Valuechain, a software company that improves business productivity through digitalisation, are collaborating with the University’s Virtual Engineering Centre, to launch the DNA4.0 Smart Factory, at the Manufacturer Live, in Liverpool this November.
The LCR4.0 funded project will create a virtual rendering of a state of the art connected factory, that utilises latest digital manufacturing technologies and demonstrates best practice use cases of Industry 4.0 technologies.
DNA4.0 Smart Factory utilises virtual reality to demonstrate the impact of digitalisation on an SME’s valuechain. It follows the journey from sales, engineering, purchasing and raw materials stores through to production, inspection, finished goods stores and customer delivery. The immersive platform also showcases latest advanced manufacturing technologies that Valuechain have implemented with innovation leading businesses such as Airbus and Bentley Motors.
Lynn Dwyer from the Virtual Engineering Centre commented: “The DNA4.0 Smart Factory is a great example of how the VEC is supporting innovative businesses to embrace new digital technologies through the LCR4.0 programme. Our strategic partnership with Valuechain has enabled us to bridge the gap between emerging technologies and real-world manufacturing. We are excited that the virtual factory experience, will engage users at all levels, and the potential impact on schools, colleges and universities.”
Tom Dawes, Valuechain CEO, said:: “The DNA4.0 Smart Factory will engage manufacturing SMEs and encourage first steps towards a digital manufacturing strategy. By embedding the basic building blocks for manufacturing digitalisation, SMEs can free up valuable resource to focus on more advanced technologies. However, many SMEs lack the resource to experiment with new technologies that may not generate tangible return on investment. We are confident that by creating this immersive industry 4.0 experience, SME business leaders will be enthused by the tangible benefits of digital transformation, which will accelerate industry 4.0 adoption and improve UK productivity.”
“We believe that peer-to-peer collaboration is the best way to drive productivity improvements. DNA4.0 combines virtual environments for a range of manufacturing processes, from CNC machining to 3D printing, with real-world examples, to create a dynamic platform for engagement and collaboration across different sectors.”
The virtual factory will also incorporate an innovative gamification model with real world challenges to provide an engaging and educational platform that is accessible beyond traditional industry. Tom continued, “We are confident that DNA4.0 can address the digital manufacturing skills shortage by making manufacturing and STEM courses much more attractive to school pupils, apprentices and undergraduates.”
The DNA4.0 Smart Factory will be demonstrated at upcoming exhibitions, and will be available for the first time on the Invest Liverpool stand, at Smart Factory Expo, November 15, 2017.