Abstract

This seminar will delve into the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in driving Industry 4.0 and exploring its future trajectories beyond current technological paradigms. As the fourth industrial revolution continues to reshape global manufacturing, digital systems, and industrial practices, AI has emerged as a core enabler-integrating high-performance computing, robotics, autonomous systems, and digital manufacturing to optimize efficiency, enhance innovation, and redefine industrial ecosystems. Led by Dr Yi Chen, a highly distinguished academic and industry expert with an extensive background in AI, high-performance computing, robotics, and digital manufacturing, the seminar will draw on his decades of research leadership and practical experience. Dr Chen has spearheaded numerous research grants in these fields, published over 130 high-impact academic papers, authored 4 academic books, and secured 10+ authorized patents, solidifying his reputation as a leading authority in Industry 4.0 and AI-driven industrial innovation. His involvement in EPSRC (UK), Horizon2020 (EU) funded projects, and Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) further bridges the gap between academic research and industrial application, ensuring the seminar’s content is both theoretically rigorous and practically relevant. Attendees will gain insights into the latest advancements in AI-powered digital manufacturing, the integration of robotics and autonomous systems into industrial workflows, and the potential of AI to unlock new opportunities beyond traditional Industry 4.0 frameworks. Dr Chen will also share perspectives on emerging trends, challenges in scaling AI-driven industrial solutions, and the role of interdisciplinary collaboration in shaping the future of manufacturing and industrial technology. Additionally, the seminar will touch on his experience as a top 1% reviewer in Computer Science and Engineering, and his contributions to academic publishing and conference organization, offering a holistic view of AI’s impact on both academia and industry. This event is essential for academics, industry professionals, researchers, and students interested in the intersection of AI and industrial innovation, providing a unique opportunity to learn from a leading expert and engage with cutting-edge ideas that will shape the future of Industry 4.0 and beyond.

About the Speaker

Dr. Yi Chen (BSc, MSc, PhD, CEng, FIET, FIMechE, FRSA, SFHEA, SMIEEE) has been leading a few research grants in the areas of artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, robotics & autonomous systems, digital manufacturing and industry 4.0. He has published over 130+ academic papers in both high impact international academic journals and international conferences, 4 academic books, 20+ invited seminars and talks, 10+ authorised patents, and has been selected as a Publons' top 1% of reviewers in Computer Science and Engineering and Book manuscripts reviewer for Publishers, including: Springer, Elsevier, IEEE, Cambridge University Press, CRC Press. He has been actively involved in both academic research and KTP projects as PI and CoI funded by EPSRC (UK), Horizon2020 (EU) and Industrial projects, and as a member of EPSRC associate peer review college. Dr Chen has been the Programme Committee member or organiser for over 10+ international conferences, including IEEE/ASME/ACM/Springer conferences. Besides, he is an editorial board member of a high-impact journal (CAS JCR Q2) , and he has been a guest editor for five special issues.