he advance of autonomous systems is unstoppable. Instead of a competitive advantage, autonomous systems will soon be a basic requirement to remain relevant and face complex tasks. ‘The Northern Netherlands is strategically well positioned to play a pioneering role.’
Not because it can be done, but because it brings great benefits to companies and organizations. From that science, autonomous systems are increasingly embraced as an answer to complex and urgent issues. The applications are as diverse as they are impactful: from predictive maintenance in the manufacturing industry to self-driving public transportation that enhances livability in rural areas.
‘The coming years will be about the development and implementation of autonomous systems in many sectors,’ says Hans Praat. ‘About self-learning and independently operating processes, to be precise. Simply because they make work more efficient, more sustainable and less labor-intensive. Where previously you deployed people, soon you will be deploying smart systems. It is not a choice, but an economic necessity. The companies that realize this will be the winners of tomorrow.’
Primary processes
Whether it’s industry, medical care, agriculture, energy or our living environment: we are facing major challenges everywhere. At the same time, the Netherlands is aging rapidly. In other words: we have to do a lot with fewer and fewer people. The solution lies in self-learning and independent processes that automatically adapt to changing circumstances. Robots and drones are just the tip of the iceberg; the essence of autonomous systems lies in their ability to intelligently and independently control and optimize primary processes. This is great, because it means we can keep earning power intact into the future.
The traditional one-time transaction is giving way to long-term collaborations and new business models.Hans talks, NOM
The traditional economy is reaching its limits, that much is clear. We are at a tipping point: personnel shortages are increasing, production costs are rising and customers are demanding more and more customization and shorter delivery times. The only way to stay competitive is to work smarter. Think of self-learning production lines that maximize output and quality. Intelligent logistics systems that determine the optimal route themselves. Or autonomous precision systems in agriculture that give crops exactly the right amount of water and nutrients. Systems that make companies more agile, productive and sustainable. Exactly what the market demands now that we are on the eve of a so-called Autonomous Economy.
Inevitable reality
‘The focus is mainly on the northern manufacturing industry,’ says Hans.’ And then in particular on supporting companies in developing autonomous systems, including building associated ecosystems and innovation programs. In terms of technology, I am not so much a content expert, but I know very well who are. By listening carefully to the right people and picking up ideas, you know early on where and why there are opportunities and bottlenecks in the field. It quickly became clear that autonomous systems will play a key role in the future economy and society. Not as a futuristic concept, but as a concrete and inevitable reality that is already taking shape in factories, on fields and on water.’
Other business models
The opportunities and challenges are numerous, especially for machine builders. After all, they need to develop an autonomous version of their current product range. Step by step, together with their customers. This involves significant changes. For example, a machine builder truly becomes a solution provider and no longer just a machine provider. ‘The traditional one-time transaction is making way for long-term partnerships and new revenue models,’ Hans clarifies. ‘At the same time, as a machine builder you are co-owner of your customers’ process. That means you have to finance autonomous systems differently, too.’
Forerunner
Of course, the transition to autonomous systems does not happen overnight. It is a gradual process, in which an ever closer network of initiatives and organizations is helping Northern Netherlands companies achieve their ambitions. Like EDIH NN that offers regional companies concrete support in their digitization issues and the development and use of autonomous systems. Or the Innovation Cluster Drachten (ICD) where companies work on practical applications for autonomous systems, while the RUG again provides fundamental research in the field of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems.
‘The Northern Netherlands is strategically well positioned to play a pioneering role in the development and implementation of autonomous systems,’ says Hans. ‘Not only have we established some unique partnerships here, but we also have a strong SME, with many niche players operating globally.’
According to Hans, now is the right time to build on that position and put autonomous systems even more firmly on the agenda. ‘Hence the National Autonomous Systems Congress that brings together frontrunners from various sectors. We were even able to rope in Boston Dynamics, the company behind the most advanced humanoid robots in the world. Their presence illustrates that we in the Northern Netherlands are taken seriously on the global stage of autonomous systems.’
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