Robots that are as simple to operate as smartphones. Machines that learn from their mistakes. Energy systems that are digitally integrated and controlled. And all of it totally human-centred. That’s Industry 4.0.

Hannover Messe 2017 opens in about ten weeks’ time. The show, which runs from 24 to 28 April, will sport a rich array of highlights, including a record 500-plus Industry 4.0 applications, self-learning robots with near-human touch sensitivity, and advanced technology solutions for a more sustainable energy future.

“The technologies needed for the successful digitalisation of industrial production are fully developed and ready to go,” commented Deutsche Messe Managing Board member Jochen Köckler.” “The task now is to ensure that decision makers from industry and the energy sector understand the direct, long-term benefits that digitalisation can offer them and their organisations, business models and employees,” he added. “Challenging people to ‘think outside the box,’ highlighting all the various ways in which digitalisation can add value, and opening up new markets – that’s what this year’s Hannover Messe is all about, with its lead theme of Integrated Industry – Creating Value.” The show will have around 6,500 exhibitors and feature Poland as its official Partner Country.

With Industry 4.0, integrated energy, digital twins, machine learning, predictive maintenance, smart materials, and networked and collaborative robots (cobots), companies of all sizes today have a multitude of high-tech solutions to choose from. But often they find it difficult to predict what value these sorts of solutions might add. Which is where Hannover Messe 2017 comes in. Köckler: “The world’s leading trade fair for industrial technology will present solutions for all parts of the industrial landscape. It’s a landscape in which mechanical engineering and IT are converging. This is digitalization, and Hannover Messe will show visitors how to recognize its benefits and make them their own.”

Innovation and growth – two key areas in which Poland is set to shine as the official Partner Country at Hannover Messe 2017. Apart from domestic reindustrialisation, the country’s main economic focus is on opening up foreign markets and supporting innovative Polish companies. Around 150 of these companies will feature at this year’s Hannover Messe. Together, they will mount a Partner Country showcase that will centre on the themes of energy and IT.

Hannover Messe 2017 will be officially opened by German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Polish Prime Minister Beata Szydlo. Köckler: “In light of the current geopolitical situation, Poland’s participation as Partner Country sends an important signal about the strength of the European Community. Hannover Messe turns 60 this year. Now, more than at any other time in its history, it is a platform for free and fair trade – both in Europe and around the world.”