by considering the breadth of work. According to Shuaib et al. (2014), trial processes. Therefore, this study developed a novel Fuzzy Ortho-
sustainable goods adhere to the triple bottom-line framework, which triplet interval-valued (FOTIVFS) set to improve the shortcomings of
benefits the economy, society, and environment, while preserving the Fractional ortho triple fuzzy set (FOTFS), which will help in the
society’s health, wellness, and ecosystems throughout the product’s decision-making process by providing choices, pattern recognition, and
commercial lifespan. Therefore, sustainable products must incorporate a image processing.
comprehensive methodology that considers the essential factors of the The present study addresses gaps in the existing literature to inves­
Triple Bottom Line, as stated by Hapuwatte and Jawahir (2021). To tigate the integration of SM and I4.0 as a topic of inquiry, as highlighted
achieve the ideal state of sustainability of materials over the complete by Stock and Seliger (2016).
product lifecycle, one must consider all lifecycle stages, from before
production to after disposal. The utilization of 6R values is frequently • This study extends this analysis by incorporating empirical analyses
required to implement a thorough approach, as Shuaib et al. (2014) that utilize sustainable performance variables, such as those of
noted. Sustainable development at the product level is a multifaceted Enyoghasi and Badurdeen (2023) and Sartal et al. (2020).
system that requires comprehensive and analytical methodologies. This • This study provides specific insights by adopting a broader strategy
indeterminate condition (fuzzy), coupled with the significant attention that examines each I4.0 technology separately, as Chiarini (2021)
that I4.0 receives from researchers and practitioners alike, leads to our and Bai et al. (2020) proposed.
study problems. • It provides empirical contributions toward addressing scholarly in­
quiries, such as whether the Fourth Industrial Revolution can
• How can manufacturers use the most promising I4.0 technologies to transform sustainability transpiration (de Sousa Jabbour et al., 2018)
create environment-friendly products? and whether all I4.0 technologies are pertinent to sustainable
• To what degree and how does such technology aid in creating sus­ manufacturing (Chiarini, 2021).
tainably sourced products? • Similarly, how will I4.0 and related innovations to sustainable pro­
duction (Stojcic et al., 2022; Ching et al., 2022; Ghobakhloo et al.,
Considering these conditions, I4.0, presents compelling opportu­ 2021) affect sustainable manufacturing in China?
nities to address the triple bottom-line challenges of sustainable • Finally, this study developed a novel method to quantify and rank
manufacturing at the product level. Nevertheless, a literature review technologies that can drive the manufacturing sector toward
indicates that only a limited amount of research has systematically sustainability.
examined the efficacy of I4.0. Bai et al. (2020) conducted an empirical
study on the potential benefits of autonomous robots and big data an­ A review of the existing literature is presented in Part 2 to provide
alytics for enhancing environmental and social sustainability in the background information on specific domains, followed by an explana­
automotive industry. The study found that big data has successfully tion of the applied approach in Section 3. Section 4 explains the results,
tackled societal issues linked to sustainability, whereas autonomous the following section presents the findings, and the last section con­
robots have the potential to improve the ecology of manufacturing and cludes the study.
organizations.
Despite the valuable contributions of anecdotal and conceptual 2. Literature review
research toward the integration of sustainable manufacturing and the
concept of I4.0, there remains a dearth of empirical and systematic 2.1. I4.0 overview
research in this area, as stated by Enyoghasi and Badurdeen (2023),
Ching et al. (2022), Sartal et al. (2020), and Machado et al. (2020). It is The industrial era has witnessed significant revolutions facilitated by
important to note that there needs to be more empirical studies on the technological advancements. These developments can be categorized
suitability of technological advances in I4.0 in the context of sustainable into distinct waves; the first (I1.0) emerged via steam engine-powered
products. Bai et al. (2020) assert that a deeper understanding of tech­ machinery. The second wave (I2.0) arose with the development of
nological advances in I4.0 and their relevance to organizational sus­ electric machines, which enabled mass manufacturing. The subsequent
tainability is imperative for professionals, especially in capital wave (I3.0) emerged in the 1970s and involved the automation of pro­
investment decision-making. Additional inquiry into this evaluation duction processes using sophisticated electronics and computing tech­
could prove advantageous for policymakers and decision makers striv­ nologies. The current wave (I4.0) integrates intelligent machines with
ing to formulate policies regarding I4.0 (Kamble et al., 2018). This is Internet-based technology to optimize productivity (Gholami et al.,
because, as per Garetti and Taisch (2012), implementing cutting-edge 2021). Several nations have implemented strategies to promote the
technologies can alter the interpretation of sustainability (Zhao et al., recognition and progress of I4.0. For instance, Germany, the country in
2023). However, this field requires more information and clarity which the concept originated, has launched a program called “High-Tech
(Gholami et al., 2021), and presents prospects for pioneering research. Strategy 2020.”
This study aims to address the aforementioned inquiries, which were Similarly, the United States, Brazil, and China have developed ini­
primarily developed to advance research goals, namely, to examine the tiatives such as the “Advanced Manufacturing Partnership,” “Made in
feasibility of contemporary I4.0 innovations in the commercial, China (2025),” and “Towards Industry 4.0” (Dalenogare et al., 2018).
ecological, and social spheres at the product level. Second, we evaluated Whether implemented in developing or developed nations, these stra­
technological advances in light of product sustainability standards. tegies aim to ease the widespread espousal of I4.0 concepts and tech­
Imprecise data handling is an essential aspect of I4.0, which is nologies among businesses of varying scales. This implies that these
marked by the increasing use of automation, artificial intelligence, and nations are mature in the two principles of I3.0, namely automation and
the Internet of Things (IoT) in manufacturing processes. In this context, the utilization of information and communications technologies (ICT),
fuzzy data refer to the large volume of unstructured and incomplete data which are further refined in the context of I4.0.

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W. Duan et al. Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

Table 1
I4.0 Technologies.
S. Technologies Code Details
no.

1 Big Data T1 “It enables manufacturers to collect and analyze large amounts of data generated by machines, sensors, and other devices in
real-time. This data can be used to optimize production processes, reduce waste, and improve product quality (Khan and
Khurshid, 2022). Advanced analytics tools, such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, are used to identify patterns
and insights in the data, enabling manufacturers to make informed decisions and predictions (Zheng et al., 2022).
2 Cloud T2 IT solutions available via cloud computing are called “cloud services” (Bai et al., 2020). Hardware, virtualization,
simultaneous processing, and internet service provision have helped create such a system (Zheng et al., 2022). This
technology allows manufacturing units in different locations to merge by providing a cohesive and responsive facility (Zhang
et al., 2021).
3 Optimization/ Simulation T3 “The “simulation” is a digital technology replicating a real-world process or system (Bai et al., 2020). Utilizing virtual testing
and optimization techniques for machine settings has been shown to reduce machine setup duration and enhance quality
effectively.
4 Augmented/Virtual Reality T4 VR enables manufacturers to simulate manufacturing processes, product designs, and factory layouts, allowing them to
identify potential issues and make changes before production begins (Xiong et al., 2021). This saves time and money while
also improving product quality. VR can also be used for worker training, enabling them to learn and practice complex tasks in
a safe and controlled environment (Chiarini, 2021).
5 Vertical/Horizontal Integration T5 It integrates multiple subsystems to function as anticipated. It relies on horizontally integrated processes and vertically
of Systems coordinated production, management, and organization structures (Sartal et al., 2020).
6 Additive Manufacturing T6 Additive Manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is another technology transforming manufacturing processes (Bai et al.,
2020). Additive Manufacturing enables manufacturers to create complex parts and prototypes quickly and at a lower cost
than traditional manufacturing methods.” This is achieved by building up layers of material, such as plastic or metal, to create
the desired shape. Additive Manufacturing is also more sustainable, reducing waste by only using the material required to
create the part (Chiarini, 2021).
7 Cyber security T7 Cyber security is also an important consideration in I4.0. With the increasing use of digital technologies, there is a growing
risk of cyber-attacks that can compromise sensitive data and disrupt production processes. As a result, manufacturers need to
invest in cyber security measures to protect their systems and ensure the safety of their workers (Dixit and Silakari, 2021).
8 Robots T8 Robots are also integral to I4.0, enabling manufacturers to automate production processes and improve efficiency (Sartal
et al., 2020). Robots can perform repetitive and dangerous tasks, reducing the need for human intervention and enhancing
safety in the workplace (Franklin et al., 2020). They can also work 24/7, improving productivity and reducing downtime.
9 Industrial Internet of Things T9 It applies to gadgets that work together through connectivity provided by the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance production
(IIoT) and manufacturing processes (Chiarini, 2021). According to Boyes et al. (2018), manufacturers have the potential to improve
productivity, reduce labor expenses, minimize energy consumption, and expedite a build-to-order process for an item of
merchandise.

