AI heralds new wave of industrial revolution at Hannover Messe 2024

Robots that can be controlled by voice and learn independently, machines that automatically recognize defects, systems that reduce downtime through predictive maintenance, and generative artificial intelligence (AI) that is rapidly acquiring the ability to design machines. This year's Hannover Messe 2024 in Germany is all about AI that is heralding a new wave of industrial revolution.

One of the world's most established industrial trade fairs, this year's Hannover Messe opened on Monday with the theme "Energizing a Sustainable Industry" and is showcasing how AI is revolutionizing industrial processes at a breathtaking pace.

As previous years, multinational tech heavyweights such as Siemens, Google, Microsoft, Bosch and Schneider Electric are among the 4,000 or so exhibitors showcasing their latest innovations in AI, robotics and machine learning at this year's fair.

French multinational Schneider Electric brought their latest medicine production line to the event, which features next-generation automation and advanced industrial robotics technology capable of boosting flexibility, productivity and safety in operation.

"During the old days, when we found that something had gone wrong in one specific part of the production line, we had to shut down the entire process, which often led to reduced productivity. Now, we can use AI technology to remove the malfunctioning part from the production line in a quick and flexible way," said Gu Yue, vice president and head of Marketing of Schneider Electric's China and East Asia Operations, in an interview with China Central Television (CCTV).

Rainer Brehm, CEO of Factory Automation at Siemens Digital Industries, is optimistic about the application of generative AI, which he believes will significantly improve machine learning capabilities and take the automation of industrial manufacturing to the next level.

"For me, the highlight of this fair is really using generative AI at manufacturing, at a real machine. You can ask the machine how I can run faster with a higher quality and the machine answers you, where the machine thinks you can optimize. It's applied to a lot of areas, to all machine building, to car manufacturing, to machine building for battery industry, for solar industry, for tire industry, but also in the food and beverage area," he said.

Sustainability is also a key topic at this year's Hannover Messe with exhibitors showcasing technologies for a carbon-neutral industry.

This year's fair lasts till Friday.

AI heralds new wave of industrial revolution at Hannover Messe 2024

On his second official visit to China, Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu Charlot Salwai expressed admiration for China's remarkable ability to balance preserving its cultural heritage with embracing innovative transformation.

Salwai paid an official visit to China from July 7 to 12. During his trip, he toured the southern province of Guangdong and explored the megacities of Beijing and Shanghai. His visit included tours of high-tech companies, a ride on a high-speed train, and a performance of traditional Cantonese opera.

In an interview with China Central Television Network (CCTV) aired on Friday, Salwai recounted his journey starting with a warm welcome that included enjoying Beijing Roast Duck, also known as Peking Duck -- a culinary delight introduced to him by the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu.

"Many had to say. Peking Duck. Because we had it here on our arrival, so it was very tasty. And I understand that the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu brought us to one of the traditional restaurants, small but beautiful," he said. The prime minister sees China's preservation of its culture as a vital lesson in understanding one's roots and the journey to the present day, acknowledging China's efforts to integrate cultural preservation with modernization.

"It's going to be my second official visit to China. I'm always impressed to see big changes and especially innovations made by China and especially the cities. Because a big impression is to see how China continues to maintain and keep its culture. Because I think it's the basis of everything -- to know where you come from and to understand where we are today. I feel that China is doing a lot to maintain its culture, but at the same time, doing, innovating to transform its culture,” Salwai said.

He also emphasized the importance of learning from China's sustainable development strategies.

"Today, it comes from a long way, some hardship, the government, and also the people of China. So, I'm impressed to see what is done, especially how China associates infrastructure development with nature. That's meant to keep, continue to keep the environment. It takes effort with the climate change by maintaining the ecosystem. I think it's something that, for a small country like Vanuatu, is important to learn. So, we are here. I'm here with my delegation to learn," Salwai said.

Vanuatu's PM commends China's cultural preservation, innovation amid fast growth