The Official Launch of the Smart Manufacturing Accelerator and Factory in a Box Demonstration

An automated, self-contained miniature factory, developed by the Universities of Birmingham and Loughborough in partnership with the Manufacturing Technology Centre, is set to help SMEs access the next generation of manufacturing techniques.

Called Factory in a Box (FIAB), the initiative provides intelligent factories that can be distributed, linked and centrally controlled. Contained within a unit the size of a shipping container, the factories are quickly deployable, flexible to use and can be rapidly scaled. They are fully digital and can be linked to a central control centre with remote monitoring and predictive maintenance capability.

Funded by the Energy Research Accelerator (ERA) through Innovate UK, FIAB is part of a new Smart Manufacturing Accelerator, set up by the partnership to bring smart, digitally-driven manufacturing within the grasp of SMEs. Known as the fourth industrial revolution, or Industry 4.0, these methods have the potential to revolutionise the way manufacturing is done, providing state-of-the-art manufacturing, but also connecting intelligently to the supply chain and customer to optimise production.

The Official Launch Event 

On Wednesday 13 March industry thought-leaders, academia, partners and stakeholders will come together for the official launch of the SMA and FIAB Box demonstration.

Hosted by the Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Ansty Park, Coventry, the one-day event is designed to encourage collaboration, networking and learning. Delegates will receive a unique opportunity to experience the innovative implementation of industrial digital technologies.  

Attendees will be given a live tour and demonstration of the FIAB, discover how industrial digital technologies can change the way businesses operate, as well as access interactive workshops and high-level presentations.

The event is free to attend but registration is essential. We only have limited space available, so book early to avoid disappointment.

Register to attend the official launch event of the Smart Manufacturing Accelerator and Factory in a Box Demonstration.