Industry 4.0 technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, robotics and automation are no longer seen as the future of modern manufacturing.
It’s here and now is the time to keep up.
To help manufacturers adapt and grow, the Macomb County Department of Planning and Economic Development (MCPED) is offering a year-long series of workshops on how these emerging technologies are transforming the industry. Offered as part of the Macomb Next initiative in partnership with Velocity, attendees will learn more about Industry 4.0 and why it’s important for companies to stay on top of smart manufacturing or risk falling behind.
The first workshop will be held at Velocity in Sterling Heights on February 16th.
“Industry 4.0 is more than an industry buzzword. It’s transforming our business and the way we live, work and play,” said MCPED Director Vicky Rowinski. “In my role, I can see this transformation in real-time as I tour some of the most innovative and cutting-edge facilities in Macomb County.”
Industry 4.0 (I4.0) is the ongoing automation of manufacturing and industrial practices using modern intelligent technology. I4.0 helps manage and optimize all aspects of manufacturing processes and the supply chain. It provides access to the real-time data and insights needed to make smarter, faster decisions that can ultimately increase the efficiency and profitability of an entire operation.
The nine pillars of I4.0 include:
• Additive manufacturing (3D printing)
• Advanced robotics and automation
• Advanced simulation
• Big data and analytics
• Cloud Computing
• Internet security
• Internet of Things
• Virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR)
• Systems integration
These workshops, spread throughout 2023, will address these pillars and how connectivity, automation and real-time data can be implemented in a facility. A panel of industry experts and peer adopters will discuss these issues, as well as the return on investment and the role of workers in these changes. Vendors will also be present to answer questions and demonstrate new technologies available, as well as funding such as reimbursement grants for companies adding Industry 4.0 technologies.
“Velocity is excited to partner with the Macomb County planning and economic development team on this important event series for our business community,” said April Boyle, Senior Advisor, Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Velocity. “Our goal is to bring together the best content, connections, and easy-to-deploy tools and resources so our business can thrive and grow.”
The first workshop on February 16 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. deals with cloud computing and the Internet of Things. There will be keynote speaker George Singos, the Industry 4.0 Business Leader Advisor for Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, and a panel discussion with Heidi Devroy (Prosper Tech), John Babi (L&L Products) and Mike Rumel (Fisher Dynamics), who will discuss their experiences in implementing these technologies.
“These events are for manufacturers of all sizes,” Rowinski said. “Those involved in key operational decisions are encouraged to join us for breakfast, followed by an opportunity to listen, ask questions and network.”
Participation is free, but places are limited. Visit macombnext.com to register.
Other Industry 4.0 workshops in the series are:
• April 13 – Systems Integration, Big Data and Analytics
• June 15 – Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality
• August 17 – Additive manufacturing (3D printing), advanced robotics and automation
• 19 Oct – Cyber Security
For more information on Macomb Next initiatives, visit macombnext.com.
