Sensor networks, the Internet of Things and advanced models are going to enable major efficiency gains in the sustainable management and maintenance of our very expensive infrastructure. New technological developments such as sensors, smart materials, 3D printing, or sustainable use of materials can help keep the manufacturing industry in the Netherlands healthy and competitive. This requires not only new design tools, but also new business models and organisational chains tailored to the technical possibilities.
Connecting character
The combination of emerging technologies, such as the Internet of Things, microsensors, autonomous sensor networks, robotics and big data make entirely new products and services possible. Provided that ICT for information sharing in the chain and adapted production, distribution and service processes are developed at the same time. These are the technologies that will make our industry smarter and maintain its competitiveness and associated employment. The industry is not talking about a fourth industrial revolution for nothing. 3D printing could mean a paradigm shift for the manufacturing industry: from large production halls, we are moving to containerised companies and 3D copy shops around the corner. Developments are rapid and, moreover, on multiple scales simultaneously: from designing new materials to foodstuffs, biomedical materials and entire houses. The numerical design tools that allow you to create ready-to-print designs are not yet available, especially for the complex materials. Fundamental research into numerical modelling in combination with materials research and characterisation is needed to make a move in this area. There is a solid knowledge infrastructure in the Netherlands, which is well embedded in the industrial landscape. The demand ties in with the top sectors, especially High Tech Systems and Materials, Chemistry, Life Sciences & Health, Creative Industry and Logistics, and with the policy fields 'Deploying New Technologies', 'Strong and Innovative Green Knowledge Economy', and 'New Technologies for Defence'.
