Automation Alley in Troy, Michigan’s Industry 4.0 knowledge hub and World Economic Forum Advanced Manufacturing Hub (AMHUB) for North America, is hosting its annual Industry 4.0 conference, Integr8, at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi on May 10.
Building on Automation Alley’s previous Industry 4.0 conferences, Integr8 2022 will include breakout sessions, presentations from industry experts, an exhibition featuring advanced technologies, a new additive manufacturing pitch competition, and keynotes from Microsoft’s Jeff Winter and computer software company PTC’s Howard Heppelmann.
Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center also will return with its Smart Technology Zone featuring its Technical Assessment and Implementation Team and partner technology suppliers for five interactive sessions on Industry 4.0 technologies.
“Integr8 2022 is back with new energy, inspired by the role Industry 4.0 processes and solutions played in creating rapid-response solutions to pandemic-induced global business disruptions,” says Tom Kelly, executive director and CEO of Automation Alley. “Automation Alley is excited to bring this level of advanced manufacturing and digital transformation leadership to Integr8 attendees to help them succeed on their Industry 4.0 journey.”
Joining Integr8 for the first time is the Project DIAMOnD Experience. Led by Automation Alley, Project DIAMOnD aims to create the country’s largest 3D printing marketplace and network by engaging small- and medium-sized manufacturers in their digital transformation.
Guiding Integr8 2022 participants through three areas — physical technology, community, and design automation — the showcase will feature partnered companies, interactive displays, success stories, and real-world examples with opportunities to explore, discover and connect face-to-face.
Also new in 2022, Michigan businesses with a manufacturing facility in the state and fewer than 500 employees are encouraged to participate in a pitch competition presented by Automation Alley in partnership with Pure Michigan Business Connect. Applicants must explain how a 3-D industrial printer would solve a labor, capacity, or process challenge and support the overall business.
The grand prize is a Photocentric LC Magna 3-D printer, including Air Wash L, Cure L2, and a one-year CAD software package provided by Southfield-based Core Technolgie. The prize package is valued at more than $42,000. The pitch application can be found here; applications are accepted through April 7. On April 27, selected applicants will be invited to participate in the Integr8 pitch competition at the May 10 event.
Integr8 ticket prices for Automation Alley members are $199, non-member tickets are $299. Virtual tickets are $49. As an extra benefit this year, the Michigan Economic Development Corp. will provide all small to medium-sized Michigan manufacturers one free ticket per company to attend Integr8 2022 in-person.
More information on the MEDC courtesy rate and other Integr8 details, including registration, are available here.
