Government invests €4 million in testbeds for new technologies
Projects will give companies a chance to experiment with innovative new technologies such as augmented reality, drones, 3D printing and the internet of things
Industry 4.0
"For many companies it's impractical to buy all the technologies that are available, or to train their employees to use them," said innovation minister Philippe Muyters. "Through the industry 4.0 testbeds they can find out which investments in technology, infrastructure and people might be interesting for them."
The government began to invest in testbeds in 2017, putting €3.5 million into seven projects. The 10 testbeds announced this week extend the coverage to more sectors and different themes.
Farming and construction
Some of the new projects are for specific sectors of the economy, for instance looking at the use of virtual and augmented reality in the construction industry, or how image processing can help detect diseases in agriculture and fruit growing. Another project will look at the use of drones in both agriculture and construction.
Projects with a broader scope will look at cybersecurity measures for companies of all kinds, and explore the potential for upgrading older industrial systems with new technologies, such as sensors and digital controllers. There will also be a facility for small and medium sized manufacturers who want to test software and systems that could make their processes more efficient.
Technologies with the potential to shape the workforce are also covered. One project will look at new approaches to employee training, beginning with the chemicals industry. Another will look at augmented reality systems capable of supporting laboratory technicians, process operators and maintenance technicians.
Most of the projects involve Flemish universities or university colleges, working together with industry associations. They will run until 2021.
Photo: valentinrussanov/Getty Images