Since I4.0 primarily concerns the dissemination and assimilation of 2.2. Sustainable manufacturing in the I4.0 context
technology, emerging nations need help in a slow-paced diffusion-
adoption procedure that usually accelerates in more advanced nations The concept of “sustainable development (SD),” as promoted by the
(Bernat and Karabag, 2019; Dalenogare et al., 2018). However, coun­ “Brundtland report” titled “Our Common Future” (WCED, 1987), has
tries need to introduce technologies associated with I4.0, consider their influenced the evolution of manufacturing practices. Distinct waves of
impact on international economies, and place an increasing focus on change have been observed during this evolution. The first wave
environmentally friendly practices (Khurshid et al., 2023). I4.0 plays a involved the development of conventional substitution-based produc­
significant role in shaping value formation in developed nations. This tion. In the second wave, researchers worked on techniques for lean
wave aims to create cyber-physical systems (CPS) by integrating production to reduce waste while generating more revenue. In the
manufacturing operation systems with information and communication 1990s, the 3R idea was introduced to help green industries grow. This
technology (ICT), specifically via the Internet of Things (IoT) (Daleno­ marks the beginning of the third wave. Subsequently, the current wave
gare et al., 2018). After the three preceding industrial revolutions, I4.0 of SM has evolved to incorporate sustainability principles across three
emerged as a promising avenue for enhancing productivity in interrelated domains: goods, systems, and processes. This evolution has
manufacturing through transformative alterations in the interconnec­ been facilitated by the adoption of an innovation-based 6R concept
tedness of various systems. A Cyber-Physical System (CPS) combines (“including the 3Rs, revamp, remanufacture, and recycle”) that aims to
digital technology with the functional capabilities of the actual design. establish a closed-loop flow of material during the entire lifecycle of
In this discussion, the term “IoT” pertains to a comprehensive collection goods (Gholami et al., 2021).
of technologies that actively monitor the current state of material gad­ There is a prevailing belief that I4.0 technological advances can yield
gets, collect pertinent data, and transmit this data to application pro­ promising outcomes for all the 17 Sustainable Development objectives.
grams via existing systems (Khan and Khurshid, 2022). In the context of Circular economy and sustainable manufacturing are present across
I4.0, the Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) components are fundamentally various dimensions, including the product, procedure, and systemic
interconnected through IoT. In addition, enabling technologies, as dis­ levels (Enyoghasi and Badurdeen, 2023). In pursuit of this objective,
cussed by Gholami et al. (2021), Enyoghasi and Badurdeen (2023), there has been an understandable worldwide research inclination to­
Sartal et al. (2020), Machado et al. (2020), Wee et al. (2015), and ward expanding the scope of SM 4.0. Fig. 1 shows how I4.0 technologies
Rüßmann et al. (2015), among other scholars, are elaborated upon in build sustainable standards for goods, procedures, and networks using
Table 1. The existing body of research suggests that the development an innovation-based 6R strategy. Implementing the 6R framework fa­
and integration of I4.0 and its supporting technologies with sustainable cilitates the achievement of a state of near-perpetual circularity in the
approaches would yield advantages for both the industrial sector and passage of materials throughout the lifespan of goods (Jawahir and
society as a whole (Ajwani-Ramchandani et al., 2021; Ghobakhloo et al., Bradley, 2016). The literature suggests that integrating I4.0 technologies
2021). This allows the establishment of more environmentally friendly and principles has the potential to enhance the sustainability aspects of
manufacturing practices (Ching et al., 2021). sustainable manufacturing (Enyoghasi and Badurdeen, 2023; Sartal
et al., 2020). The previously stated study trend is anticipated to persist
significantly owing to its distinct analytical impact on sustainable

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W. Duan et al. Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

development. However, it has been widely recognized at the Earth The literature suggests that BDA competencies can increase real-time
Summit (UN, 1993), which prioritizes sustainability. product monitoring, minimize EoL component processing costs, and
Several notable initiatives have been implemented to enhance optimize product lifecycles (Nascimento et al., 2019; Rajput and Singh,
product sustainability. Several significant studies (Shuaib et al., 2014; 2019). Similarly, the augmented or virtual practice of watching products
Haapala et al., 2011; Jayal et al., 2010) established factors that influence in real time can enhance data on product lifecycle collection, defect
the emergence of sustainable goods. According to Shuaib et al. (2014), identification, and product compliance (Carvalho et al., 2020).
evolution is generally tracked by grouping, analyzing, and enhancing Numerous studies shows AM demonstrated the benefits of AM. Nasci­
interacting indicators. Eleven of the several influencing indicators were mento et al. (2019) and Kamble et al. (2018) argued that AM shortens
considered significant, as shown in Fig. 1b. The criteria, denoted as C1- product lead-times, improves sustainability, reduces product and
C13, were explicitly designed to incorporate the 6Rs, complete product component assembly, and makes complex product designs easier to
life cycle, and triple bottom line (TBL). These criteria indicate a struc­ customize. According to Frank et al. (2019) and Wang et al. (2016), the
ture’s behavior as a “performance indicator” or state “content indica­ industrial internet of things (IIoT) updates users’ product statuses. It
tor.” Therefore, the metric must examine these factors and compare detects the design and quality flaws (Tao et al., 2018). Sartal et al.
them with a standard or result that endures (Enyoghasi and Badurdeen, (2020) stated that there needs to be an innovative study on (1) how
2023). useful I4.0 approaches to SM are and (2) what factors affect success
However, few studies have examined how I4.0 technology can help because researchers cannot agree on anything. Therefore, studies using
create sustainable goods. Enyoghasi and Badurdeen (2023) conducted a systematic methods must be conducted in this understudied area
comprehensive study that compared various I4.0 technologies and their (Enyoghasi and Badurdeen, 2023; Stock and Seliger, 2016) to determine
influence on SM across different levels. The authors emphasize the ne­ whether technologies related to I4.0 can sustain goods in different in­
cessity for further research, particularly case studies, to determine the dustries. None of these studies attempted such a technology review to
suitability of these technologies for enhancing sustainability at the contribute to product-level sustainability. This investigation aimed to
product level. Khan et al. (2022) also qualitatively analyzed I4.0 tech­ enrich the field by employing a novel systematic method, as outlined in
nologies for product creation. Santos et al. (2017) examined I4.0’s the subsequent section.
impact on product development and found that customer requirement manufacturing’s perspective on sustainability.
assessments and product model generation “Design” were most closely Where C1 is investment, C2 cost, C3 losses, C4 interest payments, C6
related. SM I4.0 has been researched both theoretically and empirically energy utilization, C7 wastes and emissions, C8 recycling ability, C9
from a sustainability perspective. Machado et al. (2020) found that it product management, C10 quality, C11 performance, C12 health and
can improve “product remanufacture, reuse, and recycling,” but not SM. safety, C13 Certification.
Instead, SM enables the I4.0. Jena et al. (2020) developed an SM model
to reduce industrial waste and optimize resource consumption. Bai et al. 3. Research method
(2020) devised a novel approach that combines multiple decision-
making methods to assess the sustainable performance and applica­ 3.1. Assessment
bility of I4.0 technologies in various situations. As different technologies
affect industry and sustainability differently, each must be thoroughly This study first examined the product-level application of I4.0
studied. Chiarini (2021) used a qualitative-quantitative approach to technology across economic, ecological, and societal areas. The survey
assess the impact of I4.0, technologies on sustainable manufacturing. uses I4.0 technologies “see Table 1“) from the literature review and the
The research findings indicate an increasing inclination toward expert panel’s opinions to analyze phenomena in emerging (sub)fields.
exploring and evaluating the potential of social media (SM) by The goal is to connect the concepts of “theory and practice,” make
leveraging I4.0 technologies. However, more studies need to specifically research more applicable to professionals, and elevate the discipline to
investigate the 6Rs “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Remanufacture, Repair, and scholastic status (Forza, 2002). A survey questionnaire based on Forza
Recover” and the complete life cycle of products, alongside considering (2002) was created after the technical list. A six-point Likert scale
TBL. None of the studies investigated the advantages of I4.0 technolo­ “Absolutely Good (AG), Very Good (VG), Good (G), Medium (M), Poor
gies regarding product sustainability, specifically using the criteria (P), Very Poor (VP), and Absolutely Poor (AP)” is used. The question­
outlined in Fig. 1 and b. naire comprised four parts. The initial segment consisted of questions

Fig. 1. a: I4.0-enabled sustainable. b: Sustainable product development factors.

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W. Duan et al. Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

regarding the participants’ backgrounds. The subsequent sections were Ortho-triplet interval-valued (FOTIVFS) set to improve the shortcomings
developed to evaluate the suitability of the listed I4.0 technologies for of the Fractional Ortho triple fuzzy set (FOTFS) and help decision-
each sustainability aspect at the product level. The level of applicability making by providing choices, pattern recognition, and image
indicates the extent to which something can be effectively utilized or processing.
applied in practical terms within a context that has received limited
attention or study. 3.2.1. Fractional ortho-triple interval valued fuzzy (FOTIVFS)
A panel of twelve experts from business and academia was selected
Definition. A fractional ortho-triple interval-valued fuzzy set
to validate the content. The panel members were licensed professional
technicians (P.Tech). Expertise in sustainable products. Their role was to (FOTIVFS) Ξ = {(Ξ ̃ +ve (A) , Ξ ̃ − ve (A) ) |A ∈ X} is described with
̃ n (A) , Ξ

