The 4ZDM cluster is at the heart of developing cutting edge quality control methods using digital technologies like AI, machine learning, and advanced data analytics. Alongside these advances in software, progress has also been made in hardware such as intelligent sensors and embedded IoT systems.

Together, advances like these are now being used in industry and they have allowed a new quality control paradigm to emerge that ensures the prevention of defects in manufacturing processes before they occur. This zero-defect, right-first-time approach is integral to modern manufacturing strategies for improving efficiency and reducing waste – and 4ZDM projects are continuing their efforts to improve things even more.

 In a recent edition of Projects Magazine, which is produced by 4ZDM member Insight Media, these project, alongside others in this sector, an overview of some of the most cutting-edge research being done around the concept of zero-defect manufacturing was published

 Aside from these projects, all of which have been funded through the European Factories of the Future Research Association (EFFRA), interviews and thought pieces with some key figures involved in industrial transformation in Europe were also included, with figures like Rainer Brehm of Siemens, Gerd Leonhard of The Futures Agency and EFFRA’s very own Chris Decubber, providing valuable insight into the development of ZDM technologies.

It is striking to read this publication and to hear how important the march towards carbon-zero and sustainability is to those involved. Although these kinds of targets are embedded in the framework of European funding, it is inspiring to know that this generation of researchers have taken this attitude to heart. The climate and our planet are the responsibility of us all, and improving industry in line with these principles will help create a better future for everyone

Another thread running through much of this edition of Projects Magazine is the paradigm shift towards human-centric innovation – a broadening of perspective that considers the holistic effect of the new wave of technologies coming through, beyond impacts such as increased efficiency and profitability to include the wellbeing of people working in industry as well as the rest of society. This human-centric approach is apparent in every single one of the projects featured in this publication, and it is hard not to agree that this is a positive step in the right direction.

Insight Media is delighted to include a digital edition of this publication as a resource for those interested in zero-defects manufacturing and following the work of our cluster. You can read it here.

If you would like to feature in a forthcoming edition of the magazine focusing on advanced manufacturing, contact Sam Davis at Insight Media on sam@insightm.co.uk