Investigation of Cloud Manufacturing within the Landscape of Networked Production

In the context of digitally networked production, Cloud Manufacturing (CM) is increasingly discussed as a foundational paradigm for delivering manufacturing resources and services in a flexible, scalable, and service-oriented manner. This study systematically defines CM and delineates its boundaries to related approaches such as Asset Administration Shell (AAS), Manufacturing-as-a-Service (MaaS), Shared Production (SP) and Skill-based Production (SbP). Building on a systematic literature review, a conceptual framework is developed that clarifies their relationships and roles within networked production. This includes a structured comparison of their goals, technological foundations, architectural principles, and roles within cyber-physical production systems. The following research questions guide this investigation: What is Cloud Manufacturing, and how is it scientifically grounded? How is CM positioned within the broader context of networked production? By clarifying the conceptual space of CM and situating it within the ecosystem of digital production technologies, this study serves as a theoretical foundation for system designers, researchers, and practitioners. It supports the consistent use of terminology and fosters the design of interoperable and modular production architectures based on cloud principles.