ensure the accuracy of the materials and to assess whether they aligned the triple of mappings Ξ+ve : X→D[0, 1], Ξ
̃ ̃ n : X→D[0, 1], Ξ
̃ +ve : X→D[0, 1]
with the stated goals. The form was revised according to the feedback where D[0, 1] is a subinterval of [0,1], are said to be positive, neutral and
provided by the participants. After modifications, the questionnaire was negative grades, with 0 ̃≤Ξ ̃ +ve f (A) + Ξ ̃ n f (A) + Ξ ̃ − ve f (A) ≤ 1 ̃ where f ≥
sent to the original group of specialists, all of whom provided informed √̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅̅
̅
1 Further Ξ ̃ π f (A) = f 1 − (Ξ ̃ +ve f (A) + Ξ ̃ n f (A) + Ξ ̃ − ve f (A) ) is called
consent. After developing the questionnaire, it was sent to 150 skilled
technicians and qualified experts. All responses were collected within refusal grade. For simplicity, we denote this as Ξ = (Ξ ̃ +ve , Ξ ̃ − ve ) or
̃n , Ξ
([ ] [ ] [ ])
21 days of initiation. A response rate of 62 % was achieved, indicating Ξ = ΞL+ve , ΞU+ve , ΞLn , ΞUn , ΞL− ve , ΞU− ve .
that 93 out of 150 survey forms were completed (Abu Saa et al., 2019).
The fractional Ortho-triple Interval Valued Fuzzy set is a general­
The usefulness of each I4.0 technology in terms of “economic, envi­
ization of many versions.
ronmental, and social aspects at the product” level is judged by its mean
In this section, we justify the claim that the FOTIVF set is a gener­
value. The findings are subsequently analyzed and interpreted in the
alization of several fuzzy extensions. Different versions can be obtained
corresponding section.
by assigning different values to f, by simultaneously containing com­
ponents from a set, or through both methods. The following table pro­
3.2. Method
vides the special cases deduced from FOTIVF.
The data presented in Table 2 indicate that FOTIVFS exhibits the
Zadeh (1965) initiated a Fuzzy Set (FS) to handle uncertainty in
highest level of generalization version. The graphical interpretation of
problems. FS allows for the description of vague and imprecise concepts
the set is discussed for different values of f in the following figures.
that a classical set cannot handle. An FS enables elements to have de­
The figures show that, for a smaller value of f, the information ob­
grees of membership ranging from [0,1] to a degree of similarity be­
tained from the cube shrinks toward the origin. As the f values increase,
tween an element and the FS. The fuzzy sets were further extended to the
FOTIVFS expands toward vertex(1,1,1); that is, it obtains more infor­
IVFS, which ranges the degree of membership as a subinterval [0,1]. The
mation in the cube. From this, it can be concluded that if the data are
FS was also further extended into an intuitionistic fuzzy set (Atanassov
concentrated near the orion or the small axis value of f is appropriate,
and Stoeva, 1986) and an interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy set
and if the data are scattered, a large value of f is useful.
(Molodtsov, 1999), consisting of nonmembership and membership.
The Orthopair Fuzzy Set (OFS) (Atanassov and Stoeva, 1986) was
3.2.2. Fractional ortho-triple interval valued fuzzy operational laws
proposed by Szmidt and Kacprzyk (2001). This is a generalization of the
The operational laws based on OTIVFS are defined.
classical Q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy Set (QROFS) (Deschrijver and Kerre,
2003) proposed by Mondal et al. (2011). The QROFS is an extension of Definition. The sum of two FOTIVF sets,
([ ] [ ] [ ])
the OFS that allows for a more refined representation of the degree of Ξ = ΞL+ve , ΞU+ve , ΞLn , ΞUn , ΞL− ve , ΞU− ve and
membership and non-membership. In the QROFS, the membership and ([ L ] [ ] [ ])
Σ = Σ+ve , ΣU+ve , ΣLn , ΣUn , ΣL− ve , ΣU− ve is defined as
nonmembership functions are represented by two matrices, with one for ([ ] )
each function. The membership matrix contains the membership degree ΞL+ve + ΣL+ve − ΞL+ve ΣL+ve , ΞU+ve + ΣU+ve − ΞU+ve ΣU+ve ,
Ξ⊕Σ= [ L L U U] [ L L ]
of each element in each fuzzy set. In contrast, the nonmembership ma­ Ξn Σn , Ξn Σn , Ξ− ve Σ− ve , ΞU− ve ΣU− ve
trix contains the degree of nonmembership of each element in each fuzzy
set. The QROFS can be used in many applications, including decision-
making problems, pattern recognition, and image processing. In
decision-making problems, the QROFS can represent uncertainty in the Definition. The product between two FOTIVF sets, Ξ=
([ L ] [ ] [ ])
decision-making process. In pattern recognition, the QROFS can be used Ξ+ve , ΞU+ve , ΞLn , ΞUn , ΞL− ve , ΞU− ve and
([ ] [ ] [ ])
to represent uncertainty in object classification. In image processing, the Σ = ΣL+ve , ΣU+ve , ΣLn , ΣUn , ΣL− ve , ΣU− ve is defined as
QROFS can be used to represent uncertainty in image segmentation. The ([ ] [ ] )
fractional ortho triple fuzzy set (FOTFS) (Molodtsov, 1999) consists of ΞL+ve ΣL+ve , ΞU+ve ΣU+ve , ΞLn + ΣLn − ΞLn ΣLn , ΞUn + ΣUn − ΞUn ΣUn ,
Ξ⊗Σ= [ L ]
membership, non-membership, and neutral degrees. This makes Ξ− ve + ΣL− ve − ΞL− ve ΣL− ve , ΞU− ve + ΣU− ve − ΞU− ve ΣU− ve
FOTIVFS a more versatile and flexible concept that allows for a more
refined description of uncertainty in data. FOTIVFS can be used in many
applications, including decision-making problems, pattern recognition,
Definition. The scalar multiplication on a FOTIVF Ξ=
and image processing. FOTFS is an important mathematical concept that ([ L ] [ ] [ ])
has the potential to revolutionize the manner in which we deal with data Ξ+ve , ΞU+ve , ΞLn , ΞUn , ΞL− ve , ΞU− ve and a Scalar k is defined as
uncertainty. The problem with FOTFS is that it does not provide a range ⎛[ ( )k ( )k ] ⎞
of choices. Considering this, the concept of FOTIVFS is introduced, in 1 − 1 − ΞL+ve , 1 − 1 − ΞU+ve ,
⎜ ⎟
kA = ⎝ [( )k ( )k ] [( ] ⎠
which all components range as a sub-interval of [0,1]. L
Ξn , Ξn U L
) k
, Ξ− ve , Ξ− ve
( U
) k

Vagueness in descriptions is challenging in modern problems.

Several theories and models have been developed to address this issue.
This work was initiated to meet the challenge of the dependency be­
tween membership, non-membership, and the degree of indeterminacy. Definition. The exponential scalar multiplication on a FOTIVF Ξ =
I4.0 has revolutionized the industrial era. The merging of different ([ L ] [ ] [ ])
Ξ+ve , ΞU+ve , ΞLn , ΞUn , ΞL− ve , ΞU− ve and a Scalar k is defined as
technologies may increase indeterminacy in the description, which must
be handled efficiently. Therefore, this study developed a novel Fuzzy

5
W. Duan et al. Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

Table 2 the corresponding FOTIVF value.

Abbreviations.
Definition. We define fractional ortho-triple interval-valued fuzzy
Version Value assigned Condition on The value assigned to ordered weighted geometric (FOTIVFOWG) aggregation as
obtained to f components component(s)
FOTIVFOWG : [0, 1]m →[0, 1], defined by FOTIVFOWGw (Ξ1 , Ξ2 , …, Ξm ) =
FS f =1 Neutral and negative Crisp value to component wj
⊗mj=1 Ξ(γ)j .
omitted
IFS f =1 Neutral is omitted Crisp value to components “where Ξ(γ)j are descending ordered FOTIVF values, and the
IVIFS f =1 Neutral is omitted interval value to { }
components
∑m
weightW = wj |wj ∈ [0, 1] and wj = 1 , 1 ≤ j ≤ m of corresponding
PyFS f =2 Neutral is omitted interval value to j=1
components
FOTIVF values Nj (j = 1, 2, 3, …, m).”
QROPFS f≥1 Neutral is omitted Crisp value to components
QROPIVFS f≥1 Neutral is omitted interval value to “In FOTIVFOWG, the FOTIVF values are first arranged in descending
components
order, weighted, and then aggregated.”
PFS f =1 No change Crisp value to components ( [( )
SPF f =2 No change interval value to L ( )U ] [( )L ( )U ] [( )L
Theorem. Let Ξj = Ξj +ve , Ξj +ve , Ξj n , Ξj n , Ξj − ve ,
components ( )U ] )
FOTFS f≥1 No change Crisp value to components Ξj − ve , where”(j = 1, 2, …, m) is a collection of FOTIVF values, then
Where “Fuzzy set (FS), intuitionistic fuzzy set (IFS), interval-valued intuition­ the FOTIVFWG operator of Ξj is also an FOTIVF value and.
istic fuzzy set (IVIFS), Picture fuzzy set (PFS), Spherical fuzzy set (SFS), Py­ ⎛ [ ] ⎞
thagorean fuzzy set (PyFS), q rung ortho-repair fuzzy set (QROPFS), q rung ∏m (
( )L )wj ∏ m (
( )U )wj
⎜ Ξj +ve Ξj +ve ⎟
ortho-pair interval-valued fuzzy set (QROPIVFS), fractional ortho triple fuzzy ⎜ , , ⎟
⎜ ⎟
set (FOTFS).”
j=1 j=1
⎜ [ ] ⎟
⎜ ∏ m ( ) ∏m ( ) ⎟
( ) ⎜ ( )L wj ( )U wj ⎟
⎜
FOTIVFWG Ξj = ⎜ 1 − 1 − Ξj n ,1 − 1 − Ξj n , ⎟
⎛ [( )k ( U )k ] [ ( )k ( )k ] ⎞ ⎟
⎜ j=1 j=1 ⎟
ΞL+ve , Ξ+ve , 1 − 1 − ΞLn , 1 − 1 − ΞUn , ⎜[ ] ⎟
⎜ ⎟ ⎜ ∏m (
( )L )wj ∏ m (
( )U )wj ⎟
Ak = ⎝ [ ( )k ( )k ] ⎠ ⎜ ⎟
L U
1 − 1 − Ξ− ve , 1 − 1 − Ξ− ve ⎝ 1− 1 − Ξj − ve ,1 − 1 − Ξj − ve ⎠
j=1 j=1

