Methodology: Every two weeks we collect most relevant posts on LinkedIn for selected topics and create an overall summary only based on these posts. If you´re interested in the single posts behind, you can find them here: https://linktr.ee/thomasallgeyer. Have a great read!
If you prefer listening, check out our podcast summarizing the most relevant insights from Smart Manufacturing CW 05/ 06:
Industrial AI Ecosystems
Dassault Systèmes and NVIDIA deepened their alliance around virtual twins, industry world models and science based industrial AI foundations
Siemens and NVIDIA co created an industrial AI operating system positioned to transform end to end manufacturing optimization
Germany launched its first industrial AI factory, signaling institutional backing for AI driven productivity across sectors
Microsoft’s industrial AI partner guide underlined that trusted data and curated partner ecosystems are prerequisites for successful initiatives
Virtual Factories
Digital twin initiatives expanded from single machines to full factories, linking real time shopfloor data with 3D and process models
Siemens showcased digital first factories, from Nanjing to new twin composer tools that optimize layouts before physical build decisions
CNC machining use cases showed how digital twins prevent issues in advance and streamline shopfloor management
Audi modernized production with EC4P virtualization, separating software from hardware to increase security and agility
Cloud ERP and MES
SAP cloud ERP and SAP digital manufacturing UX frameworks positioned cloud backbones as orchestration layers for plants and operators
Manufacturing execution systems evolved from pure execution engines toward intelligence layers that coordinate complex, data rich flows
Indumation highlighted software defined automation as a core principle, integrating technologies for smart manufacturing
Modern CAD and product development trends emphasized connected workflows for faster iterations and closer customer alignment
Data and Edge Foundations
Opinion leaders stressed that solving business problems and ensuring clean, trusted data outrank rapid, cosmetic AI deployments
Data integrity and reliable operational conditions were presented as non-negotiable foundations for any digital or AI initiative
Manufacturers focused on real time, accurate data as the basis for effective AI supported decision making on the shopfloor
Edge computing emerged as a core enabler, providing local processing, real time insights and reduced latency
Automation and Robotics
Automation and AI were positioned as central levers for competitiveness, moving toward concepts of self-running plants within guardrails
Agentic AI was highlighted as a way to automate problem detection and resolution in operations, reducing manual interventions
Robotics extended into new domains, from robotic fabrication in concrete construction to humanoid robots planned through simulation
Process automation gained attention in indirect areas, indicating productivity potential well beyond core production steps
Sustainable Production
Schneider Electric presented sustainable manufacturing as a combination of decarbonisation, digital transformation and innovative energy management
Cavite smart factory showcased 100 percent renewable energy operations, proving compatibility of sustainability and advanced production
Boom Supersonic used sustainable engine innovation to illustrate greener aviation models built on cutting edge industrial engineering
Siemens digital lighthouse factories exemplified how efficiency gains and long-term competitiveness can be achieved through digital first strategies
Operating Model and Skills
Automotive and industrial leaders argued for a shift from component centric thinking to learning organizations that continuously adapt
Investment in operational systems was seen as crucial, while gaps in human capital and skills remained a central concern
NPI and programme management were reframed as integrated systems, improving stability and coordination across development and production
Agile methodologies were promoted to enhance efficiency and adaptability in manufacturing projects and transformation journeys
Ecosystem and Events
Panels on smart manufacturing shared concrete best practices, linking players such as GE Vernova to real factory outcomes
Industry 4.0 was critically examined, with calls to move beyond buzzwords toward initiatives that deliver measurable results
Smart manufacturing forums and trade fairs reinforced community building around integration challenges and practical solutions
Discussions in Germany on cloud and AI highlighted strong regional engagement with modern architectures and their impact on factories
Want to see the posts voices behind this summary?
This week’s roundup (CW 05/ 06) brings you the Best of LinkedIn on Smart Manufacturing:
→ 60 handpicked posts that cut through the noise
→ 29 fresh voices worth following
→ 1 deep dive you don’t want to miss