Predictions about Industry 4.0 are everywhere. Autonomous machines will self-monitor and organize their own maintenance. Customized products will be built on highly flexible production floors that link to inventory systems, with just-in-time delivery of needed parts without human intervention. This week on the blog, Intel shares their insights into the organization changes needed for a successful Industry 4.0 transformation.

Recent years have seen Michigan’s economy grow consistently, with its manufacturing industry a main driver of this economic prosperity. The automotive sector has long been a cornerstone of Michigan’s economy, and to date remains the largest sector in its manufacturing industry. However, the automotive industry is experiencing rapid transformation: How can the state adapt to the Fourth Industrial Revolution and adopt the most relevant technologies at speed and scale to lead the transformation of the car industry, increase the state’s regional and global competitiveness and achieve sustainable growth?

If you’ve ever watched professional racing, one of the first things you may notice is how closely the drivers follow one another. Running bumper to bumper is a strategic method known as drafting. It enables the driver to enter the leading car’s aerodynamic slipstream in an effort to reduce the drag force on the vehicle, using the distribution of air pressure to improve fuel efficiency. Can this racing technique apply to a motorist on the highway? Can drafting behind a big rig or semi-truck really improve a car’s fuel efficiency? This week on the blog, Jason Craanen and Nicolas Zagorksi of Altair, discuss how they tested out their theory from the safety of their computers using the company’s Virtual Wind Tunnel simulation tool to perform the experiment.

Meet Automation Alley member Kundinger Controls and discover how this developer of customized smart technology parts and systems is utilizing Automation Alley as a platform to reach new clients and build its brand as an Industry 4.0 player.

Automation Alley added 18 new members in May. Click the link below to meet them.

Technology businesses have taken hold in Pontiac, Mich. After years of economic struggles, the once automotive boom town has become a haven for startups looking for modern work space and convenient location. Kayla Savale from DASI Solutions gives the rundown on what you need to know about how you can get involved with Pontiac’s growing tech scene.

One of the primary improvements provided by Industry 4.0 is the ability to free team members from mundane tasks, enabling them to think more strategically and be more flexible to the changing needs of the business. And what aspect of business has changed more drastically in recent years than HR? This week on the blog, Chuck Werner, of the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, discusses how new technologies can shift your workforce focus from tasks to strategy.

Ask most manufacturers if they want to be efficient or effective and they will likely answer: Yes. It’s not an obtuse or vague answer. They want to be both. And the well-worn path to success as they know it comes by being efficient. Gordon Stannis of Twisthink joins us on the blog to talk about how a balanced approach to being innovative and efficient can make your company successful.

With annual sales nearing $6 billion, Shaw Industries Group, Inc., a supplier of flooring products and synthetic turf, wanted to implement Industrial Internet of Things-based, real-time factory floor analytics. Learn how Automation Alley Foundation Members Splunk Inc. helped them answer important business questions and gain insight on key metrics.

Meet Automation Alley members Detroit Engineered Products and learn how this global engineering solutions and product development company is getting the most out of its Automation Alley membership.