Smart HVAC Manufacturing: Enhancing Operations Through IT/OT Unity

The convergence of Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) in HVAC manufacturing is unlocking new levels of operational efficiency, automation, and data-driven decision-making. However, this digital unification also introduces significant cybersecurity challenges. Historically isolated, IT and OT systems were built with distinct goals and security models, making their integration a prime target for vulnerabilities and exploitation. This research explores a proactive approach to securing smart HVAC manufacturing by automating security audits across these blended environments. The core objective is to design intelligent systems that continuously and autonomously assess the security posture of both IT and OT domains, especially at their intersection where traditional security frameworks often fall short. By automating vulnerability identification and assessment, the proposed framework aims to bridge critical gaps in visibility, communication, and threat response between IT and OT layers. The methodology emphasizes real-time monitoring, AI-driven anomaly detection, and automated patch management to ensure swift remediation of emerging threats. Leveraging advanced security automation tools including machine learning- based analytics, this approach reduces reliance on manual processes, minimizes human error, and provides scalable, adaptive defense mechanisms. Ultimately, the research contributes to building resilient, future-ready HVAC manufacturing systems that not only optimize performance through IT/OT unity but also stand strong against an evolving cyber threat landscape.