AI to take the spotlight at EMO Hannover 2025

By Staff Report July 10, 2025 5:44 pm IST

AI will be a key focus at EMO Hannover 2025, highlighting its role in transforming modern manufacturing through smart, efficient solutions.

Artificial intelligence is fast emerging as a key driver of industrial competitiveness. According to recent surveys, 80 percent of companies consider AI crucial for the future, with 42 percent already deploying it in production whether for machine monitoring, intelligent control of robots, or improving energy efficiency.

“Artificial intelligence is one of the focus topics at EMO 2025. There is currently an ongoing global debate about whether it is a game changer for the production of tomorrow and what promising possible applications there are for this technology,” said Dr. Markus Heering, Executive Director of the VDW (German Machine Tool Builders’ Association), during the EMO 2025 Preview in Frankfurt.

To explore AI’s growing role in manufacturing, this year’s event will feature the AI Hub@EMO 2025, a dedicated space that brings together live demonstrations and real-world use cases. Organised in collaboration with ProKI Netz, part of the WGP (German Academic Association for Production Technology), the initiative aims to share practical knowledge and research insights on AI implementation.

“Demonstrators at the AI Hub will show application scenarios and prototype solutions for the use of AI in the metalworking sector,” Dr. Heering explained. Experts from the research community will be available to provide both general guidance and deeper technical insights.

Shifting to a Process-Driven Approach

One of the key perspectives being introduced at EMO 2025 is a shift from a data-driven to a process-driven approach in applying AI.

“For the first time, we are pursuing a process-driven approach rather than a data-driven one and that makes a big difference,” said Prof. Jürgen Krüger, AI expert at WGP and co-author of the position paper AI in Production. Rather than simply analysing available data, this model begins by understanding the production process itself, identifying where targeted data collection and AI application can deliver real improvements.

This methodology enables more efficient and precise integration of AI into operations enhancing energy efficiency, improving surface quality, reducing processing times, and streamlining human-machine interaction. Some exhibitors will showcase AI-powered systems for error recognition or simplified interfaces, while others will highlight solutions for condition monitoring, programming, and commissioning.

Matching AI Solutions to Real-World Needs

The AI Hub@EMO 2025 is designed to cater to the diverse needs of different industrial sectors. From intelligent automation to energy-optimised processes, the variety of use cases on display will help visitors discover tailored solutions and engage directly with specialists at exhibitor stands.

“The good news is that several manufacturing nations, such as Germany, are also at the forefront of industrial AI,” Dr. Heering added. “We benefit from our engineering expertise with regard to industry-specific models and in-depth knowledge of supply chains. There is a great deal happening in the entire industry, and the EMO will play its part in highlighting this.”

EMO Hannover 2025, taking place from September 22 to 26, will serve as a key platform for showcasing how artificial intelligence is reshaping modern manufacturing offering smarter, more efficient, and future-ready solutions for the global industry.