Bio-Intelligent Manufacturing: Navigating Requirements, Challenges, and Opportunities for SMEs

Erwin Rauch (), Walburga Kerschbaumer (), Wasawat Nakkiew (), Adirek Baisukhan (), Franz Haas () and Rudolf Pichler ()
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Erwin Rauch: Free University of Bozen Bolzano, Industrial Engineering and Automation (IEA)
Walburga Kerschbaumer: Chiang Mai University, Department of Industrial Engineering
Wasawat Nakkiew: Chiang Mai University, Department of Industrial Engineering
Adirek Baisukhan: Chiang Mai University, Department of Industrial Engineering
Franz Haas: Graz University of Technology, Institute of Production Engineering
Rudolf Pichler: Graz University of Technology, Institute of Production Engineering

Chapter 5 in Industry 5.0 for SMEs, 2026, pp 147-174 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract This chapter explores the potential of bio-intelligent manufacturing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Bio-intelligent manufacturing merges traditional manufacturing systems with biological principles and advanced computational technologies for increasing the sustainability and efficiency of manufacturing systems. Current advancements range from bio-inspiration and bio-integration towards interaction of technical, biological and information systems. Potential applications for SMEs encompass the usage and development of bio-degradable materials, bio-fabrication of complex structures and products and adaptive or self-optimizing manufacturing systems based on biological concepts. These innovations can lead to reduced resource and energy consumption and improved sustainability of manufactured products as well as manufacturing systems and processes. However, several challenges impede its adoption, such as a lack in knowledge, high initial costs, regulatory hurdles and the need for interdisciplinary expertise. Despite these barriers, the long-term benefits of the so-called Biological Transformation in manufacturing in the sense of sustainability, innovation and competitive advantage could be substantial for SMEs to differentiate on global markets. This chapter provides a concise overview of the current state-of-the-art, latest advancements, requirements and barriers to its implementation as well as potential applications and recommendations for future research.

Keywords: Sustainable manufacturing; Industry 4.0; Industry 5.0; Biological transformation; Bio-intelligent manufacturing; SME (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-26279-0_5

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