Industry 4.0 has given way to Industry 5.0, and the manufacturing sector is poised to take this to the next level, with the concept to be fully explored at the Modern Manufacturing Town Hall, which will be held at the Waterview Conference Centre, Sydney Olympic Park, on 30 March.
The Modern Manufacturing Town Hall is an educational event that incorporates the launch of the Modern Manufacturing Expo 2022 and is supported by the Sydney Manufacturing Hub – a new core research facility at University of Sydney (USyd) dedicated to additive manufacturing and advanced materials processing.
It focuses on the production of lighter, stronger and more flexible components in a manner that minimises waste, and will feature presentations from NSW manufacturers and a seminar series on best practice in modern manufacturing from industry leaders.
“We classify Modern Manufacturing as automation that removes the need for human input in process, resulting in less error and less labour-intensive work,” said Gwenaelle Proust, academic deputy director of USyd's Sydney Manufacturing Hub.
“Investing in technology that allows operations to become less labour-intensive helps manufacturers to increase production and cut costs – thereby becoming more competitive and able to claim greater market share.”
Increasing local capabilities
The newly launched Sydney Manufacturing Hub is a core research facility dedicated to advanced materials processing and additive manufacturing.
It provides capabilities for design, topological optimisation, the 3D printing of metals, ceramics and polymers, as well as post-processing heat treatment, advanced characterisation and more – paving the way for new technology in industries like aerospace, autonomous vehicles, biomedical, defence, maritime and robotics.
“Key local industries will benefit from enhanced additive manufacturing through the reduction of material waste, simplified supply chains, and an independent capacity to create materials, components and even whole machines,” added Proust.
“These capabilities will give local manufacturers the edge needed to compete at a global scale.”
Sydney at the forefront of innovation
Commenting on why the Hub was launched, Proust explained that as an educational institution, USyd needed to stay abreast of the latest technology trends.
“Many new technologies have been introduced in recent years, and we want our researchers to test and use them in various University projects,” Proust continued.
“Looking at the bigger picture, we are also aware of a significant shift that has taken place in manufacturing. Many smaller manufacturers are interested in integrating these new tools into their operations, but do not have the knowledge or budget necessary to do so.
“The University’s Manufacturing Hub gives manufacturers a place where they can try before they buy – see what technology is available, get help from researchers on how to implement it in their companies, and get the base work done before making a large investment.”
With the launch of the Modern Manufacturing Town Hall, Sydney is set to establish itself as the “modern manufacturing hub of Australia”.
Organised by the International Exhibition & Conference Group (IEC), the Modern Manufacturing Town Hall aims to further the Hub’s mission of democratising access to the latest technological advances in modern manufacturing.
“We really need the industry in NSW to be part of this effort, and assist us in getting information around so that smaller companies can learn by looking at what big companies are doing,” said Proust.
“This is also a platform to see what companies need in terms of research, development and collaboration with academia – so feedback is welcome.”
IEC Group CEO Marie Kinsella hopes to see smaller manufacturers in particular attend, as the Modern Manufacturing Town Hall is a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of the brains trust that will lead Australia to establishing a strong, modern and sustainable manufacturing sector”.
What to expect from the Town Hall
Modern Manufacturing Town Hall attendees can expect to hear from industry leading multinationals such as Thales, Romar and Stryker, on how they have applied modern manufacturing.
These companies have drawn from a wealth of experience in terms of Modern Manufacturing tools and processes thanks to their established partnerships with the Hub.
“The Town Hall is a great opportunity for people who are curious about modern manufacturing, and want to hear from companies that are already using advanced technologies,” said Proust.
“There will be sessions on topics such as safety, quality control, best practice, and how new technologies can be best implemented in the manufacturing chain.”
If smaller manufacturers needed any further incentive to attend, the Town Hall program will include a presentation from both the NSW and federal government on their commitment to modern manufacturing.
The government has launched several grants that are available to manufacturers to help them invest in new technology, in the hopes of removing the financial barrier to implementation and advancing the industry.
“The Town Hall is an opportunity to learn more about what is involved in applying for these grants, as well as a chance to network with the government representatives who may hold the key to unlocking Industry 5.0 on your factory floor,” explained Kinsella.
Giving local companies the competitive edge
When asked what advice she has for manufacturers, Proust encourages the industry to take a chance on new technology.
“Take advantage of this new opportunity to modernise your manufacturing facility. Come and see what is out there in terms of technology and government support to help manufacturers invest in their operations,” Proust said.
Kinsella also noted that the Modern Manufacturing Town Hall is a preview of what’s to come later in the year at the larger Modern Manufacturing Expo, to be held at the Sydney Showgrounds on 20-21 September.
The Expo will highlight the future of manufacturing and pathways for digital transformation, with a focus on the latest technology, equipment and operational models.
For more details on the Modern Manufacturing Town Hall, visit the event website.
