Industry 4.0 – the digitising and automation of the factory and supply chain – is set to be the biggest change in manufacturing industry since the introduction of the first robots. But many manufacturers still don’t understand the business benefits, according to experts at the Manufacturing Technology Centre.
Now the MTC is to hold an event at the Lloyds Bank Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre on the MTC campus in Coventry, aimed at explaining Industry 4.0 and its benefits for manufacturers. Entitled “From Industry 4.0 to Digital Manufacturing – an End-User Perspective” the event will be held on November 26.
Many manufacturers in the UK don’t know what Industry 4.0 means, its potential impact on industry in general and their business in particular, and they don’t know how to respond to the technological challenges and implications.
The MTC’s Dr Lina Huertas said, “The conversation has been dominated by the technology and software providers and many manufacturers feel they have been left out. They don’t see the benefits, they fear the risks, and they don’t know who to turn to for reliable information and support.
“This event addresses that shortfall, aimed specifically at end-users and those who will be most affected by this digital industrial revolution. Drawing on the experiences of those who have already begun the process of implementation, the conference will by-pass the techno-speak to give a clear overview of Industry 4.0 from a manufacturer’s point of view, providing insights on its potential for UK industry.”
Pioneers of Industry 4.0 in the UK will be joined by manufacturers from Germany – acknowledged European leaders in the development of Industry 4.0 – to share their experiences and provide advice on remaining at the forefront of business using the new technologies available.
Dr Huertas added, “The MTC has been monitoring global Industry 4.0 developments in digital manufacturing technologies as well as engaging on a national and European level. End users will be able to draw on the MTC’s knowledge and capabilities to run real-world trials and test the novel technologies required as they embark on their digital journey. This will help them form a view on how to engage, and realise the competitive advantages and business benefits which can accrue.”
The MTC opened in 2010 and is a partnership between some of the UK’s major global manufacturers and three forward-thinking universities: Birmingham, Nottingham and Loughborough as well as TWI Ltd.
The MTC aims to provide a competitive environment to bridge the gap between university-based research and the development of innovative manufacturing solutions, in line with the Government’s manufacturing strategy. The MTC is part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, supported by Innovate UK.