Where Ak = A ⊗ A⊗, .… ⊗ A(k − times), and Ak is a FOTIVF value for { }

every positive value of k. ∑m
where the weight W= wj |wj ∈ [0, 1] and wj = 1 , 1 ≤ j ≤ m of
([ ] [ ] [ ]) j=1
Definition. Let Ξ = ΞL+ve , ΞU+ve , ΞLn , ΞUn , ΞL− ve , ΞU− ve be a FOTIVF,
we define the score function as Ξj (j = 1, 2, 3, …, m).
[
S(Ξ) = ΞL+ve − ΞL− ve + ΞU+ve − ΞU− ve
] Proof. . By mathematical induction for m = 2, using
2
In some situations, the score of two FOTIVF values is equal. A com­
w
⊗ Ξj j = Ξw1 1 ⊗ Ξw2 2
parison was performed based on the accuracy function in such contexts.
j=1

([ ] [ ] [ ]) ⎛ ⎞
Definition. Let Ξ = ΞL+ve , ΞU+ve , ΞLn , ΞUn , ΞL− ve , ΞU− ve be a FOTIVF;
[ ]
m (
∏ ( )L )w1 ∏ m (
( )U )w1
we define the accuracy function as ⎜
⎜ Ξj +ve , Ξj +ve , ⎟
⎟
⎜ j=1 j=1 ⎟
⎜ [ ] ⎟
1{ L } ⎜ m ( ⎟
H(Ξ) = Ξ + ΞU+ve + ΞLn + ΞUn + ΞL− ve + ΞU− ve ⎜ ∏ ( )L )w1 ∏m (
( )U )w1 ⎟
6 +ve ⎜
=⎜ 1− 1 − Ξj n ,1 − 1 − Ξj n , ⎟
⎟
⎜ j=1 j=1 ⎟
⎜[ ⎟
The following definition is accomplished for the comparison relation ⎜ m (
∏ ( )L )w1 ∏ m (
( )U )w1
] ⎟
⎜ ⎟
of the FOTIVF values. ⎝ 1− 1 − Ξj − ve ,1 − 1 − Ξj − ve ⎠
j=1 j=1

Definition. Let Ξ1 and Ξ2 be two FOTIVF values, where S(Ξ1 ) and S(Ξ2 ) ⎛ [ ] ⎞
m (
∏ ( )L )w2 ∏ m (
( )U )w2
are scores and H(Ξ1 ) and H(Ξ2 ) are accuracy functions. ⎜ Ξj +ve , Ξj +ve , ⎟
⎜ ⎟
If S(Ξ1 ) > S(Ξ2 )⇒ Ξ1 > Ξ2 ⎜
⎜ [ j=1 j=1 ⎟
⎟
]
If S(Ξ1 ) = S(Ξ2 ) and ⎜
⎜ ∏ m (
( )L )w2 ∏m (
( )U )w2
⎟
⎟
⎜
⊗⎜ 1− 1 − Ξj n ,1− 1 − Ξj n , ⎟
⎟
H(Ξ1 ) > H(Ξ2 )⇒ Ξ1 > Ξ2 ⎜ j=1 j=1 ⎟
⎜[ ] ⎟
⎜ m (
∏ ( )L )w2 ∏ m (
( )U )w2 ⎟
⎜ ⎟
H(Ξ1 ) = H(Ξ2 )⇒ Ξ1 = Ξ2 ⎝ 1− 1 − Ξj − ve ,1 − 1 − Ξj − ve ⎠
j=1 j=1

⎛ [ ] ⎞
2 (
∏ ( )L )wj ∏ 2 (
( )U )wj
3.2.3. Fractional ortho-triple interval valued fuzzy geometric aggregation ⎜
⎜ Ξj +ve , Ξj +ve , ⎟
⎟
operators ⎜
⎜ [ j=1 j=1 ⎟
⎟
]
Fractional Orthotriple Interval Valued Fuzzy “Weighted Geometric ⎜
⎜ ∏ 2 (
( )L )wj ∏2 (
( )U )wj
⎟
⎟
⎜ ⎟
Aggregation Operator” =⎜ 1− 1 − Ξj n ,1 − 1 − Ξj n , ⎟
⎜ ⎟
Based on the operational laws, we define the fractional ortho-triple
j=1 j=1
⎜[ ] ⎟
⎜ 2 (
( )L )wj 2 (
( )U )wj ⎟
interval valued Fuzzy geometric aggregation (FOTIVFG) operator. ⎜
⎝ 1−
∏
1 − Ξj − ve ,1−
∏
1 − Ξj − ve
⎟
⎠
Definition. We define Fractional Ortho-triple Interval Valued Fuzzy j=1 j=1

weighted geometric (FOTIVFWG) aggregation as FOTIVFWG : [0, 1]m →

wj
For m = n, we have
[0, 1] defined by FOTIVFWGw (Ξ1 , Ξ2 , .…, Ξm ) = ⊗m
j=1 Ξj
{ }
∑m
Where the weight W = wj |wj ∈ [0, 1] and wj = 1 , 1 ≤ j ≤ m of
j=1

