The EU supports the widespread uptake of digital technologies in manufacturing business operations. Since 2013, the I4MS initiative has helped SMEs and mid-caps to improve their products, business processes, and business models via digital technologies. Launching the 4th phase of this initiative, Digital Innovation Hubs are called for that strengthen European SMEs and mid-caps by experimenting and testing Artificial Intelligence techniques in manufacturing. Experiments should aggregate and analyse data from multiple sources.
In addition to AI, the call invites for testing and experimentation actions in other areas, such as:
- Smart modelling, simulation, and optimisation for digital twins
- Laser based equipment in advanced and additive manufacturing
- Cognitive autonomous systems and human-robot interaction
The participation of Digital Innovation Hubs in so far underrepresented regions is particularly encouraged.