Industrial metaverse set to grow
March 2024
News
The industrial metaverse (IMV) is set to greatly enhance manufacturing engineering, training, safety and production. According to a new report from global technology intelligence firm ABI Research, spending on industrial metaverse solutions and services will grow at 22,8% per annum to reach $6,3 billion by 2030, as immersive and collaborative capabilities come to the forefront of Industry 4.0 software development efforts.
IMV solutions use immersive technologies and digital twin initiatives, integrating data virtualisation, AI simulation, business operations systems, and external data sources to enable connectivity between digital twins and other systems. “Top IMV use cases for 2024 will be in training, collaboration and production planning, with a strong emphasis on solutions that drive positive business outcomes in a short timeframe,” explains senior research director, Ryan Martin. “Large deployments that are costly or take a long time to demonstrate value will be avoided in favour of smaller projects that drive incremental results that scale.”
Examples of companies creating immersive metaverse experiences include Norwegian clean battery producer FREYR, Siemens Industrial Operations and NVIDIA Omniverse. Danone is using cameras to capture 3D imagery of its facilities so users can virtually visit and explore the production site. Burckhardt Compression uses spatial computing for remote assistance to a supertanker in the middle of the ocean. Other notable players include AVEVA, Dassault Systèmes, Ericsson, Microsoft and Nokia.
“The dream to enable full factory metaverse experiences is far from realised, but the work has begun,” Martin says. “Initial implementation will start with a portion of a factory or production line, on a needs basis. The broader environment is well suited to partnerships that enable marketplaces in the long run.”
Further reading:
Meeting the Western Cape’s occupational health and safety needs
News
“A-OSH EXPO Cape Town is a dedicated platform where visitors can explore the latest products, services and training to safeguard their teams, improve workplace conditions, and ensure compliance with evolving legislation.
Read more...
SKF crowned champions in Sishen service provider competition
SKF South Africa
News
SKF wins Sishen service provider competition.
Read more...
Bühler hosts Student Career Expo
News
Bühler Southern Africa recently hosted its fourth annual Student Career Expo, reaffirming its commitment to inspiring and guiding the next generation towards diverse and rewarding career possibilities.
Read more...
Navigating global uncertainty through human-centred risk management
News
Global uncertainties are no longer exceptional events, they are the environment in which we work. This reality places new demands on how we manage risk.
Read more...
Africa Automation Indaba 2026: Catalysing a connected, competitive industrial future
News
Africa’s automation and process control landscape is poised for a major milestone with the launch of the Africa Automation Indaba, taking place from
13 to 14 May 2026 at the Radisson Collection Hotel, Waterfront, Cape Town.
Read more...
The unseen crisis in our taps
News
South Africa’s water crisis is no longer looming. It is already here. To move forward, water treatment must become part of a broader infrastructure renewal agenda. This includes decentralised solutions, private-sector innovation and long-term investment.
Read more...
German experts for bulk solids measurement technology join forces
Mecosa
News
MÜTEC Instruments in Germany has acquired DYNA Instruments. the German manufacturer of inline moisture and mass flow measurement systems.
Read more...
Specialised Exhibitions transitions to new name: Montgomery Group Africa
News
As part of a strategic move to streamline operations, strengthen regional alignment and support long-term growth, Specialised Exhibitions has transitioned to a new name: Montgomery Group Africa.
Read more...
RS South Africa and Qhubeka empower learners through the gift of mobility
RS South Africa
News
RS South Africa, in partnership with Qhubeka Charity, is continuing to make a tangible difference in the lives of South African learners through its bicycle donation initiative.
Read more...
A technical partnership that lasts
Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
News
Ian Loudon, international sales and marketing at remote monitoring specialist, Omniflex reflects on the longevity of the partnership with Sasol, the key technology milestones along the way, and the most recent project in South Africa.
Read more...