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In the machine industry the customer needs and available technologies evolve rapidly. Machine builders need to keep up with this dynamic pace. Currently the biggest trend is focusing on collected data. This way machine builders can easily localise the areas that need improvement. It is all about flexibility, error prevention (for example by adapting digital twin technology), remote monitoring and higher efficiency supported by proven machine building solutions.

Artificial intelligence is becoming a key driver of innovation in industrial equipment, helping manufacturers improve productivity, quality and operational efficiency. It is now among the top priorities for machinery manufacturers as they accelerate digital transformation initiatives.

Key capabilities include:

• artificial intelligence (AI) for engineering, production and maintenance optimisation,
  
• data-driven decision-making powered by real-time analytics,
  
• predictive maintenance to minimise unplanned downtime,
  
• industry 4.0 connectivity linking machines, systems and production data.
  

Together, these technologies are enabling smarter, more connected and increasingly autonomous industrial equipment.

Digital twins enable machine builders to validate layouts, machine behaviour and control logic in a virtual environment before physical commissioning. By identifying potential issues earlier in the development process, OEMs can reduce rework, shorten commissioning times and improve project outcomes. Solutions such as Mitsubishi Electric's MELSOFT Gemini support this approach through 3D simulation and virtual commissioning capabilities that allow machine designs to be tested before deployment.

Connected machines continue to deliver value long after commissioning by providing access to real-time operational data. This allows manufacturers to move beyond reactive maintenance and take a more proactive approach to equipment performance, helping reduce downtime, improve productivity and support continuous improvement throughout the machine lifecycle.

Areas where connected machines create value:

• predictive maintenance that helps identify potential issues before they lead to unplanned downtime,
  
• remote monitoring and diagnostics that enable faster troubleshooting and support,
  
• performance optimisation through continuous analysis of operational data,
  
• data-driven decision-making that helps users improve efficiency and resource utilisation,
  
• greater operational visibility across machines, production lines and facilities.

By turning machine data into actionable insights, connected equipment helps manufacturers maximise asset performance and unlock ongoing value throughout the life of the machine.

In an increasingly popular closed-loop product life cycle management, machine builders can collect data live pretty much from every step of the cycle. OEMs can reduce design complexity by creating feedback loops between engineering, manufacturing and machine operation. By reusing proven designs, analysing performance data and identifying issues earlier in the development process, machine builders can streamline engineering efforts while maintaining or even improving machine performance.

To remain competitive, machine builders are increasingly combining traditional engineering expertise with digital capabilities such as AI, connected equipment and software-based services. These technologies help improve machine performance, support continuous innovation and create new value beyond the initial sale. The principles outlined in the four pillars of machine building highlight how digitalisation, flexibility and lifecycle thinking are becoming critical differentiators for machinery manufacturers.

Sources:

• Bain & Company. Global Machinery & Equipment Report 2024: Faster. Smarter. More Connected. Available at: https://www.bain.com/insights/... (accessed October 2026).
  
• Bain & Company. Machinery industry can seize up to 50% productivity boost from ‘factory of the future’ innovations led by AI – Bain & Co report. Available at: https://www.bain.com/about/med... (accessed October 2026).
  
• Deloitte. Industry 4.0, Smart Factory, and Connected Manufacturing. Available at: https://www.deloitte.com/us/en... (accessed October 2026).
  
• Mitsubishi Electric. Solving Manufacturing Challenges with Digital Twin Technology – MELSOFT Gemini. Available at: https://www.mitsubishielectric... (accessed October 2026).
  
• Mitsubishi Electric. MELSOFT Gemini 3D Simulator.
  Available at: https://emea-fa.mitsubishielec... (accessed October 2026).