Is the blockchain a relevant technology for the industry 4.0?

Abstract

For use-cases in Industry 4.0, involving several stakeholders of a value chain around connected and autonomous smart robots, the blockchain Ethereum appears as a high potential technology. However, the use of digital certificates from a PKI also allows to meet the requirements with a more mature technology. This paper explores through the implementation of two proofs of concept the advantages of each of the technologies and shows that they could complement each other advantageously. The blockchain reinforces trust between independent stakeholders, involved around cyber-secure embedded smart robots distributed in a factory, enabling business development and traceability of the activities in a transparent way.