Closing the circle at networking event D2M

From design to series production

Industry 4.0 is all about integrating all processes within a company into one efficient flow. Manufacturing companies need to get away from the cubicles of their own organizations and bring design and production teams together at the table. Because that is the shortest route to the products and production of the future. The network event design to manufacturing (D2M), on September 21 and 22 in Kortrijk Xpo, shows how we can concretely arrive at an integrated value chain.

Whereas MNE-Prototyping already constituted a first timid attempt to bring design and manufacturing closer together, successor design to manufacturing (D2M) now resolutely draws that card. "The moment was ripe to put our cards clearly on the table. The previous combo edition had brought out the synergy between design and manufacturing. On Sept. 21 and 22, we now want to create a connecting experience for all visitors. The manufacturing industry is rapidly transforming into an interactive and agile ecosystem. The better companies can weave both processes into their organization, the more strides they can make in quality, flexibility and sustainability," Karl d'Haveloose of organizing team IndustrialFairs clarifies the strategic change of direction. 

Connect all the dots

Experience is perhaps still the key word, because D2M wants to do more than simply bring classic exhibitors together on the show floor. It must become an experience for everyone who cares about the Belgian manufacturing industry. D'Haveloose: "D2M wants to connect all the dots to turn design and series production into one integrated value chain. On the one hand, by bringing a wide range of potential partners along the entire chain, spread along our ten technology routes. In doing so, we look beyond the names everyone knows to what innovative materials and techniques have emerged in recent years. After all, digitalization has got things going, even in the metal industry. The customer of tomorrow wants to do business with manufacturing companies that deploy strongly online and enable rapid design configuration and ordering, with a short time-to-market, well-organized supply chains and flexible inventories."

Experience on and around the exhibition floor

"On the other hand, we want to focus on experience to trigger visitors," D'Haveloose continues. "We want to offer them that little bit extra by giving exhibitors every opportunity to organize demos and put together an attractive fringe program themselves." 

A mission that is still in full swing, but the first sounds are already promising. Café 3D (Flam3D) and the Innovation Exposition (Howest Industrial Design Center) can be visited throughout the fair. In addition, each day the well-known Expert Classes are scheduled to provide application-oriented, specialized knowledge on design and manufacturing for visitors to take the next steps in their production. The full program can be found on the website.     

Evening Events

Even for those who can only come later in the day, there are plenty of goodies planned. "On Wednesday evening, Agoria invites visitors to 'the brave new world of manufacturing', a captain's debate where experts and technology leaders inspire visitors about manufacturing and entrepreneurship in times of disruption. On Thursday, the evening program will be enhanced by the event 'Manufacturing 4.0: closing the loop'. A debate about the need for more collaboration and partnerships in the new manufacturing anno 2022."  

Café 3D: a blend of knowledge, contacts and neutral advice in AM
Have questions about the opportunities or challenges in 3D printing? Come for coffee and get a better view of the world of AM. Visitors to the D2M trade show can visit the Café 3D networking and info point throughout. As an independent network organization for 3D printing, Flam3D helps companies, research institutions or other organizations get started with their 3D challenge. You will find relevant knowledge and contacts to get all the way in the world of AM. Looking for neutral and independent advice? The coffee is ready!

Practical info
Where. Kortrijk Xpo, hall 4
When. September 21 and 22
Opening hours? From 2 to 9 p.m. each time.
Tickets? Free if registered via the website
More info www.d2m.be