6
W. Duan et al. Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

⎛ ⎞
[
n (
] Proof. .
⎜
∏ ( )L )wj ∏ n (
( )U )wj ⎟
⎜ Ξj +ve , Ξj +ve , ⎟
⎜
⎜ [ j=1 j=1 ⎟
⎟ 1. Idempotent: Since Ξj = Ξ, so
⎜ ] ⎟
n (
n w ⎜ ∏ ( )L )wj ∏n (
( )U )wj ⎟ ⎛ [ ] ⎞
⊗ Ξj j = ⎜ 1 − 1 − Ξ , 1 − 1 − Ξ , ⎟ ∏ m
( ∏ m
⎜ ⎟ L )wj ( U )wj
j n j n
j=1 ⎜ j=1 j=1 ⎟ ⎜ (Ξ)+ve , (Ξ)+ve , ⎟
⎜[ ] ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
⎜ n ( ⎟ ⎜ ⎟
⎜ ∏ ( )L )wj ∏ n (
( )U )wj ⎟ ⎜ [ j=1 j=1
] ⎟
⎝ 1− 1 − Ξj − ve ,1 − 1 − Ξj − ve ⎠ ⎜ ∏ m ∏ m ⎟
( ) ⎜ ( L )wj ( U )wj ⎟
j=1 j=1 FOTIVFWG Ξj = ⎜ ⎜ 1 − 1 − (Ξ)n , 1 − 1 − (Ξ) n , ⎟
⎟
⎜ j=1 j=1 ⎟
⎜[ ] ⎟
“We prove the result holds for m = n + 1,” ⎜
⎜ ∏
m
( )wj ∏ m
( )wj ⎟
⎟
⎛ ⎞ ⎝ 1− 1 − (Ξ)L− ve ,1 − 1 − (Ξ)U− ve ⎠
[( )wn+1 ( )wn+1 ] j=1 j=1
⎜ (Ξn+1 )L+ve , (Ξn+1 )U+ve , ⎟
⎜ [ ( ) ( )wn+1 ] ⎟
⎜ w ⎟
Ξwn+1 = ⎜ 1 − 1 − (Ξn+1 )Ln , 1 − 1 − (Ξn+1 )Un
n+1
n+1
, ⎟ ⎛ ⎞
⎜[ ⎟ [ ] ⎡ ∑
m ∑ m ⎤
]
⎝ ⎠ ⎜ ∏, ∏ ( (Ξ)U )wj , ⎣( (Ξ)L ) j=1 j , ( (Ξ)U ) j=1 j ⎦
m m w w
( L )wn+1 ( U )wn+1 ⎟
1 − 1 − (Ξn+1 )− ve , 1 − 1 − (Ξn+1 )− ve , ⎜ +ve +ve +ve ⎟
⎜ j=1 j=1 ⎟
⎜ ⎟
⎜ ⎡ ⎤ ⎟
⎜ ∑m ∑m ⎟
n w ⎜ ( ) wj ( ) wj ⎟
⊗ Ξj j ⊕ Ξwn+1
n+1
⎜
=⎜ ⎣1 − 1 − (Ξ)L j=1 , 1 − 1 − (Ξ)L j=1 ⎦, ⎟
j=1 n n ⎟
⎜ ⎟
⎜ ⎟
⎛ [ ] ⎞ ⎜ ⎡ ⎤ ⎟
m (
⎜ ∑m ∑
m ⎟
∏ ( )L )wj ∏m (
( )U )wj ⎜ ( wj wj ⎟
⎜ Ξj +ve , Ξj +ve , ⎟ ⎜ ⎣ L ) j=1 ( L ) j=1 ⎦, ⎟
⎜ ⎟ ⎝ 1 − 1 − (Ξ)− ve , 1 − 1 − (Ξ)− ve ⎠
⎜ j=1 j=1 ⎟
⎜ [ ] ⎟
⎜ m ( ⎟
⎜ ∏ ( )L )wj ∏m (
( )U )wj ⎟
=⎜
⎜ 1 − 1 − Ξj n , 1 − 1 − Ξj n , ⎟
⎟ ([ L ] [ ] [ ])
⎜ j=1 j=1 ⎟ = Ξ+ve , ΞU+ve , ΞLn , ΞUn , ΞL− ve , ΞU− ve = Ξ
⎜[ ] ⎟
⎜ m (
∏ ( )L )wj ∏ m (
( )U )wj ⎟
⎜ ⎟
⎝ 1− 1 − Ξj − ve ,1 − 1 − Ξj − ve ⎠
j=1 j=1 2. Monotonicity: FOTIVFOWG is strictly a monotone function.
⎛ [( ⎞ 3. Boundary: Let u = minΞ− and y = maxΞ+ , then by monotonicity, we
)wn+1 ( )wn+1 ] ( ) ( )
(Ξn+1 )L+ve , (Ξn+1 )U+ve , have u ≤ FOTIVFOWA Nj ≤ y⇒N− ≤ FOTIVFOWG Nj ≤ N+ .□
⎜ ⎟
⎜ [ ( ) ( )wn+1 ] ⎟
⎜ w ⎟
⊕ ⎜ 1 − 1 − (Ξn+1 )Ln , 1 − 1 − (Ξn+1 )Un
n+1
, ⎟ ([( ) ( )U ] [( )L ( )U ] [( )L
L
⎜[
⎝ ( ] ⎟
⎠ Theorem. Let Ξj = Ξj +ve , Ξj +ve , Ξj n , Ξj n , Ξj − ve ,
L )wn+1 ( U )wn+1 ( )U ] )
1 − 1 − (Ξn+1 )− ve , 1 − 1 − (Ξn+1 )− ve ,
Ξj − ve , where”(j = 1, 2, …, m) is a collection of FOTIVF values, with
⎛ ⎞ { }
[ ] ∑m
n+1 (
∏ ( )L )wj ∏n+1 (
( )U )wj the weight W = wj |wj ∈ [0, 1] and wj = 1 , 1 ≤ j ≤ m of Ξj (j =
⎜ Ξj +ve , Ξj +ve , ⎟ j=1
⎜ ⎟
⎜ j=1 j=1 ⎟
⎜ [ ] ⎟ 1, 2, 3, …, m) being the weight of FOTIVFOWG.
⎜ n+1 ( ) n+1 ( ⎟
⎜ ∏ ( )L j w ∏ ( )U )wj ⎟
=⎜ 1 − 1 − Ξj n , 1 − 1 − Ξ j n , ⎟□
⎜
⎜ j=1 j=1
⎟
⎟ 1. If W = (1, 0, …, 0)T
⎜[ ⎟
⎜ n+1 (
∏ ( )L )wj ∏n+1 (
( )U )wj
] ⎟ FOTIVFOWG (Ξ1 , Ξ2 , …, Ξn ) = maxΞj
⎜ ⎟
⎝ 1− 1 − Ξj − ve ,1− 1 − Ξj − ve ⎠ 2. If W = (0, 0, …, 1)T , then
j=1 j=1
FOTIVFOWG (Ξ1 , Ξ2 , …, Ξn ) = minΞj
( [( ) ( )U ] [( )L ( )U ]
Theorem. Let Ξj =
L
Ξj +ve , Ξj +ve , Ξj n , Ξj n , 3. If wj = 1, wl = 0, and j ∕ = l, then
[( )
L ( )U ] ) FOTIVFOWG (Ξ1 , Ξ2 , …, Ξn ) = Ξj
Ξj − ve , Ξj − ve , where(j = 1, 2, …, m) is a collection of FOTIVF
{ }
∑m where Ξj is the jth largest of (Ξ1 , Ξ2 , …, Ξn )..
values with weight W = wj |wj ∈ [0, 1] and wj = 1 , 1 ≤ j ≤ m of
j=1 Proof. In FOTIVFOWG, the FOTIVF values are in descending order,
Ξj (j = 1, 2, 3, …, m). thus proving our theorem. □
([( ) ( )U ]
L
Idempotency: If for all Ξj = Ξj +ve , Ξj +ve , 3.2.4. Multiple expert decision-making method
[( ) ( ) ] [( ) ( )U ] )
L U L
Ξj n , Ξj n , Ξj − ve , Ξj − ve where(j = 1, 2, …, m) are equal, that A novel multi-expert decision-making technique was developed to
evaluate decision-making problems. This technique comprises the
is, Ξj = Ξ for all j, then FOTIVFWG w (Ξ1 , Ξ2 , …, Ξm ) = Ξ.
([( ) ( )U ] [( )L ( )U ] following steps:
L
Monotonicity: Let Σj = Σj +ve , Σj +ve , Σj n , Σj n , Step 1: The construction of a decision-making matrix for each expert.
[( ) ( )U ] ) Step 2: Weighting the matrices.
L
Σj − ve , Σj − ve where “(j = 1, 2, …, m) is the collection of FOTIVF
( ) ( ) Step 3: Aggregate the weighted matrices into a single matrix using a
values. If S Σj ≥ S Ξj implies Σj ≥ Ξj , then FOTIVF w (Ξ1 , Ξ2 , …, Ξm ) ≤ suitable aggregation operator.
FOTIVF w (Σ1 , Σ2 , …, Σm ). Step 4: Aggregating the criteria and ranking alternatives.
Boundary:Ξ− ≤ FOTIVF w {(Ξ1 ), (Ξ2 ), …, (Ξm )} ≤ Ξ+ , where
{
( )L ( )L ( )L ( )U 4. Empirical outcomes
Ξ− = min Ξj +ve , 1 − max Ξj n , 1 − max Ξj − ve , min Ξj +ve , 1−
j j j j
} {
( )U ( )U ( )L ( )L 4.1. Results from the survey
maxj Ξj n , 1 − max Ξj − ve , , Ξ+ = max Ξj +ve , 1 − min Ξj n , 1 −
j j j
}
( )L ( )U ( )U ( )U Over the past two decades, the automotive manufacturing industry
min Ξj − ve , max Ξj +ve , 1 − min Ξj n , 1 − min Ξj − ve ,
j j j j

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W. Duan et al. Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

in China has faced increased pressure to enhance its sustainability, given Table 3
its adverse impact on the environment and society through the use of Respondents’ demographic profile.
unsustainable products and protocols. There is thus growing advocacy Demographics Respondents (n = 97) Experts (n = 7)
for adopting sustainable practices in automobile manufacturing to
Freq. (%) Freq. (%)
mitigate the negative impacts of traditional methods. The literature in­
dicates that automotive manufacturers must mitigate their environ­ Gender Female 26 26.80 2 28.57
Male 71 73.20 5 71.43
mental impact and enhance their ecological efficacy by adopting Nationality Local 97 100 7 100
environmental initiatives throughout their manufacturing processes, as Age 26–35 13 13.40 0 0
highlighted by Shen et al. (2013). While sustainability in the automotive 36–45 49 50.52 3 42.86
industry is gaining momentum and scholarly scrutiny, as Wellbrock Above 46 35 36.08 4 57.14
Current position Academic 43 44.33 4 50
et al. (2020) indicated, it is presently characterized by indistinctness and
Industry 54 55.67 3 50
requires additional clarification. A notable critique emerged within this Education Bachelor 22 22.68 0 0
context, focusing on ecological dimensions (Nunes and Bennett, 2010). Master 49 50.52 3 42.86
This research aims to investigate the perspectives of professional PhD 26 26.80 4 57.14
technological experts who are considered major players in evaluating P.Tech experience 3–5 years 6 6.19 0 0
5–10 years 54 55.67 0 0
the impact of I4.0 technologies on the sustainability of the automotive Above 10 years 37 38.14 7 100
manufacturing industry. This section presents insights derived from the Total experience 3–5 years 8 8.25 0 0
perspective of professionals in the automotive sector in China during the 5–10 years 48 49.48 0 0
era of I4.0. Table 3 presents the demographic characteristics of the re­ >10 years 41 42.27 7 100
spondents, comprising 97 technological professionals. The individuals
were responsible for evaluating the suitability of the identified I4.0
ranks based on expert opinions.
technologies considering their ecological, economic, and societal im­
The results of the fuzzy FOTIVF outcomes are presented in Table 16
plications. This assessment aims to determine the feasibility of imple­
(Appendix) and indicate that Technology 4 (T4) has the highest level of
menting these technologies in this context.
applicability, based on a score value of 0.664. Similarly, T4 is closely
followed by T1, T6, T9, and T7, all of which are relevant for achieving
4.2. Results from FOTIVFS sustainable products and industries. However, Technology 2 (T2) has
the lowest degree of applicability for product-level sustainability
This section presents the fuzzy FOTIVF to conduct a more compre­ development, with a value of 0.306. Based on the proximity coefficient
hensive analysis and ranking of the identified technologies. This analysis values, the nine technologies were ranked as follows:
was based on the criteria for product sustainability, as illustrated in T4 > T1 > T6 > T9 > T7 > T3 > T8 > T5 > T2 .
Fig. 2. Fig. 2 shows the organizational structure of the fuzzy FOTIVF
system that has been constructed, encompassing three distinct aspects, 5. Discussion and policy implications
13 primary criteria, and nine feasible technologies. The appraisal
methodology encompasses three phases: identifying and selecting The utilization of the research methodology within the context dis­
evaluation indicators and evaluating and ranking technology using cussed in Section 4 serves two primary purposes. First, it highlights the
established criteria. different ramifications for policymakers in deciding whether I4.0 tech­
To integrate sustainability into goods, researchers have identified nologies can be used at the product level. Second, it allows cutting-edge
thirteen criteria that interact with one criteria (see Fig. 1b). Therefore, to I4.0 developments to be fully evaluated based on factors related to
further assess the nine most suitable technologies, these 13 criteria were product durability. To guarantee a comprehensive analysis, the results
selected under three categories: economy, society, and environment. were obtained from the viewpoints of highly qualified professionals
The criteria identified for each aspect are presented in Table 4, along holding prominent positions as important characters in various firms
with the intended level of each parameter. For the cost criterion, a lower dealing with technological issues. Understanding stakeholder percep­
value indicates a higher applicability of the technology, whereas for the tions in this context is of utmost importance, as it enables policy and
benefit criterion, a higher value indicates a higher relevance. decision-makers to comprehensively understand the review from the
The subsequent step involved the development of a fuzzy decision viewpoint of one of the principal stakeholders.
matrix to evaluate the results for each criterion. To achieve this objec­ This study analyzes nine prominent I4.0 technologies and aims to
tive, the study involved three decision-makers, “EXP1, EXP2, and EXP3,” assess their social, environmental, and economic implications. Thus, T2
with extensive professional expertise of over ten years in the appears to have broad applicability when considering the social sus­
manufacturing industry and certified technologists. These decision tainability of products. T1 has the highest application rate for producing
makers evaluated each technology’s suitability for each criterion weight sustainable goods when both environmental and economic factors are
using the rating scale in Tables 5 and 6, which outline the linguistic considered, whereas T2 has the lowest relevance. These findings provide
parameter values utilized in the present study. Table 5 lists the linguistic valuable information to producers seeking to enhance the sustainability
values in the form of OTFIVS and the weights used to apply the math­ of the manufacturing process.
ematical operations. Table 6 presents the linguistic ratings assigned to A comprehensive assessment approach (FOTIVF) was used to obtain
the decision maker matrix decision in the OTFIVS settings. Table 2 the intended outcomes of the critical objectives. This approach aimed to
presents the participants’ demographic characteristics. thoroughly examine the latest I4.0 technologies within a fuzzy envi­
The experts were tasked with assigning a numerical rating to the ronment, considering the 6Rs “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rethink, Rede­
criteria for assessing the relative weights of their significance and sign, and Remanufacture” and the product’s entire life cycle. This novel
assessing technologies using these criteria. Data were collected using a methodology was developed to pursue this objective by incorporating
seven-point Likert scale. Tables 5 and 6 display the linguistic rating nine distinct technologies and thirteen essential criteria across three
variables ranging from “Absolutely poor” to “Absolutely good” and the sustainability domains. The findings derived through the FOTIVF
linguistic variables for weighing criteria importance, ranging from execution, as presented in Table 16, indicate that T4, with a score of
“Absolutely low” to “Absolutely high.” Tables 7–9 present the decision- 0.664, is the most appropriate technology in terms of its ability to
makers’ assessments of the criteria and technologies regarding weighing develop ecological goods, thus demonstrating higher efficiency. In
and scoring. Table 10 (Appendix) lists the aggregate-weighted fuzzy contrast, T2, with a rank of 0.306, was placed in the lowest position.
decision matrices with technical proximity coefficients, scores, and

