Germany is immersed in what some are calling the fourth industrial revolution – dubbed Industry 4.0 – and machine builders, automation vendors and industrial end-users are adding to the concept.

The future of tool manufacturing is a smart one: Industry 4.0 is advancing quickly and demands not only smart factories but also smart tools. Data analysis and adaptability are key for keeping up to date.

Germany - The collection and analysis of data is the corner stone of Industry 4.0. Many manufacturers buy new machines because the old ones lack this function and are not equipped with the neccesary technology. Fraunhofer IPT now makes it possible to make old machines fit for Industry 4.0 with its V-Box.

Germany – Additive manufacturing is booming with worldwide sales in 2016 forecast to increase by around 30% to more than US$7bn. An industry pioneer is Concept Laser of Lichtenfels, Germany. The company continues to lead today, now with its vision of the “AM Factory of Tomorrow”.

Japan - Turning, multitasking or 5-axis machining are terms Okuma has long been known for in the manufacturing world. Now, the Japan-based machine tool maker introduces a machine that "can do it all in one": milling, turning, grinding, laser-hardening and 3D metal printing.