Addressing the macro challenges of manufacturing in the age of AI

Addressing the macro challenges of manufacturing in the age of AI

At the Hannover Messe, Greg Orloff from IIoT World had an insightful conversation with Johannes Mann, Sr. Director of Industry Solutions at Hexagon. They delved into the unique aspects of Hexagon’s latest innovations and strategies, particularly in managing data, technology, and human resources amidst evolving industrial challenges. Hexagon, renowned for its pioneering solutions, demonstrated how it harnesses technology to elevate operational efficiency and quality in manufacturing.

Embracing Software and AI in Manufacturing

Johannes underscored a significant shift at this year’s Hannover Messe, where there was a noticeable increase in booths and exhibitors focusing on software solutions, driven by AI. This shift reflects an industry-wide movement towards addressing macro challenges such as workforce skill gaps and increasing customer demands for quality. Hexagon, at the forefront of this movement, is demonstrating its commitment to addressing these challenges in industrial sectors like automotive and aerospace, which have traditionally focused on heavy machinery.

The Power of Integration: Hexagon’s PRESTO System

A key part of Hexagon’s showcase was the PRESTO system, which exemplifies the company’s approach to combining existing technological capabilities to meet contemporary industrial challenges. PRESTO integrates technologies such as laser scanning and tracking with robot programming to create sophisticated yet user-friendly systems that enhance productivity and precision in manufacturing processes.

Democratizing Robot Programming

Addressing the needs of small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Johannes explained how Hexagon is making advanced automation technologies more accessible. Recognizing that SMEs often lack the resources for complex robot programming, Hexagon has developed solutions that simplify the integration of automation technologies into their operations. The PRESTO modular, for instance, is a robotic measuring cell that allows for easy operation without the need for extensive programming expertise. This innovation not only lowers the barrier to entry for using advanced manufacturing technologies but also makes it feasible for smaller manufacturers to enhance their precision and efficiency.

Nexus: An Open Innovation Platform

Expanding on Hexagon’s initiatives, Johannes talks about Nexus, an open innovation platform designed to foster collaboration across geographic and departmental boundaries. Nexus plays a pivotal role in Hexagon’s strategy to effectively utilize data, enabling real-time access and collaboration. This, in turn, enhances decision-making processes and operational agility, thereby illustrating the significant impact of Hexagon’s initiatives on the manufacturing industry.

For more details, watch the video.

The interview was recorded by Greg Orloff during the Hannover Messe 2024. This summary was created based on the video transcript with the assistance of https://chat.openai.com. It was edited by the IIoT World team.