Survey: Growing Adoption of Industry 4.0 Tech

A new study from Conexus Indiana reveals the number of advanced manufacturers in Indiana that have adopted or grown next generation technologies has doubled since last year. Conexus, the state’s advanced manufacturing and logistics industry initiative, says more than 40% have implemented Industry 4.0 technology, including cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence.

Conexus partnered with the Indiana University Kelley School of Business Center for Excellence in Manufacturing to survey nearly 140 companies. The organization says the survey included small, medium and large businesses.

“We will continue to measure Indiana companies’ tech adoption journey each year as we work collaboratively with our industry, academic and public-sector partners to ensure Indiana asserts leadership in Industry 4.0 adoption,” said Mitch Landess, vice president of Innovation and Digital Transformation for Conexus Indiana. “The year-over-year growth we have seen between 2020 and 2021 in tech adoption and awareness among Indiana companies shows we are headed in the right direction.”

The survey shows 39% of respondents have adopted 3D printing, up from 24% last year. The number of operations now using collaborative robots, also known as cobots, has grown from six percent to 22%.

The companies say the top reasons for implementing the digital technology is to boost productivity, improve quality and increase efficiency.

“Future steps need to include full integration of digital solutions across company-wide operations to realize the greatest impact of Industry 4.0 technologies,” said Mark Frohlich, director of the Center for Excellence in Manufacturing at IU Kelley School of Business

The study also shows 94% of the respondents that received Indiana Manufacturing Readiness Grants were able to accelerate or expand technology at their companies because of the funding. Click here to read the report.