Building on strength

Prime minister Theresa May has outlined steps in an industrial strategy to build on the country’s strengths.

The government has announced plans to invest £2bn into technology and science. Specifically, a new scheme will be launched to "best support emerging fields such as robotics and artificial intelligence, industrial biotechnology and medical technology, satellites and advanced materials manufacturing.”

Martin Walder, vice president of industry at Schneider Electric, said: “Smart manufacturing and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is well on the road to a game-changing evolution, and has its origins in technologies developed by visionary automation suppliers more than 15 years ago – it’s not some hyped up notion years away from reality. While it’s encouraging to see steps being taken to ensure that British businesses are given every opportunity to be at the forefront of change, it is crucial that fresh investment and R&D is put to use in the right way.

“In order to combat the stagnating UK manufacturing sector and ensure that the UK is empowered to produce the best products in the most cost effective way, Government investment needs to focus on the likes of automation and connected enterprises. An Internet of Things-enabled industrial environment is vital for pushing the boundaries of technological innovation – from the application of augmented reality for plant maintenance, and the rollout of smart sensing technology, to predictive maintenance, Virtual Reality tools and processes, and the integration of robotics on the factory floor.

“If this investment is channeled in the right way we can expect to see greater improvements in efficiency and profitability, increased cybersecurity and innovation, and the better management of safety, performance and environmental impact.”