This collection aims to drive transformative innovation in the field of advanced manufacturing by exploring the powerful convergence of emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Additive Manufacturing (AM), Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs), and next-generation Robotics. These technologies are reshaping the industrial landscape by enabling intelligent decision making, adaptive production strategies, human–machine collaboration, and seamless connectivity in manufacturing environments.

The objective of the collection is to examine how smart and data-driven manufacturing ecosystems can accelerate product development, enhance customization, improve sustainability, and enable rapid reconfiguration from conceptual design to fully functional product deployment. Emphasis is placed on intelligent materials, cyber-physical production systems, real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, automated assembly, and closed-loop process optimization.

This collection welcomes high-quality original research articles, case studies, and comprehensive reviews that highlight cutting-edge advancements, practical implementations, and future opportunities in:

Smart factories and Industry 4.0/5.0 manufacturing practices

AI/ML-driven process control, design optimization, and defect analysis

Additive manufacturing innovations, including novel materials and hybrid systems

Application of SMAs and responsive materials in adaptive structures

IoT-enabled sensing, monitoring, and supply chain connectivity

Robotics and automation solutions for efficiency, quality, and human–machine integration

Submissions relevant to sustainable, energy-efficient, and environmentally responsible manufacturing are highly encouraged. Through this interdisciplinary focus, the collection seeks to advance the state of knowledge and support the development of intelligent, scalable, and resilient future manufacturing systems.

This Collection supports and amplifies research related to SDG 6, SDG 7, SDG 8, SDG 9, SDG 11and SDG 12.

Keywords: Advanced Manufacturin; Smart Materials; Internet of Things (IoT); Artificial Intelligence; Machine Learning; Additive Manufacturing; Shape Memory Alloys; Industry 4.0; Smart Factories; Cyber Physical Systems; Predictive Maintenance; Robotics and Automation; Sustainable Manufacturing; Digital Twin Technology; Intelligent Process Optimization

This Collection is dedicated to highlighting the application of Machine Learning (ML), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Deep Learning (DL) in the field of Microwave Engineering: Devices and Communication. It will concentrate on AI/ML/DL approaches in Microwave Engineering, which includes new breakthroughs, design and performance techniques of various Microwave Devices like Antennas, Filters, Couplers etc. Starting with single/multiband antennas, this topical collection will showcase the application of AI/ML/DL in the design and/or performance features of wideband to super wideband antennas including Multiple-Input-Multiple-Output (MIMO) antenna structures suited for wireless communication.

It will also focus on the use of AI/ML/DL in various aspects of Terrestrial and/or Satellite-based Microwave Communication: Processes, Algorithms and Protocols.