Why is sps focusing on the topic of 'Industrial AI' this year?

Sylke Schulz-Metzner: AI is nothing new per se - AI algorithms have been used in industry for years, albeit in secret.

With the emergence of ChatGPT, however, the topic has taken on a whole new significance in public perception, which is also vehemently impacting the industry. Today, there is probably no company that is not intensively involved with artificial intelligence for all possible applications. One example: Rockwell Automation recently reported in its annual report on the state of industrial manufacturing that 61% of cyber security experts in manufacturing are already planning to introduce AI, even for sensitive tasks such as cyber security.

For the PLC, this means that we cannot avoid the topic of AI. In fact, AI is increasingly becoming the central component and driver of digital transformation in manufacturing. Its use in industry offers cost savings, competitive advantages and higher productivity. Ergo: In order to offer visitors to the trade fair a wide range of information on the possible applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in industry, we are also placing a special focus on this topic at this year's trade fair.

How does sps support exhibitors in presenting their AI solutions?

We would like to give exhibitors the opportunity to highlight their offerings relating to Industrial AI in a targeted manner. That is why we are offering a special landing page on the SPS 2025 website that is entirely dedicated to this topic. There, visitors will find an exhibitor search with the filter 'AI' already preset. This provides them with a direct hit list of companies presenting AI or AI solutions. This makes it much easier for visitors to find their way around and also ensures that exhibitors and their innovative applications are better recognized.

Can you already say which formats are planned?

Our aforementioned landing page on Industrial AI will be a central point of contact for all information on the topic at the trade fair. There, visitors will not only find the AI applications that will be presented at the trade fair stands, but also information on other highlights. Our four trade fair forums play a particularly important role here. They offer a comprehensive lecture program that serves to transfer knowledge and gather information - and Industrial AI is one of the main topics.

The topic will be dealt with particularly intensively on the Technology Stage. Here, the VDMA and the ZVEI are putting together a top-class program that specifically addresses the needs of trade visitors. There will be special topic blocks in which interested parties can obtain comprehensive information in lectures, panel discussions and presentations, depending on their individual needs.

And those looking for a direct exchange will have the opportunity to do so in the Speakers' Corner right next to the forum. There, visitors can have personal discussions with the speakers after the presentations and ask specific questions.

How do exhibitors benefit from the focus on AI?

This year, the SPS is placing a special focus on Industrial AI because the topic is becoming increasingly important. Our aim is not only to make AI visible, but also to communicate it in an understandable way. We want to break down inhibitions and show the opportunities that arise from the use of AI in industry.

At the trade fair, exhibitors will have the opportunity to show very specifically which applications can already be realized with AI today. This will make it clear just how much processes can be optimized through the use of AI. Exhibitors will be able to vividly demonstrate to visitors the increases in efficiency that are possible.

And: The focus on Industrial AI is not just a topic for SPS 2025. We will also take this area into account in the coming years and continue to develop it further.