8
W. Duan et al. Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

Fig. 2. The graphical presentation of the FOTIVF set.

Experts in the field of technology have deliberated on these results, and standpoint. Although Bai et al. (2020) and Chiarini (2021) made con­
it is widely acknowledged that policy and decision-makers can utilize tributions to this field, it is necessary to move from a broader to a more
this approach and its associated outcomes to promote technological specific perspective to conduct a comprehensive assessment. This is
development through policy interventions. This is because the appraisal because production involves interrelated components, such as “pro­
approach focuses on the sustainability criteria of a product rather than cesses, units, norms, values, behaviors, individuals, and groups” that
on a broader perspective of sustainability. influence one another. Second, environmentally friendly production
The results of this study cannot be compared to those of previous involves complex systems and relies heavily on predictive strategies that
research on I4.0 due to this study’s unique empirical investigation of facilitate development and learning via simplistic thought and process
technologies aimed at implementing sustainable goods using sustainable analysis (Jawahir and Bradley, 2016).
product criteria. This study adds to the field and emphasizes the need for The results of this study provide empirical evidence that supports
new research to develop this burgeoning discipline. Considering the theoretical claims regarding the effectiveness of T4 in enhancing
research conducted by Stock and Seliger (2016), who made notable “product quality, durability, safety, health impact, and functional per­
contributions to the area of SM 4.0, it is evident that the subject matter is formance.” This is consistent with the results of Enyoghasi and
relatively nascent and requires further development to generate sub­ Badurdeen (2023), Carvalho et al. (2020), and Tao et al. (2018). Gho­
stantial perspectives. A few empirical investigations have discussed lami et al. (2021), and Rajput and Singh (2019), who found similar
technological assessments in production settings from a sustainability evidence to support improving the efficiency of indirect and direct

9
W. Duan et al. Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

Table 4 Table 7
Assessment of I4.0 Technology criteria. Linguistic decision matrix of expert 1 with weights.
Code Criteria Aspects Desired level T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 EXP1

C1 Direct/Indirect Costs Economy Minimum C1 M VG VG VP G G G VG VG 0.23

C2 Initial Investment Economy Minimum C2 P M VG P G M M M P 0.23
C3 Losses Economy Minimum C3 P G VG VP G G G M P 0.26
C4 Interest Rate Economy Minimum C4 M M VG GP G G G M P 0.26
C5 Energy Consumption Environment Minimum C5 M VG VG VP G P VG G P 0.17
C6 Material Use Environment Minimum C6 VP M VG VP G P M M M 0.23
C7 Waste and Emissions Environment Minimum C7 AG M VP VP VG VG P VG G 0.23
C8 Product recalling ability Environment Maximum C8 VG VG VP P M VG G G VG 0.26
C9 Product end-of-life Management Environment Maximum C9 VG VG AG P G M M M M 0.26
efficiency C10 P VG VP VP AG VP VP G P 0.23
C10 Product Quality Society Maximum C11 P VG P VP VP VP M VP P 0.23
C11 Serviceable Performance Society Maximum C12 G G P P VP M P M VP 0.17
C12 Health & Safety impact Society Maximum C13 VG VG VP VP P M VP P M 0.23
C13 Rules & Certification efficiency Society Maximum

• Rapid Prototyping and Cost Efficiency: Additive manufacturing is

emerging as a critical technique for rapidly generating intricate
Table 5
Linguistic weighting variables. components and prototypes at a lower cost than that of previous
approaches. To achieve accelerated prototyping, decreased ex­
Linguistic term Ortho-triple fuzzy values Weights
penses, and enhanced design flexibility, organizations should
Absolutely High (AH) ([0.85, 1.00], [0.00, 0.00], [0.00, 0.00]) 0.26 consider integrating additive manufacturing into their operational
Very High (VH) ([0.75, 0.95], [0.0, 0.10], [0.00, 0.04]) 0.23
procedures.
High (H) ([0.60, 0.75], [0.03, 0.05], [0.03, 0.20]) 0.17
Medium (M) ([0.40, 0.60], [0.15, 0.50], [0.15, 0.50]) 0.14 • Improving Production Processes through Connectivity: The report em­
Low (L) ([0.15, 0.20], [0.40, 0.65], [0.60, 0.70]) 0.11 phasizes the importance of the IoT in linking devices to enhance
Very Low (VL) ([0.00, 0.05], [0.50, 0.65], [0.65, 0.75]) 0.06 production and industrial processes. Businesses should consider how
Absolutely Low (AL) ([0.00, 0.00], [0.00, 0.00], [0.85, 1.00]) 0.03 to use IoT technologies to build a connected ecosystem in which
devices can easily communicate with each other, which would
render the entire production line more coordinated and efficient.
Table 6 • Comprehensive Technological Adoption: Businesses should adopt ho­
Linguistic rating variables. listic strategies for technological integration to enhance efficiency
Linguistic term Ortho-triple fuzzy values and competitiveness. When AR/VR, big data, additive
Absolutely Good (AG) [[0.85, 1.00], [0.00, 0.00], [0.00, 0.00]]
manufacturing, and IoT are combined, they can synergize and opti­
Very Good (VG) [[0.75, 0.95], [0.0, 0.10], [0.00, 0.04]] mize many production areas, from design to final output.
Good (G) [[0.60, 0.75], [0.03, 0.05], [0.03, 0.20]]
Medium (M) [[0.40, 0.60], [0.15, 0.50], [0.15, 0.50]]
Poor (P) [[0.15, 0.20], [0.40, 0.65], [0.60, 0.70]] Table 8
Very Poor (VP) [[0.00, 0.05], [0.50, 0.65], [0.65, 0.75]] Linguistic decision matrix of expert 2 with weights.
Absolutely Poor (AP) [[0.00, 0.00], [0.00, 0.00], [0.85, 1.00]]
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 DE2

