## 4 Results and Discussions
### Emerging Digital Technologies
#### 4.1.2 Industrial Metaverse  
The growing emphasis on human-centric values, immersive experiences, and economic flexibility is driving the development of innovative manufacturing models and the emergence of IM. IM is currently poorly defined, with gaps in research on its enablers [4]. Although still an emerging concept, it is described as a social manufacturing environment that integrates cyberspace, physical systems, and human interaction, enabling collaborative value creation among stakeholders [4; 64; 65]. It consists of three interconnected spaces: physical space (real-world objects, humans, and environments), cyberspace (virtual data and simulations), and social space (human-machine interactions). In the term metaverse, \"meta\" refers to the virtual world, and \"verse\" refers to the real world [4; 64]. Although IM relies on various enabling technologies, its realization is incomplete without DTs [4]. IM creates immersive and collaborative environments that extend the functionality of DTs. While DTs provide precision simulations, IM enables experiential learning and collaboration, allowing users to practice coordinated safety responses and decision-making remotely. Moreover, recent studies have confirmed its growing relevance for enabling cyber-physical-social integration, cross-functional collaboration, and immersive training. For example, DTs are essential for enabling IM, where humans, COBOTS, and process management systems can interact seamlessly, both locally and across different locations [65]. Similarly, DTs are essential for CPS, which is a core element of the IM [4]. IM and DTs create immersive digital environments for visual interactions and operational purposes. More specifically, IM creates immersive digital environments with unique identities for interaction, while DTs focus on replicating the physical world for optimization, emphasizing technology over human engagement. IM basically represents the expansion of DTs into human and societal domains [64]. The IM architecture comprises five layers: perception (data collection), networking (data processing), fusion (integration of physical and cyber systems), interaction (3D visualization), and configuration (decision-making) [4]. Unlike VR or DTs alone, IM enables multi-user interactions within virtual environments. For example, engineers in different locations can enter the same immersive space to analyze equipment, simulate production lines, and conduct ergonomic assessments [65]. Moreover, IM combines technologies like blockchain and AI to create immersive AR experiences [64]. The integration of IM with blockchain and edge computing enables real-time updates of safety protocols and predictive task planning in smart factories. For example, an Extended Reality (XR) based HRC assembly system in the IM, integrating blockchain and edge-cloud networks, can enhance real-time operations through improved planning, task optimization, and strategic decision-making [6]. Edge computing enhances computing by improving efficiency, lowering latency, and bolstering data security through localized processing [37]. As shown in the literature, IM's layered architecture of IM and XR interfaces supports enhanced decision-making and strategic planning in manufacturing safety systems. The benefits of the industrial metaverse lie in interactivity, synergy, and economics. For example, integrating IM into manufacturing systems creates substantial value by re ducing scrap and rework, minimizing downtime, lowering compliance costs, increasing throughput, and enhancing workforce training. More broadly, the implementation of IM technologies offers a range of benefits, including real-time multidisciplinary collaboration and training within immersive 3D virtual environments free from geographic or language constraints. Additional advantages include reduced training expenses, improved knowledge retention, real-time machine interaction and synchronization, enhanced spatial awareness, and greater system usability [64].