This event, set to take place on the prominent Tech Lane (Graaf Karel de Goedelaan), will provide participants with unique insights into three leading Living Labs: VEG-i-TEC, Sirris, and Flanders Make
Kortrijk, part of Belgium’s economically vibrant Flanders region, is recognized for its advanced industrial base and is a hub for technology-driven innovation. Its strong agri-food sector is characterized by a high level of automation and significant export activities, reflecting the region’s competitive position in the global market.
The study visit will tackle critical "barrier cases," specifically focusing on comprehensive data management challenges prevalent in modern industrial settings. Through hands-on workshops, demonstrations, and focused breakout sessions, participants will examine methodologies in data capturing, monitoring, visualization, architecture, ownership, and confidentiality.
Day 1: May 6
Participants will start their exploration at the House of Manufacturing, a renowned facility where innovation meets practical application:
- At VEG-i-TEC, a state-of-the-art pilot infrastructure, attendees will delve into the complexities of vegetable and potato processing. The lab focuses on product and process optimization, sustainable resource management, circular economy initiatives, and 'Smart Food' innovations—crucial elements for enhancing efficiency and sustainability in the agri-food industry.
- Sirris, located in the House of Manufacturing, features the 'Industrie 4.0 Made Real Experience Center,' a cutting-edge facility dedicated to smart assembly and digital integration in manufacturing. Demonstrations will highlight real-time data applications involving supervisors (augmented reality solutions), operators (process training and control), cobots (collaborative robots performing quality checks), warehouse automation, and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).
The first day concludes with breakout sessions, aiming to collaboratively solve data-related barriers and facilitate the practical implementation of innovative solutions within Living Labs.
Day 2: May 7
Participants will be hosted by Flanders Make, a leading innovation center focused on smart and digital manufacturing solutions. This Living Lab specializes in helping industries transition to digital factories using advanced technologies such as digital twins, smart robotics, and automation:
- Attendees will explore digital twins and their role in replicating and optimizing factory operations virtually.
- Insights will be provided into advanced smart camera technologies, photonics for improved food quality and safety, expert chatbots for technical assistance, and innovative robotic gripper technologies.
Interactive breakout sessions will enable participants to dive deeper into data challenges, encouraging cross-regional collaboration and innovation sharing.
This comprehensive study visit to Kortrijk is a crucial step in SIXFOLD’s broader initiative, facilitating collaboration between SMEs, researchers, and policy makers to transform advanced technologies into practical, scalable solutions across Europe's agri-food sector.