C1 P M VG P VG M VG G G 0.26
expenses and optimizing the end-of-life management of goods while C2 VP P VG M VG P G M M 0.26
reducing emissions and waste. Similarly, several studies have investi­ C3 VP G G M G VP G P VG 0.23
C4 M M G P G M VG M VP 0.23
gated the use of T3 to enhance operational effectiveness (Hashemi et al.,
C5 M G G VP G M VG G P 0.17
2022). Additionally, T6 has been explored as a means of increasing C6 P M P P G M MG MG m 0.23
primary investments, power utilization, efficiency, material usage, and C7 AG M P P VG VG P VG G 0.23
effectiveness (Enyoghasi and Badurdeen, 2023; Nascimento et al., 2019; C8 M VG AG P VP VG VG VG VG 0.23
Kamble et al., 2018; Stock and Seliger, 2016). T2 enhances functionality, C9 M VG AG VP VG M M M M 0.23
C10 P VG P P AG VP VP G VP 0.17
health, safety implications, and the management of product life cycles
C11 VP VG P P VP VP M AP P 0.17
(Frank et al., 2019). T9 is used at the product level to “increase benefits, C12 G G VP M P P P M VP 0.23
lower losses, end-of-life product management, product reliability, and C13 M VG M VP M VP VP VP G 0.17
dependability” (Frank et al., 2019; Tao et al., 2018; Wang et al., 2016).
Our findings have several implications.
Table 9
Linguistic decision matrix of expert 3 with weights.
• Strategic Simulation for Process Enhancement: Companies can employ
AR and VR technologies to model industrial schemes, merchandise T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 DE3
designs, and production procedures. This makes it possible to pro­ C1 M G VG VP VG M VG G M 0.26
actively identify potential problems and make adjustments before C2 VP M G M G M G M M 0.26
the manufacturing stage. The integration of AR and VR can boost C3 P G VG M G P G VG M 0.26
C4 G G VG VP VG G VG M G 0.26
productivity and reduce the risk of expensive mistakes during C5 G M G VP VG M M VG M 0.23
manufacturing. C6 VP M G VP VG M M VG M 0.26
• Optimizing Production and Reducing Waste: The study emphasizes how C7 AG M VP VP VG VG G VG G 0.26
big data can effectively optimize industrial processes, reduce waste, C8 G VG AG P P VG M G M 0.26
C9 M VG AG P VG P VP P M 0.26
and improve product quality. Businesses need to invest in strong
C10 P VG P P AG P P G VP 0.23
analytical platforms to use insights for well-informed decision C11 P VG VP P P VP P P VP 0.23
making, resulting in more effective and sustainable manufacturing C12 M VG P P M M VP M P 0.26
practices. C13 G G M VP P M M VP M 0.23

10
 W. Duan et al.
Table 10
The aggregated matrix of all experts aggregated values of each technology.
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C1 [0.09, 0.14], [0.20, 0.33], [0.29, 0.52], [0.00, 0.02], [0.25, 0.41], [0.15, 0.23], [0.25, 0.41], [0.23, 0.37], [0.20, 0.33],
⎣ [0.69, 0.86], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.73], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.56], ⎦ ⎣ [0.83, 0.90], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.66], ⎦ ⎣ [0.67, 0.84], ⎦ ⎣ [0.03, 0.66], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.73], ⎦ ⎣ [0.0, 0.73], ⎦
[0.73, 0.87] [0.00, 0.62] [0.00, 0.45] [0.89, 0.93] [0.00, 0.52] [0.54, 0.77] [0.00, 0.52] [0.00, 0.62] [0.00, 0.62]
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C2 [0.00, 0.02], [0.09, 0.14], [0.26, 0.44], [0.08, 0.12], [0.23, 0.35], [0.09, 0.14], [0.16, 0.25], [0.12, 0.20], [0.08, 0.12],
⎣ [0.83, 0.90], ⎦ ⎣ [0.67, 0.86], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.64], ⎦ ⎣ [0.68, 0.86], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.74], ⎦ ⎣ [0.67, 0.86], ⎦ ⎣ [0.70, 0.84], ⎦ ⎣ [0.62, 0.84], ⎦ ⎣ [0.68, 0.86], ⎦
[0.89, 0.93] [0.70, 0.86] [0.00, 0.51] [0.71, 0.87] [0.00, 0.59] [0.70, 0.86] [0.49, 0.73] [0.62, 0.84] [0.71, 0.87]
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C3 [0.00, 0.04], [0.21, 0.29], [0.26, 0.44], [0.12, 0.21], [0.21, 0.29], [0.00, 0.02], [0.21, 0.29], [0.14, 0.21], [0.16, 0.27],
⎣ [0.81, 0.90], ⎦ ⎣ [0.74, 0.84], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.63], ⎦ ⎣ [0.62, 0.84], ⎦ ⎣ [0.74, 0.84], ⎦ ⎣ [0.83, 0.90], ⎦ ⎣ [0.74, 0.84], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.75], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.75], ⎦
[0.98, 0.92] [0.41, 0.67] [0.00, 0.50] [0.62, 0.84] [0.41, 0.67] [0.89, 0.93] [0.41, 0.67] [0.00, 0.64] [0.00, 0.71]
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C4 [0.14, 0.23], [0.14, 0.23], [0.26, 0.44], [0.00, 0.02], [0.23, 0.35], [0.17, 0.26], [0.25, 0.42], [0.12, 0.21], [0.09, 0.13],
⎣ [0.66, 0.84], ⎦ ⎣ [0.66, 0.84], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.63], ⎦ ⎣ [0.83, 0.90], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.74], ⎦ ⎣ [0.70, 0.84], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.66], ⎦ ⎣ [0.62, 0.84], ⎦ ⎣ [0.73, 0.86], ⎦
[0.57, 0.80] [0.57, 0.80] [0.00, 0.50] [0.89, 0.93] [0.00, 0.59] [0.46, 0.71] [0.00, 0.53] [0.62, 0.84] [0.63, 0.81]
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C5 [0.11, 0.17], [0.15, 0.26], [0.20, 0.35], [0.00, 0.01], [0.17, 0.27], [0.11, 0.17], [0.20, 0.36], [0.13, 0.20], [0.03, 0.04],
⎣ [0.73, 0.89], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.79], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.70], ⎦ ⎣ [0.86, 0.92], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.79], ⎦ ⎣ [0.73, 0.89], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.72], ⎦ ⎣ [0.76, 0.88], ⎦ ⎣ [0.84, 0.92] ⎦
[0.66, 0.85] [0.00, 0.01] [0.00, 0.59] [0.92, 0.94] [0.00, 0.66] [0.66, 0.85] [0.00, 0.61] [0.58, 0.79] , [0.91, 0.94]
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C6 [0.00, 0.02], [0.11, 0.20], [0.14, 0.22], [0.00, 0.02], [0.22, 0.34], [0.07, 0.12], [0.13, 0.22], [0.11, 0.17], [0.11, 0.17],
⎣ [0.84, 0.90], ⎦ ⎣ [0.64, 0.85], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.74], ⎦ ⎣ [0.83, 0.90], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.73], ⎦ ⎣ [0.70, 0.87] ⎦ ⎣ [0.67, 0.85], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.76], ⎦ ⎣ [0.64, 0.86], ⎦
[0.90, 0.93] [0.64, 0.85] [0.00, 0.64] [0.89, 0.93] [0.00, 0.62] , [0.72, 0.87] [0.57, 0.80] [0.00, 0.71] [0.64, 0.86]
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C7 [0.36, 1.00], [0.11, 0.17], [0.00, 0.01], [0.00, 0.01], [0.28, 0.51], [0.28, 0.51], [0.06, 0.09], [0.28, 0.51], [0.20, 0.28],
⎣ [0.00, 0.00], ⎦ ⎣ [0.64, 0.86], ⎦ ⎣ [0.86, 0.92], ⎦ ⎣ [0.86, 0.92], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.58], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.58], ⎦ ⎣ [0.79, 0.88] ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.58], ⎦ ⎣ [0.75, 0.85], ⎦
[0.00, 0.00] [0.64, 0.86] [0.92, 0.94] [0.92, 0.94] [0.00, 0.46] [0.00, 0.46] , [0.70, 0.83] [0.00, 0.46] [0.43, 0.68]
11

⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C8 [0.20, 0.33], [0.29, 0.53], [0.00, 0.01], [0.04, 0.05], [0.00, 0.06], [0.29, 0.53], [0.19, 0.32], [0.23, 0.35], [0.28, 0.55],
⎣ [0.51, 0.76], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.56], ⎦ ⎣ [0.84, 0.90], ⎦ ⎣ [0.79, 0.90], ⎦ ⎣ [0.74, 0.86], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.56], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.75], ⎦ ⎣ [0.03, 0.75], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.00], ⎦
[0.37, 0.67] [0.00, 0.45] [0.90, 0.93] [0.87, 0.93] [0.77, 0.89] [0.00, 0.45] [0.00, 0.64] [0.03, 0.60] [0.00, 0.00]
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C9 [0.17, 0.30], [0.29, 0.53], [0.38, 1.00], [0.00, 0.04], [0.29, 0.53], [0.09, 0.14], [0.00, 0.09], [0.09, 0.14], [0.12, 0.21],
⎣ [0.45, 0.76], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.56], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.00], ⎦ ⎣ [0.81, 0.90], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.56], ⎦ ⎣ [0.68, 0.86], ⎦ ⎣ [0.68, 0.86], ⎦ ⎣ [0.68, 0.86], ⎦ ⎣ [0.62, 0.84], ⎦
[0.45, 0.74] [0.00, 0.45] [0.00, 0.00] [0.88, 0.92] [0.00, 0.45] [0.69, 0.86] [0.70, 0.86] [0.69, 0.86] [0.62, 0.84]
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C10 [0.03, 0.05], [0.25, 0.47], [0.00, 0.03], [0.00, 0.03], [0.33, 1.00], [0.00, 0.02], [0.00, 0.02], [0.17, 0.25], [0.00, 0.02],
⎣ [0.83, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.61], ⎦ ⎣ [0.84, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.84, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.00], ⎦ ⎣ [0.85, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.85, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.77, 0.86], ⎦ ⎣ [0.85, 0.91], ⎦
[0.90, 0.93] [0.00, 0.51] [0.90, 0.90] [0.90, 0.90] [0.00, 0.00] [0.91, 0.94] [0.91, 0.94] [0.48, 0.71] [0.91, 0.94]
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C11 [0.00, 0.03], [0.75, 0.95], [0.00, 0.03], [0.00, 0.03], [0.00, 0.02], [0.00, 0.02], [0.07, 0.12], [0.00, 0.02], [0.00, 0.03],
⎣ [0.84, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.0, 0.10], ⎦ ⎣ [0.84, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.84, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.85, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.85, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.72, 0.88], ⎦ ⎣ [0.85, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.84, 0.91], ⎦

Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

[0.90, 0.90] [0.00, 0.04] [0.90, 0.90] [0.90, 0.90] [0.91, 0.94] [0.91, 0.94] [0.74, 0.89] [0.91, 0.94] [0.90, 0.90]
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C12 [0.15, 0.23], [0.20, 0.30], [0.00, 0.03], [0.05, 0.07], [0.00, 0.04], [0.07, 0.12], [0.00, 0.03], [0.40, 0.60], [0.00, 0.02],
⎣ [0.75, 0.86], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.76], ⎦ ⎣ [0.84, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.77, 0.89], ⎦ ⎣ [0.77, 0.89], ⎦ ⎣ [0.71, 0.88], ⎦ ⎣ [0.84, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.15, 0.50], ⎦ ⎣ [0.85, 0.91], ⎦
[0.54, 0.77] [0.00, 0.62] [0.90, 0.90] [0.81, 0.90] [0.81, 0.91] [0.81, 0.91] [0.90, 0.90] [0.15, 0.50] [0.91, 0.94]
⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤ ⎡ ⎤
C13 [0.17, 0.29], [0.23, 0.39], [0.00, 0.06], [0.00, 0.01], [0.05, 0.07], [0.00, 0.08], [0.00, 0.02], [0.00, 0.02], [0.00, 0.08],
⎣ [0.56, 0.80], ⎦ ⎣ [0.00, 0.69], ⎦ ⎣ [0.75, 0.88], ⎦ ⎣ [0.85, 0.92], ⎦ ⎣ [0.78, 0.90], ⎦ ⎣ [0.75, 0.88], ⎦ ⎣ [0.85, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.85, 0.91], ⎦ ⎣ [0.75, 0.88], ⎦
[0.43, 0.72] [0.00, 0.56] [0.77, 0.90] [0.92, 0.95] [0.84, 0.91] [0.68, 0.85] [0.91, 0.93] [0.91, 0.93] [0.68, 0.85]
⎛ ⎞ ⎛ ⎞ ⎛ ⎞ ⎛ ⎞ ⎛ ⎞ ⎛ ⎞ ⎛ ⎞ ⎛ ⎞ ⎛ ⎞
AV [0.000, 0.003], [0.008, 0.035], [0.000, 0.003], [0.000, 0.000], [0.000, 0.018], [0.000, 0.003], [0.000, 0.004], [0.000, 0.009], [0.000, 0.003],
⎝ [0.963, 0.994], ⎠ ⎝ [0.723, 0.982], ⎠ ⎝ [0.873, 0.985], ⎠ ⎝ [0.989, 0.998], ⎠ ⎝ [0.758, 0.981], ⎠ ⎝ [0.953, 0.994], ⎠ ⎝ [0.936, 0.994], ⎠ ⎝ [0.867, 0.991], ⎠ ⎝ [0.944, 0.993], ⎠
[0.970, 0.993] [0.651, 0.963] [0.992, 0.984] [0.9796.999] [0.747, 0.963] [0.957, 0.993] [0.921, 0.989] [0.847, 0.984] [0.948, 0.992]
Score 0.654 0.306 0.528 0.664 0.378 0.650 0.641 0.416 0.647
Rank 2 9 6 1 8 3 5 7 4

Note: Where AV represents the aggregated values of each technology.

W. Duan et al. Technological Forecasting & Social Change 200 (2024) 123125

• Adapting to Emerging Technologies: Businesses should seek new de­ Statement

velopments in manufacturing technologies as technology advances.
Consistent exploration and adaptation to emerging technologies will During the preparation of this work the author(s) did not used any AI
enable organizations to be at the cutting edge of invention, guaran­ tools. The author(s) reviewed and edited the content as needed and take
teeing their competitiveness and ability to meet market demands. (s) full responsibility for the content of the publication.

6. Conclusion CRediT authorship contribution statement

The optimization of the economic, environmental, and societal Wenqi Duan: Project administration, Funding acquisition, Concep­
benefits of I4.0 in the production industry requires the integration of tualization. Adnan Khurshid: Writing – original draft, Methodology,
cutting-edge I4.0 technologies with a sustainable manufacturing Investigation, Formal analysis, Data curation. Khalid Khan: Writing –
framework to generate environmentally conscious and socially respon­ review & editing, Visualization, Validation, Software. Adrian Cantemir
sible products. This is supported by the recognition of the significant Calin: Writing – review & editing, Visualization, Validation.
potential of I4.0 and associated technologies in achieving these goals.
Despite numerous initiatives to advance sustainable manufacturing, Declaration of competing interest
further research is needed on the feasibility of integrating I4.0 tech­
nologies into the production of environmentally friendly products. There is no conflict of interest among authors.
Similarly, the existing body of literature indicates a lack of empirical
investigations examining the impact of I4.0 technologies on the “triple Data availability
bottom lines” at the merchandise level, specifically regarding product
sustainability parameters. Data will be made available on request.
This study makes a valuable contribution to the existing literature by
expanding knowledge in the field of SM 4.0. This was accomplished References
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Wenqi Duan is a distinguished professor of economics and a doctoral supervisor, recog­
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nized as one of the inaugural ShuangLong Scholars at Zhejiang Normal University. He
in Industry 4.0: an emerging research agenda. Int. J. Prod. Res. 58 (5), 1462–1484.
holds the prestigious position of Dean of the School of Business at Taizhou University.
Molodtsov, D., 1999. Soft set theory—first results. Comput. Math. Appl. 37 (4–5), 19–31.
Honored with titles such as Young and Middle-aged Academic Leader of Universities in
Mondal, S., Chiney, M., Samanta, S.K., 2011. Urysohn’s lemma and Tietze’s extension
Zhejiang Province, Provincial Outstanding Teacher, and attaining the Second Level of the
theorem in soft topology. Ann. Fuzzy Math. Inform. 2 (1), 1–130.
Provincial 151 Talents program, Professor Duan has an impressive record of leadership in
Nascimento, D.L.M., Alencastro, V., Quelhas, O.L.G., Caiado, R.G.G., Garza-Reyes, J.A.,
academic excellence. He has successfully led three national projects, authored nearly 30
Rocha-Lona, L., Tortorella, G., 2019. Exploring industry 4.0 technologies to enable
SCI/SSCI indexed papers, contributed to first-class Chinese journals with nearly 50 papers,
circular economy practices in a manufacturing context: a business model proposal.
and published six academic monographs. His scholarly work has earned him the First Prize
J. Manuf. Technol. Manag. 30 (3), 607–627.
for Outstanding Achievements in Philosophy and Social Sciences in Zhejiang Province,
Nunes, B., Bennett, D., 2010. Green operations initiatives in the automotive industry: an
solidifying his status as a leading authority in the domestic Internet Platform domain.
environmental reports analysis and benchmarking study. BIJ 17 (3), 396–420.
S. Rajput & S. P. Singh. Connecting circular economy and industry 4.0. International
Journal of Information Management, 49(2019), pp. 98–113. Adnan Khurshid serves as professor at the School of Economics at Zhejiang Normal
Rüßmann, M., Lorenz, M., Gerbert, P., Waldner, M., Justus, J., Engel, P., Harnisch, M., University in Jinhua, China. With a prolific output of 47 articles in SCI/SSCI peer-reviewed
2015. Industry 4.0: the future of productivity and growth in manufacturing journals, Dr. Khurshid’s research portfolio includes pivotal works in technological
industries. Boston consulting group 9 (1), 54–89. advancement, the circular economy, and sustainable development, marking significant
K. Santos, E. Loures, F. Piechnicki, & O. Canciglieri. Opportunities assessment of product contributions to these cutting-edge fields.
development process in Industry 4.0. Procedia Manufacturing, 11(2017), pp.
1358–1365.
Khalid Khan is a professor at the International Education School of Hengxing University
Sartal, A., Bellas, R., Mejías, A.M., García-Collado, A., 2020. The sustainable
in Licang District, Qingdao, Shandong, China. With a commendable publication record of
manufacturing concept, evolution and opportunities within Industry 4.0: a literature
over 50 articles in peer-reviewed journals, Professor Khan’s academic influence extends
review. Adv. Mech. Eng. 12 (5).
widely within his field of expertise.
Shen, L., Olfat, L., Govindan, K., Khodaverdi, R., Diabat, A., 2013. A fuzzy multi criteria
approach for evaluating green supplier’s performance in green supply chain with
linguistic preferences. Resour. Conserv. Recycl. 74, 170–179. Adrian Cantemir Calin holds the position of full professor at the Bucharest University of
Shuaib, M., Seevers, D., Zhang, X., Badurdeen, F., Rouch, K.E., Jawahir, I.S., 2014. Economic Studies and serves as a senior researcher at the Institute for Economic Fore­
Product sustainability index (ProdSI) a metrics-based framework to evaluate the casting in Bucharest, Romania. His primary areas of scholarly focus encompass quantita­
total life cycle sustainability of manufactured products. J. Ind. Ecol. 18 (4), 491–507. tive finance, monetary policy, macroeconomic forecasting, and energy economics.
de Sousa Jabbour, A.B.L., Jabbour, C.J.C., Foropon, C., Godinho Filho, M., 2018. When
titans meet–can industry 4.0 revolutionise the environmentally-sustainable

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