All authors are expected to present their research with accuracy, clarity, and objectivity. Manuscripts must describe the work performed in sufficient detail to allow other researchers to replicate and validate the findings. This includes a clear explanation of data sources, methodologies, algorithms, and system architectures, especially when involving simulations, AI models, or industrial systems.<\/p>\n
Authors should ensure that data is accurately represented and that the conclusions drawn are supported by evidence. Where applicable, authors should be prepared to retain and share their underlying data to support editorial review or fulfill open data requirements. Misrepresentation of results, fabrication, or deliberate omission of key information is considered unethical and will not be tolerated.<\/p>\n
Submitted manuscripts must be original and should not have been published elsewhere or be under consideration by another journal. Authors are responsible for ensuring that all content, including text, figures, and data, is either original or properly cited. If previously published material is used, appropriate permissions must be obtained.<\/p>\n
Plagiarism, in all its forms, including uncredited paraphrasing or use of results from other researchers, is unacceptable and will lead to rejection. Self-citations should be used sparingly and only when directly relevant to the work. Citations should be balanced, accurate, and relevant, reflecting the broader scholarly context. Citation manipulation, including excessive citation of one\u2019s own work or coordinated citation between groups, undermines scientific credibility and is not permitted.<\/p>\n
Authorship should reflect substantial scholarly contributions. Only those who have made significant contributions to the conception, design, execution, or interpretation of the study should be listed as authors. Individuals who contributed to specific aspects, such as technical assistance or editorial support, should be acknowledged but not listed as authors.<\/p>\n
The corresponding author bears the responsibility of ensuring that all co-authors have reviewed and consented to the final version, even if the journal does not require formal written approval from each contributor. Changes in authorship after submission are discouraged and will only be considered under exceptional circumstances with the consent of all authors and editorial approval.<\/p>\n
Authors must ensure that their research complies with all relevant legal, institutional, and ethical guidelines. For studies involving human subjects\u2014such as usability testing, industrial workplace studies, or behavioral analysis\u2014authors must include a statement of ethics approval and confirmation of informed consent.<\/p>\n
For research involving animals, compliance with international standards such as the ARRIVE<\/a> guidelines or regional equivalents must be observed. Research involving industrial data should ensure data confidentiality and appropriate anonymization and must have received authorization from relevant stakeholders.<\/p>\n Potential hazards, whether chemical, mechanical, or digital (such as cybersecurity implications), must be clearly disclosed within the manuscript. In the case of clinical or human-centered studies, authors must affirm compliance with ethical standards such as the Declaration of Helsinki<\/a>.<\/p>\n As Industry 4.0 research often involves digital tools, authors must disclose any use of generative AI technologies in the creation of text, figures, or other content. While such tools can support the writing process, AI cannot be credited as an author. Any content generated by AI must be carefully reviewed and verified by a human author.<\/p>\n Authors must not manipulate figures or images in a way that misrepresents data or findings. Basic adjustments to enhance clarity\u2014such as contrast or brightness\u2014are acceptable only if they do not obscure the original information. Submitting original, unaltered images may be required as supplementary material or during peer review.<\/p>\n Digital representations, such as visualizations of smart factories, digital twins, or networked systems, must be accurate and truthful. Misleading alterations or fabricated visuals will be treated as scientific misconduct.<\/p>\n Authors must avoid dual submissions and redundant publications. Manuscripts that describe substantially similar content should not be submitted to more than one journal. Secondary publication of content, such as translated articles or extended versions of conference papers, is permissible only with explicit editorial agreement and proper citation of the original source.<\/p>\n All authors are required to disclose any financial, institutional, or personal relationships that may influence their work. This includes, but is not limited to, employment, consultancies, stock ownership, honoraria, patent holdings, or research grants. The role of sponsors in the research process must also be transparently disclosed. If the sponsors had no involvement, that too should be stated.<\/p>\n In the event that an error or inaccuracy is identified after publication, it is the author\u2019s duty to promptly notify the editorial team and cooperate in issuing a correction or retraction. Editors and reviewers must also maintain confidentiality throughout the review process and refrain from using any unpublished material for personal or professional advantage.<\/p>\nResponsible Use of Technology, Generative AI, and Image Integrity<\/h3>\n
Publication Conduct, Conflicts of Interest, and Post-Publication Responsibilities<\/h3>\n
Handling of Research Misconduct<\/h3>\n