Disruptive Technologies in Manufacturing: A Scoping Review Exploring the Role of IoT and Robotics (2019–2025)

The manufacturing sector is experiencing a transformative shift driven by the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and emerging technologies such as Digital Twins (DTs), machine learning (ML), and edge computing, aligning with the Industry 4.0 paradigm. This scoping review maps the extent, range, and nature of research on these technologies’ roles in disrupting manufacturing processes, drawing on fifteen studies (2019–2025) to explore the research landscape. The study aims to chart key themes, outcomes, and challenges, addressing gaps in prior research that often examines IoT or robotics in isolation, neglecting their synergistic potential. The methodology follows a structured approach, adhering to PRISMA guidelines, with a comprehensive search across Scopus, IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, and SpringerLink, focusing on empirical studies in manufacturing from 2019–2025. Data extraction and a preliminary quality appraisal using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) guide the mapping process, organized into three thematic areas: IoT-driven optimization, robotics and human-robot collaboration (HRC), and emerging technologies. The mapped evidence highlights IoT-related cycle time improvements (0.44–1.71%), robotics cycle time reductions (9%) with safety metrics (mAP 0.605–0.789), and DTs with an AUC of 0.916, alongside challenges such as data variability, standardization gaps, and limited real-world validation. The proposed “IoT-Robotics Convergence Model” offers a framework to integrate these technologies. This review provides a foundation for manufacturers, researchers, and policymakers to navigate the evolving landscape, suggesting areas for future exploration to enhance scalability and trust in resilient manufacturing ecosystems.