A Bibliometric Exploration of Automation and its Impact on Mechanical Engineering Research

Abstract

This bibliometric exploration delves into the dynamic landscape of automation's influence on mechanical engineering research. Leveraging the Scopus database and employing keyword search strategies targeting article titles, abstracts, and keywords from 1972 to 2022, this study examines the interdisciplinary nexus between automation and mechanical engineering. The top outcomes revealed a persistent focus on "mechanical engineering" as a foundational subject, fluctuating trends in thematic interests such as "control systems" and "robotics," and the pivotal roles of central authors within collaborative networks. Notably, collaboration networks identified influential figures like Wang X, Li D, and Zhang X, indicating their significant connections and influence within their respective networks. Future directions point toward deeper investigations into emerging themes like the convergence of information technology with automation, fostering global collaborations, and exploring correlations between academic output and real-world technological advancements. These findings underscore the dynamic and multifaceted nature of research within this field, paving the way for continued interdisciplinary exploration and innovation at the intersection of automation and mechanical engineering.