Visual evaluation and information improvement method of smart factory layout based on information value added

The process of Industry 4.0 is constantly promoted. In order to realize the high-quality connotation development of enterprises, manufacturing enterprises need to carry out information transformation and upgrading. The technology of information flow analysis can consistently assess the worth of the factory, overcome existing technical challenges, and achieve intelligent modernization and enhancement of the system. This study presents a visualization and evaluation of the factory’s layout, production lines, and workstation from three perspectives: macro, meso, and micro. To begin, a value added heat map (VAHM) is created by examining the visualization technique for information value added information (IVA). This analysis aims to assess the extent of information wastage in terms of the factory’s physical space, resources, and staff. Additionally, a method for analyzing the information gain of a production line, which is based on the concept of distributed cognition, is introduced. This method evaluates the production line by integrating the economic principle of information processing (EPIP). Furthermore, when assessing complexity, the volume of information in workstations is measured and enhanced by applying the principle of information processing economy. Ultimately, the method’s validity and feasibility are confirmed by applying it to real-world manufacturing industry scenarios.