Problems of automation of confectionery production

The study is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of the problems and prospects of automation of confectionery production in modern conditions. The work focuses on identifying key challenges in the implementation of robotic systems and intelligent algorithms for controlling technological processes in the confectionery industry. The theoretical part of the study systematizes scientific approaches to understanding the phenomenon of automation of food production, its role in the transformation of the industry landscape and the formation of new management paradigms. The strategic importance of the integration of cyber-physical systems, the industrial Internet of things, machine learning to improve the efficiency of operations, ensure the safety and quality of products, strengthen the competitive positions of confectionery enterprises in the context of digitalization of the economy is substantiated. The empirical section of the work is based on the analysis of the current level of automation of leading confectionery factories in Russia in comparison with the best world practices of digital transformation. Particular attention is paid to determining priority areas for the robotization of production processes and the implementation of intelligent quality management systems based on the model of global industry leaders. The importance of an integrated approach to automation is emphasized, which involves the development of data collection and processing infrastructure, modernization of the equipment fleet, implementation of predictive analytics, and retraining of personnel. The key barriers to digitalization of confectionery production are analyzed, associated with the high cost of solutions, lack of competencies, and the absence of unified standards for the integration of cyber-physical systems. The results of the study are of high practical importance, offering participants in the confectionery market comprehensive recommendations for overcoming the challenges of production automation. Successful transformation of traditional production processes based on advanced digital technologies is considered a prerequisite for maintaining global competitiveness in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.