MACH 2018 Preview: big data and interconnected technology take centre stage

The Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) and the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), have together created a feature at MACH 2018 demonstrating cost-effective adaption of Industry 4.0 Technologies by SMEs. The project was prompted by perceived implications among SMEs of high cost and complexity.

The feature will demonstrate up to six separate manufacturing cells, replicating familiar manufacturing environments that have been integrated with Industry 4.0 Technologies. “The Integrated Manufacturing Group at [AMRC’s] Factory 2050 and we at the MTA understand that it is vital to cut through some of the jargon and hyperbole around Industry 4.0 and show first-hand the practical advantages Big Data can bring to an SME business,” said James Selka, CEO of the MTA.

Machining and turning centres

The influence of this holistic approach is apparent in the presentations of the major machine-tool builders. Productive complete machining, and ‘digital workflow’ are core issues for DMG MORI (Stand H20: 490). Its CELOS interface is a key element: first presented in 2017, digital workflows for data-supported production planning and automated tool management will be available for customers as CELOS early this year.